#teach-kun (vocal)

[kiiyunz]

질문⠀and finally.. is kihyun close with wayv at all?

정답⠀while it’s still not exactly a home away from home, when KIHYUN’s with WAYV he feels just as able to let loose and let himself have the fun he wants as when he's with 127. they might not the very first place he’d turn if he was in trouble, or needed help (although he has gone to them for it a few times in the past), but they are one of the first people on his mind for when he feels like going for a night out to let loose, or to mess around in the studio for a few hours and see what beats they can pull out of thin air, sampling any and everything they can find. if DREAM are KIHYUN’s unbreakable bonds, and 127 are the pillars of support he never knew he needed, then WAYV are sort of a mix of both, as well as KIHYUN’s.. well, enablers, in a way.

錕 & 기현⠀───⠀KIKUN

kihyun attached himself to kun the second they met and refused to let go—figuratively, of course (although he has done it literally a few times in the past, and will likely do it again). he felt a similar sort of instant connection as he had with johnny, or niko, or mark. he admired and looked up to his vocal ability as much as he did taeil’s, but for some reason felt a little more comfortable to let loose around him, to mess around and make jokes and be as clingy as he liked without worrying if he was being annoying. kun was just someone who made him feel comfortable instantly, an easy air around him that then-trainee kihyun needed every once in a while to let all his worries about debuting or not debuting and all his shortcomings during the various lessons they were put through get to him too much. when he was with kun they could just talk music, or play card games, or on occasion the older vocalist would give him a mini magic show and then attempt to teach him some tricks afterwards. there was a little bit of a struggle with the language barrier, as there was with most of the WAYV members, but they made do most of the time, finding they enjoyed spending time with another even if they didn’t fully understand everything the other was saying all of the time.

the younger vocalist considers himself one of kun’s biggest fans, point blank. everything he does (and did, back in the day and over the years) is met with the upmost support from him, both the things he’s allowed to share with the public & the projects he keeps to himself. if there was one member to rival the amount of personal merch and photocards he owns of the DREAM members, it would undoubtedly be kun. he just thinks he’s so.. cool. talented in everything he does, and making it look easy in the process. there isn’t a singular thing he’s been featured in that kihyun hasn’t reposted or talked about on social media in one form or another, not one piece of group content where he hasn’t done a running jump at the WAYV leader and clung to his arm for the next five minutes at the very least. kun shares the same sentiment with kihyun, even if it’s not to the same physical extent. he’s supportive in everything the younger does, and is always ready to help with anything he may need if he asks.

their friendship is one that’s mostly stayed the same over the years—growing stronger, if anything. kun is one of the top people on his list he’ll call if he needs a second opinion, if he wants a little help, or if he just wants someone to get a meal with. it’s always easy when they’re with one another, never having an uncomfortable or awkward moment between them even if they’re just sharing silence. they’re a relatively rare duo to see on camera during official content, and are usually more brought up or seen (and occasionally featured, on live) on their own personal feeds. they’re another pair that have expressed wanting to work with one another officially in the future—and have already played around with some unofficial things together in their free time too.

เตนล์ & 기현⠀───⠀TENKI

ten was interested in kihyun from their very first meeting, both in wanting to get to know him and also in seeing if there was any way he could be of help with his dancing. and while he wasn’t a mentor as such, kihyun thinks he owes a lot to ten for helping him in their trainee days—both by correcting him on the smaller errors that their teachers didn’t pick up on, and also for never making him feel bad about his mistakes, always reassuring him that he himself sometimes slipped up too. dance was the main thing they bonded over, slowly growing closer as ten did his best to support kihyun wherever he could & kihyun attempting to return the favour by sneaking the older dancer a few extra snacks from when he snuck out, or reciprocating every bit of affection he received tenfold. while they slowly began to not see each other as much as it grew closer and closer to the first official NCT debut, they still tried to keep in touch & contact each other whenever they could, and kihyun made sure to cheer him (and the other five, of course) on the hardest he could.

even after it had all calmed down after the release of THE 7TH SENSE, they didn’t get too much time to go back to hanging out, as not long afterwards kihyun was preparing for his own debut in DREAM. he was caught up completely in focusing on being the best he could be, and again their contact was scarce—save for the few phone calls they shared, and the sparing evenings where ten would catch him staying in the practice room long after all the others had left, and run through the CHEWING GUM choreography with him a few times before making him go get some rest. it took a while, but when everything had really slowed down a little, they made sure to go out for a long meal and catch-up all in one, taking a detour to a noraebang on the way back to sing their lungs out and collapse into helpless laughter over things that weren’t really all that funny together like they’d been wanting to for a while.

as much as he looks up to him, kihyun doesn’t really feel the age gap between him and ten. the older dancer treats him exactly like he treats kun, or johnny, or taeyong, and kihyun reciprocates in kind. banter and conversation and jokes come as easy as breathing between them, but also whenever one of them needs help the carefree mood between them can just as easily be dropped in place of a more serious one, where they try their best to offer help or support in any way they can. whenever they see each other for group content they’re sure to be seen stuck to each other’s sides at least once, deep in conversation about a new routine, or when they should next get dinner together, or whatever other odd topics come to mind that they can spin a conversation out of. they’ve always been close, and will continue to be far into the future.

昀昀 & 기현⠀───⠀WINKI

kihyun is jokingly referred to by many as one of the only members winwin can stand. while he does still treat the older dancer with as much affection as he does his other hyungs, he’s a little more toned-down about it—not as over-the-top as some of the other members, but at the same time no less genuine. they share a bond much like kihyun & yuta: quiet and not always noticed, but still very much there. they got close around the same time as him and yuta as well—it was nearing the end of the EMPATHY era, and kihyun walked into a practice room winwin was occupying, witnessed him dancing, and almost immediately afterward (despite the fact he’d barely held a full conversation with him prior to that evening, just sticking to polite greetings when they saw each other) fell all over him asking to be taught how to do what he did. winwin, a little overwhelmed, finally managed to ask for kihyun to stop trying to jump on his shoulders for just a minute, and then maybe they’d talk.

winwin didn’t feel like he was much of a help to kihyun, but the younger thought the complete opposite. even if all he did was correct him on a small footwork error, kihyun practically fell over himself in thanks every time. he said on more than one occasion that he considered winwin as much as a help as he did ten, or taeil vocals-wise. whenever the two were in the same room it was guaranteed kihyun was going to ambush him at one point and ask for a whole load of new tips and tricks to implement into his own technique and help him grow. other members joked a few times that the younger DREAM member held ten & winwin to a higher regard than he did any of their actual dance teachers, to which kihyun just shrugged (and never necessarily denied any of their claims). while they didn’t hang out all that much in settings where it was just the two of them, kihyun felt like he didn’t really need to sit down and have a one-on-one meal with winwin in order to truly get to know him. he felt like he was sort of learning more and more about him through dance (even if chenle said that made no sense).

as of the most recent years, their bond has generally remained the same (although they have shared a few meals together since that time). on the off chance he’s feeling a little more lively when they see each other then kihyun will be all over the older dancer like he was the first time they met, calling him ‘boss’ and ‘teacher’ and firing things off a mile a minute about new routines and tips and covers and anything else he could think of, all while winwin stands there and just tries not to let it knock him off of his feet. most of the time he’s tempered down, though, simply greeting winwin with a hug and quietly catching up instead of going full-out. he’s always in the older dancer’s comments, always supporting him in any of his solo endeavours, and altogether the friendship they share is a sweet one.

肖俊 & 기현⠀───⠀XIAOHYUN

the pair of them met at slightly an awkward time. dejun was new to the company as a whole, a complete stranger to most and feeling a little like an outsider thrown in the middle of a tangled web full of people who’d already known each other for years, already developed connections & relationships and were completely comfortable with one another, and kihyun was seventeen and just starting to feel restless in himself, his usually ever-cheerful mood just beginning to fray around the edges. needless to say, their first introduction consisted of a stilted ‘hello’ and an exchange of their names between them, and then kihyun was turning around and leaving and dejun was left to feel all the more awkward. they barely talked after that, swapping little more than quick nods or looks of acknowledgement if they passed each other in corridors or ended up sharing the same practice rooms, and it went on to stay that way for a good year as kihyun fell all the lower down into the hole he was digging for himself, and dejun got caught up in everything he needed to do for WAYV’s official debut.

the way they only really got to know each other properly wasn’t exactly in the best of situations, either. it was early 2020, a month or so after the release of RELOAD, and after a night out kihyun didn’t exactly feel like he could face his fellow DREAM members, and so asked if he could crash at the WAYV dorm instead. and dejun really didn’t mean to run into his sort-of dongsaeng in their kitchen at an unearthly hour in the morning while the younger was half-asleep and half-hysterical, smelling slightly of cigarettes and soju, but that was just how things turned out to be. dejun kept him company until kun got back from whatever convenience store he’d booked it to, and in the meantime kihyun just sort of.. let everything spill, a little too drunk to realise fully what he was doing. by the time the leader had made it back he walked into the dorm kitchen and found a now fully-asleep kihyun hunched over the countertop while dejun walked paces up and down the tile ranting and raving about how the people the younger dancer was hanging around with were really no good, none the wiser as to how his only listener was stifling his snores in the fabric of his hoodie.

kihyun was a little mortified the next morning, when he woke up and it all (mostly) came back to him, but decided to take it on the chin and use it as a chance to try and actually make friends with the older vocalist. they had another long talk that day, got to know each other a little better, and even if the younger made no promises as to breaking things off with the crowd he’d found himself in amongst, he did promise that he’d try and look after himself a little better. from that day onward they were far closer, kihyun always making sure to give dejun a visit whenever he was over at the WAYV dorms and making sure to keep in contact over the phone as well. they might not seem it on-camera, seeing as the more heartfelt conversations they share they usually prefer to have when they’re not being watched, but they really are a strong pair of friends.

亨德里 & 기현⠀───⠀HYUNDERY

debut was coming closer and closer by the time hendery first joined SM,  so they didn’t have all that much time for conversation past introductions and civil greetings when they passed each other in the hallway,  but kihyun definitely wanted to get know hendery better,  and a couple months after everything had calmed down he made sure to approach him and ask him if he wanted to go out for a meal sometime.  hendery agreed,  they skipped practice one night so kihyun could show him one of his recently-discovered  (and quickly rising in the ranks of his favourites)  barbecue joints,  and they sat down and talked about everything they could think of until the owner was shoving them out of the door so he could shut up shop,  and it was so dark they could barely find their way back to the company building even with the help of the streetlights to guide the way.

their bond was something of an easy one to simply fall into after that—they’d hang out in person whenever they could and talk over the phone when they couldn’t,  making hours-long conversations over the most mundane of things and never getting bored of each other.  they shared inside jokes that would leave whoever else was with them more than a little bewildered when they brought them up and proceeded to burst into laughter,  and easy affection that could go from quiet and comforting to intentionally irritating over-the-top hugs and aegyo-filled voices as they squished cheeks and danced around with one another.  whenever kihyun’s at the wayv dorm,  it’s guaranteed that he’s in hendery’s room—and vice versa,  on the odd occasion the older rapper makes a visit to the dream dorms.  if one of them are out and about,  the other is most likely with them, if one of them posts, the other is most likely in the comments spamming compliments and teasing remarks and the like—and the list goes on, really. if one half of the pair is doing anything, then the other is sure to be around somehow.

over time their bond has only gotten stronger,  brought them closer together.  they’re simply..  kihyun and hendery.  a package deal,  even if they’re in different units.  a duo much like chenle and jisung,  or jeno and jaemin.  it’s not a proper kihyun vlog if hendery hasn’t suddenly appeared  (even if it was for as little as a couple shots,  or simply kihyun thrusting his phone before the camera to show messages from the older rapper),  and it definitely isn’t a piece of whole-group content if the two of them aren’t messing around together—by putting on shows of over-the-top recreations of the latest drama they’re watching,  or treating all the other members present to live performances of songs either from whatever album they’re promoting or just shared favourite songs in general, or even play-flirting up a storm.  their one joint goal is to try and get some sort of official duo content up and running,  but for now it’s still a work-in-progress.

扬扬 & 기현⠀───⠀KIYANG

much like with hendery, yangyang became a trainee too close to DREAM’s debut for him & kihyun to get properly introduced, and so it just.. never happened. but unlike with hendery, kihyun also never got around to trying to properly get to know him, and so they just sort of stayed at the half-awkward and half-acquaintances stage for the following years. it was somewhat frustrating for the younger vocalist, because he definitely did want to get to know yangyang better, it was just that he felt that he’d left it too long to start a conversation that lasted longer than passing greetings or brief small talk, or invite him out for a meal without it sounding awkward, and so he just carried on leaving it for a later date, for when he could muster up some more courage to actually talk.

it took renjun practically dragging him by the arm in the break between filming on the RESONANCE set for them to finally strike up a proper conversation, and even then kihyun left it feeling like he’d been stilted and awkward the whole time. they were closer after that, but still not a whole lot. he wasn’t so sure if he was intimidated of yangyang, or just thought he was cool (much like his feelings towards renjun in their trainee days before he got over himself and struck up that first conversation)—or maybe just a mix of both—but what kihyun did know was that he was determined to actually strike up a proper friendship with yangyang. soon. how soon, he didn’t exactly know, and he gave jeno a harsh punch on the arm when he relayed his dilemma and the older told him he was just putting it off again because he was scared.

skip forward a few years, and kihyun is glad to say there has been some progress. they’ve talked more, and bonded over music, mostly, but also video games as well (which, admittedly, kihyun got most of his knowledge of from jeno and then pretended he’d been a gamer for years when speaking to yangyang. to this day he’s terrified of gaming alone with him, though). a meal shared between just the two of them has yet to happen, but kihyun is again determined—and it’s something of a well-known fact that when he has his mind set on something he’s unlikely to let off until he gets it done. he’s still a little miffed yangyang is something of the only member he doesn’t really feel like he knows, but that only makes him all the more fired up to make sure they get closer than close in the coming years. the unreasonable amount of joy he gets when the older replies to his messages (or sends them to him first), or likes his posts, or mentions him in a conversation where he isn’t present, is immeasurable, and the DREAM members (jeno and chenle, mostly) have fun by comparing it to a child with a crush—to which kihyun firmly denies with red ears every time.

[starshine-valley]

PART TWO I WASN’T SUPPOSED TO POST THIS BUT HERE IT IS ANYWAY-

MI2ERY’5 MYSTERY (pronounced as Misery’s Mystery or 25, Misery’s Mystery)

“An online group made by those who feel as they have no other choice.”

Members:

“This still isn’t good enough for me.”

Akito Shinonome: One who’s never satisfied

“Maybe there’s no better option than to hide away.”

Honami Mochizuki: A lonely but kind honor student

“I know I can make this better if I just try!”

Airi Momoi: A hardworking ex-idol

“That song was so wonderhoy~!”

Emu Otori: A energetic girl faced with a setback

Four members who haven’t met face to face stumble into a SEKAI.

“If you share your true feelings, a hope will shine through.”

Sekai: Abandoned Sekai (an old, abandoned and worn out event area)

Virtual Singers: Miku and Rin

Relationship Chart:

“Likes her vocals yet doesn’t like it when she tries to pry.” <-> “Shinonome-san, you could use the extra help…”

“I like her bright energy! She seems more of the outdoors type.” <-> “Airi-chan~?! I used to watch you all the time~!”

“She’s kind of annoying but her lyrics…” <-> “Shinononome-kun’s art is wonderhoy! Can you teach me?!”

“Momoi-San certainly acts different when not on camera.” <-> “reliable but… seems unsure and unconfident…”

“She’s Ena’s friend, was a fan before she quit.” <-> “I heard from Ena what happened.”

“Emu-chan, I saw it, it’s okay, I’m here for you.” <-> “I’m glad you’re by my side, Honami-chan!”

Leader: Akito Shinonome

“I can’t mess this up again. Never again.”

[pamy92]

4 Dec 2022 | Asato Yuya 35th Birthday Event

Yuya’s birthday event has always been a special fan event that I look forward to in December each year since being his fan. I've participated my first birthday event in 2018, and the second in 2019.

Ever since the pandemic struck in early 2020, I have not physically met Yuya as borders closed to overseas travellers.

Although I have participated in several online fan meetings (2020 Photobook 1-to-1 Virtual Chat, 2021 Code 1515 ZOOM call), I am glad that border restrictions lifted somewhat this year so I could fly to Japan and participate in person AND on the actual birthday itself too!

~ 2nd Session ~

As I could not reach the venue in time for the 1st session, I only applied for the 2nd and 3rd session.

We had to report to the venue in two batches according to our assigned number (mine was 70) so I decided to chill at the nearby cafe with coffee to calm my anxiety.

When it was about time for me to head to the event hall, I confidently showed my Singapore identity card and I managed to head in with no issues!

The gifts were collected by the staff and taken away immediately to the back room, but I have no doubt that the gifts were safely received by Asaty.

At the start of the event, the MC reminded us of the house rules before calling Asato Yuya out from backstage.

I was bracing for myself to start crying but instead, his infectious energy brought a huge grin to my face and it made my cheeks hurt!

Assay came out in his bright green screen suit (lmao) which I found super amusing because I started thinking of what I can photoshop over the fabric oops!

① Cross-talk

Asaty and the MC had a little banter about his hoarse voice, and his birthday NicoLive broadcast the night before.

It was then cake time, and we all wished him happy birthday!

②Fan Q&A

The emcee had a list of questions shortlisted for this section. And the 1st question selected was his kanji of the year: 興 (which he forgot how to write and the MC had to come over to teach him how to write it.)

Question 2 was from an fan-friend of mine, “Which country would you like to visit? For myself, I would like to visit Australia and Singapore." --- Asaty said he'd like to visit Europe. And that although there were lots of museums, he is not a fine art person. He then demonstrated his short attention span looking at art. However, he said interactive museums like Zoos or Aquariums interest him more.

And to my surprise, my question was picked! "Asato-kun's English pronunciation is really cute. Please hold a conversation with the MC in English!"

MC: What time did you go to bed last night? Asaty: 3...o'clock! AM! MC: What time did you wake up? Asaty: 6...o'clock! AM! No more please!

At this time, the whole hall was laughing so hard because he was struggling to hold the conversation. Asaty then talked about how he loves translator apps, and when he was talking about the soccer match with his western uncle, his uncle was kind enough to write in English and provide a Japanese translation below each line to help him.

There were other questions asked but I could not remember them because I was already excited my question was picked.

③ Nintendo Switch with Asaty

After the Q&A session, it was game time. In the past, we used to play rock-paper-scissors and gesture games but this year it was Nintendo switch!

4 fans are picked by lottery to come up to challenge Asaty in each mini Mario party game. There were a total of 6 rounds or so.

Asaty shared that in the first session, he was defeated by his fans who were eager to thrash his ass in the game, and he told us to play nice because it was his birthday.

And some of the games were absolutely hilarious because Asaty is very vocal when he games, so he was jumping, shouting “Oi!!!!“ and staring at the daring fans who made him lose. I think this was the best segment they have ever done since I joined his birthday event! The chances of getting picked was about 15%, so many fans got to play!

On the 4th round, my seat number was called to join as the last player, and because I was kinda zoning out from the lack of sleep, my mind didn't register the Japanese number (70).

So I sheepishly scuttled to the front and was seated closest to where Asaty was standing, and took Birdo's game controller. Our game was quite hard and I didn't understand the game rule instinctively, so I started freaking out.

The patient staff was helping me throughout while I made all sorts weird distressed noises.

When I finally figured out the controls by accident, I shouted "oh my god!" when the face stretched - and Asaty snapped his head so fast to look at me.

Unfortunately I lost round 1 because I didn't realise that we were supposed to copy the sample face. I think Asaty sensed my distress and he offered to do round 2, saying that "It's too short! This game is hard!" Bless him!

I scored a bit better in the 2nd round but still got the lowest score, and the emcee ushered us back to our seats. I exchanged glances to silently thank Asaty with my eyes on my way back to my seat, but he was staring so hard (with a smile) instead.

④ Aisatsu (Greetings) Time

Before Aisatsu, there was also a lucky draw of an autographed event postcard for 5 lucky fans! Unfortunately I did not get picked.

Finally, to wrap up the event, Asaty gave a short thank you speech for us coming today, and that he was glad to celebrate his birthday with all of us this year.

The emcee then thanked Asaty and invited him to exit the hall, and he briefed us on the photo-taking session. All poses are assigned and we could choose 1 out of the 3.

Pose 1: Double peace sign

Pose 2: 35 pose

Pose 3: Finger hearts

I selected the 35 pose to commemorate his birthday!

⑤ Phototaking

We were ushered row by row outside the hall to wait for our turn to take photos with Asaty. We had to sanitize our hands before taking the letter paper of the pose we want.

I already knew what I wanted to say to Asaty, and rehearsed it a million times in my head. It really felt like I was going to meet a long-lost friend, rather an Oshi, so I wasn't as nervous as my first meeting in 2018 (I was so scared back then).

When the girl went up first in front of me, I could watch their conversation and got really nervous. I distinctively remember watching her and how she interacted with Asaty, it was a very polite conversation.

When she was done and Asaty watched her leave before turning his attention to me, I gave my biggest wave and shouted "Long time no see!"

I remember his eyes going wide and he leaned forward, almost off his seat, "Pame-chan?!" he asked as if to confirm and as I nodded my head, he gave the biggest grin, replying "Thank you!" and his smile was so blinding!

Pamy: Long time no see! *waves wildly* Asaty: *eyes widen* Pame-chan?!! Pamy: Un! Long time no see! Asaty: *breaks out into the happiest smile* Thank you!! Staff: 35 pose please! Pamy: *holds up 3 fingers in left hand, 5 in right* Staff: No no, just 5! Asaty: *turns over to check* I do 3, you do 5! Pamy: OH!! Sorry! Staff: 📸 Pamy: (in English) I'm coming for the 3rd part! Asaty: Ah! *nods nods* Thank you! (I found out a few days later through the fan waiting behind me that Asaty pretended to understand my English, oof! That was brutal!) Staff: Okay, time is up! Pamy: *gets up and walks off* Your English conversation was super cute just now haha~! MC/Staff: *laughs* (walks off the photo venue) Asaty/Staff: YOUR POLAROID!!!! Pamy: OHHH! Thank you!!! Eheh! Asaty: *laughs and waves*

I then waited at the lobby for a fellow fan (our first time meeting), and we went for tea to wait for the next session to start.

~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~

~ 3rd Session ~

My seat was 34 this time round, so I was in the third row! The programme was largely the same as the 2nd session, and the MC reminded us of the house rules before ushering Asaty out.

① Cross-talk

This time, Asaty changed into a dark navy suit with a turtle-neck sweater, and his hair was slicked back. He did a twirl and asked if we liked this outfit choice, and it felt very formal.

During the cake session, Asaty finally took a bite of the strawberry and a huge forkful of cake. It was really funny to see him stuff his face.

I think the cake ended up being too sweet so he had to ask for water to wash it down.

I can't remember what they spoke about during the cross-talk. But I do remember that he spoke about how he has been in Tokyo for 16 years, that he considers himself more of a Tokyoite than Okinawan.

② Fan Q&A

My question didn't get picked for this round unfortunately, and some of the questions he answered were covered in previous years' events - eg. his parents wanted to call him "Tokiya" but it only stuck around for 2 weeks before they changed it to "Yuya".

③ Nintendo Switch with Asaty

This time round, Asaty selected all the princess characters (Princess Peach, Rosalina and Daisy) while he played as Birdo (who annihilated him in Session 2) It was super funny because he got thrashed by his fans again, some of them had super aggressive gameplay!

In one game, it was some tank shooting game and one fan blasted his tank non-stop, and ended his game within seconds. We were all laughing so hard because she was brutal.

Because all the fans didn't hold back, Asaty was literally shouting: "Oi! Daaaaisy!! Oi!! Peeechy!! Oi! Rosalina!!"

My two Asaty fan-friends got lucky and could play with him again for the 3rd session!

④ Aisatsu time

Before Asaty gave his thank you speech, he drew five lucky numbers to receive the autograph postcard. Again, maybe my lucky streak has worn off and I didn't get picked but I got to watch him interact with the lucky fans!

When he hands over the postcard, he bows at his fans and really stares at them (with a smile) in thanks. It was really cute to watch! Again, thank you Mama Asato for bringing up and reminding Asaty to thoroughly appreciate fans.

Asaty gave his thank you speech, and thanked us for supporting him till now.

⑤ Phototaking

Once again, we were ushered out of the event hall row by row for the phototaking. I was in row 3 so I didn't have to wait long.

I selected the finger heart pose this time round because it looked cute.

Pamy: Asato-sensei, Thank you for teaching me Japanese! *deep bow* Asaty: 😆 Thank you! Staff: Finger heart pose please! Staff: 📸 Asaty: *leans over the Covid splash screen with serious look on face* Thank you very much for everything as always! Pamy: I'll support you from abroad! Asaty: When did you return back? Me: 2 weeks ago… (**I must have heard him wrongly because he shook his head) Asaty: No, when are you returning back? Staff: Okay, time is up! Pamy: Soon! I'll support you online okay! (Asaty was really scrambling to talk as I got up to take the polaroid and leave.) Asaty: Be careful when you return back okay? Pamy: *turns back to wave* I will! Asaty: 😊👋🏼

(** Return in Japanese, depending on the speaker could either mean return to Japan or in my instance return back to Singapore, so I misheard and the staff was also listening to our conversation so I panicked.)

I read in many fan accounts (and also observed with my eyes) that Asaty will watch your back as your leave.

So I turned and gave him the wildest wave and he smiled dazzlingly and waved back.

~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~

Summary:

It's really been such a long time since I last saw Asaty in person, and I forgot how tall he was. His happy energy just spreads out when he smiles, and I really felt he was genuinely appreciative of his fans, especially those that stuck around for years.

I could recognise his regulars, and those who attended multiple sessions. Another fan was telling me unlike Rin Rin's birthday event (that you have to ballot for and they book a even bigger venue which made it very formal), Asaty's event was about 100-odd fans and has a more friendly-feeling.

Because of that, I'm grateful that a smaller event meant a cosier one, which we get a chance to play games with Asaty and also chat with him a bit.

I myself did not expect him to remember my name, maybe "Singapore fan" might jog his memory, but he caught me by surprise because I didn't have to even say my country or my name.

He remembers.

As he does to all his fans.

It was really an unexpected surprise, and something that I will remember for a long time.

Happy 35th Asaty!

[nyappyforeverbr]

【Interview/Entrevista】An Cafe (antic cafe), Rock and Read vol.102 #3

Formed in 2003, in 2010 there was a suspension of activities, in 2012 there was a resumption of activities, in 2019 there was a new suspension of activities, in June 2022 there was a resumption of activities. The members are Miku (vocals), takuya (guitar), Kanon (bass), Yuuki (keyboards) and Teruki (drums). On January 5th (Thursday) and January 6th (Friday) 2023, they will perform at Zepp Haneda for a revival event, “LIVE CAFE 20th Anniversary 「Reiwa from First NYAPPY o(≧∀≦)o 」”. www.ancafe-20th.com Visit Nyappy Forever Web: https://nyappyforeverbr.blogspot.com/ PART #3 Michiru from LOOP ASH, who's been taking care of you since the indie days. He's a good person, isn't he?

Miku: Me, I met Michiru a lot during the hiatus. He was really worried about the members, even though I was barely active myself, wasn't he? So even though I didn't need to contact him, he did contact me saying, "Let's have lunch." Even now, he often says, "Building memories is important. Enjoy the time you spend with the other members." I feel that they are working to enrich our lives.

Michiru Michiru experienced a serious illness. Maybe that's why he teaches us the importance of living a life without regrets. By the way, when did you hear about the Osaka Muse event?

Miku: It was the end of last year. Michiru-san told me and I told Teruki about it. So Teruki got in touch with the other members.

Did the members keep in touch with each other during the hiatus?

Teruki: I helped a little bit with Kanon-san's solo, and Yuuki was there too, so there was a time when we were both involved. But we haven't seen each other much lately. As for Miku-kun and takuya, I hardly had any contact. In the midst of this, before the Muse theme came up, around last summer, I got a call from Shuto Miyazaki, an actor I have good relations with. He really likes An Cafe, and I knew from before that his mother was listening to the songs with him. His mother had cancer and listened to An Cafe all the time in her hospital room. So I contacted Miku-kun. Then Miku-kun said, "I've been indebted to a lot of people so far, and if there's anything I can do to repay them, I want to do what I can. That's why I want you to let me sing. "

Miku, do you regret your first hiatus and have you always wondered how to make up for them? Miku: A fan once told me that: "Bands don't last long, and even if you support them, they will eventually disappear. We fans don't have the right to say anything about the members' decisions, so we respect the opinions of the members. members". Even saying "Everybody's band" and singing, we feel guilty for imposing our feelings on them. A band cannot be active without fans.

Kanon: If you ask me who I play for, it's whoever wants to listen. I also continued with this thought for three and a half years.

Just as when activities stopped, a flow was gradually created, and this flow reached where the five would gather, it overlaps the moment when each of their feelings unknowingly directed them to AnCafe.

Teruki: When I heard Miku-kun's voice on the phone, I thought, "This is my family's meal!"

What does that mean?

Teruki: It was so nostalgic. That's when I couldn't hide my desire for An Cafe. Just when we were talking about things like, "I wish we could go on tour again," Muse-san appeared. I'm a former member of the band so I know it's selfish, but I really wanted to get back to playing with AnCafe so I got in touch with all three. In fact, attending the event and being interviewed with everyone like this today... Could it be that no member was against this idea. Teruki: Well, that was everyone's reaction. Takuya said, "Wow~, I wonder if I can play~" and was very worried about the schedule. takuya: Although I gave up on my own initiative, I had expectations that this day would come someday. I was so happy that I said, "Please let me play again." Teruki: What did Yuuki say? Yuuki: "I'll play~". Teruki: Kanon-san wouldn't want to wait until the announcement date that was agreed to tell people about it, so I consulted with Michiru-san and kept it a secret for a while (laughs). The day of the announcement was approaching and I told him it was time for us to talk. With Kanon's prior consent. Kanon: About half a month before the announcement, I was in a situation where I had no choice but to say "yes" (laughs). Were you sure Kanon wouldn't say no? Teruki: I thought it sure would, 99.9%. Because a year after leaving An Cafe, he attended Miku-kun's birthday event. And yet, when the five of us decided to do it, there was no way he could refuse (laughs). How did you tell Kanon about this? Teruki: Miku-kun, he and I, the 3 of us went out to eat together, but at first when I invited him saying, "Kanon-san, there's a singer who wants to sing your songs, so I'd like to introduce you. Let's go out to eat together the 3 together". Was he surprised (laughs)? Teruki: When I said I was going to introduce a singer, I was very careful and cut my hair (laughs). Kanon: I was meeting you for the first time... At the event in Osaka, you performed 6 songs on stage for 30 minutes. I was allowed to watch some of the video the team sent me, and I was surprised that the background sound was so solid compared to before the hiatus. It can be said that performance was tight overall. Teruki: I've been doing musical activities for a long time, so naturally I have to keep growing (laughs). But in terms of the rhythm section, Kanon-san's performance has improved tremendously. Kanon: We had four rehearsals, that's when I felt the difference, in the last three and a half years, the only time I really played bass was when I was recording at home. But I also had connections with other musicians, and even though I didn't play, I felt like I learned a lot just by listening to other musicians perform. I have become better able to distinguish between "this is good sound" and "this is not good", or perhaps I have had many experiences that have enriched my ears. Takuya-san said that surprisingly his body remembered the movements. takuya: I started by taking the guitar out of the warehouse and polishing it (laughs), but when I started playing it, I think I was able to play with a better feel than before. Yuuki: Before the performance, I wasn't nervous at all, and I thought it would be easy, but when I went on stage and heard the sound, my heart started to pound. However, I could feel the atmosphere in which the audience warmly welcomed us, and I was relieved. Part #3 Comming soon...

[starglow-xx]

(About the brother!atsushi) aRE YOU READING MY MIND MISS?! Because that has been on my mind for MONTHS. TYSM For writing it was amazing!! If you don't mind, may I request (if requests are open) atsushi, still an older brother, but with a sister that's 10-13 yrs old? It's totally fine if you don't wanna do it. Keep up the good stories, ily mwuah!

*sobs* you’re so kind thank youu 🤧🤧

i wrote this a bit differently i hope that’s okay anon! at first i planned for this to be mainly abt atsushi and the reader, but i decided to add in relationship hcs with the agency bc i ran out of ideas

if you guys liked this don’t worry! im planning a special part two for this one so be the look out for it hehe

atsushi with a tween! sister

ft. the armed detective agency

like in my baby sister hcs, you’re still the most important thing to him period

the two of you got picked up by dazai and kunikida when he was 18 (obviously) and when you were 12

for a 12 year old, you were a bit small bc of malnourishment (which makes atsushi feel so bad) so both dazai and kunikida thought you were a bit younger than you actually were

they assumed you were about 9-10ish

you and atsushi both share a favorite food !! chazuke :)

so when kunikida treated the two of you, he made sure you got more bowls bc like i mentioned above, he feels really bad that you were malnourished and under weight

(don’t bring this up but kunikida felt bad too hehe)

when dazai went with your brother to the warehouse, you were with kunikida

imagine the surprise of the other ada members when kunikida came in with a little girl dressed in rags that popped out from behind him

kenji was the one who vocalized his thoughts 

“kunikida-san you have a daughter?! wow! i didn’t know that! :D”

when you found out your brother was a tiger, you were a bit concerned but you were actually kind of excited

you were even more excited when you found out the two of you were going to be taken in by the agency

anything was better than the stupid orphanage

and besides!

you got a tiger for an older brother and a bunch of other super powered agents to take care of you! who could want anything else?

at your age, you’re very impressionable and can be influenced easily so atsushi makes sure to teach you more in depth of good morals and the importance of kindness

his heart swells with pride and relief when he catches you being kind to others

pride bc he’s proud that even after all the two of you have gone through, you still ended up being a good kid and having a bright view of the world

and relief bc he hasn’t failed as a big brother

pfftt like he could ever fail

but please, from time to time reassure him that he’s perfect and the only big brother that you’d ever want bc he rlly needs that kind of validation

with his salary and savings, he tries to buy nice things for you

what a sweetheart 🥺

he saw you eyeing that one dress at a store window? fast forward abt a week and half and it’s inside a pretty gift bag for you

you wanted to try that dessert from the nice bakery? that’s dessert after dinner at one point

but other than buying you things, he sets money aside for you

like all the time

(y/n), here have this, you might need it”

“but nii-san you just gave me—”

“take it”

#1 spoiler

also your #1 confidant and source of physical affection

you tell him anything and everything (except crushies and those kinds of things)

atsushi loves it when you talk abt your day and he can see the big smile on your face and the sparkle in your eyes

it gives him the strength to keep going 😖😖

the two of you aren’t as touch starved as you’d probably think, but that’s only bc the two of you had each other

in your opinion, no one can match the hugs of your big brother

and it got even better bc YAYY he has tiger arms now ٩(◕‿◕)۶

if you ask, he’d carry you around too hehe

you also get nightmares quite often so he’ll always be there ready to calm you down, talk if you need to, and rock you back to sleep

god i love him 🤧🤧

atsushi will do everything in his power to protect you and make sure you get to grow up happy, supported, and loved

port mafia attack? oop he’s already taking you to the nearest escape route

someone is starting to harass you? they just got suckered punched into the next week

you want to go out to have some fun? he’ll go ask the president for a day off

you’re not feeling well? he’ll take another day off and take care of you

whatever you want to do, he’ll do it with you! (as long as it’s within reason)

will always be your #1 supporter! and he’s the president of your fan club hehe

he loves you so so much and will do anything for you; your life and happiness will always be more important to him

you are his reason to keep going

agency head canons !!

atsushi is your big brother, but kunikida is most definitely some sort of father figure

everyone can see it

except kunikida of course

kunikida scolds you lightly if he thinks your manners need work or if you make a mess in the agency

you listen to him of course and in turn as some sort of a reward, he’ll give you pieces of stationary

he always gives you the nice, good quality kind and you’re over the moon

atsushi adores it when you come running to him showing your new notebook or fountain pen and blabbering what you’re going to do with it

sometimes it isn’t even as a reward for being a good child; he’ll just give it to you and he’ll say smth like “i noticed you’ve used up your last notebook quite quickly, so here’s another one” or “did you run out of ink? here have this then”

he usually has a soft spot for children in general, but he most definitely has a soft spot (or a thousand) for you

yosano is kind of like a motherly figure to you

she gives you the guidance a mother should and goes on shopping trips with you!

atsushi always gets dragged along by you, but he thinks it’s worth it seeing you look so happy

yosano being a doctor also tries to teach the things you should know, or things that would be helpful to you

she’ll teach you the basics of cooking, sewing, how to treat a cold/fever, etc

also gives you excellent advice 1000% of the time

“remember (y/n)-chan if someone hurts you come tell me and then i’ll chop them into—”

“yOSANO-SENSEI DONT TELL HER THAT—”

fukuzawa is like a father to most in the agency but you see him more as a grandfather figure

bi weekly tea and gossip sessions hehe

along with cat talk!

most of the time though, it’s just you talking and him listening to you, but the two of you enjoy it nonetheless

“and then kunikida-san ended up crashing into a pole and dazai-san started to laugh at him and i did too because it was really funny but we ended up getting scolded—”

“hmm i see...”

he’ll let you stay in his office as he fills out paperwork; you’re usually doodling or drawing in your notebooks

sometimes he’ll meditate and you’ll join him, but 4/7 times you’d fall asleep

you always wake up with a blanket over you

dazai is like a cool but a highly concerning and kind of high maintenance uncle

frequently takes you out with him when he ditches work

walks in the park, eating at uzumaki so he has the excuse of treating you so he doesn’t have to pay his tab avoiding kunikida and sometimes chuuya and akutagawa, all that fun stuff

also tries to not talk abt suicide in front of you especially if it’s just the two of you alone

he knows that you mean the world to his pupil and that said pupil would probably hate him for putting suicide inside your brain

he teaches you random but useful things like how to pick a lock, how to steal kunikida’s notebook if you’re looking for some information, how to sweet talk your way out of things, etc.

is also the one to tell you that if you ever get a significant other to introduce them to the agency first

he always wants all of your gossip; some of them work pretty well for blackmail

“dazai-san! dazai-san! did you know that kunikida-san lost his glasses and he was looking for them for nearly an hour when he was just holding them the entire time??”

“woah really (y/n)-chan?! hey hey can you say it again into this recording device so kunikida-kun would believe me when i tell him—”

always ends up giving kunikida a heart attack when he says that you’ve been with him all day

ranpo is also like a cool but a highly concerning and kind of high maintenance uncle

will share some of his snacks, but don’t push it or you might not get anything at all

loves it when you compliment him

if you tagged along with him and your brother on a case, he will show off to impress you

“...and that’s how the crime happened”

“UWAHH RANPO-SAN YOU’RE SO COOL”

atsushi is lowkey and kunikida is highkey stressed that ranpo’s eating habits will rub off on you

“ne (y/n)-chan do you wanna try this highly caffeinated drink and this concerning amount of sugar filled snack?”

“can i really?!”

“rANPO-SAN NO—”

ranpo definitely does stuff like that on purpose 

the tanizakis are like siblings to you!

a weird set of siblings but siblings nonetheless

the two of them adore you and think you’re precious

atsushi definitely knows how to do your hair whether it’s long or short but he got even better at it when he asked the two

hehe braid trains are definitely a thing + kyouka and kenji (and maybe even dazai)

sometimes you have sibling swap days

you’re with junichiro for most of the day and atsushi is with naomi

strange i know

each of the tanizaki siblings try to make it fun bc they know that the two of you did not at all have a happy upbringing

junichiro likes spending time with you by taking you out to different places that naomi likes to frequent

like the mall, different stores and restaurants, the park, places like those

naomi does the same thing with atsushi so if you ever bump into them, you go out and eat together :)

besides atsushi, the next one in line who spoils you the most would be junichiro (and yosano & kunikida both coming in at a close third)

he honestly can’t help it; you remind him of how naomi was when she was younger

and besides

he’s always been a sucker when it came to the happiness of a little sister

“would you really buy this for me junichiro-san?!”

“of course! don’t worry about it” :)

wanna talk abt boys/girls/celebrity crushes things like that? naomi is your girl

you feel a bit embarrassed to go talking to yosano or your brother abt that and kyouka does not know a thing abt them either

“uwahh naomi-san look at all these people in this magazine! they look so good!”

“right?! but of course onii-sama is still the best—”

you get along with kenji and kyouka quite nicely being roughly the same age as them; they’re also like siblings!

just pure, wholesome vibes from the three of you

you’re over the moon when she finds out that kyouka is staying with you and your brother

atsushi is twice as happy seeing you talk your mouth off and finally having a girl around your age to talk to

“do you think demon snow can change how she looks?”

“hmm... im not sure...”

you and kenji talk abt anything and everything

he even teaches you how to take care of plants!

sometimes the two of you are kind of in the same boat bc you don’t know much abt yokohoma being stuck in the orphanage and kenji doesn’t know much abt cities in general

“wait where are we again kenji-san?”

“ah we’re close to the ports! but im not really sure how close because i don’t know what the symbols on this sign mean”

“don’t worry! neither do i!”

bonus things!

yosano was kind of too late teaching you abt you know what

“NII-SAN IM BLEEDING IN BETWEEN MY LEGS”

you’re sobbing in the agency’s bathroom and atsushi is panicking trying to get you to open the door

“Y/N?! H-HOLD ON LET ME GET YOSANO SENSEI”

ranpo overhears and cackles making everyone around him confused

suddenly atsushi bursts in the agency basically on the verge of tears rambling incoherent sentences abt the bathroom, you, and blood

it just clicked for everybody in the room

(im going to pretend that kenji has sisters back home so that atsushi is the only one who remain oblivious here hehe)

atsushi is genuinely confused and sort of concerned that no one is freaking out with him

yosano waves her hand saying smth like that she’d take care of it and junichiro pulls atsushi to the side to talk to him

fast forward like half and hour and dazai and ranpo are cackling on the looks of both of your faces

honestly not sure who’s more traumatized, you or your brother

“why does this have to happen” :(

“ne ne (y/n)-chan!~ you’re too young but at some point you’re not going to have it!”

“uwahh really dazai-san?” :D

“yeah! but first you have to have ANFK—”

next thing you know your ears are being covered by your brother and dazai is thrown across the room by kunikida

you know

the normal

you’re twelve and have never gone to school, but the agency takes care of that

it’s too dangerous to go to school so they teach you what’s necessary and whatever else they can

kunikida takes care of math (obviously)

yosano takes care of science/biology/anatomy/health (whatever you wanna call it)

ranpo even dragged poe to help you with english

atsushi even got lucy to help you out with english too!

as tanizaki and naomi used to be students, they give you their old work books and they try to teach you all the other subjects

sometimes kyouka and kenji are there learing with you too!

sorry if there’s some errors! i’ll read through it again later :)

and as always, reblogs and shares are appreciated! i hope you all stay safe! and just in case nobody told you they loved you today, i love you! you are enough! <3

writing belongs to me! please do not plagiarize! the reblog button is there for a reason

[kinazhou]

wayv relationships!

⌗ kun ! ah.... one of the first members she met and got closer with. Before debut, Nct's china line consisted of Kun, WinWin and Renjun (circa 2015 when she entered the company). They bonded over the fact of them being foreigners and had to live in an unfamiliar environment. Though she’s not that much younger than Winwin, Kun felt like babying kina. He met Kina when she was 17, now that she's 24 he felt surreal. Kina often hugs kun as he is part of the bear line and is very comfortable. kun often call her by her chinese name or ‘lili’. fan fav moment — when they were filming for dream plan, it was seen in that kina laid down on her bed and took a short power nap. kun entered her room, supposedly to remind her to pack but he let her be and covered her body with a blanket.

⌗ ten ! ten was one of the debuted members she least encountered with pre-wayv. They don’t meet as much as the other members, since they weren’t in the same unit together and it was hard for them to interact especially during 2017 since ten hadn’t done any promotions (other than his station releases). they’re now close with each other, they bonded over the fact they're specialties being dance and vocals, also they're both multilingual. They have an inside joke between them that only the both of them could understand. Ten lowkey babies kina, he was pulled in by her rare tsundere persona that made him want to see it often. Surprisingly, ten doesn't tease kina that much, but if he does, Kina tolerates it. Ten created the nickname ‘lili’ that some of the older members use. fan fave moment — during an ig live, he, yangyang, and kina were talking. one iconic moment where ten asked yangyang whose baby is he, kina looked weirded out. So ten asked kina the same question but for her, she answered 'ten's' as a joke but Chittaporn was shook and yangyang was heard laughing in the background

⌗ winwin ! the members often comment that kina is winwin’s female version but outgoing. He is part of the first members she met and got closer with. mentioned beforehand, pre-debut nct china line consisted of Kun, WinWin, and Renjun. They often met during language lessons where kina would help him when he needed. now, Winwin adores and admires Kina. the reason was when both of them were still active in 127, kina was always there to translate some words for him to understand and sicheng appreciated it so much. they call each other by their real names often. fan fav moment — kina was helping winwin and renjun cook for the members during the last episode of nct world. Winwin was briefly seen back hugging Kina as a thank you for helping them and kina was seen trying to pat his back while facing the front. this became a trending topic among nctzens because we all know how winwin doesn't do hugs and rarely initiates one.

⌗ xiaojun ! Kina met xiaojun when they started preparing for wayv. The first thing kina noticed from xiaojun is his vocals, she loves it and will never get tired of listening to it. Xiaojun was offended that Kina doesn’t know anything about Harry Potter, he made it his task to teach and watch the series with her. Kina enjoys teasing xiaojun for some reason, whenever someone asks her why she likes doing it, she'll answer 'just because' every time. Xiaojun is one of the members that doesn’t treat her as someone older, Kina mentioned that she isn’t used to people a year younger than her treating her as someone older. fan fave moment — during awasz, xiaojun mentioned how kina laughed when he told her about their pair. He spilled that kina won't stop teasing him after the video of xiaojun and yuta resurfaced she can't stop teasing him for it.

⌗ hendery ! ah the clown, that’s what would kina say when people ask her opinions on hendery. She doesn’t mean it in a negative way but rather in a positive light (that was before she watched ‘it’ and stopped calling him that). They met when Kun introduced her to other chinese trainees he practiced with. He's often the cause of her laughing nonstop (but none of them can be mad at her). They got closer to the fact that they both love marvel and made a tradition of watching movies together. Same as Xiaojun, Hendery doesn’t treat kina as someone older. He was the one who started calling Kina ‘nana’. fan fave moment — kina was there when the iconic 'i want some chicken' was made. she was literally sitting in front of the table where the chicken was, peaceful eating. the moment hendery made his voice high-pitched, Kina laughed HARD. when the 'i want some chicken' happened, Kina was seen crouching on the floor seemingly crying and laughing at the same time holding her stomach. it was brief, but some fans notice hendery glance at Kina smiling a little.

⌗ yangyang ! Yangyang admires kina. He doesn't like to admit it but he had a teeny tiny crush on her during their trainee days when she took him under her wing. Kina thought him the ropes under sm and personally helped him with training when she doesn't have too much on her plate. After Kina's debut on 127, she made sure to visit the training grounds for him (also for Kun, Jungwoo, and Sungchan). To this day, Yangyang admires Kina for her dedication, mentality, etc. Yangyang sometimes teaches Kina German and in return (not that she needed to) she taught him a bit of Tagalog. When referring to Kina, he switches up from calling 姐姐 to just her name (Kina doesn't mind tbh). fan fave moment — when kina guested at yangyang's and ten's show to bake, ten kept on teasing kina. kina seemed to be unbothered by all of this, but yangyang stepped in told ten to stop (joking way ofc). Kina and Ten were literally gobsmacked by that and ten fake cried saying 'both of my babies are being mean to me.’ kina elbowed ten (lightheartedly) saying 'when was I even considered as your baby??' before going to yangyang wrapping an arm around him asking 'what was that yang?' to fans, yangyang seemed to be blushing before he answered 'it was joking' then proceeded to do the other task.

taglist. @leech4ns (send an ask to be added)

notes. won't be writing for lucas atm. sorry if some members have shorter moments or descriptions. not proofread. expect some grammar mistakes up ahead. this is long over due I'm so sorry 😓😓

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Letter 19: 🍎 True Strength 🍎

A letter arrives in the mail. The paper is slightly yellow, like the flesh of an oxidized apple. There’s a simple logo—a barn beside an apple tree, the leaves trimmed in a heart shape—stamped onto it. The sender starts off their message with flowing script, but every so often, the handwriting falters to a messier scrawl before correcting itself. A few words are also crossed out, and sentences amended.

Along with the letter, there is a small parcel secured with frayed twine. Peeling away the wrapping reveals a mini apple pie, enough for a single serving. The crust is an elaborate, flaky braid, brushed with a healthy coat of eggwash and butter. Strips of pastry form a tight lattice over the cinnamon, sugar, and apple filling. It smells warm and cozy, like a hug from a friend or a family member.

***Spoilers for chapter 5!***

Dear (Ex)Manager/Prefect,

I’m writing to say thanks thank you for looking out for us. Not just me, but everyone in the VDC training. It was tough, but we managed to make it out of training in one piece. Who knew vocal exercises and ballet lessons could be just as tough as lifting weights and sprinting? I guess I had to learn the hard way... I think my muscles are still aching from all the way back then!

I feel like I’ve come a long way. When I first came to NRC, I was just a country boy with a swelled head. I was always called the strongest back home, so I thought it wouldn’t be all that different here. I was wrong—very, very wrong. I was a fish our of water that thought it was the strongest wolf in the pack. When Vil-senpai beat me... over and over again, I slowly came to realize that.

I was frustrated.

How could I lose to this guy, that looked like he couldn’t last a day shovelin’ chicken crap on the family farm and orchard? How could I surpass him? I held my head high and marched to the Mirror of Darkness. When I looked into it, I hoped it would give me the answers. And then (damn darn it all) I just had to be sorted into Pomefiore—but looking back on it, I’m glad I did. If I didn’t, maybe I’d still be frustrated.

I felt like I was being torn in two, Prefect. Like the dorm leader was trying to take my soul and shape it in his image. The ideal man I had always strived to be... and Vil-senpai’s version of an ideal man... They were so different. The dancing lessons, the table etiquette lessons, the speaking lessons... I didn’t get it. I was like an apple tree, you could say, with its roots firmly planted in the traditions of my village. I didn’t want him to uproot who I was.

I gritted me teeth and endured it all. I wanted to prove Vil-senpai wrong about me—but more than that, I wanted to prove it to myself. I tried again and again, but I still snapped. When I was angry and ran away, Deuce-kun was there for me. He understood my frustrations. I was upset. So, so upset. I felt like screaming at the world, at myself, at Vil-senpai. I took those words and let them skip across the sea—casting away my anger and filling myself with new determination.

I’m glad that I was able to meet you and the others, especially Deuce-kun. It’s because of you guys that I could return to the VDC training, that I could join you on stage. That I recognized my own strength. Prefect... I know now. What Vil-senpai was trying to teach me all along. What Deuce-kun and I realized on that beach. True strength, true beauty... It’s not the rejection of one ideal in favor of the other extreme. It’s embracing everything that you have, everything that you are, and using all that is “you” to your advantage.

The “me” that embraced myself was finally able to defeat Vil-senpai. It wasn’t just my own power, though. It was thanks to all of us working together, showing off the best parts of ourselves. Deuce-kun’s Unique Magic, Rook-senpai’s archery, Ace-kun’s wind magic, Grim-kun’s fire magic, Kalim-senpai’s water magic, Jamil-senpai’s support magic...

It was absolutely beautiful.

That time, it was my turn to offer a hand and pull Vil-senpai up. Our roles were reversed from our first meeting. And... that day, the strong Vil-senpai, that I had sworn to defeat, cried. He cried and cried in frustration, just like I had before.

Vil-senpai... He really is beautiful.

I’m happy to be able to call you my friend. The next time my Ma mother sends apple products, I’ll bring’m bring them over to share with you.

Recently, we’ve made a new breed that we call “Persephone’s Promise”. The apple tastes tart, like a pomegranate. It’s named after the goddess of spring that went to the Underworld.

The Underworld... It sounds like a spooky place. I’d like to see it for myself one day. No matter how scary it is, I know I’ll be fine because I have my “strength” and friends with me!

See ya ‘round Best regards,

🍎 Epel Felmier 🍎

[jaesqueso]

The Bachelorette: NCT Edition - Meet the candidates

The season of love is finally here! An interactive series where you’ll get to choose who goes home each week and ultimately who Y/N chooses in the end!

VOTE!!!

Use the above link to vote for your favorite candidate for that final rose and who should be the first five going home! You can vote for the first episode until next friday (11/06) and the episode will come out on sunday (13/06).

taglist: @skrtbabe​ @yutahoes​ @mel-yjh​

If you’d like to be included in the taglist for the series do let me know ❤︎

☽ ・・・・・ ☾

The bachelorette

Hi, my name is Y/N and I’m looking for my prince charming!

I never had much luck with love so I decided to focus on work instead but my friends are all getting married and keep telling me to find someone too, so here I am!

I’m looking for someone nice who makes me laugh. Someone who cares about me and shows me a good time. Physically I’m not picky but I do appreciate a warm smile and kind eyes.

Hopefully this experience will help me find the person who I’ll get to spend the rest of my life with!

Moon Taeil

My name is Taeil and I’m a gemini.

I’m a relaxed guy who wants to live life peacefully and hopefully meet a girl to share my life with!

*winks*

I like to listen to music and watch movies, not very into physical activities because I don’t like when my muscles are in pain.

*laughs*

I usually notice someone’s eyes first, that’s enough to captivate me. Also I like cute girls.

Fighting!

John Suh

My name is John but everybody calls me Johnny. I’m an Aquarius.

I’m a nice guy who gets along with everyone and my motto is just to have fun! My friends may say I’m clumsy but I think things just get in my way!

*flips hair laughing*

I love reading, watching videos and taking photos. Who knows I may find my new photographic muse.

*winks*

I love cute things, and that includes girls too. I also love girls who smile a lot because I’m always smiling too.

Hopefully I’ll find someone to make my days even brighter!

Lee Taeyong

My name is Taeyong and I’m a Cancer.

People sometimes think I’m cold from the way I look but I promise I’m a kind and caring guy! I have amazing eyes and as you can tell I’m very confident.

*winks*

I don’t like dust and germs so I’ll make sure everybody keeps things clean around here. I’m a perfectionist so I might nag a lot, sorry!

*laughs*

I’m looking for someone who I can learn from and that makes up for my flaws.

Finger crossed I’ll meet someone good for me!

Nakamoto Yuta

My name is Yuta and I’m a Scorpio.

I’m a happy guy who cares a lot about everyone. One thing I can promise is that everybody has a good time around me!

*laughs*

I love to play football and working out, I don’t like sitting around doing nothing! If we can do things in the moment why wait?

*shrugs shoulders*

I like someone who has empathy towards others and doesn’t feel the need to “act pretty”, someone who’s real and humble.

Let’s go!

Qian Kun

My name is Kun and I’m a Capricorn.

I’m a very friendly guy and I’m always there for my friends. I love to cook and make my way into people’s hearts through food.

*winks*

I’m an intelligent guy and I love to do magic tricks so I think if I play my cards right I have a chance to get that final rose.

*wiggles eyebrows*

I’m usually attracted to more feminine women who are innocent.

Abracadabra pick me!

Kim Doyoung

My name is Doyoung and I’m an Aquarius.

I’m a very reliable guy, you can check with my friends! I don’t really like to go out, I’d rather stay in sleeping or eating so I’m looking for someone who’s ok with chilling and cuddling.

*winks*

I’m afraid of animals so hopefully we won’t have to do any interaction with any or I might go back home and take a nap.

*laughs*

I want someone polite that knows how to present themselves and that I can take home to meet the parents!

I’ll make sure she falls in love with me!

Chittaphon Leechaiyapornkul

My name is Chittaphon but you can call me Ten because I’m 10/10! I’m a Pisces.

I’m the sweetest guy you’ll ever meet and I know how to make someone feel comfortable. Honestly I can’t see what’s not to like about me!

*shrugs shoulders*

I love sports, drawing and playing with animals. Throw me a cat and I’ll be happy!

*laughs*

I don’t really have an ideal type, but I like to get to know someone before love starts to develop.

I’m excited!

Jung Yoonoh

My name is Yoonoh but most people still call me Jaehyun which was my birth name. I’m an Aquarius.

I’m a happy and cute guy, but I also have a sensitive side. What can I say, I’m the perfect guy to take home to the parents!

*winks*

I’m very into sports and I’m a black belt in taekwondo so you know I’ll take down all the competition!

*laughs*

I like someone who is kind, calm and cute. Someone I can easily communicate with and who I can depend on. Extra points if they’re into sports too!

I’m not saying I’m competitive but I’m here to win this!

Dong Sicheng

My name is Sicheng but you can call me Winwin because if I receive that final rose it will be a win-win situation! I’m a Scorpio.

I’m usually a shy guy specially in front of the camera so I apologise for probably not talking much.

“scratches the back of his head”

I like swimming, watching movies and going on vacation, even though I have a fear of heights but I’m good as long as we stay on the ground! I don’t really like being touched but I can make an exception for a nice girl.

*winks*

I like someone who’s more quiet, like me, and also innocent. I want someone who I can laugh with.

Let’s Winwin!

Kim Jungwoo

My name is Jungwoo and I’m a Pisces.

I’m a sweet guy but I’m also funny, just let me entertain you with my on point impressions, you won’t be able to tell who’s me or the original person!

*laughs*

I like to watch and play soccer and I eat a lot of course to restore my energy!

*winks*

I like a bold girl who’ll take the first step. Someone who is determined, knows hat she wants and does everything to get it.

So come and get me!

Huang Xuxi

My name is Xuxi but I like to go by Lucas. I’m an Aquarius.

I’m a very outgoing guy and I always provide a good time in every sense of the word.

*wiggles eyebrows*

I love spicy food! I have a strong digestive system so I’ll eat a lot but maintain my figure because I also exercise much as you can tell.

*shows off his biceps*

I’m usually attracted to someone sweet, shy and innocent.

My lady c’mon!

Mark Lee

My name is Mark and you can mark me in your heart! I’m a Leo.

I’m a simple guy who likes to hang out with friends and play my guitar, that I obviously brought with me. Who knows, I might serenade someone special.

*winks*

I like to think I’m funny but it seems like others don’t get my jokes… Anyway! I am not great in the kitchen so like maybe it’s safer for everyone if other people take care of the cooking.

*laughs*

I want someone who’s honest and loyal, plain and simple.

Time to shine!

Xiao Dejun

My name is Dejun but you can call me Xiaojun. I’m a Leo.

I’m a more reserved guy, I like to be alone but I have a space saved in my life for a special lady.

*winks*

I like to read, watch movies and write songs. I can play several instruments too so I can write something special in several styles, there’s no way I can get that wrong.

*wiggles eyebrows*

Honesty can get you far with me because I believe that being humble brings more benefits. I also like a girl who can communicate well.

Let’s do this!

Wong Kunhang

My name is Kunhang but my friends call me Hendery so you can too. I’m a Libra.

I’m a very friendly and funny guy, everybody loves me, so I know this girl will too!

*shrugs shoulders*

I love to just take a walk and listen to music. Also I might start dancing when I talk so please don’t be surprised!

*laughs*

I like kind people who’ll help others in need. Also someone independent and family oriented.

Let’s enjoy this experience!

Huang Renjun

My name is Renjun and I’m an Aries.

I may seem like a soft guy but I know when to be cold and firm. I believe that you have to love yourself first to be able to love someone else and we need to love someone for who they are and not try to change them.

*smiles*

I appreciate arts. I like to dance and also to draw. I think I might draw us two together so she can see how good we’ll look and choose me!

*winks*

I like a witty girl who won’t be too sensitive to what I say because I like to be honest.

Let’s love ourselves and each other!

Lee Jeno

My name is Jeno and I’m a Taurus.

I’m an easy going guy that gets along with about everyone. Sometimes I may seem quiet and distant but in some situations I’d rather observe than participate.

*shrugs shoulders*

I like to think I’m funny, even if others say I’m not, I just hope at least I can make this girl laugh!

*laughs*

I’m interested in someone like me, easy going and with a good sense of humour! Also someone who can cook.

For love!

Lee DongHyuck

My name is Donghyuck but that’s the sane me, you can call me Haechan instead! I’m a Gemini.

I have a very bright personality and I can definitely cheer everybody up! I am also very affectionate so don’t mind me giving out free hugs and kisses!

*wiggles eyebrows*

I like tasty food, football and anything related to music. I love to dance and make up my own unique moves so please join me, I’ll teach you.

*winks*

I’m not very picky but I like a girl with good vocals and an easy to listen voice.

Ok cut!

Na Jaemin

My name is Jaemin and I’m a Leo.

I am a very bubbly guy and I might get a bit loud but it’s all in good fashion!

*laughs*

I like to dance and to play the piano. My favorite movie genre is horror but it’s ok if she doesn’t like that, she can always hold on to me if she’s scared.

*wiggles eyebrows*

I want someone who’s humble and that puts peoples needs first. It needs to be someone who I can share my heart with.

Wow, so sexy!

Liu Yangyang

My name is Yangyang, yes it’s not a nickname! I’m a Libra.

I’m an energetic and sweet guy. You can trust me with anything and I can give you a good laugh.

*smiles*

When I was a kid I wanted to be a racer, but now I just want to race my way into this girl’s heart.

*laughs*

I like an adventurous girl who’s affectionate and honest and will have fun with me.

I’m very happy to be here!

Osaki Shotaro

My name is Shotaro and I’m a Sagittarius.

I’m a cheerful and sincere guy, happiness is my middle name! I’m curious, impulsive and adventurous so hopefully I’ll find someone who can keep up!

*winks*

I like to watch mukbangs and to play football, but my favorite thing to do is dance so let’s dance together!

*smiles*

I don’t have an ideal type, I like everybody!

Let’s start the adventure!

Jung Sungchan

My name is Sungchan and I’m a Virgo.

I’m a serene and reliable guy, but I’m also a perfectionist and it’s difficult to convince me of things.

*shrugs shoulders*

I like to exercise and play games. I enjoy sunny days the best and maybe I can find some company to enjoy them with me.

*winks*

I’m just looking for someone that matches well with me.

I’m ready!

Zhong Chenle

My name is Chenle and I’m a Scorpio.

I’m a friendly, cheerful and confident guy, even if people get startled by my laugh.

*laughs in dolphin*

I like to play football, play the piano and cook. I am afraid of spiders so unfortunately it would have to be the girl saving me from them!

*scratches the back of his head*

I don’t have an ideal type.

Ok, let’s do it!

Park Jisung

My name is Jisung and I’m an Aquarius.

I may come up as an awkward guy but I promise I’m nice and funny once you get to know me!

*winks*

I have a good hunch so I’m very good at making decisions. I like to play soccer and video games, but not scary ones because I get startled easily!

*laughs*

The perfect girl for me is someone who I can be friends with first.

Let’s live this moment!

[fallen-in-dreams]

Moving On

Also on AO3. Pairing: Sasuke/Hinata. Summary: Everyone was lying to her. Killing her with kindness. Shielding her from the pain they all know is coming. But now it was time for some hard-hitting truths. And from the most unlikely source. SasuHina.Post-war. Prompt: Day 25: The Season of Grief. Rated: T. Words: 7,566. Status: Complete.

Author note: Angst and Hinata POV as she slowly comes to the realisation that she can’t have the life she’d been planning for. The Season of Grief = The Five Stages of Grief. The grief of losing the love she used to have.

Warnings/tags: One-sided SasuSaku. One-sided NaruHina. Naruto/OC. Angst with denial, pining, and romantic existential crisis. But with a happy ending.

Thank-you so much @sasuhinamonth​ for hosting this. I'm later than I’d planned, sorry. Hope that’s okay. :)

“There comes a time when you have to stop crossing oceans for people who wouldn't even jump puddles for you.” – Unknown

.

Denial.

.

Life was a series of choices.

For example, Hinata Hyuuga could choose to accept the arranged marriage her father had planned for her, or she could refuse to sign on the dotted line and hold out for love. She chose the latter. She was sure that fourth cousin her father had in mind for her was a nice man, but she wasn’t interested. And after surviving the war and learning to defend herself better emotionally, the last thing she wanted was to regress into the dutiful daughter who never complained. She was finally in control of her own life.

And she was still waiting on Naruto-kun.

Hinata was tired of the sad looks her clansmen would give her when she rebuffed their advances. Centuries of marrying their third or fourth cousins had instilled it too deeply in them that they couldn’t live any other way. Naruto had taught her she could do better, and she was determined to do so.

All of her choices to move forward were the reason Hanabi had been named Clan Heiress. She was already being prepped for it before the war, but their father’s insistence on an arranged marriage was the final straw. Hinata had been officially removed from the running. She would’ve been concerned about being branded with the Branch’s Curse Seal if Naruto hadn’t been so vocal in his disagreement about the practice. The Leaf hero’s words resonated with the village, and Lord Hokage started negotiations to prevent further sealings. Kakashi had also made motions to have those who currently bore the juinjutsu to be released from it. It would take a few more years to fully circumvent it, as the seal hadn’t been designed to be removed, but it was a step forward for the clan. A hope for a better future.

Everything Neji had wanted.

Hinata couldn’t be happier. She only wished to share in that future with Naruto. He was her hero. And the love of her life. She just needed to be more patient with him. But it was frustrating some days. She tried to talk to him and only succeeded when they were alone. Around friends and in crowds, he was so distracted by everyone. One-on-one he became fidgety, but she just chalked that up to him not being very good with girls. He’d stopped asking Sakura out, and the two were nothing more than friends, and he hadn’t asked anyone out. He was just shy.

Hinata already had a plan in place to ask him out herself. She just needed to work up for her own confidence to do so. Someone had to get this relationship going. In the meantime, she daydreamed about how it was going to go. But her days were lonely right now. Waiting. Patiently. And never quite making that important step forward. She had her family and friends and teammates but wanted more.

Her heart could only take so much.

“I just need to be brave.”

Hinata wasn’t brave, emotionally. In dire moments and with important things and people on the line, she knew how to be brave. Adrenaline and determination got her a long way. But in the aftermath, she found herself succumbing to the fear of rejection and crippling shyness.

“Yes, you do.”

She started, realising she’d said that out loud, in front of her sister. She’d been so lost in her thoughts and forgotten where she was for a moment. Hanabi was sitting across from her, the low serving table between them, ignoring the servants as they poured the tea for her before turning to her older sister. Hinata’s sister was clutching a half-finished kimono to her lap and lazily sewing at the hem of it. For such a skilled fighter, her movements were surprisingly delicate.

This was a weekly thing for them. Every Sunday at lunch, when their father was too busy with clan duties to interrupt or overhear them, they would talk to each other about anything or anyone, and when the Hyuuga servants left, even gossip sometimes. Hanabi had been carrying that kimono around all week, taking her time with building on it. Hinata knew her sister well enough to know it was a project with no defined outcome. She was just adding to it at her own leisure. Who knew what it would look like when she was finally done?

Hinata delicately sipped at her tea as Hanabi continued to ignore her own; her eyes narrowing as she focused intensely on the needle and thread. Her sister had developed a habit of people watching, since the war ended. And her insight was far sharper than anyone that Hinata knew. It made her feel insignificant.

“Spoken to Naruto lately?”

Hinata nodded. It was a silent lie. But she could’ve easily ran into him a few days ago if she wanted to so she didn’t see the point in saying otherwise. He was very busy with missions and handling Sasuke. The Uchiha’s release from jail had come as no surprise, given who was Hokage now. Kakashi had always had unwavering faith that he’d return. Just as Naruto did. Sakura… Hinata had seen her waver. But she was more confident now than ever about their team returning as family. Hinata only hoped that when she started dating Naruto herself, that it didn’t upset their dynamic.

“You’re grieving.”

Hinata raised an eyebrow at that. “What am I grieving?”

Her sister smiled. “Love.”

“I don’t understand.”

“Naruto-kun isn’t the smartest person,” Hanabi said. “And I think you know that.”

“He doesn’t have to be.”

Her sister smiled. Again. A knowing smile that Hinata didn’t appreciate. But she said nothing of it and returned to watching Hanabi’s expert hands as she weaved the thread in and out of the kimono. This was a hobby for the younger sister. They’d both learned how to sew traditional garments as well as fix them, when they were still barely able to fight. It was second nature to them both. But Hanabi found a kind of peace to the process that Hinata never could.

“Father wishes you to marry soon.”

“And you?”

Hanabi shook her head. “A few more years, perhaps. When I’m ready to begin training to take over the clan.”

She was still too young to learn everything. Given that Hiashi was nowhere near retiring, it didn’t serve any purpose to put her through those rigorous trials just yet. But Hinata was surprised their father wasn’t thinking about grandchildren yet. At least not from his heiress.

Hanabi put the kimono down and finally sipped at her tea. “How do you feel about Naruto-kun?”

“I love him?”

It was immediate and instinctive, but it sounded more like a question than a statement. Hanabi didn’t react to the questioning tone of her voice. She just gave her older sister a look that told her she was questioning her for more than just curiosity.

“Are you sure, Oneesan?”

She had convinced herself so thoroughly that it was going to happen. Hinata brushed at the hem of the sleeve of her Yukata. Was she? Did she?

Yes.

She still loved Naruto-kun. Of course, she did. She’d gone through too much to just suddenly stop caring about him. He was in her heart. Just like Neji still was.

Was.

“I asked him out.”

“What did he say?”

“He said ‘let’s go to Ichiraku’.” He also said, “that bum Sasuke can pay for mine this time,” but she didn’t see how that was relevant. It was a date. And only two people could go on a date at the same time.

Right?

“Will the rest of Team Kakashi be there?”

Hinata opened her mouth to answer then shut it, her eye twitching in annoyance. She calmed herself and shook her head. “Of course not.”

She didn’t like the way this conversation was going. Hinata glanced at the clock on the wall. They normally took tea, and then lunch, all awhile talking of friends and goals. It was funny to her that they’d never done this until recently. What exactly was the point before now?

Hanabi placed her tea down, almost finished. “We should have the food brought in, before it gets cold.”

Hinata nodded mechanically and waited for the servants to finish setting the table before disappearing. They could not be overheard in this room by anyone who wasn’t already in it. The jutsu that allowed this privacy had been in place since long before either of them were born.

Hanabi started talking about a jutsu that their father wanted to teach them and Hinata calmly dug into her Udon noodles. Silence eventually fell until they were both done. After the servants retrieved the plates, Hanabi went right back to pressing and hemming the edges of the kimono in her hand.

“Sasuke-kun walked by the compound again this morning.”

“Hm?” Hinata sat up straighter at that.

“He’s been doing that a lot lately,” Hanabi mused. “But not last week when you were staying over Sakura’s.”

For Ino’s surprise party sleepover. Which was Sakura’s idea.

Hinata hadn’t slept in her own bed for two nights. It was a first for her, for a long time.

“Sasuke-kun looks in here too. Like he’s searching for something. It’s a barely noticeable glance, but I’ve been staking out the gates.”

“Do you like him?” Hinata was surprised at her sister as well as the strange clenching of her gut.

Hanabi scoffed. “No. But ever since I first saw him watching you training with your team after he got out of prison, I’ve been noticing he does that with you a lot.”

Hinata scoffed. “Don’t be silly.”

“Yeah, you’re right. He’s probably just plotting to kill you.” Hanabi ignored her sister’s worried expression. “Or wondering why you always look so sad these days.”

“I’m not sad.”

“Yes, you are.”

“I’m not.”

Hanabi set the unfinished kimono down and stared her sister straight in the eyes. “Do you love him?”

“Who?” Hinata hated how her voice rose a few octaves.

“Naruto-kun.”

“Yes,” she said. “I love him.”

She would wait for Naruto. For him to come to terms with what had happened and realise they were meant to be together. Hinata would be the quiet voice he can’t block out because he loves her so much. No matter that he had already had numerous occasions to prove it to her. Even someone as clueless as him couldn’t not know how she felt. She just needed to give him a push in the right direction.

That’s what I have to do.

And she went right on back to pretending she didn’t see the pitying look on her sister’s face.

  .:.

  Anger.

.

The restaurant was noisy by the time Hinata arrived, dressed up and twisting her fingers nervously. She looked up into the colourful lights that decorated the restaurant of choice. Night-time made this place come alive in a way that surprised patrons that saw it for the first time. This was also one of the newer restaurants that opened after the war. So many things had changed, and so fast and it felt like Konoha was quickly becoming a very different village. Kakashi had authorised integral changes and Hinata could see the village one day becoming as large as a city. She was kind of nervous about that. Their population was steadily growing too, even only a year out.

She sighed and stepped forward in the waiting line. Naruto had said he’d come about seven and it was only a few minutes before. Hinata had spent the last hour already dressed for this date. Her stomach had twisted, making her throw up twice, before that. The line moved again, and she found herself at the head of it faster than her nerves could handle.

It’s finally happening.

“May I help you?”

Hinata cleared her throat. “Party for two. Under the name Hinata Hyuuga.”

The server looked through her list and her eyes widened in surprise. “I’m sorry, we were told that was a party of four.”

“A-are you sure?”

The woman turned the clipboard to show her. When Hinata had asked Naruto to make the arrangement, because she’d been called away by her father, she’d assumed he had made it just for the two of them. It was supposed to be a date… right? When the venue was changed from Ichiraku to The Sannin Sushi House she assumed this was finally going to be more intimate.

Hinata swallowed heavily. “I-I, uh. He must’ve made a mistake.”

The server nodded her head in understanding. “Yes, but unfortunately, we can’t change your table. There aren’t any spare ones tonight.”

The sound of the other patrons hit her then, reminding her of how loud and full the restaurant was. She just nodded and Hinata went along with it, hiding her disappointment. They would just have to do with a larger table between them. A voice in the back of her head scoffed at her.

Who else is coming tonight?

Maybe Naruto had misheard her? She didn’t understand how he could have but it had to have been a mistake. She shook her head, chastising herself for worrying over something so trivial. She was stronger than this.

“Thank-you,” she bowed to the server. “Where is the table?”

Hinata followed the woman and settled into the chair that gave her the best view of the restaurant entrance. She was already on edge, with the change in her plans, and worried that something else might sneak up behind her if she wasn’t careful. All the courage she’d learned from Naruto-kun had boiled off and she needed to get a hold of herself.

“Dining alone, again?”

Hinata gave a start at the familiar voice. “Sasuke-kun,” she said softly.

Why is he here?

Did this mean Naruto had invited him too? No, that didn’t make any sense.

The Uchiha slid into the chair across from her. This was one of the non-self-serve restaurants that had popped up in Konoha in the last twelve months and as a result the space between them, under the table, was minimal. His foot accidentally brushed against hers and she started again.

“A-are you here–”

“Hm. Naruto said he’d pay this time if I turned up early.”

They got dinner together a lot, then? Hinata struggled not to lose the soft smile she’d plastered to her face. It was only natural that Naruto would make time for his former teammate who was also his best friend. This didn’t mean he was avoiding her.

Of course not. Why would I even think such a thing?

“W-where is Sakura-san?”

Sasuke picked up the menu in front of him and lazily perused it, not answering her question. He didn’t look over at her when she repeated the question and began tapping the table with the menu absentmindedly. She wondered what was going through his head. After a few minutes, she’d had enough.

“Why are you here?”

Now, he looked up at her. “There are no more free tables.”

Is he making fun of me?

She assumed he was a joking. He had to be. This was supposed to be just her and Naruto. Sasuke was ruining everything. She didn’t want to burst that out at him, but it did really feel like he was getting in the way deliberately. Hanabi’s words to her the other day about Sasuke following her around popped into her head, but that was ridiculous. Everyone knew he was dating Sakura, just like Hinata hoped to begin dating Naruto. Why else would Sakura be so adamant something was going to happen between them?

“He’s just shy, Hinata,” the pinkette had told her yesterday. “And we’re going out tomorrow night anyway.”

Tomorrow night is tonight, she reminded herself. So where is Sakura?

A waitress sidled up to their table, giving Sasuke a once over with her eyes before asking them for their orders.

“Pork Katsu Curry,” Sasuke said. “With a side of Kani Salad and Green Tea.”

“Certainly, handsome.” The waitress turned to Hinata. “And you, sweetie?”

Hinata felt very uncomfortable under the stare they were both giving her. It felt like she was on a date with Sasuke, not Naruto. She didn’t know how to handle this. It felt like the world had just tipped on its axis. When she was this uncomfortable, Hinata usually just caved to whatever was expected of her. But she didn’t want to keep doing that with the important things in her life. However, this was too public and sensitive a venue for her to start putting her foot down without repercussions. Saying anything about her disappointment and desire to get rid of them both would only make her regret it later.

She blinked heavily. Uh, right. They were still looking at her expectantly. Though Sasuke’s eyes were occasionally drifting off to the side like he was embarrassed, but he still looked more bored than anything.

“Miso Soup,” she said finally, going with something she knew well. Hinata wasn’t hungry enough for a side, but she didn’t want them to think she was angry with them. “And M-Moyashi Salad on the side.” She cleared her throat. “And just some water, please.”

The waitress read their orders back to them then winked. “That’ll be ready in a jiffy. You two lovebirds let me know if you need anything else, okay?”

Hinata’s skin flushed crimson and she lowered her gaze to the table, not daring to see Sasuke’s reaction to that.

“How long until Naruto-kun arrives, do you think?”

Sasuke glanced over at her and shrugged, then leaned forward to rest his chin on his hands, now staring at her. It was making her uncomfortable, so she looked back down again. They remained that way, in silence, for a while. Hinata entertained herself by counting the tassels on the edge of the tablecloth. Over and over again.

“You…”

Hinata looked up quickly as Sasuke trailed off, the look on his face suddenly uncertain. Before she could ask him what he was going to say, the waitress returned with their orders. She felt herself turning beet red, realising they’d been sitting like this for at least ten minutes. The waitress was eyeing them curiously, like one would a couple of bugs under a microscope.

“Thank-you,” they both said at the same time.

Hinata sighed deeply as the waitress bowed to them. She was eerily silent this time and moved away quickly.

“I think we unnerve her,” she said softly.

Sasuke glanced at the woman’s retreating back before digging into his food. For him, it was digging in. Hinata had been in many group outings with Team Kakashi since the war ended and Sasuke was allowed free reign of the village. He ate like a nobleman; picky and proper. Not at all like Naruto.

She sighed again and picked up the bowl with her Miso Soup. If he wasn’t going to turn up, she might as well enjoy the night air and good food. They ate in silence and Hinata slowly settled her nerves, finding the quiet between them a comfortable surprise. The loud noises in the restaurant didn’t bother her anymore and she proceeded to escape into her own little world, just thinking about things.

Her father had been asking her about her future lately, instead of telling her what it would entail. She was finally having conversations with him in which taking part meant that she could approach the subject matter honestly. He’d even stopped asking her about her love life. (His attempt at a marriage of convenience notwithstanding.) Hinata put her bowl down and glanced over at Sasuke. It seemed nobody had a handle on their love life lately.

“Are you…” She hesitated when Sasuke put down his spoon and she suddenly had his full attention. “Um. I thought you were coming here with Sakura-san on a date.” He shook his head. “She, uh, said so yesterday.”

Was that a smirk? Whatever it was, it was gone a moment later.

“Sakura…” he cocked his head to the side. “She has different ideas on what an invitation out with friends means.”

Hinata understood what he meant but frowned softly. Everyone knew that Sakura was obsessed with Sasuke and saw any attention from him as evidence of their undying love. A simple invitation with Team Kakashi could set her off on a soliloquy about star-crossed love. But that didn’t explain why she wasn’t here. Her absence made even less sense than Naruto’s.

Sasuke sighed, obviously realising she wanted to know more. He sat back in his chair heavily.

“I… told her we were meeting at Ichiraku’s.”

“You…”

He told Sakura the wrong place on purpose. He had no intention of being honest with her. Was it a trick? Or just him being a douche? Hinata narrowed her eyes at Sasuke. A familiar feeling of annoyance rose up inside her and if she’d been paying attention to why this bothered her so much, she’d have realised Sasuke was giving Sakura the same kind of brush off that Naruto had done to Hinata.

But she couldn’t bring herself to yell at him either. She ground her teeth. “Take it from me, Sasuke-kun, you wouldn’t like someone you care about doing that to you.”

“Don’t call me Sasuke-kun.”

He hated honorifics.

“You have no idea.” He said it like he’d come to some kind of existential realisation.

“About what?”

“You’re quiet and shy and sweet to everyone. Always putting yourself down and picking up everyone else.”

She didn’t know what to say to that. Sasuke continued, now leaning forward and pointing at her like he was her sensei, and she was a naughty genin who refused to listen.

“Despite having such a powerful dojutsu, you don’t even see what’s happening right in front of you. Naruto has obviously left you in the dirt, but you keep holding out hope he’ll come around.” She fidgeted as he continued to reprimand her. “Face it: he lied to you.”

“He was just trying to spare my feelings.” Her voice sounded hollow, even to her.

Sasuke scoffed. “By dragging the decision out.”

“What are you doing to S-Sakura-san?”

“That’s different,” he said, his eyes narrowing. “I’ve told her I’m not interested but she won’t take the hint.”

“Naruto-kun’s–”

“He’s a dobe. And he isn’t going to date you, no matter what you think.”

“How can you call him your friend and speak of him like this? I thought you cared–”

“I never said I cared about him.”

“I suppose you expect me to believe that?”

“I’m not the only one running away from the truth.”

“No, you’re perfect,” she said, spitting out the last word.

He smiled at that. Genuinely. Her frustration seemed to amuse him.

“Why are you saying these things to me?” She asked, clenching her fists and glaring openly at him.

“Because no-one else will,” he said, matter-of-factly. “Least of all the one person who should.”

But why did he have to be so rude about it?

He levelled her with the most intense non-glare stare she’d ever seen from him. “Kindness doesn’t seem to work on you.”

Damn. She’d asked that question out loud. Hinata couldn’t get a handle on the emotions bubbling up inside her. It was too painful. She’s waited for years. Held herself up high and given every inch of herself. But Sasuke knew Naruto better than she did. He said the blond had no intention of doing anything with her. He said that he was just a dobe who wasn’t telling her what she needed to hear. She was so furious now that Hinata couldn’t hear anything other than her own blood rushing in her ears.

How dare he?

“You are a low life.” Hinata could hardly believe the words were out of her mouth as she stood up, her body shaking with anger. Sasuke just stared back at her, not surprised or offended one bit. “Sakura-san could do so much better than you.”

“Tell her that.”

She desperately wanted to throw her untouched water at him. But she reigned in that emotion, not wanting to cause a scene that could get back to her father. She’d already embarrassed herself enough. Instead, Hinata huffed, rifled in her purse and threw down just enough money to only pay for her own food. Naruto had apparently promised to pay for Sasuke, and he wasn’t here to do so. But that didn’t mean that she had to do it in his stead. Feeling quite unlike herself, she scowled at him before storming off.

Hinata didn’t see the genuine curiosity on his face at her actions. The small smile of interest she’d sparked. She could only see red. It would be hours before she could calm down enough to realise, he’d been right.

  .:.

  Bargaining.

.

If only she’d been stronger. And more forceful, like Sakura, then none of this would’ve happened. Her life had spiralled out of control. Before that dinner with Sasuke, Hinata could just go along and pretend that one day Naruto would ask her out for real, or at least take her asking seriously. He wasn’t in a relationship of his own, though – to her chagrin – his fangirls were still as stubborn as ever. And that lack of a relationship had given her hope.

Now she had all kinds of thoughts about what was really going on. And the truth was, that Sasuke was right. Naruto-kun wasn’t interested in her like that. It was still hard to grasp since she’d held onto it for so long and it didn’t feel real. They’d shared a moment during the war, holding hands and promising to be there for each other. She’d taken it as a declaration of love while he’d been talking about friendship. Granted, the kid of friendship you kill and die for, but friendship all the same.

I’m as bad as Sakura.

Or maybe only almost as bad as Sakura, since the pinkette was still talking Sasuke up to everyone. He’d made a scene the day after that dinner date (and she could admit that, although accidental, it had been a date), which should’ve put Sakura in her place. Hinata hadn’t seen either of them since then, so she didn’t know if it worked. But she had bigger fish to fry.

Hinata needed to regain control of this chaos she’d created. Maybe she was still in denial though, and it would explain why she’d deliberately made her way to Ichiraku’s, knowing he’d be there. He always was at lunchtime. Everyone knew that Naruto got up at nine o’clock, had breakfast (sometimes in his apartment and sometimes at Ichiraku’s), headed over to the training grounds where he’d work out (and sometimes spar, if any of his former teammates were available), then practically skip to Ichiraku’s for lunch. He’d spend anywhere from half an hour to an hour there, depending on how hungry he was and how many fangirls slowed him down. Then Naruto would promptly return to the training grounds for a few hours before tracking down his former teammates to see who wasn’t busy and then bug them until they either kicked him out or he got bored. If the sun hadn’t set yet he’d wander through the village, waving at people, being waved at, and stopping to talk to other Konoha Eleven members.

Sometimes he spent the late afternoon with Konohamaru and his friends. Then he’d go back to the training grounds and use the dark to hone his sensory skills. Naruto would go at it until he dropped, then drag his arse back home, eat, bathe, and finally sleep until morning.

His schedule was a little different sometimes, depending on his mood and available friends (Kakashi didn’t send him on many missions because he was too overpowered for most of them) but the lunchtime and when he started night-time training were like clockwork.

When he would find time to do the things he’d always gone on about, she didn’t know. But Hinata knew his current schedule because she was a stalker. It was obvious to her now. Nobody else followed him around like this. She wondered if he’d ever taken the time to notice. She needed to get a hold of this before she wasted her life away.

But Hinata couldn’t stop wondering what could’ve been if she’d approached Naruto right after the war instead of waiting for him to get into a routine of ignoring her. Maybe she’d have shown him just how right they were for each other. And he’d finally listen.

This was why she was walking toward the Ichiraku Ramen stand. It was why she stopped next to a stall of flowers and pretended to be interested in them as she watched the ramen stand in her peripherals. And why she didn’t move away the moment she realised he was on a date. Her stomach clenched, but it was a milder pain than she expected. Even so, it still threatened to bring a fresh bout of tears to her eyes to watch him with this girl.

Naruto was the only member of Team Kakashi at the stall. He stood outside, laughing and joking with someone that Hinata didn’t recognise. The girl was really pretty. With short auburn hair and a petite figure that her clothes highlighted, and her makeup complimented. What made Hinata realise it was a date was not only how the girl was dressed to the nines (Naruto, too, for him anyway), but also how he reciprocated when she ran her hand along his arm. He was blushing and trying to pull of the cool guy act. If this was just another fangirl, he wouldn’t put that much work into it, surely.

They talked and laughed a few minutes more before clasping hands and ducking under the flap to take their respective stools in Ichiraku.

Definitely a date.

Hinata let out a breath she didn’t know she was holding and turned away from the flowers. The stall server was disappointed but quickly turned to another customer.

Story of my life.

A sudden flare of chakra had her spinning around and she found herself suddenly face to face with Sasuke Uchiha. Had he seen her stalking his friend? There was nothing but his usual aloof stare on his face as he silently appraised her. But she knew. He knew. And the shame of it made her body shake with both anger and humiliation. So, she did the only thing her body was willing to do in that moment.

Hinata ran away.

She took to the rooftops and pushed herself to her limit, trying to get away from Naruto. From Sasuke. Her tears dried on her face by the time she found herself at Team Eight’s old training ground. She wiped at them then found her favourite oak tree and sat down. Even under the shade, the sun was warm and comforting on her skin. She basked in it, closing her eyes.

This time, Hinata felt him arrive. But she didn’t feel childish enough to tell him to go away. She opened her bleary eyes and looked up at him, shielding her eyes from the sun. He looked radiant, with the curve of the blinding light almost silhouetting him. Sasuke moved forward to better block the rays and she lowered her arm.

“Why are you h-here?”

He moved out of the way of the sun and Hinata shaded her eyes quickly. Sasuke always did have a thing for being dramatic. She turned to look at him as he sat down on the grass next to her. He didn’t answer at first, staring up into the sun like it didn’t bother him at all. Nothing ever seemed to bother him. Finally, he sighed.

“I told you so.”

The floodgates opened. She broke down. Hinata couldn’t stop it. She pulled her legs up to her chest and hugged herself, her face in her knees as she cried. She wasn’t upset at him. Only herself. Hinata didn’t react when Sasuke shifted his bum to press his side against her and gave her a one-armed hug. Her head lolled to rest on his shoulder as he pulled her closer to himself, but she didn’t relent on the tears. His hand was large and warm against her, making Hinata cry even more.

Eventually, she stopped shaking and sniffled heavily.

She hated that he could get over their argument so easily and yet she was still plagued with doubts about how she’d acted. How rude he’d been. Hinata gave herself a few silent moments to compose herself before sliding out of his grip and wiping her face. Hinata rose shakily to her feet and gave him a slight bow.

“Thank-you Uchiha-san. I can see myself home now. Good day.”

He watched silently as she walked away solemnly.

  .:.

  Depression.

.

She avoided every member of Team Kakashi for weeks. Hinata couldn’t avoid Kakashi forever however, as the Hokage called her in for a pep talk – his version, rather, which was to ask her if she wanted a mission outside of Konoha. “To get away for a while. You could treat it like a vacation.”

Did everyone know about her problems? Kakashi probably just knew because of the other members of his former team, but it felt like a spotlight was suddenly shining on her and the whole world had gathered to watch her humiliation. She understood his concern. Hinata would think less of him if he hadn’t been. But she couldn’t deal with being this exposed right now.

“No thank-you, Hokage-sama,” she’d said, bowing lower than usual. “I am expected to join father in a mission soon and it would be disrespectful of me to leave Konoha right now.”

He just stared back at her for a moment but eventually nodded his head slowly.

Naruto’s voice interrupted them, suddenly bouncing off the walls as if he was standing right there and making Hinata jumped. But the loud blond was actually just booming down the hall outside.

“Hang on,” Kakashi said, then stood and disappeared out of the room.

Hinata could hear them talking, and Naruto’s whining voice and something about Ichiraku. Naruto yelled out, “woo-hoo!”.

Lord Hokage is trying to get rid of him for me.

But it sounded like he was too excited to get the hint.

Hinata couldn’t stand the pity. The deep, painful feeling that churned in her gut and worked its way up through her body like acid reflux. Hinata stumbled slightly from the physical shock of it. Kakashi meant well and she understood this, but it just made her feel so small.

She couldn’t let people cover for her anymore. Hinata realised that was what people had been doing. Trying to help her by keeping them apart. But all that had done was blind her to the truth. She loved her friends, but this was not the way to moving on. She had to be braver than this. Steeling herself, Hinata pushed her shoulders back and pushed the doors open, leaving the Hokage's office. Kakashi looked surprised to see her come out. His former student went silent upon seeing her, then started fidgeting.

“Hinata…” Naruto trailed off, rubbing the back of his head.

But Hinata ignored him, her chin high and face resolutely forward. She would not give herself the opening to fall back into the comfort of lies. She would not regress. She was stronger than this, damnit! Nobody said anything else as she left the Hokage Tower. When she was out of sight, Hinata finally breathed, shaking her arms to release the tension. Fighting the tears that threatened to spill over.

“I need to go home,” she said to herself, shivering. A storm was on its way, and she didn’t want to walk home soaking wet. She picked up the pace and quickly entered the front gates of the Hyuuga compound. The rain started pelting down the moment they closed behind her, and she sighed deeply. The guards nodded to her, and she smiled at them with all the warmth she could muster.

The grounds of the Hyuuga compound were beautiful no matter what time of year it was. Even in the moist air they came alive. Hinata walked through the covered walkways between the houses, mulling over what she’d just done.

I ignored Naruto-kun.

She’d never done that before. And she had no idea how to deal with it. A part of her wanted to break down again. The other was feeling light as air. Free. Hinata could feel the emotion building up inside her again so hurried into her room and slid the door closed, before anyone could see her. She carefully placed her sandals on the shoe rack and pulled a coat from her wardrobe. The temperature had plummeted, so she sent out her chakra to get the attention of a servant and had them bring her a hot chocolate. Once she found herself alone, she sat on the window seat of her study and stared out through the glass window at the rain below her, hugging the hot chocolate to herself as she took tentative sips.

She was just daydreaming about figures dancing in the rain when she spotted something.

A figure walking in the rain. It was definitely male, his hands in his pockets and exuding chakra from his body to keep the rain at bay. She could sense it faintly, even from this distance. It reminded her of that mission so long ago when she’d been encased in crystal and would’ve died if she hadn’t expelled chakra from her chakra points. It was an easy thing for a Hyuuga to do, but this person wasn’t a Hyuuga.

They paused and looked up toward her. She couldn’t see his face clearly because of how hard the rain was coming down but Hinata was sure now: it was Sasuke. Hanabi was right. She kept watching as he slowly turned away and continued walking. Had he seen her? Did she want him to? Did it even matter?

Yes. Yes. And emphatic yes.

She had no idea why, but yes. Hinata wanted him to care enough to take the long way home that took him past the Hyuuga gates. He was the only one telling her the things she needed to hear. Even Hanabi’s questions weren’t as blunt as they should be. Sasuke was the only one not pitying her. She found she hated pity. She appreciated him so much in that moment. More than she’d appreciated him before.

Hinata swallowed heavily, palming her hand against the glass windowpane as his figure disappeared into the haze of the heavy rain.

“Sasuke.”

  .:.

  Acceptance.

.

All she felt now was exhaustion. She had just run a marathon and dragged herself through most of it, but eventually the energy would return. Her body would recover, and her mind would follow suit. She hoped. She had put so much of her energy into the life she’d imagined with Naruto.

Hinata was surprised she hadn’t snapped much earlier. Looking back, it was obvious this wasn’t going to happen.

He hadn’t left her for someone else. Because they’d never been an item. Her heart still wrenched at the thought of what might’ve been, but she was finally taking those steps to let him go. She had no business shoving him into her heart anyway. Hanabi told her, “You’re finally accepting your grief” when she told her and gave her the warmest hug she’d ever received. It almost made her break down again.

Then Hanabi asked her about Sasuke.

“Sasuke-kun?”

He looked up as she approached, seemingly surprised that she’d sought him out this time. Normally it was him hounding her. No, that wasn’t the right word. He didn’t hound her. He wasn’t some obsessed fanboy. She smiled at that. No, Sasuke was a good friend. She swallowed heavily at the weird sensation that sentence had induce in her gut.

Friend.

The word didn’t sound right either.

So, she’d tracked him down, only to find him in the Uchiha compound graveyard. She almost turned around and left right then, to give him privacy, but figured if he could interrupt her when she was doing something important then she could do the same.

“Hinata?”

He didn’t complain as she knelt next to him and offered a prayer to the headstone he was sitting in front of. It had his parents name on it. She closed her eyes and silently wished them well in the afterlife, then opened her eyes and turned to look at him.

“I was looking for you.”

“Obviously. Why?”

She smiled. “Why not?”

He scoffed, but she didn’t lose her smile. He stared back at her before finally relenting and offering up his own light smile. They both turned back to the headstone and silence reigned for a while. It was comfortable and companionable.

“I’m leaving Konoha.”

She was surprised. “Where will you go?”

“I have a mission.”

Hinata frowned. “Lord Hokage is letting you on missions outside the village?”

He pulled a face and she almost giggled. “Kakashi has little choice.”

This told Hinata that the mission was international. She was suddenly burning with curiosity, but held back because, likely, it was top-secret. And she wasn’t in the know on top-secret missions. The inner circle of the Hokage was always a tight, handful of people and this Hokage was no different. She had no doubt that the rest of his former team knew what he was going to be doing.

“It’s just politics,” he offered, sitting back on his bum now and pulling mindlessly at the grass. “Nobody but I can do it, apparently.”

He didn’t look happy about it. Hinata was quite enjoying his openness right now.

“And it’s for an indefinite amount of time.”

She nodded but he wasn’t paying her any mind. It wasn’t personal so she didn’t take it to heart. She wondered how long he’d be gone. If Hinata was honest with herself, she was going to miss him. Before he got involved with her problems, she wouldn’t have really cared either way. But things were different now. Every day since that evening, she’d seen him in the rain, she’d sat at her window and watched him walk by. Every time he stopped and looked up at her, she swore she could feel his eyes on her. Like he knew she was watching him too.

“What’s the mission?”

Why did I just ask that?

She’d held back because it wasn’t her place. Was she really this desperate to know all about him?

Sasuke stood slowly and stared down at her. “Agree to come with me first.”

“What?” She scrambled to her feet.

“Agree to come with me and I’ll tell you all about it.”

He was serious. She frowned. “But Hokage-sama–”

“Kakashi already offered you an out. He won’t complain about you finally taking it.”

“I’m not approved for the mission.”

“You don’t have to be.” He stepped closer to her, and she felt rooted to the spot. His eyes were intense on hers and in the back of her mind she realised she was seeing a side to Sasuke that few ever did. It was intense. The way he looked at her would haunt her dreams if she said no.

She shivered. If I take too long to answer, will he beg?

His comment had a “they don’t have to know” vibe. Like they were runaways. Star-crossed lovers. She felt herself flush at the thought of that. The idea of going with him sounded exciting if not terrifying. But the idea of staying here, not knowing when she would see him again, was worse.

“You can return to Konoha anytime you want,” he added, stepping impossibly closer. “To whatever life you think you will have back here. Or you can come with me, do some good for the village without having to deal with all the shit you’ve been going through.”

Her eyes widened in surprise. His verbal acknowledgement of her problems seemed so out of character for him. But she was grateful and offered a small smile, which he quickly returned, also to her surprise.

Who is this man standing in front of me, asking me to basically run away with him?

It would be a huge undertaking and she had no idea what she was getting herself into. But suddenly, the rush of the unknown wasn’t so scary to her. It would be an adventure. One with purpose. And perhaps, she could find a little of herself out there. With him.

Hinata widened her smile and nodded. “Okay.”

He was full of surprises, because the next thing she knew, Sasuke’s hands were cupping her face. Her mouth opened slightly in shock, and he licked his lips before slowly moving in toward her. He was giving her time to pull away and change her mind. Hinata didn’t take it, closing her eyes as his mouth gently pressed against hers.

She should’ve seen this coming. This was why Sasuke had even bothered to give her the time of day. This was what all their little moments had been leading up to. This odd feeling of belonging was reciprocated.

I am so blind.

The taste of salt mixed in with the taste of him as she deepened the kiss. But for once, they were happy tears.

  .:.

[leparadoxpolyglot]

What Only I Can Do Chapter 2

Aizou: She’s not even in front of the office yet... What is the manager doing?

Aizou: See ya, I’ll do it myself todayー

Suzumi Hiyori: Ah, you two!

Yuujirou: Suzumi?

Suzumi Hiyori: Ms. Uchida had a sudden change in schedule and it seems like she’ll take a while longer to come back...

Suzumi Hiyori: But she should be returning soon.

Suzumi Hiyori: I’ll look from the main street so please wait here for a little bit?

Aizou: O-Ouh...

Yuujirou: ......

Aizou: ......

Aizou: Y’know, you’re kinda good at teaching.

Yuujirou: ...Huh?

Aizou: Your instructions are so precise, you’re more like a vocal lecturer than an idol.

Aizou: Could you be heading towards that kind of direction?

Yuujirou: Are you making a joke?

Yuujirou: Of course I’m like a vocal lecturer. I repeat the coaching exactly as I’d received them.

Aizou: Yea but everyone can do that...

Yuujirou: I’m not like everyone else. I only need to be taught once to remember.

Yuujirou: It’s not just the things the teacher says. Seeing their movements, hearing their voice...

Yuujirou: In one lesson, even if it’s a lot for one person, I’ll learn it.

Aizou: ......

Yuujirou: In a way, it’s just the basics of basics, isn’t it?

Yuujirou: Let me say this again. Up until now, have you been taking your lessons seriously?

Aizou: That... I...

Yuujirou: If you want to take idol activities seriously, do you understand that the way you are now is not enough?

Yuujirou: Your vocals, dancing and acting. They’re are all lacking.

Aizou: I know that...!

Yuujirou: No, you don’t. That’s why I’m telling you this.

Yuujirou: If you thought you were lacking, you wouldn’t have asked me for help.

Yuujirou: Well, you could really have just been asking but

Yuujirou: Don’t bother to say these kind of things...

Aizou: I...!

Suzumi Hiyori: You twoー! Thanks for waitingー!

Aizou: ......

Yuujirou: ......

Suzumi Hiyori: What happened...?

Suzumi Hiyori: Did you fight again?

Yuujirou: It’s nothing... Anyway, how’s Ms. Uchida?

Suzumi Hiyori: Ah, yea. The car’s on the street over there, she called us over.

Yuujirou: I see.

Suzumi Hiyori: Ah, wait for me, Someya-kun!

Suzumi Hiyori: Shibasaki-kun, going soon?

Aizou: I... I know that much, y’know.

Aizou: But I’m not you...

Aizou: ...Dammit

[airashisakura]

Written for @harunosakuraweek Day 2 - Mission gone wrong

Rating : General audience

Characters : Haruno Sakura, Uchiha Sasuke and Uchiha Sarada

Summary : When baby Sarada made her Papa proud and her Mama embarrassed

FFN Ao3

~~~~

The success rate of a mission depended upon how fast one analysed the situation, devised a solid plan, and implemented the plan with as few errors as possible — that’s what she had learned during her academy days. Of all the places, Sakura didn’t expect to assign herself a mission in her own house until she found Sasuke muttering something.

“Usuratonkachi,” Sasuke said in his usual arrogant tone.

The baby in his lap, with her wide black eyes, watched him as she chewed the plushy doll that she held in her hand.

“Come on, say usuratonkachi.” Sasuke tried to pry the plush doll from Sarada’s hand, but even at a year and a half, Sarada’s grip was strong, just like her mother’s.

Sakura watched attentively from the background, trying to contemplate the situation. Sasuke forcing the toy out of Sarada’s mouth was necessary, but what was with trying to make her learn a disrespectful word.

“Usuratonkachi,” Sasuke repeated slowly, as he wiped off the drool smeared on Sarada’s face using his sleeve.

Sarada watched him again with wide eyes, scrunched her face and tried to vocalize, “U-uu-su-uusu-sur.”

“Good girl,” Sasuke encouraged her by patting on her head.

"U-u-sur-a-ton-chii," Sarada finally blurted out, gleefully throwing her hands in the air.

Although she didn’t get the word correctly, Sasuke was proud that her daughter caught things fast. It was no wonder when Sarada said mama and papa just a few days after they started teaching her. Soon the list became a long one when she also started picking up words on her own by listening to her parents' conversation.

Sasuke smirked smugly as he tried again, “Usuraton—”

“Seriously, Sasuke-kun? You are acting like a kid,” Sakura chided him. Walking from behind, she now stood before him, hands on her hips.

Time to start the mission. Enemy ambushed inside his own territory.

“I know you felt embarrassed when Naruto laughed out loud after Sarada called you Anata in front of him, but that doesn’t mean you can add a derogatory word to her vocabulary.”

Sasuke grunted, remembering the scene. He turned his face away, cursing Naruto under his breath.

Sasuke’s ignorance fumed her anger more, and she snapped, “Or plan revenge using your daughter.”

Sasuke moved his head just to be met with Sakura’s heated stare. After a few seconds of glaring, Sasuke again turned his face away, making Sakura more angry.

“Tch.”

So the enemy doesn't want to surrender. Time to change the strategy.

“I know that felt humiliating,” Sakura started in an attempt to console Sasuke, but abruptly stopped.

Sensing the tension between her parents, Sarada had crawled towards Sakura and tugged on her dress. Sarada blinked her big baby eyes to coax her mother to pick her up. Sakura couldn’t help but smile, her anger dissolving. She held her close to her body, kissed her chubby cheeks, and blurted out, “but we can’t help it because our daughter is so intelligent.”

Sarada giggled at being praised by her mother. Sasuke’s sour expression vanished in a moment when he saw two of the most precious people in his life smiling brightly at him. He knew they were his weakness, and he happily gave into it.

Shannaroo! Mission Successful!

Seeing Sasuke’s mood getting a little better, Sakura teased him, “Isn’t it, Sasuke-kun?”

“Aah, I’ll forgive that loser this time,” Sasuke huffed, smirking.

Sakura was about to reprimand him, when Sarada started to say, “Saa-su—”

“Papa! Sarada, it’s Papa,” Sakura frantically whined, as Sasuke stifled a laughter.

Sarada blinked a few times and chanted Papa Papa while she wriggled in Sakura’s arm to reach for Sasuke.

A few weeks later, the Uchiha family went out to stock up their groceries. Sasuke carried Sarada in his arm, while Sakura was paying the bill to the shopkeeper and chatted. It was then Sasuke noticed their blonde teammate coming over their way, waving at them.

Sasuke turned his head in another direction, not acknowledging his presence. He didn’t forget the insult yet, and moreover now he couldn’t even plan revenge.

Sasuke impatiently listened to their conversation, not paying much attention. He responded by nodding and keeping his reply short, never really showing he was still mad at Naruto for making fun of him.

Sarada, not knowing about her Papa’s true feelings, relished chewing the sleeve of Sasuke’s shirt. A bit irritated by Sarada’s actions now, he was managing to force the fabric out from Sarada’s mouth when he heard Sakura berating Naruto and smacking him on his head.

Sasuke wouldn’t admit it openly, but he loved watching Sakura kicking some sense into Naruto. He cursed himself inwardly for not paying attention from the start of their bickering as he heard Sakura yelling.

“Baka Naruto!”

Just when Sasuke thought the show was almost over as Naruto grumbled apologies to Sakura, his intelligent daughter fluently repeated, “Baka Naruto, Baka Naruto.”

Naruto shot up a confused look at Sakura, while Sakura shot a death glare at Sasuke.

“What? I’m innocent here,” Sasuke said before laughing out hard.

Sarada laughed, proudly displaying her milk teeth, joining her father on his victory.

Sakura chuckled nervously, apologising to Naruto, who stood mortified. Inwardly Sakura cried, Shannaroo! The mission failed totally.

[therealkoumukami]

Kou-kun! Could you teach me one of your songs so we could do a duet someday?

Ooh, that sounds like fun, M Neko-chan! But I have to ask you one question first:

Are you a decent singer? While I could carry you vocally, it’d be easier if you could carry a tune, wouldn’t it?

[radbutsafe]

ALL FUCKIN 35 OF THEM SKLNWESDJFPXO

I SHOULDVE EXPECTED THIS FROM YOU

1. From one to five stars, how would you rate your writing? (No downplaying yourself!)

A three! I think I’m mid range cause I ain’t terrible but there is still shit I gotta improve and grow in my writing

2. Why do you write fanfiction?

to manifest what canon won’t give me and to write more! (though yes it is mainly about the smooching and the— I’ll stop there LOL)

3. What do you think makes your writing stand out from other works?

Hm! My weird research details? I’m that “fun fact, did you know...” in my fics sometimes LOL! I plan on giving a penthouse for erina in a fic and I went through penthouse listings in Japan for floor layouts and locations💀 my research gives me inspo and depth to stuff I think I lack in comparison to others sometimes.

4. Are there any writers that inspire you?

In terms of fellow fic writers, one of them I can’t name here but she’s an inspiration with her exceptional gift for prose period and her lovely skill at comedy! I want to be as funny as her when I write, I love her ironic situational humor. Other fic writers are @takoyakitenchou, @royaldragonsevgisi15 who I always love sharing ideas with and motivate me to create more! For non-fic writers it would be V.E. Schwab, Leigh Bardugo, Oda, and Horikoshi! The last two may be mangaka, however they are writers as well to create their stories! The depth these creators have given their worlds and interesting characters theyve given life to are all what I aspire to be like!

5. What’s the fic you’re most proud of?

so far uh?? hm everything I’m currently writing are wips lol!! im proud of my wip that has been nicknamed ‘soma panics’ that is a multi-chapter fic that spans like probs 20 plus chapters maybe

6. What element of writing do you find comes easily?

dialogue! it’s so much fun! and character thoughts. I’ve said to people I may be better suited for script writing

7. What element of writing do you struggle with most?

I think it’s description, of like setting and showing action. also an expansion of my vocabulary LOL

8. Which character(s) do you find easiest to write?

erina! I think it’s because canon has shown us many of her different faces and range of emotion.

9. Which character(s) do you find most difficult to write?

SOMA!! chill ass mofo whos more carefree compared to the common shonen protagonist! for other shokugeki characters I’m not sure just yet because I haven’t flexed my fingers enough for the rest of them.

10. What’s your favorite genre to write for?

I guess I should say romance cause that’s what I mostly write LOL!

11. Who or what do you find yourself writing about most?

sorina and I try to get them to smooch eventually KEK and yeah it’s..usually romantic fluff lmao

12. Tell us about a WIP you’re excited about.

HONESTLY ALL OF THEM but “soma panics” is my brain child

13. First fandom you ever wrote for?

pretty sure it’s digimon....

14. What’s your favorite fandom to write for?

currently shokugeki no soma!!!!

15. What’s the weirdest fandom you’ve ever written for?

uhhhh I guess SNS? LMAO fandoms...all have their quirks to them.

16. Any guilty pleasure trope(s)?

characters cuddling!!!! or getting the urge to smooch!!!!

17. A trope you’ll never, ever write for.

unrequited love GOOD FUCKIN BYEEEEEE

18. Wildest fic you’ve ever written?

I have plot ideas thst can be wild potentially but so far nothing fits this criteria so far that I actually have written.

19. Do you prefer canon-compliant, AUs, or something in-between?

depends on the fandom, but if written well, all of it!

20. Gen fic or shippy stuff?

shippy 100% like I said I like smoochin

21. Favorite pairing to write for? (platonic or romantic!)

romantic is...*drumroll* SORINA! platonic, soutaku and erina and alice!

22. Do you listen to anything while you write?

Sometimes! There are times songs will be on loop and times I just shuffle a playlist. and if I’m writing in random bursts it’ll be with no music but it really does depend lmao I think music is when I’m forcing myself to write?

23. Do you prefer prompts and challenges, or completely independent ideas?

completely independent ideas, I’ve realized in the past prompts shoot me in the foot often unless I luckily figure something out. but I’m often driven by my own sporadic self interest with shitty ping ponging attention

24. One-shots or multi-chaptered works?

multi-chap I guess cause I can post without being finished LOLLL but tbh can I really answer? I haven’t finished anything.....

25. Have you ever daydreamed about side adventures/spin-offs from your fic? Tell us about them!

I can’t answer this question imo because I haven’t finished a fic yet so technically stuff could all fit in the one fic?

26. Is there anything you’ve wanted to write, but you’ve been too scared to try?

MYSTERY AND CRIME! I love the genre and I have plot ideas once a blue moon but I can’t dive in because I want to make details that work and reduce plot holes where suspension of disbelief isn’t as needed. I need to study it more (I need to study all the details for any of my fics imo to be confident sometimes LOL)

27. What’s the nicest comment you’ve ever received?

I don’t think I can say one comment was the nicest because I’ve gotten comments that have given me quite the smiles to my face many times! I know this is a cop out but it’s true!

IS WHAT I WAS GONNA SAY UNTIL REINA SENT ME THE FOLLOWING ON DISCORD LIKE TWENTY MINS AGO:

and also rad. i am never this vocal about my emotions like EVER but this needs to be said your fics are obviously far from perfect, as are mine and everyone else's. but the thing about your works is that they're so well-sanded that it's impossible to find any rough edges or faults in them in terms of cohesion to a plot. your cast is never OOC and the amount of effort you devote to developing your takes on the characters as accurately as possible is unimaginably awe-inspiring.

BITCH I WANNA CRY 😭

28. How well do you handle criticism when it comes to your writing?

I’d like to believe I take it often well to try and improve because that’s always my goal. if someone is rude lol that’s not constructive snd is unhelpful. If I disagree with criticism I’ll explain why !

29. Have you ever gone outside of your comfort zone for a fic? How did it turn out?

Not yet, but I have some plot ideas I think will let me test this.

30. Tooth-rotting fluff or merciless angst?

F L U F F.

31. Do you have any OCs? Tell us about them!

elliott fuji, a japanese-american award winning photographer who is erina’s boyfriend in ‘soma panics’ which..causes soma’s panic LOL he’s 30 with slightly wavy black hair. I still haven’t pinpointed his personality just yet...he kind of humble brags for sure an artsy fucker and flirts maybe I’ll make him a lil shy though. he teaches sometimes, and becomes an adjunct photography professor in Tokyo so he can be with erina.

32. Summarize a random fic of yours in 10 words or less.

a cook is unfashionably late in realizing his feelings.

33. Is there anything you wish your audience knew about your writing or writing process?

I am a slow. so slow. motivation who is she? I also write out of order, unfortunately a bit too often.

34. Copy and paste an excerpt you’re particularly fond of.

this should be for the fic ‘soma panics’ it’s either megumi or satoshi talkin to him rn, I’m leaning towards satoshi

“You thought she would always wait for you, didn’t you Soma-kun? To always welcome you home.”

Soma drags his palms down his face and groans. He doesn’t like this at all. He doesn’t shy from confrontation but this is a whole different ballgame. Soma doesn’t play any ball.

“I guess..?” Is his reply, because he thinks he isn’t sure how to answer that.

“You guess?”

Just being questioned again is enough to crack Soma’s pathetic facade as if it was dropped chinaware and he lets out the longest sigh.

“No.”

Coming home means coming home to Nakiri Erina too.

Nakiri Erina is his forever.

this is @takoyakitenchou’s excerpt she’s most proud of that I’ve written, which is also from you guessed it, the long fic soma panics

SOMA: I am, I mean I will be, I swear I will always come home to you, not spend as much time abroad, once I’m done with work I’ll come right back. I’ll make sure to message you. Nakiri, I’m in love you with you. Maybe for a really long time. You know how I say I dedicate my food to you? My dad—my dad said that the key to become a good chef is to find someone to dedicate your cooking to. A special someone. For my dad it was my mom, you know? For me it’s...

(this is a good piece of dialogue tbh so I am also proud of this)

35. Ramble about any fic-related thing you want!

I’ve mentioned it throughout this but the WIP I’ve nicknamed ‘soma panics’ is something I’m super excited to write, but it’s going on slowly...and almost completely out of order. out of all of my writing it showed off that particular habit of mine, along with “what is this, a shoujo manga?!” though the latter is currently being written chronologically now that I’ve posted chapter one and is pretty solid in direction. it was originally supposed to be a one shot but I got impatient and wanted to post at least something for the sorina / soueri fandom.

however, because ‘soma panics’ (I won’t call it that LOL) is my baby I want to keep true to my rule of refusing to post it until I have a draft of the entire fic finished and I’m satisfied with the main points pretty much. due to my writing out of order, I’m worried I’ll change my mind about scenes or want to reflect things in earlier chapters for later ones etc etc

I joined the SnS fandom extremely late, as season five was airing. I was a fan of the manga five years ago and dropped it because I forgot to check for updates when I caught up 😔 I really want to bang out the different fics and aus for sorina that I have before the fandom fizzles out entirely but tbh I’m writing for myself, I’m manifesting what I want to see and I’ll just share it with all my friends to read if no one else will. cause I’m slow broski I dunno what writing fast even is like LMAO I do really want to write faster though, so I can contribute more and let the words free from the discord dms....

[mull3ts]

top 5 dreams I’ve had that felt too real:

me hugging nation’s vocal kweens aka red velvet and they were asking me how to introduce themselves in dutch :((

me and itzy’s ryujin saving the entirety of paris from an zombie apocalypse ft half human / half vampire kun that somehow had mad superhuman powers ??

me roasting yangyang for how delulu he can be on fancalls and we somehow ended up having a spicy make out in my bedroom and him actually seducing me in German ?? like what ??

me and the foreign swaggers arguing which doja cat song slaps before lucas appears and teaches how to twerk for an living ?? and then after we were watching Bollywood movies together and I made them chicken biryani too for dinner ??

and here we have the last and best to be saved:

✨sex in the kitchen with jeno while the dreamiest are watching the and he’s just paying tomorrow’s rent by the way he’s railing me✨

I- this. your brain I- beautiful.

[jentlemahae]

Anon out here acting like SM hasn't produced some of the most incredible idol dancers in the history of the genre 😭 what is BoA then, chopped liver? That woman is 34 and still outdancing every single artist out there. Taemin, Seulgi, Kai, a good chunk of the Neos (Ten, Mark, Jaemin, Jisung just to name a few), Hyoyeon, Luna... YG has had exactly two (2) high class dancers out of all the idols they've ever debuted, Minzy and Lisa; and JYP may have had Miss A and Momo and other good, solid dancers, but they haven't had as many stand outs as SM.

(Cont.) I do agree, though, SM's vocal quality has decreased drastically with the years, even amongst the Neos. A number of the dreamies have been displaying placement and projection problems in the studio recordinga for this album (and previous ones, Jeno screaming himself hoarse in the studio is a sign of bad vocal technique), and Kun has SERIOUS pitch and projection issues. Doyoung is a very obvious example of the difference between the idol singing that SM teaches now, which is not technically awful, especially compared to the shit that places like Hybe are teaching their artists, but does leave something to be desired, and actual well projected and placed singing. He was one of SM's better vocalists before the musical, but you can just hear how much healthier his belting and phrasing are after training his delivery to be able to do 6 shows a week sustainably. He's leagues better in those Marie Antoinette videos that have been making the rounds.

agree absolutely!! i think you made excellent points!!! tbh idk anything about vocam techniques but everything you said makes senseeeeee