Hello, everyone! This is primarily A3! writing blog wherein it’s ‘A3! Character and Reader’! However, there may be few instances that there’re no reader.
I also edit sometimes if I happen to be available and if inspiration strikes.
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Anon says: hey!!! can i request bike rides with juza? ^^
Aimee says: Omg hi, everyone! I am still alive after months of being MIA >< Thank you so much to those who waited, especially anon T_T I hope I did justice to you with this fic. I also wish that all of you are doing well :D
I see that a lot of fans like riding with Juza, huh. One of my prior fics for Juza, which was also requested by an anon, also has a bike ride in it. But I understand. I mean, who wouldn’t want to have a ride with this man?
Juza was the kind of man who helps out of kindness and not out of gain. After all, he was not the type to ask for favors or make special requests in exchange for his good deed. He does not ask for someone to do something grand (according to his standards) for him at all. Meanwhile, you were the type who does not simply say “thank you” to someone who did so much for you (according to your standards). You go through great lengths to return the favor.
That was why you were outside his house, leaning on your motorbike that faced lots of hardships when you were in driving school. Juza, who was only wearing a shirt and sweatpants, silently gaped at you.
“… you didn't say that you're comin' over.”
"It’s a surprise!" You plopped yourself down on your motorbike and then turned to him, saying, "I'll take you anywhere you want to go today!"
"...Is that why Kumon told me to bring my stuff before goin’ out?” Juza said as he glanced at the window on the second floor. He saw his younger brother by the window, widely grinning at him and giving him a thumbs up.
You rapidly nodded. "This is for all the times you took me to lots of places, Juza-kun!"
You thought Juza would smile or at least say a small thanks. But for some reason, he kept silent. You wouldn’t deny it made you nervous based on how hard your heart was thumping. What made him hesitate to take a ride with you? Did he think you were a reckless driver? Or was it risky to have you drive anywhere as it was your first time driving outside the school?
With those thoughts floating inside your head, you blurted out, “I-If you’re worried about my driving skills, I passed the driving test with flying colors!”
He shook his head. "’Is not that. It’s just… I didn't do those things to get a reward.”
You let out a sigh of relief. “Thank goodness it wasn’t because of my driving.” Then you quickly cleared your throat.
“I know you’re not that kind of person, Juza-kun,” you firmly said. “But will you let me take you anywhere you want to today?”
When you activated your puppy eyes, Juza averted his gaze from you as a faint blush painted his cheeks. You even let out some whimpers to urge him to say yes. He was weak to your cute antics, after all.
Your efforts were finally rewarded when he said with a voice barely above a murmur, “...Okay. But I dunno where I wanna go yet.”
Giving him his helmet, you said with a triumphant grin, "Then we'll just tour the whole city until you find something interesting!"
Without another word, you dragged him to the back of the motorbike’s seat. After securing your helmets, you grabbed his arms and locked them around your waist.
He was about to tell you that he would grip the seat instead but all of that was thrown in the wind. You turned the brakes and stepped on the motorbike, making the two of you speed off. Out of instinct, Juza gripped unto you tightly.
“Just tell me to stop if something caught your eye!” You yelled against the wind.
Even though Juza grunted in acknowledgment, he wasn’t sure if he could focus on his surroundings. His face was hot and a bit red, and it was not because of the scorching sun. He never got this close to a girl except for his mother. More importantly, the fear of suffocating you swarmed inside his head. But he didn’t want to make you think he disliked your touch. He didn’t want to hurt your feelings now or ever. So how could he not be self-conscious?
In the end, it took you three traffic light stops for him to regain his senses and actually choose. Guilt rose from the pit of his stomach. Still, he was silently grateful as you didn’t pry on him.
True to your hunch, the both of you mostly hopped in different stores and stalls that sold sweet food. However, the amount bought and plastic bags he was carrying was beyond your estimation. You reminded him from time to time not to buy too much or else his pockets would become empty. Though at the end of your trip, both of you feasted on the bought sweets and endlessly chatted at a park.
“It’s already that late, huh.” You sat up from the bench and stretched your arms. Then you stood up and offered your hand to Juza. “Here. I’ll take you home.”
After accepting your hand and standing up, Juza mumbled, “No. Just drop me off at the station.”
Your lips curled into a frown. “I can’t do that. I’m your driver for the day, you know?”
“But it’ll be faster for you to go home and ‘is safer.”
Catching on his message, you wrapped an arm around Juza's waist and patted his side. "There you go again with your worrying. If there're creeps at night, I’ll just outrun them. I’ll even wham them with my motorbike if they become too persistent.”
Cold sweats formed on Juza's back. “You don’t need to go that far...”
You waved your hand dismissively at him. Then you hopped on your motorbike, pulling his arm to make him sit at the back. You instantly placed Juza's arms around your waist. His arms weren't as stiff as before but they still clung to you.
You chuckled to yourself. It was a good thing for him to be comfortable around you, especially since this day was for your special man to enjoy.
When you sped off, Juza looked at his side. Now that he thought about it, it was his first time not being too alert at the road at all. He never noticed 'til now how the lights from buildings seemingly appeared to be twinkling stars nor how the breeze that tickled his skin was like his mom's gentle caresses. He also only realized now how the rustling leaves were similar to a lullaby being whispered to his ears.
A small smile appeared on his lips. This wasn't so bad.
And it was all thanks to you whom he was always grateful for.
Paradox Live (Pararai) always exceeds my expectations. And since I’m dying of listening to the shuffle teams, I want to share my thoughts on their MVs.
Please do give them a try! Even though they do not contain the full composition of each song, you will not regret listening to them :D
DISCALIMER: I am not an expert in music so if there are inaccurate terms, please feel free to correct me!
New & Classic by New & Classic [Hajun and Allen from BAE & Saimon and Yohei from The Cat’s Whiskers (TCW)]
As expected from Pararai, they profoundly blended BAE’s and TCW’s styles. Allen’s part really sounded like modern hip-hop as aligned to BAE’s music. They also used a clapping sound like in BAE’s part in Rap Guerilla in the melody. When the melody transitioned to a classy and jazzy vibes mainly due to the piano, Saimon’s part felt so smooth that it didn’t sound off at all.
The chorus is the epitome of “New & Classic.” Though it felt like TCW’s overlapped with BAE’s a bit due to the distinct jazz piano and drum sound, BAE’s style is present because the chorus feels kind of empowering in a way they make the listeners remember who they are and what they want to prove.
ギラギラCANDY NIGHT by CLUB CANDY [Anne from BAE & Iori, Zen, and Satsuki from AKYR]
This song is heavily AKYR-based, which is understandable since three out of four members are from AKYR. But I think another reason why they adopted that style because AKYR’s music is suited to clubs like CLUB CANDY. Besides the familiar tropical beats, the song makes you want to dance in a club party. Anne’s sultry voice blended so well with the boys’ powerful rapping! They weren’t overpowered at all. Moreover, their backing vocals in the chorus part make it pleasing and interesting to hear since AKYR usually uses call and answer to amplify their music.
Rooftop by 屋上のトモダチ [WARNING: Implied spoiler on Shiki and Nayuta]
Before discussing their music itself, let’s talk about the artist’s name. It translates to ‘Rooftop friend’ (thanks, Google Translate). It kinda hurts because that incident on the rooftop was the last time Shiki saw Nayuta - his friend. So :”D
Anyway, their music reflects both TCW’s and cozmez’s music styles. Cozmez’s music is primarily lo-fi and often under the trap genre. But what I like is that the overall song is soft and soothing (but probably sad when I’ll understand the lyrics) thanks to TCW’s signature style. One distinct feature of TCW is the use of piano, which is used all throughout. Hence, the song has a calming and classy feels as well.
Jumping into the World by Lollipop*Universe [Anne from BAE, Ryu from TCW, Nayuta from cozmez, and Reo from AKYR]
I honestly think the song is heavily based off BAE, especially when you listen to ‘F△BULUOUS.’ It is empowering in a way there’s lyric that say, “I don’t really give a what, no matter what you say” and “I’m the new type.” I believe the reason why they adopted that music style is that the members all have their “peculiar” identities. But as for Nayuta, he comes from a poor background that made people judge him. That is why the song is perhaps telling us that they’re just going to be themselves in their universe.
Though I think the music is also kind of different from BAE as it feels happy, sparkly, and playful. On the other hand, BAE is more off the type to be impactful and assertive without being too aggressive or frisky.
Final words
Paradox Live’s staff did an exceptional job in the shuffle theme shows. Not only did they combine music styles, but they also established each shuffled units’ identity through their music. I can’t wait for the full songs + drama CDs!
Aimee said: I am so grateful for the opportunity to write for A3! Soundtracks zine. Because of this, I weaved up one of my masterpieces :D
Even though the theme is supposed to be the Winter troupe's dynamics based on ‘to bloom...’, it is actually difficult to define. This is because the troupe members themselves do not know how to describe their relationship (besides them consisting of adults). Either way, there’s still something that intertwines them that made them a tight-knitted group.
Let me know your interpretations or thoughts on this piece! I’m so interested in your insights~
But before that, do check out my fellow contributors’ pieces! I’m sure their works are magnificent.
Special thanks to @fieryanmitsu, who constantly beta-read and willingly gave their insights to me. I’m so grateful to you and I learned a lot from you!
WARNING: Implied spoilers about everyone’s past. Read at your own discretion.
Tsumugi knew the moment he bought that train ticket that he should have been ready to move forward.
He climbed down the snow-covered stairs of Veludo Station. Then at the corner of the street, he saw a crowd around a performing group. Tsumugi’s lips curled upwards. Watching performances and acting in his beloved town always brought a smile to his face even though he left for so long.
He was about to head towards the current etude, but his feet stopped as a familiar face appeared before him.
“...Why are you here?”
Shivers went down Tsumugi’s spine. Were they from the freezing air that blew past him or the glare from the man in front of him?
Tsumugi sheepishly smiled at him. “It’s been a while…”
His greeting was received by a chilling silence. With that, Tsumugi looked everywhere except at his old childhood friend.
Out of the corner of his eye, Tsumugi spotted an abundance of two species of flowers situated on a planter box beside a lamppost. Snow enveloped their petals, leaving only a glimpse of their vibrant colors. But a gardener’s eye would not be easily veiled. The purple ones each had three large rounded petals, acting as the crown of the small bud at its center. It was simple but elegant, fitting the title “Queen of Flowers.” Meanwhile, the yellow ones were yet to bud. Nevertheless, the gardener had a guess.
Tsumugi turned to Tasuku and pointed at the flowers with twinkling eyes. “I think the yellow ones are narcissus and the purple ones are orchids.”
“Talking about flowers so suddenly…” Tasuku sighed. Despite being apart for years, Tsumugi was the same. If Tasuku was often immersed in his role for an upcoming play, Tsumugi was the one who became engrossed whenever talking about flowers. Once entering that state, it was difficult to divert his attention to another topic unless it was acting.
But why should he bring up acting to the person who ran away from it? With that thought, he had no choice but to play along.
“What do they mean, then?” Tasuku asked. Tsumugi tensed up, the sparkles in his blue orbs vanishing. Tasuku noticed it, but made no effort to ask further.
“Narcissus means rebirth and new beginnings. That’s why…” Tsumugi balled his hands into fists. “That’s why I came back here. I wanted to act again.”
Tasuku’s eyes turned into slits. “After running away and then suddenly showing up, you think you can say that?”
“Tasuku…” Tsumugi’s fists unclenched and his shoulders slumped. Letting out a shaky breath, he said, “Do you know I always remember you whenever I see orchids?”
Tsumugi longingly gazed at the snow-clad orchids. “Like you, they present themselves with dignity. That’s one of the reasons I respect you as an actor.”
Then he turned to Tasuku with a tender look. “More than that, I have admired your acting ever since we were in the drama club. It made me love theatre more. That didn’t change when you became part of God Troupe.”
Tasuku gaped at Tsumugi's words for a second before clenching his jaw and gritting his teeth. “You could've stayed.”
Tsumugi hung his head low. “I couldn’t back then."
On that day, I realized—my acting was far from good enough for me to be on stage.
With a sad smile on his lips, Tsumugi murmured a ‘goodbye’ before walking past Tasuku. Tsumugi wrapped his coat tighter around him as if protecting himself from the harshness of the winter night.
Meanwhile, a question that Tasuku had forcibly locked up inside his heart re-emerged—did Tsumugi even know how much he admired his acting? It was an act that drew you with every move. He could never imitate such an elegant and subtle form.
But like in the past, he kept such thoughts to himself. After passing the God Troupe auditions, Tasuku had thought it was best to be silent towards his life-long friend. He did not want to come off as boastful since Tsumugi had been rejected. However, it ended in his childhood friend’s sudden departure.
Now that Tasuku saw him again, the flames of regret and resentment blazed in his heart. He shoved Tsumugi away from him, repeating yet again his mistake.
How could I stand on stage with you again?
Blinded by his frustration, Tasuku almost crashed into a rose shrub near a shop as he headed in the opposite direction of Tsumugi.
Homare knew the moment he saw his lover’s glistening tears that he had wounded her again.
Her hands gripped the paper so tight, the paper creased. “Homare… are you making fun of me?”
Homare set down his cup of tea on the table. “Certainly not, my rose. I intended to soothe your bruised heart—”
“By pointing out my insecurities with metaphors in your poem?”
Homare opened his mouth, but his beloved gave no time for him to answer. “Homare, I drafted billions of plans and spent sleepless nights for this project. I faced many rejections too. Now that it’s come into fruition, how will you feel if barely anyone acknowledges you?”
“It’s so frustrating because I feel like I’m still a failure!” She slammed her hands and the crumpled paper on the tablecloth, making other customers worriedly glance at them.
“That’s why I need your emotional support, Homare. But...” With more tears slipping from her eyes, she said, “you’re really a broken cyborg.”
The woman stood up and shoved the crumpled paper into his chest before she left. Homare was frozen on his seat, his eyes glued to the paper. The whispers surrounding his table faded into the background; his now ex-lover’s words echoed in his mind.
A broken cyborg… is that who I am?
Homare lowered his head in shame. Whenever he tried to help and comfort his (former) lover, it always ended with her in tears. But that did not stop him from attempting to express his kindness. Since his (former) lover was severely in low spirits, he had dedicated nights to perfect his poem for her. He never thought it would become a sword that tore her soul into pieces.
Homare snapped out of his thoughts when a waiter stopped by his table. “Sir, are you alright?”
“Do not worry. I am merely contemplating today's events.” He bowed at the waiter. “I apologize for the trouble I have caused. Please give me the bill.”
The waiter nodded before leaving. After a while, he returned with the bill. Homare placed the required amount of money on the table and left the restaurant.
As he wandered around the snow-engulfed streets, Homare heaved a deep sigh. He grabbed his pocket watch from his coat’s pocket. He checked the time only to see its hands still again.
Before Homare became aware of it, his feet had led him to a watch shop. The first thing that caught his attention was the shop’s sign that offered watch repairs. Homare stared at his pocket watch with a crestfallen expression. No matter how many times his co-workers suggested getting his watch fixed, he could not. He had always felt like the watch was a reflection of himself. Similar to it, the gears of his heart stopped working a long time ago. He never understood a person's thought process and hurt people countless times. As his ex-lover had called him, he was a broken cyborg.
Perhaps grandmother also thought the same when she gave the watch to me.
As Homare read the shop’s sign once more, he clutched the pocket watch towards his chest. What if the watchmaker told him that his pocket watch could no longer be fixed? Then it was possible that he was beyond repair as well. It would mean he would forever remain as a broken cyborg who shattered people's hearts regardless of his intentions.
Homare shook his head and put back the watch inside his coat pocket. "‘We know what we are, but know not what we may be.’"
Noticing the potted unbloomed white anemones in front of a nearby apartment, the poet said, "Though I wish to become like those gentle flowers who never hurt anyone."
With the pocket watch feeling heavier inside his coat pocket, Homare walked down the street away from the watch shop.
Hisoka knew the moment he was pushed off the cliff that he was on the brink of death.
As he let the waters consume him, moments from minutes ago flashed before his eyes.
There was an unspoken rule when you were cornered—die or be captured by your enemies. But Hisoka found it uncanny for the enemies to ambush them at the same secluded cliff.
Nevertheless, he ripped the little bottle off his necklace and drank its contents down to the last drop. Instead of a swift painless death, an intense headache seized Hisoka. He turned to the man beside him and searched his eyes for an explanation.
The man tenderly smiled despite the red puddle forming around him. “I wanted you and April… to live a new life…”
How could he when he failed to protect his family? How would April feel if he found that out? And in the first place, Hisoka could never live with erased memories about his family.
Besides, who would even accept him after all he has done?
Forgotten memories did not mean he was in a clean slate. There was the possibility of someone discovering his true identity, endangering the people near him. After witnessing the death of his precious family member, he could not let that happen again.
As Hisoka’s consciousness slowly slipped away, he remembered his dying family’s last words.
"Please… fulfill it… for me..."
Hisoka's eyes shot open. If he were alive, then his family’s death would not be in vain. Would he also have that silly grin on his face up there?
Hisoka swam towards the surface of the sea and gasped for breath. He looked in all directions, his eyes lingering on the cliff. He shook his head and took a deep breath. Before he dove again, his head excruciatingly throbbed. Black spots slowly covered his vision. Hisoka bit his tongue, the metallic taste of blood penetrating his tongue.
It felt like he had swum kilometers before he finally saw the shore. When Hisoka emerged from the waters, his face would have landed on the snowy sand if not for his (wobbling) arms.
At the corner of his eye, he saw the waters near the shore carrying a cup-shaped red flower. He turned around and picked it up. Brushing his fingers on its few ovate petals, the color reminded him of his family's burning desire of giving him a new start.
Hisoka gently placed the camellia at the edge of the beach. Then he stood up, watching the waters bury the flower before turning his back to the sea.
"Goodbye… and thank you."
He never knew he could cry until he felt tears forming at the corners of his eyes. Hisoka did not bother to wipe them; it was the only time he could show weakness. He would take this chance to grieve for the man who had let him experience the warmth of a family.
Suddenly, Hisoka’s head pounded again. His body dropped on the snowy sand. The man could hardly move and his heart beated erratically. After countless attempts, he managed to stand. With trembling knees and ragged breaths, Hisoka trudged forward while gazing at the dark starry sky.
Unbeknownst to him, four strangers walking along a path of their own lives also witnessed the same view.
Azuma knew the moment he opened his eyes that there would be no one beside him.
The lamp on the nightstand shed light on the empty spot on the bed. He could still smell his client’s perfume on the pillow beside him. But like their scent and any other client, their presence was fleeting. The only constant in his life was the shadows that greeted him from the dark empty corners of the room.
His hand wandered on the space beside him. “As always, I didn’t get to say ‘take care’…”
Azuma let out a shaky sigh, wrapping the blanket tighter around himself. He wanted to sleep again before those thoughts consumed him.
He was about to grab the essential oil on top of his drawer, but his hand stopped midway. Azuma laid his hand on top of a metallic key instead, feeling its coldness. He brushed his fingers over the rust. His heart tremendously ached. The rust reminded him of how long he had lived all by himself. Despite burying it in the deep corners of his mind for years, the memory of his brother and parents leaving that day still haunted him.
Azuma clutched the key inside his fist. “Don’t leave…”
He should have said that to his family at that time. But Azuma had swallowed his words back then; he had thought they would return as always. He had believed there would be another chance to go on a trip with them.
However, life had chosen his family as the next unfortunate souls.
Azuma rapidly blinked his eyes to stop his tears from falling. After a few deep breaths, he slowly rose from the bed.
I need a drink.
He took his wallet and phone from the top drawer. Azuma stared at the key on his palm once again before placing it inside his wallet. Then he wore his mint coat that hung on the closet’s handle. After tying the laces of his boots, he went outside.
As Azuma strolled along the snow-covered streets, his ears perked up at the sudden sound of laughter and lively chattering near him. He searched for the source and saw a large building at the side. His lower lip quivered. If only he could live in a place like that, then it would keep his nightmares at bay.
From the corner of his eye, Azuma saw a flyer taped on the lamppost beside the building. He approached it and read its contents.
MANKAI Company’s Winter Troupe Auditions. Azuma glanced at the signboard hanging at the entrance of the lively building. It had the same ‘M’ on the middle of the poster’s logo.
He took a photo of the flyer without a second thought. Then Azuma quickly walked away, passing by the pots of yet-to-bloom yellow ranunculus. After buying sake, he would go to the beach and drink there. Then he would gaze at the stars with one goal in mind—pass the audition and live in that dormitory. Certainly, there would be people there to greet him everyday instead of the shadows.
And he would have the chance to say ‘take care' before they left.
While the five men's anguish continued to crush their souls, a whisper of their desire resonated in their hearts—to find a path that turns their regrets into opportunities and grants them a life with budding hopes and dreams.
Hello, everyone! How are you all doing? I apologize if I suddenly went MIA without immediate notification again :<
With that, this post will be divided into two parts:
Cause of MIA
Sneak peek on an on-going fic
1.) Cause of MIA
I’ve been MIA for weeks. This is because I was preparing for school and currently, it already started. At first, they didn’t give much tasks. But as time passed, they gave numerous tasks mostly for us to answer. Most of them are short, so it’s fine. Then some of them are group works, which is difficult online. And I also want time for myself, especially to rest. Considering all of those things, it is difficult for me to be active.
I will say this now for you guys to be aware - I will mostly be MIA for months primarily due to school. I’ll put it in my profile to signify it. However, my requests will remain open. Do note that finishing writing them will take a while.
2.) Sneak peek on an on-going fic
It’s a request for anon, and it’s been sitting in my drafts for so long. I’m so sorry, anon. But hopefully, your curiosity will be piqued with this preview :D
For some reason, Juza kept silent for a while. You wouldn’t deny it made you nervous based on how hard your heart was thumping. What made him hesitate to take a ride with you? Did he think you were a reckless driver? Or was it risky to have you drive anywhere as it was your first time driving outside the school?
With those thoughts floating inside your head, you blurted out, “If you’re worried about my driving skills, I passed my driving school with flying colors!”
"’Is not that. It’s just… I didn't do those things to get a reward,” Juza firmly told you.
You let out a sigh of relief. “Thank goodness it wasn’t because of my driving.” Then you quickly cleared your throat, trying to cover up your embarrassment.
“Anyway, I know you’re not that kind of person. But still, will you let me take you anywhere you want to today?”
When you activated your puppy eyes, Juza averted his gaze from you and scratched his neck. You even let out some whimpers to urge him to say yes. He was weak to your cute antics, after all.
Your efforts were rewarded when he finally said with a voice barely above a murmur, “...Okay. But I dunno where I wanna go yet.”
Giving him his helmet, you said with a triumphant grin, "Then we'll just tour the whole city until you find something interesting!"
3 Characters have been announced from 「Hyakka Theatre」
Translations under the cut!
Name: Amadate Kabuto (cv. Ono Yuki)
Occupation: Actor, Director
Description: The headline actor of Hyakka Theatre and an Alumni of Amabi University in the theatre dance major. He has no daily living skills whatsoever and a crude mannerism. However, he shows a gap in his personality as soon as he steps on stage, showing extremely refined acting. Aside from his acting career, he also assists in the directing for the theatre.
Quote: 「…..eat well and sleep well. That’s all.」
Name: Shikagawa Aoshi (cv. Kajiwara Gakuto)
Occupation: Actor
Description: A young talent who is soon to be the next top actor of Hyakka Theatre while only being a high school student. He is from a family who have been running a large local hospital for generations, with everyone being involved in the medical field. However, he is currently living alone after coming to Tokyo by himself. He is rather serious and reliable for his age and has apparently been caring for Kabuto.
Quote: 「…seriously, whenever I come here, it makes me crazy so I really hate it.」
Name: Amadate Keiju (cv. Miyamoto Mitsuru)
Occupation: Theatre Chairman
Description: The chairman of Hyakka Theatre, a regular at the Fleur Awards. He used to be the top actor of Hyakka but has since retired. He is part of the executive committee of the Fleur Awards and holds great power over the nominations.
Quote: 「I have loved Mankai Company’s performances and Hakkaku-san’s scripts since a long time ago.」
Aimee says: I wanted to write angst and Chikage kept popping inside my head. With that, this fic was born.
WARNING: Contains heavy spoilers on Chikage’s episode in Act 2. The first sentence in the story can already be considered as a spoiler. Read at your own discretion.
April was a man who thought with his mind rather than his heart.
As his partner for various missions, you could attest to that. You noticed he always eliminated anything that got in the way without batting an eyelash. But for some reason, he managed to refrain from leaving numerous casualties. You thought at first it was out of pity or remorse. When you asked him about it one day, he said it was to leave little to no evidence. But he only told you that after calling you a fool.
Another thing was that April didn’t hesitate resorting to underhanded means to achieve his goal. Despite being raised in the same environment, you still couldn’t grasp how he did that without his conscience gnawing at him. Nevertheless, you understood that April never let his feelings interfere with his logic and sense of reason.
Until that day arrived.
“April, it doesn’t make sense for him to betray you,” you said as you grasped his shoulders. “He only has you and August as his fam-”
“Didn’t you learn in the organization?” Eyes turning into slits, he said in a low and menacing voice, “Not everyone around you is on your side.”
You couldn’t deny what he said. After all, you already played countless roles to gain people’s trust for the sake of the mission. But you couldn’t even imagine December betraying the sole people that cared for him. More importantly, it didn’t sit well with you that April already accepted him as a traitor. Did the organization force him to believe? Whatever the answer was, April was still a human being capable of grieving.
“Still, aren’t you shocked and hurt by all these?”
There was a moment of silence before April replied, “I should be spending my time doing my mission instead. You should too.”
You shook your head and squeezed his shoulders almost too tightly. "Think about yourself for once, April. What is that you really want to do?”
Crossing his arms over his chest, he said, "It may be a mission from the organization, but I am doing this for him.”
“But will August want you to hurt your family?"
Almost all of the air in your lungs was knocked out when April suddenly slammed his fist on the wall beside you. Then he leaned his body towards you, trapping you like a beast who was about to rip off his prey’s head.
“Don’t use his name to make me question my decision,” he whispered in such a deep and threatening voice that goosebumps appeared on your skin.
It was the first time you saw April seething. The calm and collected April would never hurt others unless the situation called for it. And yet, the man before you punched the spot a centimeter away from your head because you mentioned August. If he moved his fist a bit to the left at that moment, your skull would already be pulverized.
When April took a step back, you breathed out a relieved sigh. Though it was too early to be at ease as he said, “Besides, you know what happens to those who oppose the organization.”
Then he shot you a not-so-friendly smile. "That's why please leave now, (Code Name)."
"But..."
His lips turned into a flat line. "Leave."
The words you wanted to say were stuck in your throat. Even if you pried further into his mission to prove December’s innocence, it was never guaranteed that he would stop his search for revenge. You would’ve literally risked your life for nothing.
Because when you looked closely at his face, you realized - April clung onto the "truth" that December betrayed August.
You slowly turned your back to April. You glanced at him over your shoulder before leaving his quarters, your heart sinking into the pit of your stomach.
When the door shut, April sat on the chair in front of his computer. He let out a sigh and rubbed his temple. He intently gazed at the various windows and folders opened on the screen, the pictures of a white-haired man consistently showing.
All of the moments with his family played in his mind's theater - the exchanges they had during their missions, the cooking sessions that always ended up almost burning the food, and the midnight picnics under the moon.
April gripped the ring inserted in his left middle finger.
I can’t forgive the man who took away the only precious thing in my life.
As April repeated those words again and again inside his head, he attempted to numb his heart from the growing ache.
1.) I only accept writing imagines. More specifically, I write drabbles and one shots involving an A3! character and the reader. I can also write drabbles for multiple characters (max is four) under one prompt (see this for reference). Please do keep in mind that writing for multiple characters may take longer to finish than the others.
2.) The request should at least contain the gist of the story or a prompt.
3.) I’ll indicate in my profile whether I’m opening my asks for requests or not. If it is closed, please do not send in requests. But if you think Tumblr ate your ask, you can inform me and send an ask again!
4.) These are the things that I’m uncomfortable writing, so please consider them while requesting:
Violence and Abuse (Subtle implications can still be accepted)
(Detailed) Gore
Smut
Ships among the boys
If you have further questions about the rules, feel free to message or send an ask!
⭐ Notes:
1.) Be respectful to everyone in this community.
2.) As much as possible, we spread good vibes here!
3.) You can talk to me about topics inside and outside ‘A3!’. I will do my best to answer all of your messages!
4.) I accept constructive criticisms on my works. Do not hesitate to tell me those as they will help me improve. But please remember note number one.
Since I’m finally done with the writing event, I'll open my asks for the usual requests any time tomorrow (GMT +8)! I’ll announce if I open it so stay tuned for that 😉
LAST CALL FOR PRE-ORDERS - A3! Soundtracks Fanzine
Hi everyone! Pre-orders for the A3! Soundtracks Fanzine are closing in about one more day! Pre-orders close on June 20, 2021 (at 23h59 PST).
There's also a flash sale for the final day, so you can use discount code "ENCORE10" for 10% off!
VISIT OUR STORE HERE!
We've also already met our first two stretch goals, so all physical orders will include a FREE bonus print and all stickers have been upgraded to vinyl stickers!
I also wanted to take this chance to preview my fic that will be featured in the zine! I'm writing for Autumn Troupe's "oneXone" song!
And for those who haven't checked out the store yet, here's the listing for our full physical zine package, which previews the gorgeous zine cover and the merch options! There's more bundles available on the store (i.e. physical zine only and merch only bundles) and a digital PDF zine option!
You can also check out our Twitter page HERE for previews of all of the individual artworks and other written pieces!
Thanks for checking us out, and any reblogs would be really appreciated!!
For the December event (if you’re still taking requests) how about books + tsuzuru?
Heya, anon! Thank you for requesting and for your patience! A lot of things happened in the previous year that made me unable to finish it before December 2020 ended :"D
I still finished this request just for you :> if you want to check it out, click here!
Anon says: For the December event (if you’re still taking requests) how about books + tsuzuru?
Aimee replies: And this is the last request! Thank you so much for requesting and waiting! I read lots of Tsuzuru’s backstage stories + one event story wherein he was the lead to understand his character more. I hope I portrayed him well ><
Anyway, I think I didn’t focus too much about books as I wanted to take on the prompt differently from the usual ><
Hopefully, you’ll still enjoy reading this!
For ‘A December with You’ event.
Tsuzuru thought the “book date” you told him over the phone was like the previous time ━ reading a book together and sharing insights about it while drinking hot chocolate by the fireplace.
How wrong he was to assume that.
“Pardon for the intru- woah!” As soon as Tsuzuru opened the door, an arm popped out and pulled him inside.
“Tsuzu-kun, let’s play!” You clasped his hands while looking at him with sparkly eyes. Tsuzuru was about to reply only for you to drag him towards a bookshelf. Numerous novels, mangas, and anthologies filled the shelves. They looked brand new, or if not, well-cared for as there were barely creases on the books’ spines.
Tsuzuru gaped at your collection. He never had the funds to buy a whole bookshelf of books. He mostly relied on public libraries and his university’s library. But if granted the opportunity, he would buy some second-handed or discounted books.
Before Tsuzuru could browse your collection, you gripped his shoulders and turned him towards you. Then you pouted at him. “Hey, you can’t look at the books yet.”
“Wait, they’re part of the game?”
You laughed before shaking your head. “"I'll explain the context first before I explain the game.”
“Every time I ask if there's anything you want as a present, you always answer the same.” You cleared your throat before saying with a sickeningly sweet voice, “I’ll appreciate anything you give me because I know my oh-so-sweet girlfriend poured her heart into it.”
“I don’t sound like that at all!”
You waved your hand as if brushing him off. Then you gestured to the books on the large shelf, “I’ll give you five minutes to choose any three books. They’re my gifts for you!”
Tsuzuru’s eyes widened. “H-hold up. Any among them?”
“Yeah! But you won’t get them that easily." You cheekily grinned at him. “While you’re blindfolded, I’ll mix them up with three other similar ones and you'll guess which ones are yours.”
“You can only receive the ones you guessed correctly, so do your best!” You raised both of your thumbs and winked at him.
Tsuzuru let out a deep sigh before saying, “(First Name), aren’t you too hard on me?”
“I’ll give you hints from time to time, so don’t worry!” You patted his shoulder.
As much as Tsuzuru would rather not play this game, he didn’t want to make you upset. You made an effort to think of this like your other improvised games. After all, they always involved his hobbies or interests. And he knew that you did all of that to make him relax and enjoy himself. In short, they were all for his sake.
He could only return the favor by playing them with all his might (and wits).
Tsuzuru turned to you with a determined glint in his eyes. “I’ll do it.”
“Thanks, Tsuzu-kun!” You wrapped your arms around him and gave him a smooch.
Tsuzuru scratched his (reddened) cheek. “Ah… no. I should be the one to thank you.” Then he gently smiled at you. “I promise that whatever book I’ll get, I’ll tell you my thoughts about it.”
“That sounds good! Now, lemme set up the timer for us to start.” You fished out your phone from your pocket and set the timer to five minutes.
When you signaled him to start, Tsuzuru immediately faced the bookshelf. His once determined expression slowly warped into a troubled one as the realization sunk - there were too many to choose from. What more was that some of the books were unheard of but seemed to be good reads. Five minutes was too cruel for him to select. No, this game itself was brutal. There was no guarantee he could get the books he had chosen.
Tsuzuru shook his head. I should be grateful for this chance instead.
As you watched your boyfriend quickly go over the books, you giggled to yourself. You knew your boyfriend was perceptive enough to understand your game has low chances of winning. The hints would barely help him at all; the game would heavily rely on the player’s memory and senses. And yet, he still chose to play and do his best.
What a good boyfriend.
If he only knew that you would give him all the books he wanted regardless if he won or lost. You handpicked this collection for him, after all.
Paradox Live just dropped Buraikan’s MV and I LOVE IT!!!
The chorus just slaps. The harmonization of Chisei (MC Yasha) and Haruomi (MC Shura) is so beautiful! It got me really hooked and it’s really addictive. And let’s not leave out the rap parts. I think Kensho Ono and Junichi Suwabe did a really good job showcasing their respective characters’ unique rapping styles. Speaking of uniqueness, Buraikan’s overall vibes based on the MV are different from the current existing units. That’s what I really love about ParaRai - they’re all hip hop units but they have their own distinctive styles in music.
Overall, the MVs so so good! Do give it a listen, and perhaps delve more into the Paradox Live world~
