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The Hello! Project Fanfics => H!P Fanfics => Crack-to-Go => Topic started by: gracula on November 22, 2010, 10:45:58 AM

Title: Character Study [update 18May- oh?]
Post by: gracula on November 22, 2010, 10:45:58 AM
This is the first of many (hopefully) character study ficlets I'll be doing for various MM girls, past and present. It's a little bit like stating the obvious, but with these little sketches of their personalities, I might one day build enough to come up with an actual fic. Do give constructive criticism and your own tangent on these situations. This is just my own take on it.
Enjoy.
~grac


---
Character Study #1: Yoshizawa Hitomi, 2002-2003

Do you remember when everything changed for us?

For the first few weeks, you'd turn to look at me with betrayed, bemused eyes every time I chipped in to tease you. You'd come to expect it from Yaguttsuan, of course- your biggest (tiniest) detractor. What you didn't expect was probably my brilliant tsukkomi follow-up to the sound of her raucous laughter. You were an easy mark, the natural boke- and I was just too quick and witty for my own good. When I displayed too much disgust after you described yourself as cute, when I literally denied our friendship on a highly-rated, nationally-broadcast TV show. That hurt me as much as I'm sure it did you. You were so confused you probably didn't realize you were whining. My voice was shaky from trying to maintain an off-hand teasing tone and I couldn't even look you in the eye because we'd both burst into tears. My cheeks were aching from pretending to smile.

You got used to it though, taking it all in stride. Becoming the kimoi chara that every junior could take a poke at. I made you. This chara you became famous for.  It was horrifying and adorable all at once. It was a testimony to the strength of your character and the twisted personality that lay behind that cute, dependable face.

"Hai!" I raised my hand quietly. You had effectively killed the scene after your latest ode-giri to self. "To counter Ishikawa-san again…"
"Nani yo?" you pouted easily.
A deep breath, "Back off! I'm warning you! You bug the hell outta me!" Thwap, thwap, thwap.
I think that day was the first time you actually got angry, as opposed to being lost and confused.

Sure, you probably got whiplash from the shock of my comebacks the first few times- wide-eyed, wordless stares. After all, no one was truly safe from my clever comebacks and cutting words- except for you.

Until that day.

---

"Yoshizawa, stay back for a bit." Manager-san was on a roll today, first Kemeko and now me. Everyone froze for a bit, before filing out as quickly as they could without actually fleeing the practice studio.

I didn't even realize our hands were joined until you squeezed it in silent support. "Mail me when you get home, okay? I'll be waiting," you whispered.

Kei-chan thumped me lightly on the back on her way out- she had been in quiet discussion with Yaguttsuan since after lunch, when she was called up to the carpet for something or other. I suppose it was empathetic support from the elder Nikki member. The room was empty now, save for me and Yaguttsuan, who was rifling through her practice notes aimlessly.

I gave her a suspicious look and she cleared her throat, refusing to look at me directly. We both jumped slightly when the studio door opened and the manager and some exec or staff from the main office came in. My heart was thumping so hard I could hear it, but I casually lifted my hand to give my chin a good scratch. No shaking, no outward appearance of fear or nervousness, even and steady breaths. We were introduced to the staff member- a PR exec from Upfront Works.

“Yoshizawa-san, we need to talk. About you and Ishikawa-san.”

I swear, it's never occurred to me before this, not even for a second- you and I. But as he said that, I could see it. I instantly knew what he was talking about- like a slide show, all the touches, the hand-holding and all those damned looks of genuine affection suddenly twisted and made... dirty, somehow.

----

That night, for the first time since we exchanged numbers, I did not mail you.

I don't really remember how I got home that night.

“I'm sure you don't even realise this yourself.”

You called twice around 10pm, I think. I was in the bath.

“Its natural for girls your age to be...”

I must've zoned out during the 'talk' because I don't really remember what he said. I was up all night trying to fill in the blanks, though.

“You cannot be seen...”, “You're a top idol group member...”, “I trust you understand...”

I didn't understand- I was 16, after all. I remember feeling scared, disgusted with myself  for some reason, confused, frustrated.

The third time you called, I stared at your name flashing on the caller ID, trying to recall our every interaction, reading the subtext everyone else seemed to see. I slid the phone under my pillow and decided to take another shower.

---

Do I need to put in references?
Title: Re: Character Study
Post by: Tightrope on November 22, 2010, 11:52:23 AM
My friend, you made me de-lurk, for once.  I read this little piece of work and I have to say I love it. I love your writing style so far. The idea, the style, I like it all.  I think the way you described and organized it, fits perfectly. Is short, yes, but in a good way. I usually like it longer, but this totally caught my attention.

You managed to give a glimpse of the relation of those two, different characters, everyday routine, in such a short piece. I find it totally awesome. And the last part, god.

I didn't understand- I was 16, after all. I remember feeling scared, disgusted with myself  for some reason, confused, frustrated.

The third time you called, I stared at your name flashing on the caller ID, trying to recall our every interaction, reading the subtext everyone else seemed to see. I slid the phone under my pillow and decided to take another shower

So sad, but so so awesome in many ways. It's my favourite part.

I don't really think it need references, but maybe it's just because I have watched enough of these two (and enough of Momosu in general).  Anyway, really good work. I'll be sure to stalk you and your writings for now on. Yes,  you got yourself a brand new fan  :yossi: I'm really bad at commenting, but I'll do my best lol And sorry for my crappy English

Can I ask who will be the next character?
Title: Re: Character Study
Post by: Beecubed on November 22, 2010, 03:34:45 PM
O. M. G

...

My heart is racing a little at the moment... but wow, gracula, just wow.  :bow:

I'm a huge IshiYoshi fan (I think I've said this a few hundred times already xD), and this. THIS. Wow... this is the kind of thing I've been waiting to read  :heart:

What you've written here I would say is excruciatingly accurate.

Maybe not if we're looking at facts and certainty, but from a fan's point of view, definitely. In the IshiYoshi thread @ Chuuch, there have been many discussions going on about this; the reason for Yossie's constant teasing, how they seemed to drift a little apart after those tabloids were released claiming they were dating. The thoughts that must've been running through their heads at that time... we all did agree that they were young, and must have been feeling confused, vulnerable and scared.

I'm definitely going to link your 'character study' piece to the IshiYoshi thread. We haven't had an IshiYoshi fic (or ficlet, no matter!) in a while >.>

ANYWAY. This is plain awesome. Despite being rather short, it's so well written, with such bite, and brims with deep thoughts and emotions. All this, and you didn't even need to be that verbose.  :nervous
I also have to say that it really rings true. Your take is very realistic, there's nothing that I would question here, seriously!


Quote
That hurt me as much as I'm sure it did you.

 :cry:
That was quite heartbreaking to read. >.<


Quote
I swear, it's never occurred to me before this, not even for a second- you and I. But as he said that, I could see it. I instantly knew what he was talking about- like a slide show, all the touches, the hand-holding and all those damned looks of genuine affection suddenly twisted and made... dirty, somehow.

Loved how you conveyed this moment, her thoughts.
I could really feel Yossie here.


Quote
I didn't understand- I was 16, after all. I remember feeling scared, disgusted with myself  for some reason, confused, frustrated.

Exactly how I imagine Yossie would've felt back then >.<


Excellent stuff, I can't wait to read more of your character studies!!!!  :w00t:
I'm personally interested in seeing a character study of Ai-chan. Just because, you know, she's such a mystery to a lot of us.  XD (I'm sure many of you guys would agree!)

You can put in references if you want to (it will show how much research you've done & how insightful you are!), but it's certainly not necessary. ^___^

All in all, you've found a reader in me, I will religiously follow this thread and your work as long as you continue to write!  :heart:

Thank you so much for starting this thread up, and for sharing with us your insights. I really hope JPH!P doesn't lose you as a writer; so many people have come and gone (in the blink of an eye at times), and it would be such a pity if you didn't continue this.  :yep:

Looking forward to another update!~
 :love:


---


I'm really bad at commenting

How on earth can you believe that you're bad at commenting, Tightrope? >.>
You're a whole level above the average commenter  :heart:
Title: Re: Character Study
Post by: oddball on November 22, 2010, 04:42:28 PM
Nice start to this series, really liked your writing style, looking forward to more in the future!  :twothumbs
Title: Re: Character Study
Post by: gracula on November 22, 2010, 07:10:18 PM
Thank you all for your fantastic comments, and thank you for the thank yous. I really didn't expect such comprehensive encouragement so soon. I'll just take it as a good sign and keep on keeping on.

Tightrope: thank you for delurking for me. Since you're my first ever commenter on a piece of fiction, you get to pick a character and situation for me to write about.  :theking I'll try my best, even if it means loads of research (boy, what a chore, huh?)

Beecubed: I went to the Ishiyoshi thread you were talking about and came across your piece. Wow, great minds, huh?  :) I've been meaning to get an Ai-chan piece out, but like you said, she is very mysterious. Just when you think you've gotten the corner on her, she shows an entirely different facet of herself. I'll have to go rewatch my Haromoni episodes again.

oddball: hope you don't get disappointed, cause my writing style really varies. Thank you for reading.


-----

Character Study #2: Ayaka Kimura, 2003

“Shit.” I sat up, yanking weakly at my pajamas to straighten the twists out. I sighed at the clock, showing 9:15am. “Shit. Shit. Shit.”

No, I wasn't late for work. I wasn't late for anything. I haven't been late for anything because there simply hasn't been anything to be late for.

“Shit,” I swore at my life one more time for good measure.

I checked my messages, on the off-chance that there'd be something important.

<<Hiiii Ayaka-chan!! Good morning, sleepyhead! I'm in the studio waiting for my turn to shoot our latest PV. It's soooo boring. :yawn: See you and Maichin tonight!>>

My brain stopped processing for a while. There were so many places to tear into I couldn't figure where to start until I'd emptied my bladder. Morning ablutions were performed on autopilot, I was definitely not a morning person. Waitaminute- I grabbed my phone and scrolled down my inbox. None from Mai. I opened Yossie's again, sent at 4:45am.

Those treacherous, gainfully-employed, little sacks of... My thumbs flew across the keypad, as I typed furiously, <<If you both loved me, you'd kill yourselves today>>. I stared at the blinking cursor and deleted each character one by one slowly. It was awkwardly phrased and 'kill yourselves' didn't translate very well in Japanese.

My kanji sucks and my English is borderline crap, not that anyone could tell. I was literally the one-eyed bilingual man in the land of the rising sun. I gave up a college education, warm tropical nights and hot surfers for what? Coconuts Musume, what a fucking joke.

“Shit,” I sighed as I speed-dialed Mai.

She picked up on the fifth ring, “Mushi-mush,”

“What's going on tonight?” I kept my voice flat and toneless.

“Ah, Ayaka. I was just about to text you when you called.”

Liar. “So, where're we meeting?”

“Our usual place next to the studio, Yossi and I have matching schedules for once.”

“Really.”

“I'm sorry.”

Silence.

“I'll hug you tonight when I see you, okay?

“Okay. Yossie's buying because I'm almost jobless and you might as well be.”

“I love you, Ayaka.”

When I get like this, only Mai-chin can get me out of my funk. I never have to explain it to her because she understands. In my saner moments, preferably mid-day with some coffee in me, I'd never begrudge my best friends their lives and would never even dream of comparing their situations with mine.

Sometimes, its better to just stay in bed. But pineapples need endorsing and Hello Project needs to display their remaining Coconut Musume during concerts.

Shit.

----

Huh, I really didn't expect to write today, so bear with the word vomit.

It's probably really OOC in RL, but Ayaka's always struck me as someone adorably cynical and profane. Like she knew how and when to be cutesy, but basically screaming inside, "Omigod, I can't believe I'm f*cking doing this for a living." Ayaka and Mika gets this fixed, frozen, cultural-shocked look anytime something stupid was going on around them.
Beyond the odd handful of Surprise English Lessons and that one time I watched the Futarigoto threesome, I can't say I am actually qualified to write about this. It was fun, though.
Title: Re: Character Study
Post by: Tightrope on November 22, 2010, 11:45:37 PM
Omg I just came back home and what I found? UPDATE! HELL YES. I never thought you were such a fast writer. I think I love you more now. But first things first...

Tightrope: thank you for delurking for me. Since you're my first ever commenter on a piece of fiction, you get to pick a character and situation for me to write about.  :theking I'll try my best, even if it means loads of research (boy, what a chore, huh?)

Seriously? I mean... like... seriously? OMG. I should have delurked before, such wonderful things happen when you actually show yourself!  XD
And thanks, thanks a lot. It the first time someone offer something like this to me. I'm moved  :cry:  I'll pick our beloved Charmy, Ishikawa Rika. And I think it's very cliché but... I'll pick graduation as situation (I don't mind if is her graduation or another member graduation). I really want to know what you can do with this ~

And now, for the chapter... I don't really care if it's OOC. I'm not qualified to judge that either but I love it anyway. I can picture that situation perfectly, poor Ayaka. I like a lot the portrayed friendship of those three here too.  I watched that futarigoto with the three of them and they are so funny and sweet together <3

And btw, I lol'ed so bad at this:

<<If you both loved me, you'd kill yourselves today>>

 :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

I'll say it again, I'm really falling in love with your writing skills. It's like you took all the things I like regarding writing styles and mix them together. I'm envious at how well you can express so much in a few lines. They really get to me (no idea if that is the proper way to say it, but I hope you understand anyway lol)

About future character studies ~  From the actual girls I'm curious about Ai-chan too. The great and sexy mistery of MM. But if I think about OG, I'm interested to see how you are going to manage Nono and/or Aibon. Yes, I love those two and I haven't found anything satisfiying to read about yet lol I'm counting on you?


------

How on earth can you believe that you're bad at commenting, Tightrope? >.>
You're a whole level above the average commenter  :heart:

You are gonna make me blush here :heart: Thanks! I say I don't think I'm very good because I can't express what I really want to in a comment. I feel I left out so many things I want to point out. I try but because of it, I tend to rant a lot and do random fails at English lol. I'm agree 100% with the "writers put effort on writing, commenters should put effort on theirs comments too" <3 so you are like my idol commenter here in this forum.

Ranting too much again....

And waiting for the next update!  :heart:
Title: Re: Character Study
Post by: Beecubed on November 23, 2010, 04:27:06 AM
FAST UPDATES FTW!~  :heart:

Thank you all for your fantastic comments, and thank you for the thank yous. I really didn't expect such comprehensive encouragement so soon. I'll just take it as a good sign and keep on keeping on.

Of course! I was expecting more comments and more fangirling for that Yossie piece, to be honest. But hey, the forum seems to be moving quite slowly in recent times so I'd take it as a good sign too. ^___^


Quote
Beecubed: I went to the Ishiyoshi thread you were talking about and came across your piece. Wow, great minds, huh?  :) I've been meaning to get an Ai-chan piece out, but like you said, she is very mysterious. Just when you think you've gotten the corner on her, she shows an entirely different facet of herself. I'll have to go rewatch my Haromoni episodes again.

Hehe... that was more me going on a fangirly rampage than anything, but yah, I do think a lot about what really goes on between the girls, especially those who seem to have very tangible relations.

 :yep: That's Ai-chan for you! Initially, she seems quite... straight-forward and easy to figure out, but the more you watch, the more you begin to wonder...  XD
Such an interesting character~ can't wait to read an Ai-chan study from you!  :shocked:

That also makes me curious - do you have favourite members? Or are you the kind of fan who loves all members  equally?

OK.

So just to get this out in the open - I'm not very familiar with Ayaka  XD

I owe everything to her though, because Ayaka's Surprise English Lessons were what got me into this fandom in the first place. So Ayaka...  :bow:
But all I know about her is from what I watched in those lessons, and the odd guest appearance.

I won't be able to judge your character study of hers from a very informed perspective, so I'll take it more for entertainment  :)


Quote
Ayaka's always struck me as someone adorably cynical and profane. Like she knew how and when to be cutesy, but basically screaming inside, "Omigod, I can't believe I'm f*cking doing this for a living." Ayaka and Mika gets this fixed, frozen, cultural-shocked look anytime something stupid was going on around them.

Honto? That's interesting that you would think of Ayaka as somebody who's 'cynical and profane.' Really?  :lol:

I don't know, I never got that impression watching her, but I can see how it might work. While Tsuji was putting her through the Surprise Dance Lesson, you think she was really spitting obscenities in her head? The thought's kinda funny, actually.  XD

But interesting observation, and is certainly valid.  :thumbsup

Those treacherous, gainfully-employed, little sacks of... My thumbs flew across the keypad, as I typed furiously, <<If you both loved me, you'd kill yourselves today>>. I stared at the blinking cursor and deleted each character one by one slowly. It was awkwardly phrased and 'kill yourselves' didn't translate very well in Japanese.

 :rofl:


Quote
My kanji sucks and my English is borderline crap, not that anyone could tell. I was literally the one-eyed bilingual man in the land of the rising sun. I gave up a college education, warm tropical nights and hot surfers for what? Coconuts Musume, what a fucking joke.

Awwww, poor Ayaka  :(

Well, I can see that H!P hasn't been all that kind to her. Coconuts Musume was never a group that was given much significance; if Ayaka ever had those kinds of thoughts, I wouldn't blame her.

But Ayaka's English is good, isn't it? Why would she think it borderline crap?  :?
I always thought it was great.


Quote
Liar. “So, where're we meeting?”

xD

I really like your subtle characterisations. Lol.

Another great character study, although I couldn't do much analysis on this because I don't know Ayaka very well  :nervous
From what I can see, it's a valid interpretation, definitely credible. Ayaka could very well have had all these rather spiteful, lonely moments, those thoughts. H!P didn't utilise her enough, or allow enough time, space and exposure for her to grow and become the fully-fledged artist she had the potential to be. Pity.

Great writing, once again  :twothumbs
You really do harness the power of a first person POV extremely well; smooth execution, tight narrative.
VERY excited to see more...  :w00t:


I'll pick our beloved Charmy, Ishikawa Rika. And I think it's very cliché but... I'll pick graduation as situation (I don't mind if is her graduation or another member graduation). I really want to know what you can do with this ~

 :nya: :nya: :nya: :nya:

@Tightrope = I'll move our little new convo to here. (http://forum.jphip.com/index.php?topic=6950.1400)

---

Thanks again, grac, for writing and sharing.  :wub:

Take your time with the Charmy~ one, you might need it   :rikabunny

Looking forward to the next update!
 :love:
Title: Re: Character Study
Post by: kuro808 on November 23, 2010, 07:53:24 AM
 :O I like this so far, its quite interesting has a catch to it, wow really great how it went together :thumbup
Title: Re: Character Study
Post by: oddball on November 23, 2010, 03:22:18 PM
Good work Gracula  :twothumbs

I kinda imagined Ayaka like this aswell (my knowlege of her is about the same as yours!  :doh:)

I can so imagine her being like this in the mornings aswell  :lol:
Title: Re: Character Study
Post by: Rayle on November 23, 2010, 07:55:06 PM
I have to comment on these, they're absolutely beautiful and with the dying quality H!P fanfic community(I'm not helping...kinda jumped ship to SNSD fic which is abundant although...less quality  :lol:) I never thought I'd see pieces of this calibre from a new writer.

These have taken almost a brutal look at the main "issue" at the heart of each girl(an alternative one for Yossie could be her being shoehorned into the masculine image, but it can also be argued that her ambiguous sexuality is what drove that anyways, to where even Iida was unsure of her sexuality) and I love it! There's a reality to these pieces without drowning in angst like other "look at how fucked up idol life is" stories tend to be, and I feel like it has so much more impact that way. The interpretation of the Romantic Two Girl Friendship (http://"http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/RomanticTwoGirlFriendship") has been brought into question as opinions on sexuality have changed, and what with the rampant shipping of idols due to their chummy behavior it really is something to think about. I love your take on it, especially still keeping the true nature of the Ishiyoshi relationship unclear.

I wonder what the Ayaka one would have been like even further down the road when Mai started getting popular again thanks to Quiz Hexagon. And it is somewhat a question of what the not so active idols do with all of their downtime, and how they deal with knowing that their time has passed or that they never had a chance to begin with.

You can be assured I'll be following this series with enthusiasm.
Title: Re: Character Study
Post by: gracula on November 23, 2010, 09:43:46 PM
You know, I'm really procrastinating all round by being here. Not like I really planned to write anything tonight either.  :nervous

Tightrope: request granted... just not today.  :P I got 3 pages full of notes and links already. Lets really go for the gusto here- Ishikawa-san deserves a whole lot better than a rushed-out ficlet. I was already working on an Aibon- we'll see where that takes me.

Beecubed:  :D i really was going for entertainment value- it was really fun to write. I think I was just projecting myself when writing it- muttering 'f*ck' repeatedly in the morning, while trying to muster some motivation to get into work. I just had to explore that with one of the girls. Ayaka is a fantastic subject- given her good-natured personality, it brings to reason that she'd turn to humor first in any given situation. So even when she is spitting nails angry or really depressed, there would still be an underlying dark humor present.

Quote
But Ayaka's English is good, isn't it? Why would she think it borderline crap? 
I always thought it was great.

It *is* great, given the fact that she isn't a formally trained translator and therefore not equipped to deal with the different syntax in Japanese and English, resulting in some truly hilarious grammatical interpretations. I'm quite certain that she actually realizes its wrong the moment it comes out of her mouth, and shrugs it aside with a "What the heck, its not like the viewers are going to realize its wrong. We just need to make sure Mika doesn't blow the whistle on me."

You can have great English, but still think that it needs work. And if you're Ayaka, in the middle of a deep funk, everything is borderline crap.

 XD

Kuro: thanks! hm, i wonder if I can tie all the character studies into one 'verse and start overlapping stories like a two-shot. Let me get enough portraits first though.

oddball: heck, *i'm* like that in the mornings.  :lol: thanks for the thumbs up.

Rayle: Thank you for the comment. It was incredibly insightful and I actually squeed a little to see a trope referenced. Pabo-era Mai occurred to me, but i will assume that Ayaka would be a little too mature to throw a tantrum like that, even with her best friends. :P Besides, Ayaka was probably too busy dating during that time too. I will, however, probably crank out how Mai would be like with Ayaka finding happiness in love.



-----

Character Study #3: Kago Ai
Or 4 people who feel personally responsible for Aibon, and one who doesn't

1. Nakazawa Yuuko
In the grander scheme of all things Hello Project!, Nakazawa-san feels responsible for everything. She saw the warning signs a long time ago and she just didn't think Kaorin would appreciate being told what to do by the ex-leader who had trouble letting go.

So she became that cool aunt figure who just wanted to hang with the kids and not really need to raise them. She doted on them, both on-screen and off. Playing pranks with Tsuji-chan, to the everlasting exasperation of their main target, Yaguchi and sneaking sweets in for Kago-chan when she was on a company-enforced diet. When puberty hit Kago-chan, she saw the girl mature at breakneck speed- even more so than the elder Tsuji-chan. Being the stained woman of the world she was, she bought contraceptives and discreetly passed them to Kago, along with gentle advice and loving acceptance.

On quiet nights, Nakazawa-san flips through old photo albums and tears up from time to time when she looks at the two children pulling faces at the camera, nostrils stuffed with coins.

2. Iida Kaori
She loved them both equally, she liked to think- but secretly, if she was forced to admit it, she had a soft spot for Aibon.

She made it a point to spend time with them in private- going out for movies, arcades, smuggling home-cooked meals into the studio and hiding in an unused practice room to enjoy their secret feasts.

At their graduation, it was all she could do not to cry at the beautifully stricken features of Aibon, who had grown up into a beautiful woman almost overnight.

3. Yaguchi Mari
The very bane of her existence, both Kago and Tsuji feature prominently in her nightmares about work. Often, they are late for their next Mini Moni appearance because of some prank, sometimes involving rope and Mika. There was that one time when Kago was chasing her on a dinosaur, sharp teeth snapping at her to the sound of childish laughter. Sometimes, she wakes up in cold sweat after Tsuji strips her down to nothing in front of a full crowd at the Yokohama arena. Yaguchi would be especially temperamental those days, and the daily lecture would be that little bit harsher than usual.

God knows she's apologised on their behalf often enough to be personally responsible for them.

4. Ishikawa Rika and Yoshizawa Hitomi
A parent unit counts as one.

They've truly tried their best with the girls. They tried everything, the 'good cop, bad cop' routine, the 'divide and conquer', 'carrot and stick'- but nothing worked. Yossie personally thought that Rika pampered them a little too much, especially Non since she'd throw a tantrum until someone pays her some attention. Aibon would just sulk and withdraw into herself if she felt ignored. Yossie recognized it for the teenage defense mechanism it was and left her alone those times. Maybe she should've just paid more attention then.

Til today, Yossie and Rika still cringe internally every time someone brings her up during talk shows.

5.Tsuji Nozomi
To be honest, Non was unapologetically self-absorbed during her teen years. Her carefree youth was spent and squandered exactly how she wanted, without regrets. How was she to know that her best friend's youth was a little less carefree than hers? Aibon was just the same as ever, always going along with whatever harebrained scheme Non thought was brilliant for the day.
She knew Aibon was dating, of course. They'd talk about boys and sex and giggle about it while flipping through the latest teen magazines. When Aibon got dumped, Non dragged her out of bed and they gorged themselves on sweets at their favorite patisserie. Aibon never spoke about her problems, and Non never questioned, loving her best friend just the same.
She matured by leaps and bounds during Aibon's suspension period. It was a blessing in disguise, it turned out, to prepare her for the eventuality of losing her partner-in-crime and work colleague forever.
Rika patted her head and held her as she cried, telling her she was not to be blamed for what happened and that she was just a "focussed individual, not selfish". Non knew better, but she decided a long time ago to spend and squander her youth and life exactly how she wanted without regrets. So she carried on with her life, sparing a few minutes sometimes to drop Aibon a note or call. Things changed, but Aibon was just the same as ever.

----
This was hastily written, but I got bit and it refused to let go until I got this piece out. I will do another Kago study in a different format some other time.

Will be swamped for the next three days, but who knows? I could end up being at my most productive just to escape from work.
Title: Re: Character Study
Post by: Tightrope on November 23, 2010, 11:40:57 PM
Another update? Yes, yes!  :otomerika: You sure know how to keep your readers happy, don't you?  :heart:

Tightrope: request granted... just not today.  :P I got 3 pages full of notes and links already. Lets really go for the gusto here- Ishikawa-san deserves a whole lot better than a rushed-out ficlet. I was already working on an Aibon- we'll see where that takes me.

3 pages?! Omgosh  :O  You are getting me excited already! Take all the time you need to write that one, I'll be waiting  patiently. Even if I have to wait a month, I know it will worth it. 

And this one is Aibon's...!  :cow: It seems today it's my lucky day ~

Personally, I always liked fics with the theme of  "X people who XXX and one who doesn't" or "X times that XXX and one that XXX" and such. Aibon + that theme = high expectations since the beggining. But I have to  confess the first thing I did after reading that was scroll down to spoil who were the chosen members  :lol:  I'm pretty satisfied with the selection by the way, even if I would have liked to see Nacchi there too.

With the first one you had me in tears already, you know? Okay, I'm a crybaby, I admit it, but...

On quiet nights, Nakazawa-san flips through old photo albums and tears up from time to time when she looks at the two children pulling faces at the camera, nostrils stuffed with coins.

... this sure was  heartbreaking. And the fact it was THE Nakazawa Yuko who was doing it, only made it worse. I miss those two together and happy, dammit  :cry: :cry: :cry: I like how Yuko somewhat see it coming but in the end she just does the best she can withouth really being interfering. Aw, gotta love the first leader.
 
Kaorin always give me this motherly feeling, and that's exactly how you portrayed her here too. I  find this part really sweet.  I went all "Awwww" while reading it. I guess I have a soft spot for Aibon too.

As for Yaguchi....  :lol: What can I say, first you almost made me cry and then, a moment later, I'm already laughing again.  I can't imagine how tough had to be to baby-sit those two and try to work at the same time.  All the nightmares were awesome, but THIS:

Often, they are late for their next Mini Moni appearance because of some prank, sometimes involving rope and Mika.

:lol::lol::lol:

This is made of win. I would love to read  the whole situation someday even if I feel a little sorry Mika. I bet is funny as hell.

Ishiyoshi comes together yay! They were like a happy family back then. Lol'ed with the routines :lol: But aw... kinda bittersweet this one too.

Til today, Yossie and Rika still cringe internally every time someone brings her up during talk shows.

I think that's true. No matter how much time passes they can't leave behind the "we are a family" feeling. They sure seems like they feel responsible of those two sometimes.  And this part reminded me, I don't remember where I saw it... Maybe a TV program, or an event? It was Rika saying something like no matter what, they will always be a family of four persons :cry:

And the last one... it has to be Nono. It was the saddest of all, no doubt :cry: I won't quote this one, because I'll end quoting the whole part. But it was really touching. In  a couple of paragraphs you described it well. Too well, in fact :cry: Poor Nono, really. It must have been very hard for her.

Those ficlets get better and better with each one you post. I cannot wait for the next one ~ 

Will be swamped for the next three days, but who knows? I could end up being at my most productive just to escape from work.

That happens to me a lot. The less time I have, the more inspired I get. Whatever happens, take it slowly. We will happily receive you back again when you finish with your work. But yeah, if you feel the muse, don't let her escape :lol:

Title: Re: Character Study
Post by: oddball on November 24, 2010, 11:39:15 AM
Another good profile Gracula  :twothumbs

the Non part at the end was both kinda sweet and melancholy at the same time I was my favorite out of all of them

Though I can totally see Yossie and Rika cringe when they are brought up in shows  :lol:
Title: Re: Character Study
Post by: kuro808 on November 24, 2010, 05:49:13 PM
The Aibon character study was good at making what type of influences did drive her, although the Non one was great in description, good job
Title: Re: Character Study
Post by: Beecubed on November 26, 2010, 04:33:19 AM
 :shocked:

Grac! Your updating speed is something to be admired! m(_ _)m

YAY!


:D i really was going for entertainment value- it was really fun to write. I think I was just projecting myself when writing it- muttering 'f*ck' repeatedly in the morning, while trying to muster some motivation to get into work. I just had to explore that with one of the girls. Ayaka is a fantastic subject- given her good-natured personality, it brings to reason that she'd turn to humor first in any given situation. So even when she is spitting nails angry or really depressed, there would still be an underlying dark humor present.

 :wub:
I love that you put that much thought into yours writing. It shows, if nothing else, the dedication you have, the effort you put in. I love that about a writer. <3
Again, I haven't really given Ayaka that much thought (bad Bee!), but I have to agree, you managed to mould a character from what you knew about her, gave her that extra pizazz and brought her to life in that previous study of yours. Well done.  :twothumbs


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I'm quite certain that she actually realizes its wrong the moment it comes out of her mouth, and shrugs it aside with a "What the heck, its not like the viewers are going to realize its wrong. We just need to make sure Mika doesn't blow the whistle on me."

 :lol:
True. And you just had to question her teaching style... did the girls really learn anything? The learning took place through rote memorisation almost every single time. But hey, we got plenty of laughs out of it so I'm in no position to complain.  :P


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You can have great English, but still think that it needs work. And if you're Ayaka, in the middle of a deep funk, everything is borderline crap.

 XD
"in the middle of a deep funk"
Never heard this expression before! I like it, there's a nice ring to it. Where are you from, grac?



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Character Study #3: Kago Ai
Or 4 people who feel personally responsible for Aibon, and one who doesn't

I loved this piece even before I finished reading it.  XD
Awesome character study title. <3

Anyways, was I expecting the 4 people to be who they were? Yes. Must be the past Momusu leaders who were responsible for looking over them. Mari, who seems to have copped so much abuse and terror from them. And of course, Papa, Mama and Nono.  :cry:


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In the grander scheme of all things Hello Project!, Nakazawa-san feels responsible for everything. She saw the warning signs a long time ago and she just didn't think Kaorin would appreciate being told what to do by the ex-leader who had trouble letting go.

Nakazawa-san and her undying love for Momusu  :heart:
It's very possible that Yuko would feel responsible, especially because she was their first leader, and she saw things through even after her graduation. I never actually thought about that though; I was always preoccupied with the thought that IshiYoshi might be ones feeling kind of responsible  :nervous


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So she became that cool aunt figure who just wanted to hang with the kids and not really need to raise them. She doted on them, both on-screen and off. Playing pranks with Tsuji-chan, to the everlasting exasperation of their main target, Yaguchi and sneaking sweets in for Kago-chan when she was on a company-enforced diet.

In spite of Yuko's pretty harsh exterior, I do believe she is a very big softie inside. And when it comes to the kids, I really can imagine how doting on them like that.
Sneaking in sweets for Aibon when she's on a company-enforced diet? Awwwww~


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On quiet nights, Nakazawa-san flips through old photo albums and tears up from time to time when she looks at the two children pulling faces at the camera, nostrils stuffed with coins.

 :cry:
Oh, the nostalgia!
I wonder if she's tearing up here because she feels she could have done more to help... or if she's simply reminiscing about old times? Perhaps, a mixture of both.  :love:


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Sometimes, she wakes up in cold sweat after Tsuji strips her down to nothing in front of a full crowd at the Yokohama arena. Yaguchi would be especially temperamental those days, and the daily lecture would be that little bit harsher than usual.

 XD
Oh, Mari. Definitely the one who received the biggest load of hair-tearing annoyances from them. Can't begin to imagine how many lectures and scoldings the two 'monsters' had to listen (or not xD) to. I wonder if she's ever regretted her proposal that got Mini Moni started...  :nervous

Yes, Mari would've definitely had nightmares of them. She probably didn't let it show back then (at least, not to my knowledge) how much they affected her... but look at all the stories she's told since. ^^; Poor Mari, I really have to sympathesise with her!

Nightmares of Tsuji stripping her down to nothing in front of a full crowd... ? :bleed eyes:
Well, she did try, didn't she?  :lol:


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Yossie personally thought that Rika pampered them a little too much


I got the impression that Yossie pampered them almost as much as Rika did, in her own, passively accepting way. ^__^ (and Rika & Aibon seemed to fight a hell of a lot, to the point where Charmy was forced into tears almost every time >.<).

Rika and Nono were as close as could be, and Yossie & Aibon were a match of their own. And even after the trouble pair left Momusu, you could still tell how biased Rika was (in favouring Nono during the Hello!Morning shows when Nono was guest xD).

But yeah, overall, 4th gen was an extremely tight bunch and the Ganko family will forever be remembered!  :heart:


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Til today, Yossie and Rika still cringe internally every time someone brings her up during talk shows.

YES.
And not just internally either. You can see it on their faces. xD
I'm not entirely sure if it's simply because they may be feeling 'responsible'; but Aibon and Nono were first and foremost, a part of 4th Gen, their comrades, their friends. To have to hear about them like that, especially Aibon, it must be somewhat awkward, maybe even painful. I'm sure they'd be thinking something along the lines of, "*mentally slaps forehead* Can we just move on please?..."  :sweatdrop:

The Nono part was... incredibly bittersweet to read.


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Aibon never spoke about her problems, and Non never questioned, loving her best friend just the same.

 :mon cry:


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Rika patted her head and held her as she cried, telling her she was not to be blamed for what happened and that she was just a "focussed individual, not selfish". Non knew better, but she decided a long time ago to spend and squander her youth and life exactly how she wanted without regrets. So she carried on with her life, sparing a few minutes sometimes to drop Aibon a note or call. Things changed, but Aibon was just the same as ever.

Gorgeous. I love how there are no ill feelings towards Aibon at all, from any of the members (except Mari, but in her case it's justified  :lol:).
<333

I thought you were going to go into a bit more depth about... Aibon.. and her troubles. But you didn't. You made this endearingly nostalgic and kept it from the warm perspectives of her former fellow group members. I loved it.  :luvuluvu:


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This was hastily written, but I got bit and it refused to let go until I got this piece out. I will do another Kago study in a different format some other time.

Hastily written or not, your writing remains great as usual; it really reaches out to me. Can't quite explain it, but whatever you're doing, keep it up!  :thumbsup
Can't wait to read more studies!  :inlove:


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Will be swamped for the next three days, but who knows? I could end up being at my most productive just to escape from work.

That's fine; you've already been pumping out the studies over the past few days. I'd say an update a week from any writer would make me happy. You've already exceeded that in every way, so no worries. At all.  :P


Again, no elaborate plotlines or anything here (no need, as we already know what's happened xD). And I totally love the change of pace your 'studies' provide. :D

Seriously CANNOT wait for the Charmy one. I'd love to see how you portray my ichiban idol.  :twothumbs I'm sure I'd have a lot to respond to that, as my fangirling instincts just kick in big time if it's got to do with Rika-chan. And with those 3 pages of notes that you have, I'm sure you can't do any wrong!  :heart:

Thank you for the wonderful update!  :twothumbs

Waiting for your next study! 
 :otomerika:

Title: Re: Character Study
Post by: gracula on November 29, 2010, 06:00:44 AM
As always, thank you all for reading. I can still scarcely believe that people will want to read the junk I crank out.

Tightrope: Here.

'Doko on'nanoko-tachi?' she thought impatiently. Yaguchi pulled a tube of Tums from the little sling bag on her costume and popped two in her mouth. She glanced at Manager-san who seemed unconcerned that the three girls were missing and the Production Assistant was already giving the call to get onstage.

"Mika better have a damn good reason for being late," fumed Yaguchi, as she made her way to the dressing rooms at the far end of the hall.

The corridor was a little unfamiliar, even though she'd been there before. They stretched on a little longer than she remembered and they were lit in red and pink. Large pillows were scattered along the hallway and Yaguchi stopped briefly to flop onto the most comfortable surface she's ever rested on. As she was stretching out her kinks away, she heard screaming further down the corridor.

"Help!" Mika's voice rang out. Yaguchi tried running towards the call, but she found her legs failing her, as though she was moving through molasses. Mika was still calling for help in an unintelligible language, English, she supposed.

As she neared their dressing room, Mika's screaming and groaning took on a slight... ero tone. "What the hell?" Yaguchi thought as she threw the door open.

And there she was, in resplendent rope-play glory- Mika was buck-naked and trussed up like a fetishists wet dream, dangling from the ceiling by cleverly looped straps around her wrists and ankles.

"Yaguchi-sama, oshioki kibonnu!"

"Oh my gahd." Yaguchi ran out the door shutting out the sounds of the monsters' girlish laughter.

The Mini Moni leader sat up from bed, hyperventilating, heart thumping so loud she was afraid it would burst out of her chest, "I definitely need a boyfriend."

 :grin: Sorry, sacrificing quality for a bit. Am rushing somewhere now. But I couldn't stop thinking about Mika in ropes.


Oddball: Yeah, Non's was the most difficult to write, only because as I was writing it, I realized Tsuji-san was still, a little self-absorbed. I truly adore her personality, but I wonder if they even communicate at all. Oh well, we all lose our closest, dearest childhood friends. I suppose that's just a normal rite of growing up.

Kuro: Thanks! :) Aibon is her own person, but it really is the influences around her that make her. I'm sure everyone did some major soul-searching when she got fired.

Bee: I just got really inspired, I hope I find a somewhat regular rhythm to this.

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"in the middle of a deep funk"
Never heard this expression before! I like it, there's a nice ring to it. Where are you from, grac?

I've always thought 'in a funk' meant 'emotionally under the weather'. I'm sure it's North American influence, but I'm Malaysian, as I have mentioned.

Quote
YES.
And not just internally either. You can see it on their faces. xD
I'm not entirely sure if it's simply because they may be feeling 'responsible'; but Aibon and Nono were first and foremost, a part of 4th Gen, their comrades, their friends. To have to hear about them like that, especially Aibon, it must be somewhat awkward, maybe even painful. I'm sure they'd be thinking something along the lines of, "*mentally slaps forehead* Can we just move on please?..."

Yeah, you know, I've seen a still of Yossi touching the back of her neck during the Shabekuri interview I don't know if they were talking about the girls then. That's actually an unconscious tell- a sign that she's angry. We must track down the exact moment.

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Seriously CANNOT wait for the Charmy one. I'd love to see how you portray my ichiban idol.   I'm sure I'd have a lot to respond to that, as my fangirling instincts just kick in big time if it's got to do with Rika-chan. And with those 3 pages of notes that you have, I'm sure you can't do any wrong! 

Errgh- I hope I don't get excommunicated by the Chuuch if my portrayal of Charmy/graduation ends up a little less than ideal.  :sweatdrop:

-----

Here we go. This one was Really Difficult to complete, only because i keep getting distracted. Just take it for the entertainment value that only Fujimoto Miki's ego can provide.

-----

Character Study #4: Ishikawa Rika, October 2005
by Fujimoto Miki

Everyone exists for the sole purpose of Fujimoto Miki's entertainment. Wasn't it already clearly evident from the get-go when they had the First Fujimoto Miki Welcome Championship?

In her mind, your worth as a human being is determined only by the entertainment value you can provide her. A quick wit and natural comic timing is highly valued. God forbid if you were lame, or disgusting or just plain bland. Miki-sama has discriminating tastes in humor- and these do not include:-

1)Trying too hard to be funny
2)Buri-buri princess behaviour, forced or genuine
3)Lame puns, unless you were a senior leader and deference needed to be shown for proprieties' sake
4)Over-exaggeration of a role or character
5)Shameless self-praise
6)Ham

Imagine then, the surprise of one Yoshizawa Hitomi when her subleader said, “Rika-chan is really funny, ne?” with a fond laugh as they were packing to leave the studio.

Wide-eyed and bewildered, “Un,” was all Yossie could say right then in response.

“Yeah- she was fantastic, feeding me lines earlier, when we were dissing Sayu. And,” she broke up, ssexy beasting “You weren't here in the morning- I came with Aya-chan for the Eriku Kamezo corner. She was...” she bent over laughing, wiping her tears as she recalled the shoot. “Hehh. Ma, anyway, she's hilarious.”

“Hah?”

“Nandaiyo? Oh, for god's sake, don't make a big deal out of it. It's not like I'm declaring my undying love for her.”

“What happened?”

“You'll just have to watch it when it airs- I dunno if they'll edit it out, though. It was super, super funny,” she giggled again.

“No, I mean, what happened to you?”

Miki tsked in irritation, “You're the one who's always telling me to give her a chance, for the team.”

“Ah.”

“I got it all figured out. I spent the whole of yesterday's break with Aya-chan watching old episodes when she was Charmy. That was just fucking irritating. But you know what's really funny? That split second before she affects her Charmy chara and she realizes she has to do something really embarrassing. That is just too damned hilarious. She's fantastic.”

Yossie gaped in confusion as Mikitty continued extolling the comedic virtues of Charmy Ishikawa, like a connoisseur describing fine wine. Her head was beginning to hurt as Miki referenced parts of the Hello Pro News corner verbatim. When Miki described one scene as cute, Yossi almost choked on the aspirin she just swallowed.

Miki thumped Yossie on the back as she coughed violently, “Are you okay?”

Throat hoarse from coughing, Yossie nodded, “Mm- shall we go?” She opened a new bottle of water.

As they exited their joint dressing room, Miki slipped her arm through Yossie's companionably, “Ah, Yocchan.” she said, casually swinging her duffel bag over her shoulder. “You tell Rika-chan any of this, I will wedgie you repeatedly during a concert.”

She's never had water shoot out her nose with such force before.
Title: Re: Character Study [update 29Nov- Study #4]
Post by: kuro808 on November 29, 2010, 07:24:24 AM
Miki has her way around Yossie and admired Rika supposedly
Title: Re: Character Study [update 29Nov- Study #4]
Post by: Tightrope on November 29, 2010, 12:07:04 PM
OH MY GAWD, YOU DID IT :rofl:

I came here searching for the update, but certainly didn't expect the extra. I was laughing like mad the while reading the whole thing  :rofl: I know you know, and probably I will repeat it a lot of times but I love you grac  :heart:

I love the little details like the corridor being longer and with weird lights and Yaguchi having trouble at running properly, because those are the kind of things that happens in dreams all the time. They are quite annoying  :lol:  The whole scene when Yaguchi find Mika at least is  :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: Seriously, this is better than I imagined. You made my day  XD Thanks

And now... time for dancing cows! :cow: UPDATE UPDATE, CHARMY UPDATE :cow:

I'm trying to figure how to comment without quoting the whole thing  XD

I love Miki, and the fact this study it's somewhat from her point of view, made it even more awesome. Just look at the beginning. It's so Miki-like. We have the study of Miki herself in those first paragraphs :lol:

1)Trying too hard to be funny
2)Buri-buri princess behaviour, forced or genuine
3)Lame puns, unless you were a senior leader and deference needed to be shown for proprieties' sake
4)Over-exaggeration of a role or character
5)Shameless self-praise
6)Ham

The funny thing is that all of those describe Charmy in one way or another XD No wonder why Yossie is like  'what's gotten into you? :shocked: '  hearing Miki saying good things about Rika. I found hilarous the way Yossie can't even find words to reply while Miki is ranting. Leave Yossie wordlessly or choked is not a easy task  XD And maybe Miki is saying Rika is awesome, but she is still Miki, you didn't alter her personality. We can see her personal remarks here and there all the time.I loved that <3

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“Yeah- she was fantastic, feeding me lines earlier, when we were dissing Sayu.

Poor Sayu? :rofl: She sure enjoys being THE Miki. I guess I found the detail especially funny because it triggered some memories of Miki doing exactly that. Aw, I miss her ~

And Ayaya was mentioned! Ayayaaa ~ :heart: I totally see Miki forcing her friend to watch all the Charmy stuff with her, because she didn't want to suffer alone or die from boredom :lol: In the end Miki was enjoying it, but what about Aya, I wonder? 

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“Ah, Yocchan.” she said, casually swinging her duffel bag over her shoulder. “You tell Rika-chan any of this, I will wedgie you repeatedly during a concert.”

Miki:     :shifty:
Yossie:  :on blackhole:

And that's the Miki we all worship and adore  :rofl: She have to keep her reputation XD I wonder how would Rika react at those news if she ever finds out? Well, it's not like that's going to happen  :lol: And this was, no doubt about it, the perfect way to end this work  :heart:

I love your characterizations so much. And your writing. And everything :bow: 

Waiting for the next one~  :cow:

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Errgh- I hope I don't get excommunicated by the Chuuch if my portrayal of Charmy/graduation ends up a little less than ideal.  :sweatdrop:

Don't worry about that XD Who said it has to be ideal? It's gonna be great either way, I know  :heart:

Title: Re: Character Study [update 29Nov- Study #4]
Post by: oddball on November 29, 2010, 12:16:42 PM
Aww poor Rika, she kinda was the but of alot of jokes wasn't she, nice too see you give her a bit of vindication through Miki here  :lol: though It seems as thou poor Yossie is a bit overawed by the whole situation  XD
Title: Re: Character Study [update 29Nov- Study #4]
Post by: gracula on November 30, 2010, 07:31:38 AM
And Ayaya was mentioned! Ayayaaa ~ :heart: I totally see Miki forcing her friend to watch all the Charmy stuff with her, because she didn't want to suffer alone or die from boredom :lol: In the end Miki was enjoying it, but what about Aya, I wonder? 

Don't get used to this.  :smhid


*Oh Kami-sama. Please, please, let her let me pretend to sleep.*

"Oh, oh! Aya-chan, mite. Mite!" Miki poked me in the ribs a little too insistently and screeched a little too loudly for me to maintain the facade of sleep. A frozen image of Charmy ishikawa graced the screen, fist raised in mid-monologue. "Isn't that too funny?" Miki laughed, tears streaming down her face.

"Tan, I don't see what-"

"No, no- watch it from here," Miki pressed rewind to start the monologue again. "Haha! See how she dies a little inside when she does it? It's fucking brilliant, i tell you."

"Oookay." Oh god, I can't take much more of this. "Miki, we've been watching old Hello Morning episodes all night. We have to get up early tomorrow to get to the studio for recording. Didn't we say we were going to leave earlier so we can breakfast together?"

Miki wasn't listening to me, eyes glued to the screen. I huffed and made my way to the bedroom.

"On a side note, I want to tuck Takahashi Lovely into my pants and carry her with me everywhere." she mumbled, when she thought I was out of earshot.

"That's it, you're sleeping on the floor tonight."

And that is why, Rika-chan, I glared at you the whole of today's recording and refused to speak with you in the dressing room.

~Matsuura Aya, October 2005
Title: Re: Character Study [update 29Nov- Study #4]
Post by: Tightrope on November 30, 2010, 11:05:44 AM
 :shocked: And you did it again! :rofl: Seriously, I loveeeeeeeeeeeeeeee you  :heart: *huggles*

I love Miki's sense of humor :lol: And she's so cute like that, in her own world, ignoring the rest of the universe (in this case Aya XD).  And what's with Ai-chan? lol  Miki is the best <3

Really, situation amuses me to no end. I totally understand Aya, I have been there. Gosh, all the "play-pause-rewind-play look, look at that, no, you didn't saw it, let's rewind again" it's so damn frustrating :lol: But knowing what it feels like only made it funnier to read :rofl: Forgive me, Ayaya ~

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And that is why, Rika-chan, I glared at you the whole of today's recording and refused to speak with you in the dressing room.

I can almost see that death glare :rofl: :rofl:

What a wonderful way to get my spirits high in the morning. Are you sure I can't get used to this? Because I like a lot this kind of "Good Morning", you know XD Aah, I feel like a spoiled child ~

Thank you again :heart:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 3Dec- Study#5]
Post by: gracula on December 02, 2010, 07:44:34 PM
I'm beginning to realize that all the writing I can do nowadays are pure crack. Starting to worry, actually. I have a half-finished promise to fulfill too :P. Maybe I should park this in the crack-to-go- anyone know how I can do that?

Character Study #5

“Urrgh,” she groaned, reaching for her phone. “Mou~ dare?”

She squinted against the harsh glare of the keitai screen's glow and blinked once to make out vague shapes of text.

<<Is it nature or nurture? I don't know...>>

She sighed exasperatedly, resting the phone on her chest and closed her eyes again. Just as she was falling back to sleep, the phone buzzed, jolting her back to reluctant consciousness.

After whimpering and thrashing like a child throwing a fit, she finally picked the phone up, “Mm?”

“Were you sleeping?”

“Un.”

“Sorry, do you want to go back to sleep?”

“Mm.”

“I accidentally drank some coffee earlier- now I can't sleep.”

“How can you-? Never mind.” Voice cracking from sleep, she adjusted the twisted covers and got herself into a comfortable position.

“Do you think I've changed since you've known me?”

“Umm- what time is it?” She glanced at her digital radio clock, “Well, you used to call me a little earlier.”

“I think I've changed.”

“We're older. We all grow up and change.”

“Yes, but I think I've changed to something that's not me anymore.”

“Huhn?”

“It's true. When we first joined, we were told to make a chara for ourselves. I think I never really made one myself, so they made it for me and now that they've made me, I don't know what that is and I'm this character I don't recognize on screen and off-screen, I don't know what I am anymore, and-”

“Chotto. What was that, your first sentence?”

“It's true?”

“No, after that.”

“Um- the producers made a chara for me?”

“No, nevermind,”

“I don't know if I'm dependable, or if I was made to be dependable.”

“Mmhm.”

Silence.

"Are you asleep?"

"No... *yawn*"

“What if we go out into the real world and discover that we're so different from the onstage personalities they made for us?”

“Mm. Could be worse.”

“Nande?”

“Could've gotten a Kemeko chara.”

“You're so bad.”

She grinned, eyes still shut, hearing the smile in her friend's voice.

"Look. All I'm saying is, there are worse things to be."

“I just feel lost. Like there are so many sides of me, that I don't know who the real me is anymore.”

“You know, I read somewhere, um, nandake?” She sat up from bed, yawning slightly, “Um, like the different sides and facets you have, like a diamond, makes you shine more brilliantly. That's you, Ai-chan- you're incredibly well-balanced, and symmetrical and tough and...”

“Iya ya,” Takahashi flushed suddenly, her cheeks warming, “Stop saying all that.”

“It's true, though.”

Silence. “Gaki-san reads?”

“Okay, I'm going back to sleep.” Risa flopped back onto her bed.

Giggling, Takahashi climbed into bed herself, “Sorry, sorry. Where did you read that?”

“Well, I made it up just now. But that's how I see you- you just have to accept that yourself.”

“I won't drink coffee in the evening anymore.”

“Good.”

“I've finished the tea you gave me.”

“I know, I'll buy you more.”

“Thank you for taking care of me.”

“Thank you for letting me.”

“I'll wake you up tomorrow morning. Goodnight, Risa-chan.”

“Mm.”

---

goodnight.
Title: Re: Character Study [update 3Dec- Study#5]
Post by: kuro808 on December 02, 2010, 08:11:06 PM
lol I like the "Gaki-san reads?" its actually become intriguing on learning about them

and to answer your question, you have to talk to Yuu-sama (Yuuyami) the mod for this forum to change it over, she should be glad to change it over :lol:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 3Dec- Study#5]
Post by: rndmnwierd on December 02, 2010, 10:39:56 PM
This was cute. Seems like Ai to be strung out on coffee, calling people randomly late at night and Gaki taking it in sleepy stride.
Title: Re: Character Study [update 3Dec- Study#5]
Post by: Estrea on December 03, 2010, 02:44:08 AM
Ai sounds exactly like me. orz Except I don't randomly call people. I text them instead. :lol:

If you need to move this to the crack-to-go section... *summons Yuuchan*

XD
Title: Re: Character Study [update 3Dec- Study#5]
Post by: Yuuyami on December 03, 2010, 02:45:52 AM
And I is here! Welcome to your new home in the Crack to Go section <3

Wear a hardhat to protect yourself from writer's block and you'll be very well on your way to awesome :>
Title: Re: Character Study [update 3Dec- Study#5]
Post by: Tightrope on December 03, 2010, 03:30:40 PM
For a moment I couldn't found this thread XD Yay, update, now with more crack than before  :cow:

I'll edit later to make a proper comment, I have to go now. But I before that wanted to say YAY I SPY TAKAGAKI HERE  :heart: 
Title: Re: Character Study [update 3Dec- Study#5]
Post by: gracula on December 03, 2010, 06:42:12 PM
kuro:  :P or you just have to have someone ask for ya.
rndm: Gaki Grunts are cute. That really is all I wrote this piece for.
essy: Wow! what level of Summoning do you have to be to get this good?  :lol:
Yuuyami: Much thanks for promptness. *grac looks around and nods with approval* This'll do nicely.
Ropychan: I spy dancing cow. See you later.

Just so I don't back out of this endeavor, I hereby pledge "Study #6: Charmy Ishikawa/graduation" over the weekend. Unless I get distracted by Miki Fujimoto, OBGYN vs. Aya Matsuura, Asst. D.A.
Title: Re: Character Study [update 3Dec- Study#5]
Post by: Tightrope on December 04, 2010, 05:08:39 PM
I was going to edit but... now I can post again without double post so I'll post again, yay ~

And you spied well, my friend  :cow: Updatee :cow:

I want Ai to drink  coffee at  evening often if that will result in more Gaki grunts. She's so damn cute like that, struggling to not fall asleep again. She can't even follow up with Ai conversation. Ai was in full tekette mode while poor subleader was still, wait, what  XD Too much information.

Quote
“Iya ya,” Takahashi flushed suddenly, her cheeks warming, “Stop saying all that.”

“It's true, though.”

Silence. “Gaki-san reads?”

Ah, the silence.  And then changing subject.  Interesting~
You didn't know how to answer to thats, Ai-chan? Bwahaha, love is in the air, or in the phone lol, I know it . The "Gaki-san reads?" bit made me laugh XD I swear I could see Ai smirking while saying that.

Quote
"Thank you for taking care of me.”

“Thank you for letting me.”

I loved their whole interaction here,  but especially those two lines. It made me melt a little. AW, why so adorable TakaGaki?  :heart:

Ai is dangerous with insomnia, she overthinks a little too much. But I like the fact Ai is being all worried while Gaki is being half-sleep relaxed until she made her friend calm down as well.  I'm happy she can count on Gaki to shake off her worries, even if it's late at night. So cute those two  :heart:

And Kemeko chara was one of the best! XD But she sure had endurance, being always picked on.

Quote
Just so I don't back out of this endeavor, I hereby pledge "Study #6: Charmy Ishikawa/graduation" over the weekend. Unless I get distracted by Miki Fujimoto, OBGYN vs. Aya Matsuura, Asst. D.A.

Now I'm officially uber excited! :cow: :cow:

Charmy is getting nearer ~  Rika-chan :heart: But I don't mind those kind of distractions, you know? They are really good distractions. So, either way, I'm eager to read. Awesomeness ensured  :w00t:

And I just killed my mouse here, btw. Dunno how  XD
Title: Re: Character Study [update 3Dec- Study#5]
Post by: lil_hamz on December 05, 2010, 11:56:39 AM
OMG, I love the AiGaki in this. It's simple yet so sweet. I think I'm gonna have a nice dream tonight while remembering this fic :)
Title: Re: Character Study [update 3Dec- Study#5]
Post by: Beecubed on December 05, 2010, 05:30:57 PM
Ahhhh, finally some time to sit down and write up some responses… ^^;
But firstly – thanks for the updates, grac! <3


Quote
As always, thank you all for reading. I can still scarcely believe that people will want to read the junk I crank out.

WAHHH???  :shocked:
There's no need to thank us for reading... we are the ones who have to thank you for writing.  :bow:
I'm always so thankful for my writers, and you're no exception. Thank you for writing, and for sharing. Really really.  :yep:


Quote
Yeah, you know, I've seen a still of Yossi touching the back of her neck during the Shabekuri interview I don't know if they were talking about the girls then. That's actually an unconscious tell- a sign that she's angry. We must track down the exact moment.

Was it the cap I posted in the IshiYoshi thread (my last post in that thread, if I’m not mistaken…)? Because if it is, then yes, that’s when they were talking about the girls. Angry? I’ve always taken that kind of body language to mean awkward or embarrassed/shy…  I remember seeing Rika touch her neck a lot while gushing about Moonlight Yossie in some random clip… xD Interesting that it could be interpreted as a sign of anger…


Quote
Errgh- I hope I don't get excommunicated by the Chuuch if my portrayal of Charmy/graduation ends up a little less than ideal.

If it’s you who’s writing it, then I have much faith. I mean, your Yossie one left me quite staggered… I can’t see how you could do any wrong… and like Ropy said, doesn’t have to be ideal. After all, it really can’t be, as everybody has different views about Rika. ^___^


Quote
*grac’s extras*

 :lol:

Crack-tastic, my friend. Love them <3
Write more!!!!

Alrighty, better get this going or I’ll never have a comment up ^^;


Quote
Character Study #4: Ishikawa Rika, October 2005
by Fujimoto Miki

The title itself had me squealing. Is this going to be CHARMIKITTY?!  :inlove:

Certainly wasn’t expecting this… xD
A pleasant surprise, to have a Charmy study from Miki’s perspective. We get a bit of insight into Miki’s mind as well, which is a complete win-win  :twothumbs


Quote
Everyone exists for the sole purpose of Fujimoto Miki's entertainment.


This is the truth. XD

Or at least, in my eyes it is. Having watched Miki over quite a number of Hello!Morning episodes and such, I’ve come to notice that Miki REALLY enjoys having a laugh at people. Lol. And she’s pretty much the police during games (always the first one, and SO enthusiastic, to point out the people who have stuffed up and thus must face punishment  :twisted:).
I loved the way you put this across. 


Quote
1)Trying too hard to be funny
2)Buri-buri princess behaviour, forced or genuine
3)Lame puns, unless you were a senior leader and deference needed to be shown for proprieties' sake
4)Over-exaggeration of a role or character
5)Shameless self-praise
6)Ham

OUCH.

XD

Charmy’s in trouble, if this is the list of no-nos in Miki’s book. Aha.

BUT, what a nice, change of events with Miki actually praising Rika for being funny, even if it isn’t the kind of funny one ought to be flattered about xD (Oh Charmy!  :luvluv2:); and Yossie’s reaction is priceless.


Quote
“You weren't here in the morning- I came with Aya-chan for the Eriku Kamezo corner. She was...” she bent over laughing, wiping her tears as she recalled the shoot. “Hehh. Ma, anyway, she's hilarious.”

Such a Miki moment – I find that incredibly easy to picture. Your characterisation, again, top-notch; exactly the way I’d imagine Miki to explain something like that. <3


Quote
“…That was just fucking irritating. But you know what's really funny? That split second before she affects her Charmy chara and she realizes she has to do something really embarrassing. That is just too damned hilarious. She's fantastic.”


 :nya: :nya:

The Charmikitty fangirl in me just exploded from her hidden depths inside and is cow-dancing like mad.

 :cow: :cow: :cow:
I LOVE it when Miki says nice things about Rika (not that the bad-mouthing is particularly unpleasant, I sometimes quite enjoy her Rika-insults… >____>)

And I have to agree with you, Fujimoto-san. Rika is funny for the wrong reasons. ^__^
Although I can’t discredit Charmy 100%, Rika has become a very quick-witted talker, and can usually have people laughing quite easily without the need to poke fun at herself.

And yeah, she IS fantastic. Such a strong, lively presence. I’ll stop now before I go on a Charmy tangent. xD


Quote
Yossie gaped in confusion as Mikitty continued extolling the comedic virtues of Charmy Ishikawa, like a connoisseur describing fine wine.

LOLZ.
Now that’s something I would’ve never pictured before… me likey.  :grin:

I wonder what Yossie thinks of Rika though? We know now that Miki sees Rika as more than disgusting, but Yossie? Onegai, for more IshiYoshi-oriented character studies!


Quote
“Ah, Yocchan.” she said, casually swinging her duffel bag over her shoulder. “You tell Rika-chan any of this, I will wedgie you repeatedly during a concert.”

 :lol:
Eri will be thankful for the distraction… xD

And a fitting ending to an amusing ficlet <3
LOVED IT!

I have a very soft spot for Charmikitty (their whole apparent ‘feud’ and ill-feelings for one another only fuel this xD), so thank you for writing this the way you have. I’m sure you’ll have another Charmy study coming up from Charmy’s perspective herself? I mean, with this particular ficlet, you’ve only brushed over one of many facets which make up the wonderful Ishikawa Rika. There’s plenty more there to delve into.

AND, it felt more like a Miki study than anything. Not that I’m complaining! I’m plenty happy having read this! Thank you!


Quote
Character Study #5

TAKAGAKI!!!

OH, they are SO cute. I didn’t quite get… romantic vibes reading this, but it didn’t matter. TakaGaki friendship in itself is something to behold. And yes, even if it may seem awfully mundane. I think that’s part of the appeal.  :heart:

The late night (or early morning?) conversation between them here is just… awwwwwww~ kawaiiii.  :mon inluv:
I love how Gaki-san has to attend to Ai’s rather childish (and rather impulsive) urge to talk, ask questions; and of course, I love how naïve Ai-chan is. ^__^
It’s such a sweet kind of naïve, the kind that Gaki-san can’t quite get mad at.  :wub:


Quote
<<Is it nature or nurture? I don't know...>>

I have a feeling Ai’s been prodding Gaki-san with this long-debated question some few times already XD

It’s probably something that’s been eating away at her, especially when she’s trying to get some sleep. Awww.


Quote
“Sorry, do you want to go back to sleep?”

“Mm.”

“I accidentally drank some coffee earlier- now I can't sleep.”


Funny how easily Ai-chan can just continue the conversation… despite knowing that her Gaki-san would like to go back to sleep  :nervous

She’s just strange like that… seemingly kind and considerate, but can be a real douchebag sometimes. Nah, I love you Ai-chan. You’re just a little… oblivious to things sometimes.


Quote
“It's true. When we first joined, we were told to make a chara for ourselves. I think I never really made one myself, so they made it for me and now that they've made me, I don't know what that is and I'm this character I don't recognize on screen and off-screen, I don't know what I am anymore, and-”

A very valid question, Ai-chan. I don’t know what your character is either  :lol:

Does Ai-chan even have a character?

She’s just… a man-screaming girl who can be sexy or cute when she has to be (or wants to be  :inlove: ), is almost on par with Gaki-san in terms of awesome reactions, and is a bit of a shy gaming dork.

I don’t know what you are, Ai-chan. You’re just awesome. ^___^


Quote
“I don't know if I'm dependable, or if I was made to be dependable.”

You’ve touched on a lot of laudable questions, grac. I can certainly imagine Ai-chan asking herself these kinds of questions every day.

Is she really dependable? Or does she have to be, because she’s the leader of the group? Ai-chan is always talking down on herself, saying she’s nothing like a leader, that she’s unreliable, still childish.

Maybe she’s just too harsh on herself. I’m sure she’s a darling person, and the fact that she cares for the other members and treats them like equals, that alone shows that she’s a worthy leader. To me it does, though I’m sure others beg to differ.


Quote
“What if we go out into the real world and discover that we're so different from the onstage personalities they made for us?”

That’s another really good question to ask. I’m sure it’s something that’s crossed the minds of many of the momusus. For example, it took a character like Charmy to really give Rika the confidence boost she needed to stand out against all the other striking personalities (and not to be Negative Ishikawa, like Kaorin had scolded her about); I’m sure the personas they’ve ‘put on’ or at least, exaggerated, in front of the cameras – these really do help bring out the best of their personalities, and almost gives them something like a ‘footing’ for building themselves a tangible identity.

But yeah, I can definitely see how this question is worth asking. Even simply away from the cameras, they may feel conflicted about who they truly are and what they represent. When they go out into the real world sooner or later, what if they discover that they really are different? Would it change anything? Ultimately, I think no. I think the characters they’ve been given, or that they’ve fashioned for themselves, are wonderful. It allows them to explore sides of them, their strengths and their weaknesses, their stance towards one another, and the world.


Quote
“I just feel lost. Like there are so many sides of me, that I don't know who the real me is anymore.”

That’s not a bad thing, Ai-chan. Because that’s what makes you such an interesting character, still so hard to figure out, still so damn mysterious (in a sexay way, of course). And you’ve got plenty of life left to live, so there should be no rush in trying to find yourself.


Quote
Silence. “Gaki-san reads?”

 :lol:

Was that a moment of Gaki-san-loves-Ai-chan that the older girl completely did NOT catch? Tried to ignore?  :P

I’d like to think so, but aw. So Ai-chan.


Quote
“Thank you for taking care of me.”

“Thank you for letting me.”

The ever reliable subleader, best friend, momma figure, lover, whichever you want to view it as.
They probably finish off many conversations with these two lines. XD
A-grade Adorable!


Quote
“I'll wake you up tomorrow morning. Goodnight, Risa-chan.”

Ai-chan doesn’t sleep? XD
Or is she just the type who doesn’t need much of it? Hehe, looks like in a way, they’re taking care of each other.
Thanks for this ficlet, grac. I love talking about the girls, I love asking questions and trying to answer them, and I love TakaGaki. A very simple and straight-forward piece, yet so much to draw on. Lovely!


Quote
Just so I don't back out of this endeavor, I hereby pledge "Study #6: Charmy Ishikawa/graduation" over the weekend. Unless I get distracted by Miki Fujimoto, OBGYN vs. Aya Matsuura, Asst. D.A.

It doesn’t matter if it’s a Fujimoto or Ishikawa ficlet. I’ll be happy with whatever you have to offer.  In fact, that Miki one sounds HELLA interesting.

I have yet to be disappointed, and doubt very much that you’re even able to fall to that level. xD

Thank you again, and can’t wait for another update!

Waiting patiently for the next ficlet!  :heart:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 3Dec- Study#5]
Post by: gracula on December 07, 2010, 04:54:58 PM
Ropychan, Bee-sempai: between the both of you, I think you've managed to review more than I've written. :lol: kidding aside, I really do appreciate the incredible effort. Ropy is scarily quick, replying almost within the few hours I'd post something- and Bee, despite being away traveling, i feel so much :heart:. Thank you!

Now, I must endeavor to out-write the both of you.  :P

lil' hamz:  :) thanks- Takagaki really are the stuff dreams are made of, aren't they?

-----

And now, I present a FICTIONAL (they all are, but you know what I'm talking about) Character Study fluff cracklet. It is not at all based on any fact that we know of and is in no way affiliated with the existing series (maybe), but the scene came and I couldn't help myself.


All Night Long

It was exactly how Yossie imagined she would lose her virginity. (That time when she fell hard during a particularly brilliant volleyball save during middle school didn’t count.)

It was perfect- all soft curves and seeking mouths, lips and tongues and fingers. She’d lost track of time and space with abandon, glad that they didn’t need to be mindful of noise and they had been gloriously, unapologetically passionate.

Just when she thought it couldn’t get any better, the still of the aftermath brought home why she was really, really ~really~ into girls. Small hands stroking smoothly everywhere to calm and relax, soft nonsensical whispers and declarations of love and forever- not at all the “roll over and sleep” part of sex that Nakazawa-nee-san had declaimed, during the instructional Talk.

Yossie studied the lines of Rika’s sleeping face, and reassessed her internal definition of adorable. She raised her hand to brush a stray lock of hair away from Rika's beatific face when a noise from those angelic lips that sounded anything but stopped her.

A low, demonic rumbling that gradually rose in volume reverberated out of Rika, like a far-off storm, except that the far-off storm was right next to Yossie. She froze, wide-eyed and then gently nudged Rika’s head to rest on it’s side. The snoring stopped, and Yossie sighed in relief.

Snuggling down beside her Rika-chan, she pressed a soft kiss onto her sweet-smelling head and held her closer.

*Snnorrrrkkh*

Yossie’s eyes flew open, every muscle tensing- and she stayed like that for a long time, losing track of time and space.

Morning couldn’t come soon enough, and Rika woke up with a smile. Her new lover was already up and she drew Yossie into a kiss.

“Ohayo,” she whispered. “Did you sleep well?”

“Mm, I- I was, uh- watching you sleep all night.”

That was the sweetest thing Rika had ever heard- and it was exactly how she imagined she would lose her virginity.

-----

We now return you to our regularly scheduled program. Thanks for watching.
Title: Re: Character Study [update 7Dec- crack intermission]
Post by: Estrea on December 08, 2010, 12:50:25 AM
*dies on the spot*

Oh poor poor Yossie. :lol:

Still, it felt incredibly possible. :P
Title: Re: Character Study [update 7Dec- crack intermission]
Post by: kuro808 on December 08, 2010, 09:21:18 AM
 :lol: Yossie watching her sleep all night, how sweet XD
Title: Re: Character Study [update 7Dec- crack intermission]
Post by: rndmnwierd on December 08, 2010, 10:59:19 AM
 :lol: :lol: :lol: Oh my god. That's, it, I really can't even find the words. XD XD Hilarious.
Title: Re: Character Study [update 3Dec- Study#5]
Post by: oddball on December 08, 2010, 11:51:50 AM

“Thank you for taking care of me.”

“Thank you for letting me.”

Aww this is so sweet!  :wub:, Just like TakaGaki I suppose  :lol:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 7Dec- crack intermission]
Post by: Tightrope on December 08, 2010, 02:18:22 PM
:cow: Yay, update!  With IshiYoshi! :cow:

I can only say that I'm crying, and not from sadness :rofl: This is too much  :rofl:

Poor Yossie  :yossi: But yes, I can see this happening :lol: This whole situation is so hilarous ~

Quote
(That time when she fell hard during a particularly brilliant volleyball save during middle school didn’t count.)

This made me laugh out loud . I felt oddly identified with that. I feel your pain Yossie. Of course it doesn't count that way. It doesn't!  :lol:


Quote
A low, demonic rumbling that gradually rose in volume reverberated out of Rika, like a far-off storm, except that the far-off storm was right next to Yossie.

It's exactly like that. I know people who snore badly, and the feeling is just like that.  It's brilliant how the situation was so perfect and lovely and adorable and then, all of it, cracked. Way to destroy Yossie perfect night :lol:

I liked how you used some phrases at the beginning and then at the end again. Like the 'losing track of time and space', at the beggining it was for a good reason, she was lost in the moment <3. B$ut later it was due to Rika's snoring  and the shock of such demonic sound emerging from her XD And the 'it was exactly how she imagined she would lose her virginity'  :lol: Yes, reading it in the first line was 'Aww'. Reading it in the last line was just hilarous.

Quote
“Mm, I- I was, uh- watching you sleep all night.”

That was the sweetest thing Rika had ever heard- and it was exactly how she imagined she would lose her virginity.
HOW SWEET :heart:

Leaving untold unnecessary information, uh?  :rofl: I think it was for the best . And Rika doesn't know she usually snore badly, does she? Rika-chan is so adorable, even while snoring  :otomerika:   I hope Yossie can get used to the snoring soon, otherwise...  well it's going to be a problem  :rofl:

Aaah, I love it  :heart:

Writing a good fic, in general, is difficult. But writing something is good AND funny, that's even more difficult, at least from my point of view. But you are fantastic at it. With what you have already written I can see you are totally capable of writing almost anything. Maybe is just that you write in a way I love, or maybe is just that you are awesome  :heart: In fact, is both.

Quote
Ropychan, Bee-sempai: between the both of you, I think you've managed to review more than I've written. :lol:  kidding aside, I really do appreciate the incredible effort. Ropy is scarily quick, replying almost within the few hours I'd post something- and Bee, despite being away traveling, i feel so much :heart:. Thank you!

It's more like you update when I'm around. This time I was out having fun (and I slept like 12 hours today lol) so I didn't see the update until now. But yeah, I told you,  I'm stalking your fics. It's only natural XD And thank you in any case! Your ficlets/crack/whatever you write each time are always very enjoyable :heart:

Bee and her epics comments are awesome :bow: We still have a long way to go.
Title: Re: Character Study [update 10Dec- Character Study #6]
Post by: gracula on December 10, 2010, 04:16:25 PM
Essy: innit? I've always thought Rika would be such the dude, despite her girly behaviour.
Kuro:  :P
Rndm: Glad you liked it.
Odd: desshou?
Ropy: Taicho. <salutes> I wish to report that Mission: Charmy/graduation is going badly. I have 8 pages of words, but no story.

So I'm amputating parts of that story and making new little stories, displaying the limbs, as it were. Don't wonder too much about where this bit would've fit in the original story


----
Character Study #6: IshiYoshi, birds

June 1998
Taura, Yokosuka City Middle School
Yokosuka, Kanagawa

She would spend most of her spring and summer afternoons before club activities out on the pier, staring at the large, hulking grey battleships tethered to the JDSF Yokosuka Naval Base. It was nice to get away from the bustle of school and Mao-kun, the school’s resident cat would be there occasionally to keep her company. If her dog wasn’t quite so- enthusiastic about cats, she would’ve liked to get one.

Negotiating her way down the rusted metal stairs onto the concrete landing, a flash of movement caught her eye- black wings beating around a lifeless lump of organic matter. She stood stunned, horrified, watching the carrion crow picking at the remains of her feline friend.

“Go away!” she shouted, making shooing gestures at the crow.

The crow hopped aside and cawed, eyeing her belligrently before spreading its wings to fly off. Heart in her throat, she moved closer to the carcass of what was once a living creature she’d spent warm afternoons and parts of her karaage bento with. Out of reflex, she held her breath as she neared the mess of fur, bone and spilled guts.

Pulling her gym towel out of her bagpack, she covered the rotting Mao-kun and considered the best way to pick him up. A sudden fluttering of many wings startled her and she looked up to see a murder of crows bearing down on her.

With a terrified shriek, she snatched Mao-kun up without a second thought and ran for the stairs. She felt buffeting wings and scrabbling claws, loud harsh cawing making her ears ring and the smell of decay burning her nostrils.

Rika dropped to her knees and screamed.

----

November 2002
TV Tokyo Corporation
Minato, Tokyo

“Gomen, Yossie. I didn’t mean to freak out on you like that.”

“Its okay. I knew you weren’t so good with birds, I shouldn’t have.”

Maki was eyeing the both of them from the door, shifting uncomfortably in her sparrow suit.

Yossie was miserable for most of the rest of the day.

----

March 2006
TV Tokyo Corporation
Minato, Tokyo

Yossie took one look at her Tengu costume and told her dresser to take the wings off the back.

As with all good intentions, it backfired when Rika, who was puttering around Yossie's dressing room found the cluster of feathers and startled everyone with her short shriek.

It took Yossie two hours to convince Rika that she didn't do it on purpose. Having Mikitty cackling in the background didn't help matters any.

----

May 2007
Saitama Super Arena
Saitama City, Saitama


"You're kidding me." Yossie said, touching her graduation costume lightly. "It wasn't like this during full-dress!"

"Isn't it beautiful, Yocchan?" Miki elbowed her not so subtly.

Yossie recovered smoothly and smiled winningly at the wardrobe mistress, "It's beautiful. I can't believe you hand-sewed each feather on yourself overnight. Thank you for your hard work."

She couldn't change out of that costume fast enough after it was over.

----

October 2009
Yokohama Chinatown, enroute Yokohama Park
Yokohama, Kanagawa

"Rika." Yossie turned to her friend suddenly, in a very serious tone, "Listen, I need to tell you something and you need to stay calm."

"Nani?" Rika's heart rate picked up. Anticipation and apprehension felt quite similar, she thought to herself.

Yossie took her hand and moved to face her, "We're going to the park, right?"

"Ye-s?"

"Well..." Yossie stopped and with a flurry of movement, took her hoodie off and draped it over Rika gently. She yanked the hood over Rika's head to the girl's confusion. "Rika-chan, there are- pigeons. Between us and the park." Yossie hissed, looking over her shoulder.

Rika blinked, stunned. And then she threw her head back and laughed in a most unladylike fashion.

"Oh, Hi-chan!" she giggled. "Let's go." Rika looped her arm around Yossie's companionably. Pigeons scattered and fluttered around them as they walked right through, "I feel safer already, oujisama."

Yossie blushed slightly, "I thought-"

"I didn't show you where my school used to be, when you visited my hometown." Rika said as they approached the pier. "It was kind of like this, except with more ships and less trees. And too many birds- Yokosuka's a migration route..."

It was an incredibly enjoyable day.

----

I feel like Dr. Frankenstein. So weird.
Title: Re: Character Study [update 10Dec- Character Study #6]
Post by: rndmnwierd on December 10, 2010, 06:27:02 PM
You know, I had always wondered about Rika's fear. Phobia's do tend to stem from childhood trauma after all.
Title: Re: Character Study [update 10Dec- Character Study #6]
Post by: kuro808 on December 10, 2010, 07:10:52 PM
After reading this one, Miki in a pigeon suit and the fear of birds is still in her system :lol:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 10Dec- Character Study #6]
Post by: Tightrope on December 12, 2010, 03:04:15 PM
 Another IshiYoshi update , YAY  :cow:

:cow: :otomerika:  :heart:  :yossi: :cow:

Self-explanatory emoticons are awesome XD

Taicho. <salutes> I wish to report that Mission: Charmy/graduation is going badly. I have 8 pages of words, but no story.

So I'm amputating parts of that story and making new little stories, displaying the limbs, as it were. Don't wonder too much about where this bit would've fit in the original story[/i]

 :shocked 

Eight pages! I don't think that is going badly at all! No story you say, but it will connect at some point, somehow and the words will become story, you'll see. But well, I'm ok with story limbs too. I don't mind the gore, because if all the limbs are this good I'll be very happy  XD

The first part, with Rika, and the cat, and the crows, whoa. It really hit me. Poor Rika, such a trauma. I would be scared of birds too if something like that happened. Being pursued by angry crows while holding your dead cat friend omg, you evil woman, you killed an innocent kitty!  :bleed eyes:

Quote from: gracula
With a terrified shriek, she snatched Mao-kun up without a second thought and ran for the stairs. She felt buffeting wings and scrabbling claws, loud harsh cawing making her ears ring and the smell of decay burning her nostrils.
Rika dropped to her knees and screamed.

And this, and this...  What a way to end this part. The fear, the desesperation, the sadness for Mao-kun :cry: So much emotion <3 I loved all of it, but that part is especially awesome >.<

Quote from: gracula
“Gomen, Yossie. I didn’t mean to freak out on you like that.”

“Its okay. I knew you weren’t so good with birds, I shouldn’t have.”

Maki was eyeing the both of them from the door, shifting uncomfortably in her sparrow suit.

Yossie was miserable for most of the rest of the day.

AW  :cry:.

There is no other word for this. It has to be AAWWW. For various reasons.

- Rika apologising  for an overreaction about whatever Yossie in her crow costume did (she was the crow, wasn't she? With the sunglasses and all  XD) = AW  :cry:
- Yossie feeling so guilty and miserable for what she did = AW  :cry:
- Maki in her costume watching from a distance and feeling somewhat bad = AW  :cry:

Really, this is somehow sad and so adorable at the same time. And again I found awesome how much 4 lines can transmit if they are wrote in certain way. Gotta love you and your writing  :heart: 

Now I'm remembering Ai-chan with her costume as well. She was uber cute. God, for some reasons I found those skit so damn adorable XD Now I want to see them again ~

Quote from: gracula
It took Yossie two hours to convince Rika that she didn't do it on purpose. Having Mikitty cackling in the background didn't help matters any.

 :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

I'm sorry, poor Rika in full panic, and poor Yossie. I know she didn't want to scare Rika and that was all she was thinking about  but the backfiring was so amusing. And I said it before but I love Miki and her sense of humour, I really love it  :lol: I bet the fact she was making it harder for Yossie to convince Rika only made her laugh more. Mikitty  :heart:


Quote from: gracula
She couldn't change out of that costume fast enough after it was over.

Again :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

You know I didn't think about all those feathers and Rika before. The idea never crossed my mind, but now...  Aah, my imagination is full of possibles worst-case scenarios, and all of them are cruel for IshiYoshi XD I'm feeling like a bad person again  :lol:

And Mikitty, just being herself  :heart:


AND. The last part was pure love. Adorable and cute and sweet and aww  :wub:

Quote from: gracula
"Rika." Yossie turned to her friend suddenly, in a very serious tone, "Listen, I need to tell you something and you need to stay calm."

"Nani?" Rika's heart rate picked up. Anticipation and apprehension felt quite similar, she thought to herself.

What she thougt Yossie was going to say? I think I have an idea :lol: But yes, I have been in that situation. Bullseye with the anticipation and apprehension thing, toootally true. But isn't she cute? So worried about the pidgeons XD I guess bad past experiencies made her be overanxious about birds and Rika, I can understand that.  And the hoodie moment, with Rika's laugh  :wub: They are so sweet <3

Quote from: gracula
"Oh, Hi-chan!" she giggled. "Let's go." Rika looped her arm around Yossie's companionably. Pigeons scattered and fluttered around them as they walked right through, "I feel safer already, oujisama."

Yossie blushed slightly, "I thought-"

Aawww *melts away*  :heart:

That image of Rika walking into the birds along with (a flushed) Yossie is beautiful <3 And Rika talking about her hometown :heart: Really, it's lovely, all of this. Fic like this make me happy all day, so thanks ~ 

Quote from: gracula
I feel like Dr. Frankenstein. So weird.

But you know what? Now  It's alive. IT'S ALIVEEEE  :cow:

Waiting for more  :heart: ~
Title: Re: Character Study [update 10Dec- Character Study #6]
Post by: oddball on December 13, 2010, 04:25:38 PM
Poor Yossie, not fully understanding why Rika was so upset and felling bad about it, and she kept on getting into those situations with Yossie even though she didn't mean to be nasty to Rika, glad they made up in the end however  :P
Title: Re: Character Study [update 16Dec- Character Study #7]
Post by: gracula on December 16, 2010, 03:11:31 PM
Rndm: i heard it was Mama Ishikawa chasing Rika with a chicken that caused it. But a cursory research into her hometown left *me* with ornithophobia- they've got jungle crows- JUNGLE. CROWS. those things are huge mean mothers, especially the urban ones.

Kuro: You know, I wanted to. But it would've been too crackish to have explained that Miki was in her pigeon suit. Besides, the timelime of Tengu!Yossie and Hato!"popo"Mikitty didn't match up.

Ropy: here we go, champ. now i can rest in peace.
Eight pages! I don't think that is going badly at all! No story you say, but it will connect at some point, somehow and the words will become story, you'll see. But well, I'm ok with story limbs too. I don't mind the gore, because if all the limbs are this good I'll be very happy  XD
And gore you shall have. It may not be what you expect, though. I trashed a lot of drama, I figure what with the recent graduations  :cry:, we need some fluff and crack to balance the universe.

Odd: i think the experience left an indelible mark so indelible that Rika's phobia became Yossie's phobia, long after Rika moved past it.  XD


-----

Character Study #7: Ishikawa Rika, various graduations

Exhausted, overwhelmed and overstimulated from the concert, crying was a good release. Being hugged by Nakazawa-san felt really good, and if she had to admit it; she cried only because everyone else was. She wondered if every graduation was going to be like this.

Nakazawa-san had called it a very perverse sort of fan-service.

So when they shoved the camera into her face during Maki’s graduation, only the need to keep her idol façade intact reined in the worst of the tears.

The entire trip back to the hotel, she had a death grip on Yossie’s hand and didn’t let go until they got back to their shared room. Without a word, she made a beeline for the shower and stayed there for a long time.

Two hours later, Yossie went to look for Kei-chan, who was at the hotel bar with Nakazawa-san. They found Rika sobbing into a towel, curled up by the sink.

“Ishikawa?” Yasuda reached out for the crying girl, concern coloring her features. Yossie hugged the frame of the bathroom door awkwardly, not knowing what to do.

Yasuda held her, making shushing noises, “Yoshi yosh, Rika-chan. Why’re you crying?”

“I… I don’t” Rika gasped, in between sobs, “I don’t know why I can’t stop crying!” She began to hyperventilate as she spoke and immediately felt Yossie press her inhaler into her hands. As Rika regained her equilibrium, breathing slowly, Yasuda patted her gently on her back while Yossie fidgeted around with a bottle of water. The three of them crouched in a loose huddle, silent, save for little gasping sobs which were gradually slowing down.

“I know why,” Nakazawa said suddenly from her perch at the door. “Come on. Wash your face, Rika-chan. Yossie, go get Gocchin and then let’s go to my room.”

Contemplating Mortality. That’s what Nakazawa-san called it that night, amongst a whole bunch of things. It made sense then, but the next day, between battling a headache caused by her crying jag, further compounded by the hangover and trying not to throw up, she decided that bit of philosophical discourse was best left for consideration another day.

And the day came, in the form of her mentor’s graduation.

Quote
“When we cry at funerals, we always cry for ourselves. We’re sad because we miss them, our empathy and pain comes from us projecting ourselves into the lives of the deceased and their family. That, is contemplating mortality.”
~ Nakazawa Yuuko, Drunk Philosopher

She didn’t just cry for herself at Kei-chan’s graduation. She cried with her mentor, for the painful brevity of the shooting star that was Yasuda Kei, the Morning Musume. She cried for Kei-chan’s feeling of loss and her friend’s fear of the nothingness beyond. Most of all, she cried because she would miss the warm support and gentle kindness that Kei-chan embodied.

The roles were reversed, and it was Rika who found Yasuda alone in an unused washroom on the far end of the service corridors backstage.

This time, Rika was a lot more mindful of her alcohol tolerance level.

Quote
“Life is like beer. It’s served exciting and bubbly and goes down smooth cold, but the longer you let it sit out it just gets flat. That’s when they graduate you. Then the beer just turns bitter.”
~ Nakazawa Yuuko, Drunk Philosopher

Sober and slightly more mature, Rika could see it better- sometimes, the ever-wise Nakazawa-nee-san was just a drunkard. Rika had kept to herself during that after-party- she was the youngest one there amongst her sempai from the first and second generation.

When Abe-san announced suddenly that she was next to graduate, Nakazawa-san had burst out laughing, ordered another two rounds and demanded for chicken breasts. Sometime after the fifth round of drinks, Nakazawa-san unravelled into a crying wreck and clutched Abe-san to her, swearing sisterly love and fealty.

She didn’t know if it was that fifth beer, but Rika got very jealous of the bonds her seniors had. She thought of the dynamics amongst her own Yonkie. It really was a dysfunctional family unit of sorts- the emotionally unavailable Tou-san, an insecure Kaa-san, and the secretive self-absorbed adolescents. She told Kei-chan all of this in a torrent of near incoherent wailing. Yasuda had regarded her with a strange look of pride and assured her that they’d all grow out of it in time.

“In the meantime, you just have to look out for each other as best as you can.” Kei-chan had said gently.

So when it was time to see Nono and Aibon go, Rika manned up. She held them all together when they got depressed and pulled them up on their shit when they got unruly. The terror twins were a real study in bipolar behaviour the last few weeks leading up to the concert.

Heartbreaking as it was to part, their graduation actually got them closer together. Yossie was more open to her than ever before and they actually had their first mature conversation about their feelings and aspirations, their hopes and fears.

Of course, it could’ve just been the drinks talking.

Quote
“Pretty maidens all lined up in a row- then management takes a gun and shoots them one-by-one.”
~ Nakazawa Yuuko, Drunk

-----

Rika genuinely thought she’d toughened up by then, grown up and matured. So the emotions she’d felt when Kaorin announced her graduation took her by surprise. It was like some sort of regression to newbiehood- she had all but attached herself to Kaori like a barnacle whenever she could. It had been awhile since Kaori had called her Negative, but when she did after rehearsal one day, the tears came for the both of them like a blessed release.

By the time graduation rolled around, Rika kept it all together enough for the three of them- herself, Kaorin and Yossie, who had regressed somewhat by being more withdrawn than usual. Rika had to drag her along to dinner with Kaori the week after their (ex) leader’s graduation.

They had a good time at dinner, which inevitably led to drinks, which naturally, led to Nakazawa-san. So in keeping with tradition, Rika decided there was no time like the present to announce her own impending graduation. And by announce, it meant to tell Yossie, since everyone else at the table knew already.

Yossie took it pretty well considering the circumstances, being that she was drunk. This time, Yossie was the one caught in a headlock by Nakazawa and indiscriminately petted.

Rika stayed over at Yossie’s that night- her hostess spent half an hour sitting on the floor in a pile of her entire wardrobe, sifting through clothes to find Rika something to wear, mumbling “I swear its here somewhere” the entire time. Only when Rika had forcibly dragged her into bed and held her down, did Yossie settle down in deep slumber. Rika had a good time that night going through Yossie’s wardrobe, folding each article of clothing neatly and recalling the times she’d seen Yossie in them.

-----

In a way, she was glad Yaguttsuan- left. Maybe not the way she did, but just in that nick of time to be under the leadership of Yossie, and it meant so much more for her doukie mate to pass her the bouquet. They had made a pact not to cry- it wasn’t the end, after all- so Yossie had given her an odd anecdote as a graduation message and Rika decided that she wouldn't have had it any other way.

Strange, Rika couldn’t quite put her finger on it. It wasn’t quite- sorrow, but she actually experienced overwhelming affection for each of her juniors, and wondered if this was what Kaorin felt. She finally became that mirror to reflect someone else’s mortality- as one by one of her groupmates lined up to wish her well.

A sudden flash of memory came to Rika- her very first concert tour and Iichi Sayaka’s graduation ceremony. The symmetry of the entire event made her smile to see the Rokkies line up and stumble through their messages in tears.

After the concert, Yossie told her the best part of the entire night was being able to see her framed in a backdrop of darkness lit only by pink glowsticks. Sugoi niau, was what Yossie had said with a big grin and a cheesy thumbs up, which made her laugh through the tears.

Which was why, during Yossie’s own graduation, Rika had snuck to back of the stage in a dark hoodie to get a better view of her friend. She peered through the hidden areas behind the set and saw Yossie moving into the chanting crowd surrounded by white glowsticks. It was the most beautiful thing Rika had ever seen.

As she told Yossie this later, Rika couldn’t stop her tears from falling. She wiped at them and laughed, bewildered. Yossie pulled her into a hug, right there in front everyone backstage.

“I’m glad you came,” was what Yossie had whispered into her ear.

Rika clutched at Yossie, prolonging the rare embrace and smiled- graduations weren’t so bad after all.

----
Title: Re: Character Study [update 16Dec- Character Study #7]
Post by: Tightrope on December 16, 2010, 04:40:55 PM
 :cow: UPDATE  :rikabunny UPDATE :cow:

I'm going to class now  XD But first I'm gonna put this on my mobile to read it in the bus  :mon inluv: I had to post because you made me really excited and happy here  :panic: When I come back I'll be back here to fangirl again. Thanks for this grac, thanks a lot!   :heart: :heart:

And maybe I didn't read it yet, but I'm first, I'm first!  [/childish]  XD



Title: Re: Character Study [update 16Dec- Character Study #7]
Post by: Estrea on December 16, 2010, 05:15:40 PM
Awwww. I find the Nakazawa quotes incredibly epic. Drunk!Nakazawa has such precious moments of win. :D
Title: Re: Character Study [update 16Dec- Character Study #7]
Post by: rndmnwierd on December 16, 2010, 05:25:59 PM
Yes, the Nakazawa Nuggets (of wisdom!) were truly a work in their own right, especially the last one. That one kind of inspires me for some reason. I like the take on each graduation as Rika matures/grows older/gets used to them. Each one had a new, yet familiar depth.

Quote
Rndm: i heard it was Mama Ishikawa chasing Rika with a chicken that caused it. But a cursory research into her hometown left *me* with ornithophobia- they've got jungle crows- JUNGLE. CROWS. those things are huge mean mothers, especially the urban ones.
What would possess Mama Ishikawa to chase her around with a chicken? XD Oh children, so easy to instill phobia in their young minds, so easy to mold to a perfect image of hell.

I didn't have the pleasure of meeting any of these crazy ass crows I keep hearing so much about in person on my own sojourn, I already hate birds (hate, not fear, mind you), those sneaky little bastards, I can't really imagine coming across a sadistic army of manhole cover sized devil rats with wings.
Title: Re: Character Study [update 16Dec- Character Study #7]
Post by: Estrea on December 16, 2010, 07:04:53 PM
Speaking of those crows, I've seen them when I was in Japan. They were HUGE. Like as long as my forearm, and I have long arms. I thought it was an eagle the first time I saw one, but it couldn't be cos it was jet black and all mean-looking. Must be traumatic to have them bearing down on you though. They were plenty intimidating from afar.
Title: Re: Character Study [update 16Dec- Character Study #7]
Post by: gracula on December 16, 2010, 07:26:03 PM
rope: yeah, yeah- you were first.  :roll: see ya.

essy: i'm in the middle of a project rush, which means- drink binge! i might or might not have written all most of this drunk.
and they have a serious crow problem in Yokosuka- bastards actually divebombing to grab food from human hands. Though, not as serious as the crow problem in Tokyo to the point where they needed culling.

rndm: i call 'em rat with wings too! i absolutely detest birds myself- plague-carrying scavengers.
Title: Re: Character Study [update 16Dec- Character Study #7]
Post by: kuro808 on December 16, 2010, 07:52:16 PM
Yeah that kinda made sense with the hato and the tengu skits, although mashing is sometimes fun XD

Yeah Nakazawa as a drunk philosopher perfect and more IshiYoshi goodness more perfect, the ending was pretty sweet too, GJ :thumbup
Title: Re: Character Study [update 16Dec- Character Study #7]
Post by: oddball on December 17, 2010, 12:00:40 PM
It must be hard for the girls who have gone through so many graduations (Poor Ai and Gaki) like Rika, a very fitting Character Study, given recent events
Title: Re: Character Study [update 16Dec- Character Study #7]
Post by: Tightrope on December 17, 2010, 10:38:00 PM
Quote from: gracula
rope: yeah, yeah- you were first.  :roll: see ya.

:lol: :lol:

Wait for next time then! Next tiiiiime ~ :cow:

For this study I the first thing I have to say is.... drunk Nakazawa rocks. I like her a lot in her non-inebriated self, but those quotes where epic win. I like how it changes from "~ Nakazawa Yuuko, Drunk Philosopher" to just "~ Nakazawa Yuuko, Drunk "  :lol: I was depressing myself over the drama and laughing at Yuko remarks at the same time. I love how do you always sneak some humor, even in the saddest circumstances ~

So much Kemeko and Yuko on this! And we have Kaorin, Nacchi, Yaguchi and even Sayaka. Wonderful :heart: The first OG need more love in fanfictions, they are adorable, all of them. And it has been a while since last time I saw Kei and Rika interacting in a fic. You reminded me how much I love reading those two together. It isn't that difficult to find a fic with Yuko in it (she's awesome like that) but Kei doesn't appear as often. Shame.

You managed to remind me a lot of graduations here too, you know. I thought you maybe will mention one of two, but no, you had to go and mention a lot :cry: Oh, the sadness. And the recent triple graduation doesn't help at all. But hey, I love angst and drama so even if it seems I'm complaining I'm pretty happy about it. Yay for Charmy/Graduation idea  :heart: 

Quote
“I… I don’t” Rika gasped, in between sobs, “I don’t know why I can’t stop crying!” She began to hyperventilate as she spoke and immediately felt Yossie press her inhaler into her hands. As Rika regained her equilibrium, breathing slowly, Yasuda patted her gently on her back while Yossie fidgeted around with a bottle of water. The three of them crouched in a loose huddle, silent, save for little gasping sobs which were gradually slowing down.

Making Rika cry should be forbidden. It makes me incredibly sad ;_;  And I love it each time you show Yossi being all insecure around Rika. I don't exactly why, but I go 'aww' each time I saw her in that state. Maybe is just I see to much IshiYoshi everywhere, even when poor Rika is hyperventilating  XD

Quote
The roles were reversed, and it was Rika who found Yasuda alone in an unused washroom on the far end of the service corridors backstage.

This time, Rika was a lot more mindful of her alcohol tolerance level.

This is what I was talking about. Drama overload with the first setence, but I found myself laughing again with the second one.

The mention to chicken breast made me laugh too. Yuko and her chicken breasts, inseparable companion along with the drinks. And awww for drunk love for Nacchi. But seriously, you are making me want more and more drunk Yuko appearances. And IshiYoshi talking  :heart: 

Quote
Of course, it could’ve just been the drinks talking.

Should I be worried by the fact I found more than enjoyable this continue mention to alcohol?  Because it's funny as hell to imagine those post graduation drunk parties  :lol:

Quote
Rika stayed over at Yossie’s that night- her hostess spent half an hour sitting on the floor in a pile of her entire wardrobe, sifting through clothes to find Rika something to wear, mumbling “I swear its here somewhere” the entire time. Only when Rika had forcibly dragged her into bed and held her down, did Yossie settle down in deep slumber. Rika had a good time that night going through Yossie’s wardrobe, folding each article of clothing neatly and recalling the times she’d seen Yossie in them.

And again I must say. WHY SO ADORABLE ISHIYOSHI?  :yossi: :heart: :otomerika: Awwwwww, I love those little moments with the two of them. And you are great at writing them <3 And then, the last part, with Rika's graduation, and then Yossi's, are beautiful too.  That image of the silhouette in the dark with the glowing sticks got stuck in my mind as I read it . I teared up around this last part :cry: But fluffy, sweet IshiYoshi ending made up for it.

I'm more than satisfied with the gore dramabomb. More than that, I love it  :w00t:  Thanks a lot again grac  :heart:

I apologize for my lack of energy here, but I'm sleepy as hell :yawn: I'm having some crazy days lately and it's my fault for being lazy last week, but anyway  XD

Oh, and I approve your avatar btw <3

*goes to sleep*
Title: Re: Character Study [update 19Dec- drunk!crack intermission]
Post by: gracula on December 18, 2010, 09:04:14 PM
kuro: kuro!  XD i love my mash, too- but i try to exercise creative liberties sparingly in my character studies. they should be as close to the timeline as my gross speculations allow. await a visit soon- i love going onto your thread and seeing the massive updates waiting for me to peruse.

odd: makes you wonder if it gets any easier, huh? such is life.

ropy: i'm glad you like it. :relief: perhaps I set too high an expectation for myself that i was worried i took the topic too lightly. my tightrope-approved avatar bares its fangs in thanks.

----

in any case, this is an excerpt from an ongoing project which seems to be spiraling into the crack of no return. its meant to be drama/humor, but i haven't quite gotten to the drama part of the story. so to balance out the drama quotient, i will discard the humor bits here as crack intermissions.

if i reach 50 pages with no dramatic story arc still, i'll just fuck it all and post it as humor.



Crack Intermission

The next morning, Makoto was recounting the previous night's misadventures at the breakfast table. Konno picked at Tsuji's untouched breakfast, as said owner of breakfast was slumped face-down at the table.

“After you threw up, you tried to prove you were sober by reading the active ingredients off shampoo bottles.”

“It was quite impressive- you actually managed to recite the chemical formula for hexylene glycol,” Konkon added absently.

Tsuji turned her head to rest on its side to contemplate that. “Should I be concerned that drunk me is obviously smarter than sober me?” she croaked hoarsely.

“Naw, we had to stop you from chugging Head & Shoulders after that.”

-----

i don't know what's with me and alcohol-related scenes lately. i'm stuck with a shitload of bits like these, missing story progression in between.
Title: Re: Re: Character Study [update 19Dec- drunk!crack intermission]
Post by: Estrea on December 18, 2010, 09:22:29 PM
^ :lol:

Why are you awake? Why am I awake? AHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!

*runs screaming to hide under blankets*

*away from the sun*

:lol:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 19Dec- drunk!crack intermission]
Post by: Tightrope on December 18, 2010, 09:58:43 PM
You ladies should sleep properly. Or, at least, sleep...?

And Oh noes! Again I failed at being first  :lol:  Well, next time, next time... But anyway! 

:cow: :cow: :cow:  :cow: :cow:

Drunk crack! YES! This is exactly what I needed today! This and the alcohol I have been given to celebrate Christmas ~

Quote
Tsuji turned her head to rest on its side to contemplate that. “Should I be concerned that drunk me is obviously smarter than sober me?” she croaked hoarsely.

“Naw, we had to stop you from chugging Head & Shoulders after that.”

:rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

Imagining this scene made me lol soo hard. I want more like this. This is so much fun.

Quote
i don't know what's with me and alcohol-related scenes lately. i'm stuck with a shitload of bits like these, missing story progression in between.

Please, please, please, post them all. Like I said I enjoyed them a little too much for my own good  :lol:

Title: Re: Character Study [update 19Dec- drunk!crack intermission]
Post by: kuro808 on December 19, 2010, 12:04:29 AM
I tend to update a lot :nervous I don't know I feel I really don't or if i do, its packed then I take 3-5 day break

Drunk Tsuji > Sober Tsuji
Title: Re: Character Study [update 19Dec- drunk!crack intermission]
Post by: rndmnwierd on December 19, 2010, 03:48:24 AM
As I was reading this I had a sudden flashback to a few of my favorite humor fics that were posted with the craziness of the 2006 era H!P in mind. XD Imagining Tsuji spouting off chemical formulas then trying to drink shampoo while MaKonKon frantically tries to stop her really made my day. :lol:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 19Dec- drunk!crack intermission]
Post by: gracula on December 19, 2010, 09:58:52 AM
*runs screaming to hide under blankets*

*away from the sun*
who's the vampire now?
jeez, essy- i was up til 6:30 this morning and then had to wake up an hour later. i'm dead on my feet, but stuck here on my comp procrastinating  surfing for porn getting work done.


Drunk crack! YES! This is exactly what I needed today! This and the alcohol I have been given to celebrate Christmas ~
Lucky. Nobody gives me alcohol anymore, not since the last time i puked on the cat last Thursday.
Quote
Please, please, please, post them all. Like I said I enjoyed them a little too much for my own good  :lol:
like I said- let me frustrate myself with this story first, then i'll just post the lot at once.


Drunk Tsuji > Sober Tsuji
Yes, but did you know, High Kemeko > Drunk Tsuji?


As I was reading this I had a sudden flashback to a few of my favorite humor fics that were posted with the craziness of the 2006 era H!P in mind.
I'd love to say this was original, but it really is very highly influenced by those very same humor fics. That, and real life.

-----

since i'm already futzing with PS for work, here are some crudely-made cracked fruits of my labors:-


(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y214/gracthemusical/msg1copy.jpg)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y214/gracthemusical/msgai1copy.jpg)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y214/gracthemusical/msg3copy.jpg)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y214/gracthemusical/aimsg2copy.jpg)

Title: Re: Character Study [update 19Dec- drunk!crack intermission]
Post by: rndmnwierd on December 19, 2010, 03:08:43 PM
^the third pic is missing. :huhuh

EDIT:  :lol: :lol: Wow, that makes so much more sense. :lol: :lol:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 19Dec- drunk!crack intermission]
Post by: gracula on December 19, 2010, 04:54:51 PM
fixed, thanks.

^Edit: yes, the missing punchline.  :P glad it makes sense now.
Title: Re: Character Study [update 19Dec- drunk!crack intermission]
Post by: Tightrope on December 20, 2010, 08:12:23 PM
:lol: :lol: :lol:  :lol:

That was pure crack. I love it  :cow: And I just learned a new word  :lol:

Quote
like I said- let me frustrate myself with this story first, then i'll just post the lot at once.

Take your time to frustrate properly then XD We'll wait ~  :heart:

Quote
Yes, but did you know, High Kemeko > Drunk Tsuji?

I want to see that  :roll:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 24Dec- Character Study #8]
Post by: gracula on December 23, 2010, 10:42:26 PM
Oh sh*t. Did I just teach Ropy-chan a bad word? Do I have to start bleeping myself every time I say 'b*lls', 'f*ck' and 't**n*ph*l'?
Doushiyo?  :panic:

I don't know if this counts as a Character Study, but if I say it is, therefore.

Merry Christmas, all.

-----

Character Study #8, 2009

The Last Will and Testament

To Kamei Eri:

Here is everything I need you to remember, now that I am leaving Hello! Project.

In addition to the first set of instructions I left with you after my graduation from Morning Musume, please find an updated list below.

1) Once again, take care of your doukie mates. You’re the eldest Rokkie- that makes you responsible for them. At all costs, do not allow them to:-
     a) get caught:-
         (i) smoking
         (ii) drinking before you’re 20
         (iii) dating
         (iv) in lesbian scandals

     b) die of overconsumption of meat. I have found that the best way to get them to consume any sort of non-meat at all is to sneak fruits into their sweets. I know you may find it difficult to cook, like I did for mine, but now that you know what a papaya looks like, you can try feeding them those. Remember: cut in half, only then, remove seeds.
 
     c) fight amongst themselves. Jealousy and back-biting is common amongst a group of girls, however close-knit. You must remain the buffer and calming factor.

2) In particular, take care of Sayu. I’m glad the both of you get along so well, but please note item 1a(iv).  If asexual reproduction were possible, SayuEri would be my lovechild.  This is why you both are so important to me.

I am beginning to be increasingly worried about the development of Sayu’s onscreen personality. Certainly, it is a career course that she has assumed very well, but this popularity is a lonely path and she will require her friends’ support more than ever.

Your job is to make sure that this does not break her. Should you feel at any moment that she is regretting her undertaking, pull her back immediately. Sayu will not ask you for help. She will not share this burden of hers with you. So, your good judgement and timing will be required.

3) You will soon see your first kouhai leave. Remember to fill every moment with laughter and make good memories. (I would remind you to take more keepsake pictures, but I don’t think that is a problem for your group)

You have done your job well with Koharu. I am pleased that you have undertaken this task I left you admirably.

When she leaves… try not to cry. If you do, then just be yourself. Give her a good graduation message that she will carry with her as she leaves the safety of Morning Musume into the real world.

Also, you must text her right after you get home on that very night itself. This is extremely important.

4) If by any small chance, any of your groupmates get pregnant, please respond to it gently and kindly. Do not avoid them. In retrospect, I feel that the best response is to immediately hug them and say, “Really? Are you alright? Tell me all about it.”

(As an aside, this may actually give you a higher chance of having the baby named after you.)

5) I know that I likely need not say this, but even though it was given to Mame to care for Ai-chan, you need to watch out for your leader too.

6) I missed the chance to say this in my last letter to you. Thank you, Eri. For being you. I have seen you grow into a beautiful woman who has kept the essence of a Morning Musume past, alive in your present. You have done well for yourself.


Eri, if you leave the group for any reason before you can see this commission through, you shall leave these tasks to the next member you deem worthy, along with your own concerns.

I entrust you with this, just as Kei-chan entrusted me.

Yours,
Ishikawa Rika
Title: Re: Character Study [update 24Dec- Character Study #8]
Post by: kuro808 on December 24, 2010, 01:52:06 AM
that by itself was quite interesting, well from Rika everything is worth saving XD
Title: Re: Character Study [update 24Dec- Character Study #8]
Post by: rndmnwierd on December 24, 2010, 07:15:17 AM
Nice and cute. Seems appropriate to call this a last will and testament. XD
Title: Re: Character Study [update 24Dec- Character Study #8]
Post by: oddball on December 24, 2010, 10:25:48 AM
Very Cute, I kinda wonder who Eri left these instuctions for though!
Title: Re: Character Study [update 25Dec- Character Study #9]
Post by: gracula on December 24, 2010, 08:45:02 PM
heh. hehhehheh. i love the holidays. i can do nothing but sit and think up crack and fluff all day.

I actually wrote three of these in one day. I don't even know if it can fit in the Study 'verse anymore, but I will it to be so.

Thanks, as always, for reading.

Here, oddball. Happy holidays.

-----

Character Study #9: Kamei Eri (only if you squinted and read between the lines)

Dear Reina,

My formal letter writing sounds retarded, so I’m just gonna say whatever, okay?

I have appended with this letter, two other letters given to me by Ishikawa-san. This is for your reference- sorry, it’s kind of crumpled and stuff. And I think I won’t use the word appended anymore.

These are some things which I’m supposed to pass to someone when I leave. I know you have your own responsibilities given to you by our sempais, but there aren’t that many members left that I can hand these duties down to.

Well, here we go, I guess:-

1) The kick-off for ‘Operation: Sayu Needs A Personality Transplant’ (or O:SNAP T) daiseikou desu! XD  I’m only sorry I won’t be here to see it through, so I leave this charge with you. This is the most important thing to me- onegai, Reina, I’m counting on you now.

2) There are only two Rokkies left (sounds so lonely). Knowing the both of you, this will be the start of some crazy competition and conflicts. But I also know that you both will cherish each other even more. Just try not to go overboard with the rivalry.

3) Seriously, please try to vary your diet. The best way to do this is to go out for meals with Sayu at least once a week. Hopefully, she can get half a salad into you. If you actually die of malnutrition, Ishikawa-san will have my ass.

4) You are already taking care of Mittsi, but I think she will miss having someone to roll her eyes at. Maybe you could tell her a lame joke once in a while, though I doubt she’d dare roll her eyes at you.

5) On the Wednesdays that Mittsi has to go out for tea with Ai-chan, Gaki-san gets lonely and I would usually accompany her.

6) Oh! And there’s this weird sound tech who does the mixing for Berryz- he likes to stop Gaki-san in the hallways and talk to her. You have to keep an eye out for this and rescue her when this happens.

7) Don’t let Ai-chan practise ‘til late. I know you tend to finish early and leave straightaway, but she stays in the studio for a few hours after. She won’t listen when you tell her to stop, but I discovered that sitting in a corner and staring at her quietly will do the trick.

8 ) Until the new kouhais come in, try not to make fun of Ai-chan too much. You know Leader cannot be the Aho chara. I have included a sealed letter here that you can pass to a new kouhai of your choosing that will take over that role.

It feels so sad that I have so little to pass along to you. I will miss you so much, Reina. Come play with me when you have time, okay?

(I wonder if it’s okay to end this kinda letter like this? Feels wrong, somehow.)

Love,
Eri



Dear Kouhai-chan,

Welcome to the Morning Musume family!

Congratulations, you are now Morning’s new boke!

Why you, do you ask? Well, Tanaka-san must’ve seen something special in you to have passed you this note. Carry your role with pride- don’t worry, it’s a pretty simple job that even an Aho like me could do. Besides, you just have to worry about 5 sempai tsukkomis, I had to deal with 10, plus Nakazawa-san.

Basic Rules:
1)   When you get tsukkomi’ed by anyone, it may take some time for you to get over the shock. Don’t worry about needing to be witty or to respond quickly- that’s the beauty of this role.
2)   Remember to laugh along when you are laughed at.
3)   Looking cute while doing all this is a bonus. Just remember that no one can be cuter than Michishige-san.

You must be so excited and overwhelmed now, aren’t you? I know I was when I first joined. I hope you are as lucky as I was to have had such wonderful doukies. And if you were the sole member chosen, then you must really be something amazing.

This is the start of the most wonderful thing that could’ve ever happened to you. Cherish each moment, my adorable kouhai-chan. I can’t wait to meet you already.

Love,
Eri
Title: Re: Character Study [update 24Dec- Character Study #8]
Post by: kuro808 on December 24, 2010, 09:01:06 PM
 :lol:

The last one is pretty funny although watch them pick on Ai-chan XD
Title: Re: Character Study [update 24Dec- Character Study #8]
Post by: rndmnwierd on December 24, 2010, 09:52:33 PM
Lol,that was so Eri-esque. Always trying to look out for the others in oddly specific ways. 6 made me giggle and at 7 I outright laughed. The letter to her kouhai at the end sealed the deal for me. :lol: :lol:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 24Dec- Character Study #8]
Post by: ShiroiHana on December 25, 2010, 10:20:54 AM
Character Study #1: Yoshizawa Hitomi, 2002-2003

it is painful, this yoshizawa-san's character study. when i cant help but felt like that because, as i read this line, somehow, innocent acts like that could be made as something dirty.

Quote
I swear, it's never occurred to me before this, not even for a second- you and I. But as he said that, I could see it. I instantly knew what he was talking about- like a slide show, all the touches, the hand-holding and all those damned looks of genuine affection suddenly twisted and made... dirty, somehow.

it is just cunfusing, if suddenly someone, older than you, wiser than you, who happen to be your boss or something, in short, someone whom you respect said something like that.
while, that sort of thing never really across your mind.
i mean, holding hand and such, arent that sort of things are usual to do with your bestfriends?
so, if suddenly you are being told about that, isnt it going to be shocking?
eh..i mean, if i'm ever told something like that, i will definitely shock..it may resulted by me..not wanting to sleep and my brain will freeze at that moment.

Quote
I didn't understand- I was 16, after all. I remember feeling scared, disgusted with myself  for some reason, confused, frustrated.

it must be hard on her, being at such a young age yet she doesnt know what should she do...
eh...you are writing it well, for some reason, i could feel how painful it is for yoshizawa-san ^^





Character Study #2: Ayaka Kimura, 2003

eh? i dont know who's ayaka kimura ^^;; i'm sorry but, coconut musume is still vague for me
but, reading it is enjoyable as well ^_^
ah, the first thing that i notice is

Quote
“Shit.” I sat up, yanking weakly at my pajamas to straighten the twists out. I sighed at the clock, showing 9:15am. “Shit. Shit. Shit.”

there're 4 there.

Quote
“Shit,” I swore at my life one more time for good measure.

it becomes 5.

Quote
“Shit,” I sighed as I speed-dialed Mai.

now, it is 6.

Quote
Shit.

7 :lol:

for a not morning person type, she sure is grumpy and swear a lot LoL i...am sure that i dont want to meet her in the morning.
eh...and i feel some loneliness there..nope, not quite loneliness because she has lots friends, i mean...she is quite a sceptical person yet, it is not wrong to feel like that.
reading this, it just makes me want to pat her and said that everything is gonna be alright, that life is sometimes like that.
eh, i think i have made you confused...what i mean ah....i cant quite explain it...sorry ^^;;;






Character Study #3: Kago Ai

Quote
1. Nakazawa Yuuko

On quiet nights, Nakazawa-san flips through old photo albums and tears up from time to time when she looks at the two children pulling faces at the camera, nostrils stuffed with coins.

this is kinda heartbreaking. as funny as i imagine them stuffed the coin, i cant help but think that for the people that thought that they are responsible for her, it must be a sweet and painful memories
that memories become a distant happy memories....

Quote
2. Iida Kaori

She made it a point to spend time with them in private- going out for movies, arcades, smuggling home-cooked meals into the studio and hiding in an unused practice room to enjoy their secret feasts.

Nakazawa-san is an aunt that look after the children from far away and Iida-san is a mother that spent lots of thime with them.
i like seeing how Iida-san always treating them all, not only them but also the other momosu's members. ah, on the hello!morning episode Iida's graduation, the way she prepare a hotpot for them, it feels warm, even now, by the time i typed this comment.

Quote
3. Yaguchi Mari

The very bane of her existence, both Kago and Tsuji feature prominently in her nightmares about work.

it's just LoL :lol: one of their victim. but, nah...as much as she thought that they are nightmare, deep inside..i believe that she loves them.  :yep:

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4. Ishikawa Rika and Yoshizawa Hitomi

A parent unit counts as one.

i smiled as i read that line. yeah, they both act like one, arent they?
but, i also thought that they have tried their best for them, that's why..even if it is ended up like this...no, it isnt their fault.

Quote
5.Tsuji Nozomi

Things changed, but Aibon was just the same as ever.


it is a beautiful line,  :yep: that even though situation is changing between them, she is still the friend that she know and during their playful time, her partner-in crime.
that's for sure never will change.

Kago-san...is a member that i like a lot. i like seeing her cheerful and playful side. and i think her smile is really cute because it looks like she's really smile from her heart.
so...i'm really never thought that she will invoved in that sort of scandal..no, i dont think that there will be a person that thought that she will.
that articles surprised me, my heart skip a beat when i know the news at that time.
smoking is bad...yeah, it is bad, for health, for a woman espicially...because it will affect their baby.. nah, doing it underage...
yeah, i am dissapointed with her but she's beem punished with a year suspension. it is enough for a punishment.
only several times before her suspension end, she caught again..doing that kind of thing.
what is it? what have she done? the disappointed is doubled.
then she was involved in an affair with a married man that is way older than her.
this is a last strike. it makes me think bout her choice. she has been expelled from the HP just like that.
then i read another articles that her parents has divorced, her mother is married again, her mother, she said...only wants her money instead for really loving her.
she has been living a rough life. then another article said that she has hurt herself while she still in hp.
this is making my mind become totally blank.
hurting herself..? why...? although her smile looks really pure, really cheerful...but, hurting herself...?
it is painful to know, because..i just dont want anyone to hurt themselves like that. beyond that smile..she's hurt like that.
but, when i think bout it again...the reason why she did something like that, she is just searching for an escape from all of that.
that guy, who is way older than her, i think, she's gotten a feeling of being loved from him. that she may search for a father figure from him.
right now, she's slowly trying to build her career again. that's for some reason, makes me feel glad.
i hope she will be able to overcome the difficult time and shine in her own way.






Character Study #4: Ishikawa Rika, October 2005

Quote
As they exited their joint dressing room, Miki slipped her arm through Yossie's companionably, “Ah, Yocchan.” she said, casually swinging her duffel bag over her shoulder. “You tell Rika-chan any of this, I will wedgie you repeatedly during a concert.”

She's never had water shoot out her nose with such force before.

that's really funny :lol: Fujimoto-san is really like that, isnt she? nah, i mean the character that she shown on tv.
the one that's always seen like a tough, mean character with such a poisoned tongue, and almost hate almost all of cute things, such as Ishikawa-san and Shige-san.
but deep inside, she may actually love them, it is just difficult to show it. due to her tough tv character. such a cute person.





-- Matsuura Aya --

Quote

"No, no- watch it from here," Miki pressed rewind to start the monologue again. "Haha! See how she dies a little inside when she does it? It's fucking brilliant, i tell you."


or Fujimoto-san may just enjoy other people's pain :lol:

Quote
"That's it, you're sleeping on the floor tonight."

LoL :lol: way to go, Matsuura-san





Character Study #5

Quote
“I accidentally drank some coffee earlier- now I can't sleep.”

eh? :lol:

Quote
“Do you think I've changed since you've known me?”

eh? late night consultation?

Quote
“We're older. We all grow up and change.”

true  :yep:

leader-san is a unique person, isnt she? she is hard to read because once you've thought that she is this kind of person, the moment later, she will change again.
but, that leader-san is the same leader-san as always, she just, like what sub-leader said, having balance in her personality, that she cant described as something simple.
people change as time passed, as the clock tick off, someone will become wiser than the past she.
i like how understandable subleader-san to leader-san is ^_^

eh, but this line makes me smile widely Silence. “Gaki-san reads?” :lol:




All Night Long

eh?

*Snnorrrrkkh*

snoring? :lol:

but, it ended sweet “Mm, I- I was, uh- watching you sleep all night.” :blush

if only she knew the truth :lol:




Character Study #6: IshiYoshi, birds

eh? Fujimoto-san is rather meanie, enjoying all that while Yoshizawa-san tried to calm Isikawa-san :lol:

"I feel safer already, oujisama."

like this line a lot :D







Character Study #7: Ishikawa Rika, various graduations

eh? Nakazawa-san is one in a million :lol:
where could you find a drunk philosopher except for Nakazawa-san?

“When we cry at funerals, we always cry for ourselves. We’re sad because we miss them, our empathy and pain comes from us projecting ourselves into the lives of the deceased and their family. That, is contemplating mortality.”
~ Nakazawa Yuuko, Drunk Philosopher


for some reason that just felt ironic...dunno why..




Crack Intermission

“Naw, we had to stop you from chugging Head & Shoulders after that.”

:lol: what is it..LoL after correcty reading the content, she tried to drink it :lol:



Character Study #8, 2009

ehh? 2) In particular, take care of Sayu. I’m glad the both of you get along so well, but please note item 1a(iv).  If asexual reproduction were possible, SayuEri would be my lovechild.  This is why you both are so important to me.
:lol:

When she leaves… try not to cry. If you do, then just be yourself. Give her a good graduation message that she will carry with her as she leaves the safety of Morning Musume into the real world.
this line is beautiful, dunno, i just felt like that. ^_^




Character Study #9: Kamei Eri

eh? :lol: her letter is a bit short, compared to Ishikawa-san's

i laughed a lot while reading her letter :lol:

Kamei-san has a deep thinking, below her outgoing character, she think about her members a lot  :yep:



sankyuu for writing the amuseable- *is that a right word? LoL* character study
sankyuu and i will wait for another character study of yours ^_^

Title: Re: Character Study [update 25Dec- Character Study #10]
Post by: gracula on December 25, 2010, 02:46:35 PM
Kuro: Yeah, I love seeing them pick on Ai-chan too, but pecking order is important, right?
Rndm: it amuses me to imagine the turtle stuffed in a corner of the dance studio, staring balefully at Ai-chan until the leader cracks.
Shiroi: :shocked oh wow, thats a really epic comment. thanks for reading- I'm glad you enjoyed yourself.

I actually entertained the notion of starting a series of letters where each member passes the torch to someone. But I think this would be the last of it for awhile, at least. I've never been able to stick with a single writing format for so many updates in a row.


-----

Character Study #10: Fujimoto Miki, Morning Musume

Kuwagata,

I bet you never thought I’d leave before you did. Frankly, I was holding on so long only because of that reason- I didn’t actually think they’d keep you here for so long.

Anyway, please note the following:

1) IMPORTANT: Even though you secretly think the group huddle and cheer is stupid, it still needs to be done. Under no circumstances are you allowed to ‘start new traditions’ by doing away with that. Remember, one hand at the bottom of the pile, one hand placed on top. Do it with enthusiasm. Nakazawa-san is watching. Always.

2) When Management chews you out because of something the girls have done, crossing your arms and rolling your eyes at them will only prolong the lecture. I know this from experience. Following this, take one whole day to cool off before relaying the message to the girl(s) in a structured, constructive manner.

3) The individual feeding and care of members:-
a) Ai-chan requires positive reinforcement- dispense these as often as you can.

b) If Niigaki displays extreme fatigue at night, remember to call her the next morning when you wake up. There’s no time to realise she’s missing after you assemble everyone at the hotel lobby.

c) Kamei needs special dispensation: whenever possible, let her clean up first if there is only one bathroom in the dressing room after concerts and appearances. Do NOT lock the girls out of shared dressing rooms anymore. I know I have said this many times, but stop abusing her. Unlike Rika, she actually does not like it that much.

d) Reina thrives on competition and chastisement to improve herself. When she starts to cry, leave her alone, a Rokkie will take care of her.

d) Michishige, your secret favorite, needs to be told in an unironic and casual manner that her singing is improving. These comments should be far and few in between for it to take maximum effect.

e) Koharu. Ma, what can I say about her? Well, you know what’s best for that girl. Just keep doing what you’re doing.

f) The first Wednesday of every month, make it a point to take Mittsi out for a drink. A *non-alcoholic* drink, Fujimoto. Tossing her a can of coffee you bought from the vending machine downstairs does not count.

g) Please stop scaring the crap out of the Chinese girls. While she may not look it, Junjun is often homesick, but she does not have much of a home to return to. You are her family now, so take special care of her. Linlin, while annoying to you, is extremely funny- I hope you get to know her better.

4) There are a few other things you need to read, missives from Nakazawa-san , Kaorin and from Yaguttsuan. They should detail more traditions to follow and  general day-to-day things or stuff to look out for.

Look, if you have to leave, just go. Just remember to let Ai-chan know first before you do. There is a sealed note attached to this letter- pass it along to her and let her read it first before you tell her the news.

Thank you for sharing my responsibilites and being my companion in Morning Musume. We had a good run and I’m grateful you were there.

I leave my responsibilities fully with you now.

- Kabutomushi







Ai-chan,

If you are reading this and Mikitty is in front of you, briefly glance at her sharply now before you continue reading. Good. Be sure to do this from time to time until you see her squirming uncomfortably.

She is about to tell you something important. It is imperative that you not over-react at her news, so listen to her without interrupting and maintain eye contact.

It will be scary and unexpected, but I have faith in you. You may not think so, but you are someone whom I think will be able to do anything, if you put your mind to it. I have great respect and admiration for you- I wish I told you this more when we were groupmates.

You’re not alone. If there are things burdening you that you cannot share with your groupmates, Nakazawa-san’s number is 55633726.

Now, look Miki straight in the eye and smile smugly. For dramatic effect, you may crumple this note.

Sincerely,
Yossie
Title: Re: Character Study [update 25Dec- Character Study #10]]
Post by: rndmnwierd on December 25, 2010, 05:46:58 PM
Quote
Kuwagata,
XD

Quote
Do it with enthusiasm. Nakazawa-san is watching. Always.
XD XD

Quote
crossing your arms and rolling your eyes at them will only prolong the lecture.
Hard habit to break. :P

Quote
3) The individual feeding and care of members:-
:lol: :lol: :lol:

Quote
g) Please stop scaring the crap out of the Chinese girls.
Oh my god. :lol:

Quote
- Kabutomushi
XD :wub:

Quote
Ai-chan,

If you are reading this and Mikitty is in front of you, briefly glance at her sharply now before you continue reading. Good. Be sure to do this from time to time until you see her squirming uncomfortably.
Can imagine the confused look then the following of instructions.

Quote
Now, look Miki straight in the eye and smile smugly. For dramatic effect, you may crumple this note.
Ai-chan? Smiling smugly? :lol: :lol:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 25Dec- Character Study #10]]
Post by: Estrea on December 25, 2010, 05:49:32 PM
For some reason, Yossi's note to Aichan really cracked me up. :lol: Talk about being manipulative! XD
Title: Re: Character Study [update 25Dec- Character Study #10]]
Post by: ShiroiHana on December 27, 2010, 03:12:12 AM
Quote
1) IMPORTANT: Even though you secretly think the group huddle and cheer is stupid, it still needs to be done. Under no circumstances are you allowed to ‘start new traditions’ by doing away with that. Remember, one hand at the bottom of the pile, one hand placed on top. Do it with enthusiasm. Nakazawa-san is watching. Always.

whoa, :lol: Nakazawa-san is always watching, isnt she?


Quote
3) The individual feeding and care of members:

for some reason that feels like she is telling her on how to take care of a pet  XD


eh..? the letter to leader-san is quite funny :lol:

Quote
Now, look Miki straight in the eye and smile smugly. For dramatic effect, you may crumple this note.

could she really do something like that :lol:

that's fun, sankyuu for the enjoyable read ^_^
i will wait patiently again for other character study
gracula-san ganbare~ and merry x'mas ^o^



Title: Re: Character Study [update 25Dec- Character Study #10]]
Post by: Tightrope on December 28, 2010, 01:34:31 AM
OMG WHAT’S THIS?  :shocked

*starts to dance and sing*

What’s this? There’s updates everywhere~
What’s this? I see epic comments  along the way ~
What’s this? I can’t believe my eyes , I must be dreaming, three fics while I wasn’t there, this isn’t fair!~


Ok, stop with the random singing XD Just saw the movie and I have the song stuck in my mind. Cookies if anyone knows the altered song.

And luckily, I’m not dreaming. You sure know how to  spend your free days, grac. I love this Christmas holidays inspiration you have. And it was the best Santa gift for me to see so many Character studies waiting to be read  :mon santa3:

:cow: :cow: :cow:YAY FOR THE MULTIUPDATE  :cow: :cow: :cow:

Quote from: gracula
Oh sh*t. Did I just teach Ropy-chan a bad word? Do I have to start bleeping myself every time I say 'b*lls', 'f*ck' and 't**n*ph*l'?
Doushiyo?   :panic:

In fact, I always thought that word meant  another dirty thing. But yeah, you actually made me search for it and realize my mistake.  So… thanks? And btw,I didn’t get that last one word. And now I’m curious *goes to do some research* See what are you doing to me? You are a very bad influence  :smhid

I love you, and you know it  :love:

And now to the fics. I like a lot this new series of passing letters. I laughed so much with all of them  :heart:

Character Study #8, 2009

This one has to be the most I enjoyed. I mean, my favourite MM member giving hilarious advice to my favourite ex-actual member of MM and showing love for TakaGaki and KameShige at the same time? Too much awesomeness condensed in that. Christmas cookies for you.

I love how I can get this Rika feeling from the way the letter was written. I don’t know if I’m explaining myself... I mean, from each letter you get the feeling that’s the way that person would write a letter like that. At least I totally got that feeling XD And Rika’s was so organized, and clear and numbered… I love it.
I think I have laughed out loud too many times to point all out. But anyway…

I enjoy a lot when I read (and understand) those little jokes, like the papaya one in this fic. That part about the food reminded me of Eri scolding Reina for her diet. And I can totally picture Rika-chan trying to put something healthy into Aibon and Nono’s sweets. And it’s oh-so-fun to imagine that  :lol:

Quote from: gracula
In particular, take care of Sayu. I’m glad the both of you get along so well, but please note item 1a(iv).  If asexual reproduction were possible, SayuEri would be my lovechild.  This is why you both are so important to me.

Seriously, the subtle way of telling Eri ‘I approve SayuEri rabu-rabu but please don’t let them catch you’  is the best XD I adore this not-so-hidden KameShige.  And full of Rika’s love in addition!  So sweet. This is another of those “Aww” mixed with lol moments.
 
Sayu character is like Rika’s, but to the dark extreme.  No doubt she is worried about her. Sayu has a lot of detractors, but luckily a lot of fans too.  But yeah, is a pretty difficult role she threw herself in. She is gonna need your support, but be careful of lesbian scandals Eririn~ <3

Too bad Eri is graduated now ;_;

Quote from: gracula
(As an aside, this may actually give you a higher chance of having the baby named after you.)

Just when you made me think, “aw Rika-chan, you are so caring, so sweet and selfless…” you throw that line and made me crack up even harder. You are amazing grac  :heart:

Quote from: gracula
5) I know that I likely need not say this, but even though it was given to Mame to care for Ai-chan, you need to watch out for your leader too.

I see what you did there. I can spy TakaGaki~
Ai surely need more than one people to look after her XD No one can take better of her than the sub-leader though :love:

But aah, Rika-chan, always so adorable in her own way in the whole letter. She’s such a good senpai. Reading her thanking Eri was another nice touch. And another Aw moment.  As expected, it was Kei-chan who entrusted this to begin with to Rika. Last Aww ~   :heart:

Character Study #9: Kamei Eri

Eririn! I was looking forward to more Kame related stuff from you when I finished reading the last letter and I found this one right afterwards. Is like you read my mind. Lucky ~

Once again, the writing is so Eri-like XD Details like “I won’t use appended anymore” or that last line when she ask Reina to come to play, amplify that Kame vibe. And of course, she pass down the letter to Reina. Mittsi is still young, Risa has her hands full with Ai-chan (such a problematic leader, uh?), and Sayu was not an option, if we see the contents of the letter. The little yankee was the wise choice.

Quote from: gracula
1) The kick-off for ‘Operation: Sayu Needs A Personality Transplant’ (or O:SNAP T) daiseikou desu!   

:rofl: :rofl:

This is too awesome for words. And too hilarious. Along with this one:

Quote from: gracula
If you actually die of malnutrition, Ishikawa-san will have my ass.

:rofl: :rofl:

Oh yes, be afraid of the Ishikawa fury  :lol:

In fact, there were a lot of funny lines, but I don’t want to start a quoting frenzy. But really, there is a lot, like Gaki being stalked by the sound tech. Or the fact Mittsi won’t dare to roll her eyes at Reina. Or passive way of protesting,  Kame-chan style. The image of Eri looking at Ai without blinking from the corner, until the leader feels guilty was hilarous. Or just the fact Eri left a letter from then next Aho chara… so many funny things  :lol:

Really, maybe the first letter was my fav of these three, but this one was the funnier. Or at least, the one which made me laugh the most  :rofl: Great job grac  :heart:

Quote from: gracula
5) On the Wednesdays that Mittsi has to go out for tea with Ai-chan, Gaki-san gets lonely and I would usually accompany her.

Awww I’m loving those TakaGaki hints here and there.  :heart:  And I’m a great fan of GakiKame friendship too but only friendship! XD

And the beginning of the letter to the new member… just felt like one of those random advertising letters which always say things like “Congratulations, you have just won a car/a lot of money/a travel around the world!”  :lol: I loved the whole brief message to the unknow new member. And this…

Quote from: gracula
3)   Looking cute while doing all this is a bonus. Just remember that no one can be cuter than Michishige-san.

Sorry, I couldn’t not quote that. Basic #1 rule to avoid problems with the bunny XD

You made me love Eri even more with this. Seriously. And I love her lots already  :heart:

Character Study #10: Fujimoto Miki, Morning Musume

Yossie’s advice/letter time now! Only with the starting line, I chuckled. Kuwagata, uh?  :lol:

Quote from: gracula
Nakazawa-san is watching. Always.

This is the truth. Watching and ready to appear out of nowhere to kill you kick the crap out of you if she thinks you deserve it. How can someone not adore this lovely woman?  :heart: And I have to say I’m curious of what kind of ‘new traditions’ would want Mikitty to start. I’m sure they worth a try  :lol:

God, I love Yossie. Rolling eyes ftw  :heart: . And the ‘relaying the message to the girl(s) in a structured, constructive manner’ made me laugh even more.

The personalized advice for each member is epic too. And so true. Ai-chan needs positive criticism every now and then, she’s too hard with herself. LoL at Gaki’s oversleeping habit and Eri ‘special dispensation’  :rofl:  But aw for Reina. Actually she said something like when she is feeling down usually people doesn’t approach her. And doble aw for Sayu. Insecure bunny is love  :heart:  But again, that ‘for maximum effect’ bit made laugh.   

Quote from: gracula
f) The first Wednesday of every month, make it a point to take Mittsi out for a drink. A *non-alcoholic* drink, Fujimoto. Tossing her a can of coffee you bought from the vending machine downstairs does not count. .

This says a lot about Miki. A lot. And I love all of it  :lol:  :heart:

The ‘stop scaring the crap out of the Chinese girls’ was the line who made me laugh the most in this one (along with the letter to Ai). I can almost see  Mikitty being specially evil with the pandas and  taking advantage of her poor Japanese knowledge (in that moment) while cracking up. Isn’t she adorable? XD

Quote from: gracula
4) There are a few other things you need to read, missives from Nakazawa-san , Kaorin and from Yaguttsuan.

I’m sure that would be pretty interesting to read. I want to read that sometime in the future… please? You got me hooked with this letter thingy ~  :drool:

Kabutomushi…. Awww  :heart:

And like I said, Ai’s message part was specially awesome. So sweet and full of concern and at the same time so full of ‘let’s annoy Mikitty even when I’m not there’ XD All the dramatic effects made me laugh out loud. I really really hope Ai did as told in that letter. I love evil Yossie  :heart:

I feel like I abused quoting today. But meh, it’s Christmas, I’ll live with it XD

I think I have reached the point I don’t know what to say anymore. So much win in each fic, in each line dammit. Have I said you are awesome? Because you are. And I really really enjoy reading your stuff so much. I don’t know how to thank you enough for writing and sharing with us  :mon inluv:

Really, you made my day with the updates. Definitely you need more holidays if that result in this situation. Situation: A lot of updates and a happy me (and not, I’m not drunk today XD).

Waiting for the next one <3

Edit: I forgot to say, I love that gif siggy you have there :heart: Takahashis united XD
Title: Re: Character Study [update 29Dec- CRACK intermission]
Post by: gracula on December 28, 2010, 06:16:30 PM
rndm, essy: i bet aichan was relishing the role and probably hammed it up. i'da loved to see the expressions on her face.
shiroi: of course leader-san can. she's as wicked as the best of them.
ropy: welcome back! hope you had a good break.
Just saw the movie and I have the song stuck in my mind. Cookies if anyone knows the altered song.

Nightmare before Christmas. Where're my cookies?


Quote
In fact, I always thought that word meant  another dirty thing. But yeah, you actually made me search for it and realize my mistake.  So… thanks? And btw,I didn’t get that last one word. And now I’m curious *goes to do some research* See what are you doing to me? You are a very bad influence  :smhid

you know, like "you little t**n*ph*l!!".  :lol: just pulling your leg there. and yes, i actually swear alot, especially in fics.

Quote

This is the truth. Watching and ready to appear out of nowhere to kill you kick the crap out of you if she thinks you deserve it. How can someone not adore this lovely woman?  :heart: And I have to say I’m curious of what kind of ‘new traditions’ would want Mikitty to start. I’m sure they worth a try  :lol:

And Christmas never ends for ropy-chan:-

(Warning: gratitious amounts of crack ahead)

-----

"Read the charges."

The minute she stepped into the darkened room, Yossi had a foreboding feeling. Now near-blinded by the large floodlight and surrounded by a ring of cloaked people in the shadows, she couldn't make out who was who. It confirmed what she always thought all along. Everyone in Hello! Project was crazy.

"Yoshizawa Hitomi. Fourth Morning Musume leader..."

"Third." A small pigtailed shape piped up softly from her right.

Nacchi cleared her throat and continued, "Fourth Morning Musume leader. You are charged with being remiss in your duties by passing it to one Fujimoto Miki without ensuring that she will carry on the traditions and customs of Morning Musume."

"Ano, she's just taken over the role for-"

"Silence!" The booming voice of Nakazawa 'Godhand' Yuuko stopped her short.

"-two days." Yossi finished with a small voice.

"And already she's taken apart everything we hold sacred."

"We have allegations from some sources within the group regarding Fujimoto's abuse of power." Nacchi passed Yossi a hastily scribbled memo. She glanced through the contents quickly, not at all surprised to see things like 'indiscriminate groping' and 'abolishment of hierarchical customs' on the list of Miki's crimes. But 'Ball-gag Wednesdays' and the demand for each member to procure 2 cases of Henessey as 'offerings' absolutely mystified her. Fujimoto was not a cognac person at all.

"This... look, I gave her a letter and everything, stating very clearly what her role entailed. It's not my job to make sure she- what the hell is a 'grape jelly massage'?"

"Sou. Then we have to take action against Fujimoto directly." Nakazawa turned to the rest of the group, some of whom were reading over Yossi's shoulder and giggling. "Hora!" Everyone scrambled back into position at the shout.

Kaori flicked at her cloak and yanked at it irritatedly, "These things are really hot- and the halogen lights aren't helping. Can't we just meet normally in our dressing rooms or something next time?"

She was promptly smacked in the face by Nakazawa with a leather glove, "No respect for traditions! No wonder everything is going down the toilet. What are we going to do with Fujimoto?"

"Friday her." Kaori replied without even thinking. Yaguchi cringed a little at that, but remained silent.

"Friday." Both Nacchi and Yasuda said at once.

"And Friday it is. Someone let Ishikawa out of the storage locker and we'll call this a unanimous vote." Nakazawa ordered.

Yossi sighed, "You know, is it okay if I don't want to join this tribunal?"

"Then you can join Ishikawa in the storage locker next time."

Rika stumbled out of her confines, blinking against the harsh lights. "I'll bring the wine coolers, you bring the pretzels." Yossi told her doukie with a smile.

"Damn Yonkies. Every single one of 'em more trouble than they're worth."

-----
Title: Re: Character Study [update 29Dec- CRACK intermission]
Post by: Tightrope on December 28, 2010, 08:33:35 PM
Omg I actually cried :rofl: Seriously. I laughed so much I teared up  :lol:

I don't even know how to start to comment this :rofl: This is crackilicious :heart:
I declare this is now my new fav intermission! And here I thought I couldn't love more your crack intermissions... Thanks again for spoiling me with awesome writings!  :wub:

Quote
you know, like "you little t**n*ph*l!!".  :lol: just pulling your leg there. and yes, i actually swear alot, especially in fics.
Aaah, you are evil! But well, that's not something new XD Anyway, swearing, specially in fics, is hilarous if done properly. You do it more than properly, so yeah. Keep it up  :cow: who's the bad influence now...?

And here, here, before I forget. Your cookie (http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_W9Nv-X4TrJw/Sw_9587vDNI/AAAAAAAAAQA/osg4FXN1Oc4/s1600/chocolate_chip_cookie.jpg) (http://[url=http://img714.imageshack.us/img714/9359/cokkiee.gif]http://img714.imageshack.us/img714/9359/cokkiee.gif[/url]) I knew you were gonna guess the song right ~

 :cow: :cow: YAY FOR THE CRACK :cow: :cow:

But really, I don't know where to start. I love every single line of this intermission  :panic:

Poor Yossie, surrounded by weird people for crimes she didn't commit  :lol:  I was thinking exactly the same as her  while reading this. They are all crazy specially in crack-verse. But that's why they are all awesome. The floodlight and the cloaks just increased the level of awesomeness. Just imagining all wearing cloaks like some dark organization cracked me up. I'm sure it was Nakazawa 'Godhand' Yuuko idea  :lol: That part when she smacks Kaori with the glove was absolutely priceless :rofl: I wonder how many people she challenged to a duel with that leather thing  XD

I knew the new Fujimoto traditions wouldn't disappoint me. I saw coming the groping thing but... Ball-gag Wednesdays? (this reminded me of a certain conversation in the Writer's Cafe :lol: ) Cognac offerings? Grape jelly massage? That doesn't sound so bad  :rofl:  Don't ever leave the great Mikitty alone with power! She doesn't waste the time, uh? Only two days and such many awesome new activities coming up. Too bad they are planning to Friday her  :rofl:  :rofl:

Quote
"And Friday it is. Someone let Ishikawa out of the storage locker and we'll call this a unanimous vote." Nakazawa ordered.

And I think this is what finally made me tear up. Rika-chan locked in the locker, only brought to the unanimous vote :rofl: This was too much :rofl:
But I guess now she won't be lonely now, with Yossie around in the locker too  :wub: Yay for slight IshiYoshi (and for my high imagination)
Aaah, what I can say... I LOVE THIS :heart: I LOVE CHRISTMAS XD

:cow: :cow: :cow: :cow: :cow: :cow: :cow:

Waiting for moore ~ <3

Edit: JUST NOTICED. I'M FIRST THIS TIME. LEGALLY FIRST! YEAH :yossi:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 29Dec- CRACK intermission]
Post by: rndmnwierd on December 28, 2010, 11:58:28 PM
Omg. :lol:

Hold on, I can't breathe. :lol: :lol: :lol:

Quote
Everyone in Hello! Project was crazy.
Yes, it is an affliction acquired with the Spotlight. XD

Quote
'Ball-gag Wednesdays'
:wahaha:

Quote
'grape jelly massage'
:ondick:

Quote
"Friday her." Kaori replied without even thinking. Yaguchi cringed a little at that, but remained silent.
:rofl:

Quote
"Then you can join Ishikawa in the storage locker next time."
Yes! :lol:

Btw,
Quote
Nakazawa 'Godhand' Yuuko
Awesome. :P
Title: Re: Character Study [update 29Dec- CRACK intermission]
Post by: writerjunkie on December 29, 2010, 02:43:05 AM
lol That was funny.

Oh and...I think this is the first time reading your stuff so...hello! ^^;

Even though this is short it was still enjoyable and each line was really funny. I think it isn't easy to make something this short so funny. Some people just can't make it work and you've done that very well. I look forward to reading more of them! I'm sorry if this comment is short I'm not really good with them especially with short fics/one-shots? like this. lol But I look forward to reading the new things you will post soon.
Title: Re: Character Study [update 29Dec- CRACK intermission]
Post by: Estrea on December 29, 2010, 04:24:03 AM
I died a little inside. XD

Keep up the crack! You do it so well!
Title: Re: Character Study [update 29Dec- CRACK intermission]
Post by: kuro808 on December 29, 2010, 06:39:11 AM
that was a little f'd up :lol:

although Fujimoto situation added with the IshiYoshi moment was pretty classic
Title: Re: Character Study [update 29Dec- CRACK intermission]
Post by: oddball on December 29, 2010, 12:27:38 PM
Character study 9: Aww so Eri passed on her responsibilities to Reina, nice to know  :lol: Eri's note to the new boke was funny, I love it how she is giving out advice on this role, it's just so Eri!

Character study 10: Why do I feel that Yossie is giving Miki a lecture rather than a heartfelt letter?  XD I suppose thats how Yossie rolls  :panic: Yossie's letter to Ai was great, I like it how she tries to get one last thing over Miki by letter  :lol:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 29Dec- CRACK intermission]
Post by: kawaii beam on December 29, 2010, 06:26:47 PM
i just love the fact that in 2 days of power miki screwed up everything XD like wow XD and it made me wonder, did she leave a letter for ai or not even bother? XDDD
keep up the epicness please~!
Title: Re: Character Study [update 29Dec- CRACK intermission]
Post by: ShiroiHana on December 30, 2010, 08:14:57 AM
eh? :lol: what is it? a punish miki operation?  :rofl:

Quote
The minute she stepped into the darkened room, Yossi had a foreboding feeling. Now near-blinded by the large floodlight and surrounded by a ring of cloaked people in the shadows, she couldn't make out who was who. It confirmed what she always thought all along. Everyone in Hello! Project was crazy.

:lol: if, it is like that, i agree 1000% with her

Quote
"We have allegations from some sources within the group regarding Fujimoto's abuse of power." Nacchi passed Yossi a hastily scribbled memo. She glanced through the contents quickly, not at all surprised to see things like 'indiscriminate groping' and 'abolishment of hierarchical customs' on the list of Miki's crimes. But 'Ball-gag Wednesdays' and the demand for each member to procure 2 cases of Henessey as 'offerings' absolutely mystified her. Fujimoto was not a cognac person at all.
what's ball-gag wednesdays?  :dunno:

Quote
"This... look, I gave her a letter and everything, stating very clearly what her role entailed. It's not my job to make sure she- what the hell is a 'grape jelly massage'?"
yeah, what is that? :?

Quote
"Sou. Then we have to take action against Fujimoto directly." Nakazawa turned to the rest of the group, some of whom were reading over Yossi's shoulder and giggling. "Hora!" Everyone scrambled back into position at the shout.
and, Fujimoto-san is convicted with many clear proves by Judge Nakazawa..., for some reason, it felt like a court with men i black style  :lol:

Quote
Kaori flicked at her cloak and yanked at it irritatedly, "These things are really hot- and the halogen lights aren't helping. Can't we just meet normally in our dressing rooms or something next time?"
XD

Quote
"Friday her." Kaori replied without even thinking. Yaguchi cringed a little at that, but remained silent.

"Friday." Both Nacchi and Yasuda said at once.

"And Friday it is. Someone let Ishikawa out of the storage locker and we'll call this a unanimous vote." Nakazawa ordered.
:on lol:

Quote
"Damn Yonkies. Every single one of 'em more trouble than they're worth."
:lol:

and that's how miki got friday'ed as soon as she took leader position XD i cant say much about miki cause i am not following every of her activities, but, i know that she has the shortest period as momosu leader. i think she's a strong willed woman, i mean, she is taking her own decision to sign out as leader and she looks happy with her life, right now. she's harsh with her words sometimes, well, she's kinda like dark sayu a little. this fujimoto miki is one in a million and she sure gives different color to momosu ^^.

sankyuu for this fun ride, gracula-san.
eh...anyway...your name sounds like dracula...are you a dracula's successor? ehhh? if that's right, should i prepare some garlic...? eh...but, you arent going to bite me......,right?
uhm...i'm sorry for the strange sounded comment, my mind kinda freeze right now  :nervous
ah, anyway i will wait patiently again for other fun ride,
gracula-san ganbare~ ^o^
Title: Re: Character Study [update 29Dec- CRACK intermission]
Post by: Beecubed on December 30, 2010, 06:50:35 PM
ZOMG, grac...

:luvluv2:

I am here to say that I haven't missed a single update of yours, have been checking the site daily from my ipod and getting my grac!crack dosages relatively quick and just wanted to let you know that I adore the stuff that you write (the series of letters had me laughing like an idiot at times  XD). You are G R E A T.  :wub:

When I get home and get more time just to sit and type up a more thoughtful response, I'll do just that.  :P

For now, a belated Merry Christmas to you (and a Happy New Year too, in case I don't get that acoss in time...).  :heart:

Thanks so much for the writing, for the effort, for the Momusu love. Can't wait to read MORE. <3333
 :cow: :cow: :cow: :cow:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 4Jan- short crack intermission]
Post by: gracula on January 04, 2011, 02:08:38 PM
Ropy: that's a big cookie! :shocked:
Rndm: ok- my life is officially complete- something I wrote has earned a bouncing dick.
Junkie: hello! thanks for dropping in.  :)
Essy: i'm getting a little worried at all this crack i'm dealing out, actually. but since you endorse it, i will make it so.
Kuro: i'd love to see your dictionary definition of classic if this was a classic example.  :lol:
Oddy: that's how our pimp rolls, dude. if there was a bouncing car smiley, it'd be :here
Beam: of course miki left a letter- but who can read her bad kanji?

Hana
:
Quote
what's ball-gag wednesdays?
I would assume Mikitty just enjoys her peace and quiet. And as for the grape jelly massage, its just something that inspires a bouncing dick smiley.

Bee: yay, you're here. the past few pages have been awfully lonely without you.  :P hope you had a good new year.

----

I just suddenly realised we'd be seeing less of Eri, therefore- behold! the shortest crack fics known to man:-



Hip Deep

"It's okay, you guys." Eri called loudly, as she continued wading unsteadily into the lake. "I know I'm really not a turtle!"

-----

Hannibal

"Does anyone remember writing me this note?" Miki flicked the stained post-it in the general direction of her groupmates.

Yaguchi strained to decipher the shaky handwriting and read aloud in (what she secretly calls) her 'announcer' voice, "I just want to let you know it was a unanimous decision that we would eat you first if we ever turned into cannibals, we figured with all the yakiniku you eat, you may taste like it. It's a chance we are willing to take with your life...don't forget that we love you. Harto."

"Oh." Eri raised her hand. "That was me- from the Rokkies."

-----

Love Mail

<<will you go to the TAKARAZUKA! show with me next friday? i don’t know why my phone capitalizes TAKARAZUKA! like this>>

<<you once sent me 10 messages in one night, with just ‘I love TAKARAZUKA!’ over and over.>>

-----

Title: Re: Character Study [update 4Jan- short crack intermission]
Post by: Estrea on January 04, 2011, 02:34:46 PM
gracula the crack dealer. Somehow I had a brief image of you in a Mexican sombero and with a large cigar. :lol:

Yay stereotypes? XD

I love how your mind works, really. :P
Title: Re: Character Study [update 4Jan- short crack intermission]
Post by: kuro808 on January 04, 2011, 08:00:25 PM
again the simple effects of your writing :lol:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 4Jan- short crack intermission]
Post by: rndmnwierd on January 04, 2011, 10:59:02 PM
 :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: Well, as if my friend didn't already think I was crazy, now I'm giggling like a maniac. :lol: :lol:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 4Jan- short crack intermission]
Post by: Itze on January 04, 2011, 11:13:35 PM
:) First time commenter~

I think I'm in love with your writing, even if it's short, like the latest update, it's always great.
Eh, this is short, but next time I'll try to give a longer comment ^-^''
Title: Re: Character Study [update 4Jan- short crack intermission]
Post by: Tightrope on January 09, 2011, 01:00:39 PM
Short, or long, your crack is always awesome  :cow: Specially if there is Eri in it  :heart:

My mental image for Hip Deep is totally hilarous  and I love it :rofl: I tried to draw it or something, but I couldn't make it  XD Too bad. Maybe someday I can do it  :yossi:

For Hannibal... Rokkies love for Yakiniku :heart:  But you know what is the worst?  I can imagine this happening. Eri is so random...  And like always your short writing is full of awesome details. I love how Yaguchi has a secret name for her voice when she is making announcements. And of course... "don't forget that we love you. Harto." I can't help laughing everytime I read that, specially the "Harto"  :heart: part  :rofl:

And Love Mail  XD XD XD I can picture Ai-chan with her surprised face thinking about "Oh, so misterious! Why my mobile capitalize it? TAKARAZUKA YAY :w00t: :w00t: "  While Gaki (because she must be her... TakaGaki wub <3) is rolling her eyes while reading  :rofl: Ten messages uh  XD Isn't obssesed Ai adorkable?  :heart:

Title: Re: Character Study [update 10Jan- quick reply, even shorter crack messages]
Post by: gracula on January 10, 2011, 12:09:25 AM
essy: the grack dealer? throw in a buzz mullet and we've got ourselves an acceptable stereotype.
rndm and kuro: ah, virtual substance abuse: the safer choice, but still as mind-rotting.
itze: there is a strange sense of satisfaction to see first-time commenters here.  :welcome and don't be a stranger.
ropy: we should totally draw crack and have a thread for that. is there one already? oh, by the way, I owe you something:-


Quote
Yes, but did you know, High Kemeko > Drunk Tsuji?

I want to see that  :roll:

-----

Kemeko House Party

<<I don’t know how, but she made a bong out of her clarinet. To say I am impressed is an understatement. Come quick!!>>


Pick-up Line

<<In retrospect, I shouldn’tve had that beer at brunch. Nor finished the half-bottle of sake I found tucked into bed with me this morning, warmed by my body heat. Come get me at the studio, Kei-chan.>>


Wife Swap

<<I just woke up and found Rika-chan in bed with me. Is Tan in yours?>>

-----

Disclaimer: These may be recycled.
Title: Re: Character Study [update 10Jan- quick reply, even shorter crack messages]
Post by: Tightrope on January 10, 2011, 03:33:11 AM
Whoaaa, update!! I didn't see this one! :cow:
How awesome is to finish a uber-long comment and then found there was a nice, nice update from hours ago?  Very awesome, I tell you!
But that made me realize it took me hours to make that comment lol,  I'm a slowpoke. In my defense I'll say I was being distracted while writing it  <__<

And ... DRUNK TSUJI~ :cow:


Kemeko House Party
What the heck?  :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: I would pay to see that for myself  :rofl:

Pick-up Line
Sound like a crazy night, indeed. But the best part "Come get me at the studio, Kei-chan"  :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: I don't even want to know what happened  XD Why is always poor Kemeko who has to bear with the girls and their hangovers?  :lol:

Wife Swap
Aaaand... we have a winner!  :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:
I would love to see Rika's reaction when see wakes up in bed with Ayaya XD. Because I don't really think Yossie or Miki would make a fuss over waking up together, and Aya seems pretty calm. But Rika, in the other hand....  :lol:
 
Crack is the best. Drunk-crack even more :thumbup I love you~  :heart:

Quote
Disclaimer: These may be recycled.

But recycling is good for the planet, so it's cool  :cow: :cow:

Quote
we should totally draw crack and have a thread for that. is there one already?

I totally approve this :w00t: I don't know if there is one already, but if there is, someone should give us a link asap. If not, it's never too late to make one :heart: I'll check it tomorrow~
Title: Re: Character Study [update 10Jan- quick reply, even shorter crack messages]
Post by: kuro808 on January 10, 2011, 03:41:28 AM
lol :lol:

that is all
Title: Re: Character Study [update 10Jan- quick reply, even shorter crack messages]
Post by: rndmnwierd on January 10, 2011, 06:43:49 AM
All funny one liners, but this one seriously has me crying here!

Quote
<<I just woke up and found Rika-chan in bed with me. Is Tan in yours?>>
:rofl: :rofl:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 10Jan- quick reply, even shorter crack messages]
Post by: StephanyLee on January 12, 2011, 05:24:01 AM
Hi
Lurker here  :lol:

I actually been reading your stuffs since the beginning and told myself to comment but then I see an update so i read and then try to convince myself to comment and then I see an update and.. all over again :sweatdrop: (yeha u get the idea right  :nervous)

So here I am, letting you know I totally love your stories, seriously, it got me LOL'd so hard at everything, they really are hilarious.
And the way you write about Eri is so.... Eri xD seriously I just can imagine everything. your writing is soooo~! good

Don't think I can't go with all your stories so I'll go with this ones :P

Hip Deep
MY GAW~!!! That was just... :rofl:

Hannibal
The Rokkies  so considerate and thoughtful  :heart: :yep:   

Love Mail
Well, that's something you'd totally see if you were her friend XD

Hope to read more ^^
Can't get enough of your writing  :thumbsup
Title: Re: Character Study [update 13Jan- still more crack]
Post by: gracula on January 13, 2011, 01:19:40 AM
ropy: me, i'd love to know what the hell happened the night before the wife swap.  :lol:
kuro & rndm : hehhheh
steph: ohai! thanks for commenting- it really is encouraging.  :) I know what you mean about not being able to get around to commenting- I'm guilty of the same thing myself. But it feels like the moral of the story is to update less frequently.  XD


----

Konbini ga Suki

A loud pop, then screaming startled Eri and Risa who were waiting outside the convenience store. Risa decided to go in and check on things when she saw Ai running full tilt toward her with a laughing Reina in tow.  The youngest Rokkie had a plastic toy gun of some kind in her grip and was waving it around.

“Run!” Ai yelled at Niigaki, who helped to grab Reina and propelled the unsteady girl forward.

Eri was already running for the car, arms and legs pumping swiftly, experience and instinct told her to get a head start regardless of the reason. She yanked the back door open for ease of getaway and jumped into the driver’s seat, starting the car up.

The three girls dove for the back seat and Eri sped out of the parking lot, not looking back until they cleared the area.

“Th’ fuck? We were just there for 5 minutes.” Risa asked. Reina was still laughing helplessly, slumped against the sub-leader.

Still short of breath, Ai gasped, “Reina… tried to hold up the store. She shot the cashier in the face with a damned confetti gun.”

“Ahahhaa- stop… please, it hurts- so bad-“ Reina bent over, wheezing between bouts of laughter.

The car suddenly screeched to a stop and the three girls pitched forward in a heap.

Eri’s eyes were wide as she glanced at them through the rearview mirror, “Guys, where’s Sayu?”

----

heh- i wrote this for something else with an entirely different cast. just for experimentation, and because i'm still kinda missing Eri and bummed about Aichan, I changed this to a Gorokkie cracklet instead.
So when I finished tweaking the names and little bits here and there, i was staring at the punch line wondering how to change it when i went- "waitaminute- but where's Sayu?"  :lol:

Title: Re: Character Study [update 13Jan- still more crack]
Post by: kawaii beam on January 13, 2011, 02:11:26 AM
rolf XD poor sayu XDDD
 :bow:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 13Jan- still more crack]
Post by: kuro808 on January 13, 2011, 02:45:33 AM
Ouch... poor Sayu :lol:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 13Jan- still more crack]
Post by: Estrea on January 13, 2011, 04:40:25 AM
I laughed so hard, I cried.

I demand a crack continuation of what Sayu was going through at the same time. :D
Title: Re: Character Study [update 13Jan- still more crack]
Post by: rndmnwierd on January 13, 2011, 06:41:05 AM
 :rofl: :rofl: Never fails, my face hurts from laughing so much, mostly at the ficlet, but some at your comment at the end.

Quote
Eri was already running for the car, arms and legs pumping swiftly, experience and instinct told her to get a head start regardless of the reason.
This, I can easily see. :lol: :lol:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 13Jan- crack continuation]
Post by: gracula on January 13, 2011, 11:16:11 AM
(Cont.)
Everybody Scream, Imi Nai Kedo

“Oh my god, she’s got a gun!”

POP!

Sayu dropped to the floor instinctively and covered her ears, screaming. Somewhere in the panicked roar around her, she heard maniacal laughter and a man yelling for someone to run.

Hyperventilating, she curled up into a tighter ball, ‘You’re too cute and famous to die in a combi, Sayu.’ She figured it was in her best interest to stay low. Hopefully, Reina and Ai-chan were also-

“Chikushou!” Sayu cursed in realization, and leapt to her feet. Like in a bad B-movie, she gaped as the last thing she saw before the automatic doors slid close was Ai, Risa and Reina running towards their car. The squeal of tires pealing out of the parking lot sealed her fate and she dropped back onto the floor, heart pounding in her chest. ‘Doushiyou doushiyou?’

“Hey, weren’t those girls from-“ Sayu cringed, shutting her eyes tightly. “AKB48?”

Heaving a sigh of relief, for once grateful at the misnomer, she crept past the snack aisle and peeked around the corner, eyeing for the door. She swept as much of her hair as she could to cover her face, took a deep breath and steeled herself for any eventuality. If all else failed, she’d just introduce herself as Takajo Aki and sign a few autographs.

She casually strolled past the counter, which was covered in colorful bits of metallic confetti- a dozen steps more and she’d be home-free.

*Bzzzt. I’m just fall in love- Yeah yeah yea-* Sayu fell over, grasping frantically to turn her phone off. The small crowd of gawkers which had gathered at the counter turned as one to stare at the commotion. She decided to make a break for it, sprinting as fast as her unathletic self could carry her.

Gasping and heaving for air, she finally made it into the thick brush across the parking lot when she heard a car screech to a stop behind her and doors opened and slammed shut. Risking a glance back, her jaw dropped as she saw her groupmates rush into the convenience store, surgical masks over their faces, yelling incoherently.

‘My heroes.’ Sayu rolled her eyes as she contemplated hailing a cab and leaving them there. Sighing in defeat, she sauntered back slowly, her body not able to pull the same vigorous activity twice. She reached the car and rapped on the driver's window, startling Eri who started babbling and smacking the glass from the other side.

She opened the door and shoved Eri across into the passenger seat, leaned on the horn and revved the engine. Reina, who was brandishing her plastic gun at the stunned crowd glanced out and saw Sayu pulling away slowly, with a bright smile and peace sign, which switched to an extended middle finger.

"Shit!" Reina grabbed her partners-in-crime and ran after the car.

Sayu made them jog for half a mile, before finally deigning to stop and let them in.

-----

Hehhehheh.
Title: Re: Character Study [update 13Jan- crack continuation]
Post by: kuro808 on January 13, 2011, 11:18:00 AM
Evil Sayu XD
Title: Re: Character Study [update 13Jan- crack continuation]
Post by: rndmnwierd on January 13, 2011, 01:56:44 PM
Quote
Sayu pulling away slowly, with a bright smile and peace sign, which switched to an extended middle finger.

"Shit!" Reina grabbed her partners-in-crime and ran after the car.

Sayu made them jog for half a mile, before finally deigning to stop and let them in.

Guess she didn't like being left behind? :lol: :lol:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 13Jan- crack continuation]
Post by: Estrea on January 13, 2011, 05:09:51 PM
Ohhhh Sayu. I love you. :heart:

I really needed a read like that after a stressful day at work. Thanks! :lol:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 13Jan- crack continuation]
Post by: Tightrope on January 13, 2011, 11:49:50 PM
:rofl:  :rofl:  :rofl:
Oh gosh, I'm happy I dropped around here before sleeping.  I think you just made forget about  my stress from the past two days with this XD. Thank you for being so awesome grac :heart:

Tomorrow I'll do a proper comment, I promise. Now to the beeeeeed ~  :sleep:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 13Jan- crack continuation]
Post by: Sukoshi on January 14, 2011, 01:09:02 AM
*Sukoshi huggles dracula chan*

lol that was crack-a-licious!   :mon fyeah:

I just love evil Sayu and crazy Reina XD

(PS. the monkey emote^ is making me think of crazed Reina XD  too much crack on the brain XD)
Title: Re: Character Study [update 13Jan- crack continuation]
Post by: badsaints on January 14, 2011, 09:26:37 AM
Lmao!!! I'm so glad I decided to log in during my work break :lol: Now I can't wipe the smile of my face & my friends think I'm crazy to be happy right now. And it's all your fault lol XD You've just make me love Sayu even more :wub:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 13Jan- crack continuation]
Post by: Tightrope on January 14, 2011, 11:59:01 AM
Semi-proper comment time  :cow: :cow:

First of all, I'm SOOOOOO happy you decided to change the cast to made this Gorokkie crack. Eri and Ai were my favouriste from the current MM (more like ex-current now   :cry: ) and now one is gone and the other one, almost. I was in need of some nice crack like this with those two in XD

In the first part, Konbini ga Suki, Reina was epic win. I discovered I love (and a lot) when Reina is up to mischief, and cracking up for it. But, in top of that, the situation was just hilarous. Because, come on, a confetti gun :rofl: And the cashier and Ai-chan's faces must have been priceless too.  Aw, mischievous Reina, so adorable :heart: And Eri running like mad for pure instinct...  XD But the best...
Quote
Eri’s eyes were wide as she glanced at them through the rearview mirror, “Guys, where’s Sayu?”
:rofl: :rofl:
I must confess I forgot about her too, until Eri mentioned it :lol: But that was what made all even more awesome <3 And the continuation was even better! Gosh, in this one I was laughing like crazy since the beggining. Sayu was hilarous  :lol:  All she can think when she is supposedly in danger is "I'm too cute for this"? :rofl: And what's with the AKB48 idea, faking Takajo Aki just to escape? :lol: I seriously love this bunny  XD And by the way, the ringtone was Rainbow Pink, right? It was funny how in my head it sounded like in the song, but at first I didn't know from which song came  XD

Quote
Risking a glance back, her jaw dropped as she saw her groupmates rush into the convenience store, surgical masks over their faces, yelling incoherently.

‘My heroes.’ Sayu rolled her eyes as she contemplated hailing a cab and leaving them there.

:rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

The masks! I crack up everytime I imagine that. Poor girls, they really panicked when they realized Sayu wasn't with them. And Sayu... XD

Quote
Reina, who was brandishing her plastic gun at the stunned crowd glanced out and saw Sayu pulling away slowly, with a bright smile and peace sign, which switched to an extended middle finger.
:rofl: :rofl: :rofl:
Really ALL THIS IS XD
I don't even have words for those anymore, is just too much  :rofl: I adore evil Sayu, and Reina threatening random people with her confetti gun again. Gorokkies are just awesome  XD 

Yay for your updates :cow: I'll be waiting for more ~ :heart:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 13Jan- still more crack]
Post by: Beecubed on January 14, 2011, 01:52:22 PM
Wooo-hooo, time for some fangirling...  :cow:
Well... I just have to say again, thanks for your consistent updates, grac. And not only consistent, but just... great stuff. Every single time.

I'll make a comment for the two latest grac entries and save the rest for later (you've got so many out X____X amazing...). I'll slowly catch up.  :lol:

First of all, what crack the last two have been... Konbini ga Suki & Everybody Scream, Imi Nai Kedo...  :rofl:

Secondly, Ropy-chan's above comment makes me laugh. Must be all those laughing faces.  XD

Okay, onto grac!crack!

ropy: me, i'd love to know what the hell happened the night before the wife swap.  :lol:

 :shocked

 :w00t:

 :hee:


Quote
Konbini ga Suki

I love GoRokkies. They're the best generation combination Momusu's had.  :wub:  Okay, well in my opinion anyway... they just work. So I'm more than happy you decided to cast GoRokkies... thank you!

And yes, Ai + Eri have always been my favourites from the modern Morning Musume, so seeing Eri leave was extremely hard. And then came the announcement that Ai was leaving (which I saw the moment I got home from Vietnam @___@), so you can imagine how full of spirit I am right now. >______>

But the thing really holding me up currently is fanfiction. And the fangirling that comes with it. So I'm really glad to have stuff to fangirl over. E.g. this thread.  :P

Thank you, Reina, for being such a silly poo and thus creating such hilarity.  XD What was she thinking, really? So silly.


Quote
“Run!” Ai yelled at Niigaki, who helped to grab Reina and propelled the unsteady girl forward.

In the meantime...


Quote
Eri was already running for the car, arms and legs pumping swiftly, experience and instinct told her to get a head start regardless of the reason.

This turtle is fast!  :w00t: At saving herself!  :w00t:

LOL. Definitely an image I can see. Somehow, I feel that Eri has had a lot of practice with evacuating danger situation as such.  :grin:


Quote
Still short of breath, Ai gasped, “Reina… tried to hold up the store. She shot the cashier in the face with a damned confetti gun.”

Is Ai-chan saying that, annoyed (and out of breath) or with a hint of amusement?  XD
I'd like to know...


Quote
“Ahahhaa- stop… please, it hurts- so bad-“ Reina bent over, wheezing between bouts of laughter.

Reina's always near dying with laughter, so this is also something that wasn't hard to picture  :lol:


Quote
Eri’s eyes were wide as she glanced at them through the rearview mirror, “Guys, where’s Sayu?”

:rofl:

And the fact that YOU forgot her too. Poor Sayu.  :grin:



Everybody Scream, Imi Nai Kedo

Sayu = star. Even if she isn't doing it for the cameras, her thoughts during this whole thing was just... FUNNY as heck.  :lol:


All she can think when she is supposedly in danger is "I'm too cute for this"? :rofl:

Didn't you know, Ropy-chan. Cute people don't get into danger.  :lol:



Quote
The squeal of tires pealing out of the parking lot sealed her fate


That's the sound of your precious turtle friend abandoning you, my dear bunny.  :sweatdrop:

Oh, and I didn't know who Takajo Aki was (not a fan of AKB48 :nervous), so I looked her up and!  :shocked: That girl kinda does resemble Sayu, in some weird, inexplicable way... wow. Lol.


Quote
*Bzzzt. I’m just fall in love- Yeah yeah yea-* Sayu fell over, grasping frantically to turn her phone off. The small crowd of gawkers which had gathered at the counter turned as one to stare at the commotion. She decided to make a break for it, sprinting as fast as her unathletic self could carry her.

Rainbow PINK!  :wub:
I bet you Sayu would STILL have intro'ed herself as Aki if the moment came...  XD

And her sprinting must be the equivalent to our turtle's slow jog  :lol:


Quote
Risking a glance back, her jaw dropped as she saw her groupmates rush into the convenience store, surgical masks over their faces, yelling incoherently.

Okay, I was really laughing hard here  :rofl: You'd think they would try to tone down the commotion after what had happened just then - but no, they go barging into the store. Yelling. Through surgical masks. Oh, I LOVE these girls!

 :farofflook:


Quote
‘My heroes.’ Sayu rolled her eyes as she contemplated hailing a cab and leaving them there.

 :lol:

So why didn't you?

(Because deep down, our bunny is an ANGEL, not a DEVIL.  :grin:)


Quote
She reached the car and rapped on the driver's window, startling Eri who started babbling and smacking the glass from the other side.

I love the little touches you bring to the girls... like this little, fretful Eri moment. They're just so... imaginable.  :nervous


Quote
Reina, who was brandishing her plastic gun at the stunned crowd glanced out and saw Sayu pulling away slowly, with a bright smile and peace sign, which switched to an extended middle finger.

Vulgar Sayu is so cute.

 :wriggly:


Quote
Sayu made them jog for half a mile, before finally deigning to stop and let them in.

Okay, I take what I said back.

Sayu really IS a dark creature.  :lol:


 :nya:

Oh grac, it's crack like this that keeps the heartbeat of the fandom going... *dramatic Bee influenced by dramatic Ropy-chan*  :heart:

As always, THANK YOU for the crack!  :luvluv2:
I can never get enough of this. Simply addictive.  :thumbsup

Looking forward to MORE updates!
And of course, now that you have an ongoing one out there as well, the best of luck with your writing. Don't get too busy with this stuff.  :love:

Title: Re: Character Study [update 13Jan- crack continuation]
Post by: StephanyLee on January 15, 2011, 08:33:13 PM
But it feels like the moral of the story is to update less frequently
NO WAY! People will kill me if you do that XD If anything, the moral is that i have to take my lazy ass and comment more  :nervous

Konbini ga Suki
MAH GAW~
You did it again! This is genius~ (and now i think my family is worry about me XD) I really LOL a lot and every time i laugh i clap my hands just like Reina and made a fuss :lol:
 
Quote
Eri was already running for the car, arms and legs pumping swiftly, experience and instinct told her to get a head start regardless of the reason. She yanked the back door open for ease of getaway and jumped into the driver’s seat, starting the car up.
The fastest turtle in the world~  Would love to have Eri by my side when some thing like this happen xD That in the GoRokkies world would probably be just a normal day XD

Quote
“Th’ fuck? We were just there for 5 minutes.” Risa asked. Reina was still laughing helplessly, slumped against the sub-leader.
:heart: :P

Quote
Still short of breath, Ai gasped, “Reina… tried to hold up the store. She shot the cashier in the face with a damned confetti gun.”
That's just brilliant~!!!  :rofl:

Quote
Eri’s eyes were wide as she glanced at them through the rearview mirror, “Guys, where’s Sayu?”
Yeah I'm guilty of that too, totally forget about her  :lol:

Quote
her jaw dropped as she saw her groupmates rush into the convenience store, surgical masks over their faces, yelling incoherently.
WHAT THE HELL?! XD Awesome, GoRokkies are awesome what can i say?

Quote
She reached the car and rapped on the driver's window, startling Eri who started babbling and smacking the glass from the other side.
That would be weird if it didn't happen XD

Quote
and saw Sayu pulling away slowly, with a bright smile and peace sign, which switched to an extended middle finger
And one would thing some one like Sayu would never do that  :twisted:

Eri and Ai were my favouriste from the current MM (more like ex-current now   :cry: ) and now one is gone and the other one, almost. I was in need of some nice crack like this with those two in XD
THIS

And yes, Ai + Eri have always been my favourites from the modern Morning Musume, so seeing Eri leave was extremely hard. And then came the announcement that Ai was leaving (which I saw the moment I got home from Vietnam @___@), so you can imagine how full of spirit I am right now. >______>
But the thing really holding me up currently is fanfiction. And the fangirling that comes with it. So I'm really glad to have stuff to fangirl over. E.g. this thread.  :P
AND THIS

So yeah Thanks for the GoRokkies adventure, if someone ask me who's my fav. generation I would say GoRokkies 'cause they are one for me :P
Title: Re: Character Study [update 21Jan- Character study #11 ]
Post by: gracula on January 21, 2011, 03:11:42 PM
kuro: and here you were "poor sayu"-ing...
rndm: guess not...  :lol:
essy: i think i absolutely fell in love with that little kuchi warui writing this.
sukoshi: *huggles back* dracula, huh. no prizes for guessing who^ you've been talking to.
baddie: i know what you mean- i always get that weird look, "what the hell are you smirking so creepily at?"
nyan: i know- Rainbow Pink is one of those songs seared forever into your mind and you end up humming until you catch yourself when you recall what song it is.
bee: hisashiburi-ne? jeez, that's a long reply- you know you don't have to comment at all- just know you've read everything and enjoyed it is good enough for me.
steph: " I really LOL a lot and every time i laugh i clap my hands just like Reina and made a fuss" - now *that* was really funny. cute.


-----

Just to prove I can write non-crazy crack, I present to you: self-absorbed, semi-crack. Not funny, rather indulgent. Why the hell did I write this anyway? Maybe just to prove to myself I didn't cross the crack of no return.


Character Study #11: Niigaki Risa
The Secret to Becoming Sub-Leader


It’s a little known secret, possibly only known to Ai-chan because I told her and no one else because her teasing alone is bad enough.

I can relate my entire life and everything that revolves around it to basketball-playing analogies. Granted, they are pretty tenuous at times, but it comforts me to imagine that everything is just a basketball game, and that with some basic strategy and effort, we can bring the game home.

Of course, like basketball- we have to learn to dribble perfectly first. I don’t remember the exact moment I started to perform without thinking, but I remember how fun it was to experience the moment and soak up the sights and sounds of the fans, the banter and play on-stage. Variety shows and interviews outside of our Hello! Morning home court became fun, I was less on the defense and started to play offense here and there.

You know, I’m not even really that good at basketball for real. My brain didn’t churn out these insane basketomania references before. Not until Yoshizawa-san sat me down one day and told me off for some stupid thing I said in an interview (which didn’t even air, by the way).

“Gaki-san, you’ve gotta- you have to watch what you say, okay? Have to back your members and all that. It’s just that you need to learn how to…” Yoshizawa-san exhaled aggravatedly, searching for the appropriate words. “Be point guard.”

There it was- the beginning of my insanity. “Yeah- you played basketball, right?” She brightened up, finally finding a way to communicate with me. Iida-san was a mother, Yoshizawa-san was a jock.

A point guard is one of the most important positions in basketball. They have to have control over the ball and make sure it gets to the right players at the right time. Be so good at dribbling and controlling the ball until all you need to focus on are your teammates. And so, my internal basketball coach sounded like Yoshizawa-san, and I’d taken to calling her Shisho in my head.

When I became sub-leader, that became so real to me it was literal. Keep an eye on Leader, keep an eye on the time you have left, pass the ball just when the time is right and watch proudly as she slamdunks that mother.

“Why are you always staring at Ai-chan even though she’s not talking?” Ah, Reina, in her wonderfully blunt fashion. That ball-hog center.

“Nee? I thought I was the only one who noticed! Okashii, Gaki-san,” said the bigger ball-hog, Sayu.

What do those unathletic ahos know?

Shisho said: The trick is to be so at one with the ball that you are unconciously tracking it anyway. Eyes, always on the Leader. Her body language will tell you if she’s open, or if she’s going to pass to you, or needs some back up getting away from her assignment. Of course, after those comments, I quickly learnt to watch out for Ai-chan without needing to stare at her constantly- still need to work on repeating what she says.

My job as point guard, which I now noticed was a sub-leader thing- quick decision making. Every sub-leader before me were quick on their feet and knew exactly what to say and what to do in a snap. I can't claim to be able to do that...

“Shisho, what if I make the wrong decision on the court? If we lose the game because of the wrong play?”

Yoshizawa-san looked at me oddly, I realized I had spoken out loud. Hopefully she dismisses it as one of those stupid things that come out of my mouth again. I give a quick bow with an awkward grin and turn to leave her dressing room.

“Who are you playing against?”

I freeze. Like an epiphany, I answer her question, and my own.

“Nobody.”

Win-Win.

-----
Title: Re: Character Study [update 21Jan- Character Study #11]
Post by: kawaii beam on January 21, 2011, 03:57:35 PM
omg XD this was cute and funny XD risa + a b-ball type thinking= nice~ :twothumbs

i love when she calls sayu and reina ballhogs XDDD nice alaround X3 but what happens when she becomes leader?? ballhog number 2 will be subleader XD unless risa can find a way to get sayu to understand XD

i fell like i should like say more but idk i cant^^; XD my comments never make much sense XD
Title: Re: Character Study [update 21Jan- Character Study #11]
Post by: rndmnwierd on January 21, 2011, 04:50:10 PM
Quote
Character Study #11: Niigaki Risa
The Secret to Becoming Sub-Leader

I HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS!!! In my opinion, she is the best sub-leader there ever was. As has been mentioned constantly, no one backs their leader more than the bean.

Quote
It’s a little known secret, possibly only known to Ai-chan because I told her and no one else because her teasing alone is bad enough.

I can relate my entire life and everything that revolves around it to basketball-playing analogies.
I wonder about this teasing. :lol:

Quote
There it was- the beginning of my insanity.
Of course it was Yossui that started it. :lol: :lol:

Quote
She brightened up, finally finding a way to communicate with me. Iida-san was a mother, Yoshizawa-san was a jock.
XD

Quote
And so, my internal basketball coach sounded like Yoshizawa-san, and I’d taken to calling her Shisho in my head.
:rofl:

Quote
“Why are you always staring at Ai-chan even though she’s not talking?”
Well, I can think of a few reasons. XD Though comments from the other members would explain why she tries not to look at Ai during talk sessions and such. Or maybe she's just spacing out and that's actually why she repeats everything Ai has said. :rofl:

Quote
Yoshizawa-san looked at me oddly, I realized I had spoken out loud. Hopefully she dismisses it as one of those stupid things that come out of my mouth again. I give a quick bow with an awkward grin and turn to leave her dressing room.
I'm not sure what it is exactly that I find so cute about this bit, but it really is. I've always loved the contrast between Reliable!Risa and WTF!Risa. Chan Pon Chan.

Quote
Win-Win.
Takagaki is... :wub:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 21Jan- Character Study #11]
Post by: kuro808 on January 21, 2011, 07:13:46 PM
Fighting against an invisible opponent XD always the best, Gaki-san always staring at Ai (classic) XD
Title: Re: Character Study [update 21Jan- Character Study #11]
Post by: Sukoshi on January 22, 2011, 03:41:18 AM
Quote from: gracula
Why the hell did I write this anyway? Maybe just to prove to myself I didn't cross the crack of no return.

hmmmm....

*Sukoshi imagines Dracula chan standing on the Cliffs of Sanity, overlooking the Sea of Crack*

*just one little push*   mwahahahaa :mon evillaff:


The Secret to Becoming Sub-Leader

Ah, basketball...the game that made me break a finger nail  :farofflook:

lol I can imagine Ai chan telling Risa to stop looking at her as if she's a basketball XD

I can also picture Risa having a little basketball talk with Sayu when the time comes to pass along the ball.

Risa: You are now the point guard!
Sayu: the what?
Risa: It's a basketball position, Sayumin.
Sayu: .....but I suck at sports...
Risa: never mind...just do what I've been doing all this time.
Sayu: You mean the creepy staring?  :ph43r:
Risa: ....yes.
Sayu: Okay...hope Eririn doesn't hear about this.  :ph43r:
.
.
.
Sayu: :ph43r:

lol just ignore me dracula chan XD  Even your semi-crack is enough to make my brain all smiley :D

totally win-win  XD








Title: Re: Character Study [update 21Jan- Character Study #11]
Post by: Tightrope on January 23, 2011, 12:50:51 PM
:cow: Risa + TakaGaki + Yossie + Basket = WIN :cow:

I love when you take a bunch of things that I love and mix them together with crack. Wonderful things like this study are the result.

The first sentence is cute enough to make me fangirl over it. Ai teasing Risa, for whatever the reason is always adorable :wub: I like the basket analogy a lot, by the way, I think is a pretty good one. And I love how Risa's brain work in here. She fixating on Ai-chan is very very very very cute. And Shisho... XD 

Quote
There it was- the beginning of my insanity. “Yeah- you played basketball, right?” She brightened up, finally finding a way to communicate with me. Iida-san was a mother, Yoshizawa-san was a jock.

This part, I love.  Not really sure why, but is awesome. Yossie communicating in her own way, with sport analogies, and Risa, who surely was making that cute face of hers when she is concentrating in something  make me wanna hug them XD And Kaorin references are always win! I'm sorry, but I find extremely adorable when senpais are giving advice to their kouhais like that. Yes, I fangirl over those things, I'm weird so what?  XD


Quote
“Why are you always staring at Ai-chan even though she’s not talking?” Ah, Reina, in her wonderfully blunt fashion. That ball-hog center.

“Nee? I thought I was the only one who noticed! Okashii, Gaki-san,” said the bigger ball-hog, Sayu.

What do those unathletic ahos know?

 :rofl: :rofl:

This is awesome in many ways.
- Asking about creepy staring in that way, is win. It's interesting to see how Reina ask right away, in her adorable yankii way. while Sayu knew it already but didn't say a thing. Sayu is very observant when it comes to certain things XD
- Ball-hog, those two. I laughed, because is soo true. Once again with awesome and very fitting basket analogies <3
- Last setence is pure win. I love Gaki  :heart:

Quote
Yoshizawa-san looked at me oddly, I realized I had spoken out loud. Hopefully she dismisses it as one of those stupid things that come out of my mouth again. I give a quick bow with an awkward grin and turn to leave her dressing room.

And this  :wub:
Like rndmnwierd said, the contrast between Risa saying the most stupid things and being the responsible one is just so fun and cute to watch/read. And Yossie... XD Thank God she is used to H!P craziness in general and she knows how to respond the right things without being weirded out. I always loved Yossie/Risa interactions. There isn't a lot, but the few of them are pure win, so it was really nice to have Yossie as shisho here.

You can say it wasn't funny, but it was. I loved every bit of it. And you DID cross the crack of no return. But don't be afraid, is not a bad thing :roll:

I'm in a reading mode and I need moar so update soon!  :heart:

Oh, and sorry if I wrote something strange, I'm still a little dense. Blame those evil drugs.
Title: Re: Character Study [update 21Jan- Character study #11 ]
Post by: Beecubed on January 25, 2011, 08:06:26 PM
bee: hisashiburi-ne? jeez, that's a long reply- you know you don't have to comment at all- just know you've read everything and enjoyed it is good enough for me.

Hai!  :onioncheer:

Long replies will continue to come, as long as you continue to accept them, that is all I shall say.  :otomerika:


Quote
Maybe just to prove to myself I didn't cross the crack of no return.

 :lol:

Continue telling yourself that, my friend...


Quote
Character Study #11: Niigaki Risa
The Secret to Becoming Sub-Leader

 :OMG: = my first thought...

^ you can interpret that as being genuine shock, as I was genuinely shocked to click on this thread to find an update on no other than our lovely sub-leader Gaki-san.  :wub: You know secretly, I've been hoping for one of her, especially after reading your Ai-chan one and falling for that one too. So I was very happy to see you write about the bean.  :yep:

On the topic of who I'd like to see studies/crack of, just to get it out there:

- Kei-chan (we need more Kei-chan!)
- Sayu (just 'coz there's so much you can talk about this girl...)
- Yaguchi (much internal conflict to be explored here)

Okay... so onto the actual ficlet you've written here of Gaki-san...  :nya: J'adore.

I really, really cannot get over how much I love the way you think and write - so witty, and clever. And your well-placed words and deftly constructed sentences. It makes me wonder how much time you put into writing this stuff; sometimes, I imagine that it doesn't take you that much effort at all, just 'coz your grac and you're quick on your feet and a very good thinker. You may think that I'm sitting here exaggerating everything and flattering you unnecessarily, but really, this is my truth. And this is something I've come to feel through reading all your stuff, including the wonderful On Call which deserves more of my commenting attention than I have given it thus far...  :nervous

Anyways. Gaki-san. I love.  :love:
She really is the best sub-leader we've ever seen; how readily supportive she is, for all the members and especially her Ai-chan. I can't remember seeing a more active and assertive sub-leader... she really is meant for leadership, imo.  :love:

I wasn't sure at first if I could imagine the bean relating everything to the game of basketball - but I was rubbing my hands together wondering how'd you pull it off for her. ^__^


Quote
Granted, they are pretty tenuous at times, but it comforts me to imagine that everything is just a basketball game, and that with some basic strategy and effort, we can bring the game home.

Life is such a game for Gaki-san? I would never have been one to pick her out as somebody who'd relate her life to a sports game, but okay, we'll see where this goes. I hope she can relate her love for Ai-chan in the same way.  :grin:


Quote
Of course, like basketball- we have to learn to dribble perfectly first. I don’t remember the exact moment I started to perform without thinking, but I remember how fun it was to experience the moment and soak up the sights and sounds of the fans, the banter and play on-stage. Variety shows and interviews outside of our Hello! Morning home court became fun, I was less on the defense and started to play offense here and there.

And grac writes something like that, and I have no choice but to end up all fangirly again  :wriggly: 

 :lol:

And it's perfectly suitable if you're talking about the Gaki-san who was afraid to have fun at first, too concerned about her level of performance and such.. but slowly over time, beginning to open up and enjoy everything, to become more assertive, playing the offense.  :thumbsup


Quote
Not until Yoshizawa-san sat me down one day and told me off for some stupid thing I said in an interview (which didn’t even air, by the way).

If it was something similar to her whole 'building' talk (which reduced the almighty Fujimoto to tears), I'd love to know what THAT one was about. xD

Or was it even more baka?


Quote
There it was- the beginning of my insanity. “Yeah- you played basketball, right?” She brightened up, finally finding a way to communicate with me. Iida-san was a mother, Yoshizawa-san was a jock.

The beginning of it all... instigated by no other than the ever charming Yossie.  XD

Of course, as far as leaders go, Yossie is undeniably the coolest and most laidback. She was almost too cool to be leader, imo. But in her own way, she managed the girls well and stood her ground as an authority when she had to. Funny how Gaki-san immediately compared the suddenly brightened up jock Yossie with mother Iida-san.  :lol: They sure were different, weren't they? xD


Quote
When I became sub-leader, that became so real to me it was literal. Keep an eye on Leader, keep an eye on the time you have left, pass the ball just when the time is right and watch proudly as she slamdunks that mother.

 :rockon:

I love that image. I kinda want to see a sports fanfic now, involving these girls. You know how I love sports  :mon cute:

But yeah, it's true, Gaki-san helping support Ai-chan through everything, guiding her, keeping a look out for her and watching as she brings it all home for the girls. Satisfying, it must be, though I'm sure Gaki-san would have had her moments longing to be the one to bring glory to Morning Musume - to 'slamdunk' it so to speak.


Quote
“Why are you always staring at Ai-chan even though she’s not talking?” Ah, Reina, in her wonderfully blunt fashion. That ball-hog center.

“Nee? I thought I was the only one who noticed! Okashii, Gaki-san,” said the bigger ball-hog, Sayu.

What do those unathletic ahos know?


 :rofl:

Ball-hogs Reina and Sayu!  XD Internally calling Yossie 'Shisho' was funny enough, and now this *sigh* I love Gaki-san. I can so imagine her thinking that, with an edge of envy, though, of course.

And I hope I can speculate a little further on why Gaki-san likes to stare at Ai-chan even when she's not talking.  :grin:


Quote
Eyes, always on the Leader. Her body language will tell you if she’s open, or if she’s going to pass to you, or needs some back up getting away from her assignment. Of course, after those comments, I quickly learnt to watch out for Ai-chan without needing to stare at her constantly- still need to work on repeating what she says.

Oh, okay, so that's her reason for the suspicious Leader-staring (clever Gaki-san. Or should I say clever grac?).

But I like my reasons better.  :P (anything to ship TakaGaki, gomen :3)



Quote
“Shisho, what if I make the wrong decision on the court? If we lose the game because of the wrong play?”

Yoshizawa-san looked at me oddly, I realized I had spoken out loud. Hopefully she dismisses it as one of those stupid things that come out of my mouth again. I give a quick bow with an awkward grin and turn to leave her dressing room.

I lol'ed.  :lol:

What a weirdly, dorkish thing to blurt out...


Quote
“Who are you playing against?”

 XD

Of course, only Yossie would understand what our Gaki-san was thinking. She started it, after all, and must have realised Gaki-san had been holding onto her advice all this time .  :D
With the respect that the bean has shown for her seniors, not surprising at all.  :yep:


Quote
I freeze. Like an epiphany, I answer her question, and my own.

“Nobody.”

Win-Win.


Awwwww, what a cute way to end this.  :oops: With a bit of a personal revelation.

If you're up against no one, I guess there's no 'wrong play' that you can commit; it's just a matter of doing your personal best, without regard for competition and how well they're doing... (unless I got this completely the wrong way, and you were referring to something else =____=).

ANYWAY.

I loved this.  :wub:

I love everything grac... I can imagine you churning out crap and I'd still love it ;_____; (okay, that sounded really creepy, but you get what I mean :3).

And as always, thank you for writing and sharing this with us.  :bow:

I'll be waiting patiently for the next UPDATE!!!  :heart:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 21Jan- Character Study #11]
Post by: ShiroiHana on February 11, 2011, 09:58:28 AM
Hip Deep
 :rofl:

Hannibal
i believe that Miki will be delicious due to her meat  :rofl: :rofl:
actually the rookies's logic with the amount of yakiniku that Miki ate will make her taste like it, surprisingly....i found it realistic... :shocked

Love Mail
bwahahaha xD~
i could imagine how their expression :lol: Ai, a little panic and confuse because her phone is automatically capitalized that word, while the other, i will assume it Gaki-san, is shaking her head while answering Ai's question  :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

Wife Swap
whoah, how could they swap their wifes like that?  :rofl:
moral of the story : being drunk is dangerous  :yep:

Konbini ga Suki
A loud pop, then screaming startled Eri and Risa who were waiting outside the convenience store.
my mind automatically imagine an action movie :lol:

Risa decided to go in and check on things when she saw Ai running full tilt toward her with a laughing Reina in tow.  The youngest Rokkie had a plastic toy gun of some kind in her grip and was waving it around.
Reina is... :lol: but, why is she holding that kind of things?


Run!” Ai yelled at Niigaki, who helped to grab Reina and propelled the unsteady girl forward.
that isnt a good sign... :lol:

Eri was already running for the car, arms and legs pumping swiftly, experience and instinct told her to get a head start regardless of the reason. She yanked the back door open for ease of getaway and jumped into the driver’s seat, starting the car up.

The three girls dove for the back seat and Eri sped out of the parking lot, not looking back until they cleared the area.

woah, Eri was so fast >_<

“Th’ fuck? We were just there for 5 minutes.” Risa asked. Reina was still laughing helplessly, slumped against the sub-leader.
i could imagine that they are just stopping there to buy some snacks but ended up running away like that  :rofl: :rofl:

Still short of breath, Ai gasped, “Reina… tried to hold up the store. She shot the cashier in the face with a damned confetti gun.”
that's so random of Reina  :rofl: :rofl:
i wont have a gut to do something like that at convenient store, Reina is awesome XD

Eri’s eyes were wide as she glanced at them through the rearview mirror, “Guys, where’s Sayu?”
i also think the same, like, wait a minute, i think something isnt right, where is Sayu when all of that chaos happened :lol:
how come everyone forget about her, she is so gonna take a revenge  :lol:

Everybody Scream, Imi Nai Kedo
“Oh my god, she’s got a gun!”
uh...oh...

Sayu dropped to the floor instinctively and covered her ears, screaming. Somewhere in the panicked roar around her, she heard maniacal laughter and a man yelling for someone to run.
the maniacal laughter came from your dear rookies XD

Hyperventilating, she curled up into a tighter ball, ‘You’re too cute and famous to die in a combi, Sayu.’ She figured it was in her best interest to stay low. Hopefully, Reina and Ai-chan were also-
XD XD XD, it's just like  Sayu to think something like this in a critical situation like that

“Chikushou!” Sayu cursed in realization, and leapt to her feet. Like in a bad B-movie, she gaped as the last thing she saw before the automatic doors slid close was Ai, Risa and Reina running towards their car. The squeal of tires pealing out of the parking lot sealed her fate and she dropped back onto the floor, heart pounding in her chest. ‘Doushiyou doushiyou?’
bwahaha, Sayu's face when she realized that her friends was leaving her there is :lo: she is freezing and confuse and then realization hit her and she stood there dumbfounded XD

She decided to make a break for it, sprinting as fast as her unathletic self could carry her.If all else failed, she’d just introduce herself as Takajo Aki and sign a few autographs.
if her face is being covered like that she will look like sadako instead :lol:

Gasping and heaving for air, she finally made it into the thick brush across the parking lot when she heard a car screech to a stop behind her and doors opened and slammed shut.
must be a tiring day for Sayu :lol: judging from her not really athletic legs 

Risking a glance back, her jaw dropped as she saw her groupmates rush into the convenience store, surgical masks over their faces, yelling incoherently.
they are really suspicious :lol: if i were the cashier there, i may call the police already >_<

‘My heroes.’ Sayu rolled her eyes as she contemplated hailing a cab and leaving them there.
if i were Sayu, i will leave them there :lol:

Reina, who was brandishing her plastic gun at the stunned crowd glanced out and saw Sayu pulling away slowly, with a bright smile and peace sign, which switched to an extended middle finger.
i could really imagine her bright smile when she left them there xD~~~

Sayu made them jog for half a mile, before finally deigning to stop and let them in.
i like devil Sayu XD


Character Study #11: Niigaki Risa
oh, woah...i never really know bout basketball except from SlamDunk...and Risa, using it as analogies of life is waw  :O
when i read that, i keep thinking bout how Risa is a very reliable subleader.. she has her own way to make things under control and helped Ai as the leader.
reina is really blunt :lol: while Sayu in other hand will just choose to keep silent and quietly observed things.
i like the little reference of them.
the ball is going to be passed to Risa from Ai...and Risa will passed it to Sayu.
in the future, how will she told Sayu bout the basketball things...knowing that Sayu is unathletic, and possibly know nothing of basketball xD
ah, i want to write more but i dont know what to say ^^;;

gracula-san is awesome crack writer :D the cracks are really funny, even the one that has one sentence only xD
sankyuu for the really enjoyable ride ^^
will wait patiently for more,
gracula-san ganbare~ ^.^/
Title: Re: Character Study [update 21Jan- Character Study #11]
Post by: gracula on April 05, 2011, 01:32:30 AM
comment responses here later? maybe. but, thanks all for enjoying niigaki: MM point guard. And LOL @ sukoshi- how can you push me off the Cliff when you're already swimming expertly in the Sea of Crack already? Okay, damn- i'm already doing comment replies. So might as well. Today seems to be all about typing exactly what you're thinking at that very moment, so pardon the rubbish.

kawaii: your comment made perfect sense. maybe we need to find Sayu an internal shisho too.
rndy:
Quote
I've always loved the contrast between Reliable!Risa and WTF!Risa. Chan Pon Chan.
This made me go look everywhere to find Risa again. I have to admit I wasn't the biggest Gaki-san fan before, but you're right. The gap is absolute genius. I love it.
kuro: ah! responding to you here and now made me realise how long I've been away.  :P
ropy: and you... it's like I just spoke to you a few hours ago.  XD
bee: you too. But you were right on the money about Risa's personal revelation. To me, win-win is always when you play hard as you can and know that you're gonna win 'cause there's nothing to lose.
shiro: I love reading your thoughts on the stories- it's so nice to see you enjoying yourself.[/i]

-----

Character Study #12
Symphony in Angst, Movements 1-4


1

It doesn’t hurt, really.

Just brush it off. Duck off a water’s back, or whatever.

The words that gets spat at her during all those variety game shows she participates in. One of those ‘idol no jinsei wa kitsui na’ things. She really did literally ask for it- playing the poison-tongue chara and joshiki ga nai bimbo is bound to attract scathing remarks. She revelled in those moments when she could verbally unleash her mile a minute mind.

So when Reina started being ‘comfortable enough’ with her to start making scathing remarks, the heartache took her by surprise. It just so happened to be during that season of time when she was busier than usual with her solo TV appearances. Perhaps she was just that little bit more sensitive, what with her being set apart from her groupmates, she picked up Reina’s mild jealousy during that brief repartee.

Ah, well. When it boiled down to it, they loved each other anyway.

It shouldn’t hurt at all, really.

----

2

I zone out, sitting a little away from the rest who were crowding around the food prize table. My mind is a million miles away. Why was I even here anyway? The producer eyes me with a disappointed look and I pretend not to notice, fiddling with my hands, smoothing out imaginary flaws on the table top.

Some suits decided to make as much out of my remaining contract terms as possible- and in between concerts and appearances, I get shoved into Hello! Morning shoots.

It didn’t really occur to me how much Morning Musume has changed until today. Yossi is Leader. Rika-chan is host. OG’s are in cold storage. Aibon has been stricken off Hello! Pro existence. I’m an outcast.

Uragirimono.

No one has said it to my face, but it buzzes at the back of my mind too often and too strongly for it to be just my own subconscious. I am almost certain that Matsuura is projecting it psychically, but I don’t feel like calling her on it.

Oddly enough, it was Aya-chan who encouraged me to do this. Leave for better pastures. Shape our own destinies. Determine our own career paths. We spoke often enough about it to let me work up enough courage to do it. And when I finally did it, somehow, there was a note of disappointment in her voice when I called to tell her. I can’t tell if it was disappointment at me, or disappointment with herself. We hardly speak now.

Yuu-chan bought me a book about depression- or managing emotions or something. I don’t remember the last time I read something that wasn’t work-related or a glossy magazine. So, the book said I’m probably experiencing depression from my life-changing decision.

What was so bad about my life here anyway? But why can’t they just let me produce myself instead of needing to ‘wait my turn’ at the roster? Who will I turn to for comfort and advice when I’m no longer part of a larger whole? What is so bad about wanting more? If I fail, who will save me?

A slice of meat delicately held up between chopsticks in front of me interrupt my spiraling madness. I blink at the proffered item and then look up.

And I find salvation in Rika-chan’s smiling face.

---

3

Just standing and watching the girls filming our latest shuffle studio PV now. I actually woke up early today and decided to get into the studio to study my script for Hello Morning here. It doesn’t pay to not have a life outside of work and the dogs. Maybe I should take up an instrument- start a woodwind duet unit with Kei-chan. Yeah- a bassoon, thass the ticket. What the hell is a bassoon?

Great, I’m nori-tsukkomi-ing myself, in my own head.

I force myself to stare at the script in my hand. Bunch of words in boxes.

Maybe I shouldn’tve had that beer at brunch. Nor finished the half-bottle of sake I found tucked into bed with me this morning, warmed by my body heat.

I whipped out my new phone, an early Christmas present to myself, and started searching the internet for ‘alcohol’, ‘poisoning’ and ‘delirium’. I add ‘cure’ there as an afterthought.

“Uwaa, kakkoii, Nakazawa-san!”

I look up, my response sluggish and my temper short, to see Yoshizawa bounding up to me like an overexcited puppy in her uniform. I have no doubt that in that girl’s slightly messed-up head, her internalization goes something like: ‘Ah, sugoi kakkoii, Nakazawa Anego coolly looking up from her new mobile phone to regard me with a burning, sexy gaze’. This is all that is keeping me from yelling at her.

“Is that a new phone? It’s really cool!” she enthuses too loudly.

“Un,” I nod, gritting my teeth as a particularly loud noise in the background set off the piercing pain in my head. I eyed the camera following her around that was filming behind-the-scenes footage and forcibly arranged my face into something that won’t get it mosiacked.

Forcing my focus back to the shooting script in my hand, I notice yet another insulting segment aimed at me in the news corner. It’s still too early to go into a full-on rage, so I file it away for later. Hopefully I will be in a better mood by then to deal with this crap.

Gocchin sidles up to me and hugs me from behind. I lean my head back against her shoulder, close my eyes and let her pat my head. Yossi and Gocchin talk amongst themselves in low tones and giggle girlishly about something nonsensical. It was somewhat soothing.

As much as this job strips me of my sanity and dignity, it’s the girls that restore it back, bit-by-bit. I feel my sanity knitting together, surrounded by these crazy people I call my friends and family. It’s what makes me come back day after day even when there isn’t much to come to.

---

4

Elegance and the paragon of feminine perfection smiled beatifically at me.

“So beautiful,” I whispered aloud as I traced my fingers across those planed features and I gazed into those eyes she was named after.

I can vaguely see that girl I once knew who danced alone in the dark, illuminated by boyband PVs playing on the television. Where's the girl who secretly squealed at the floppy hair and kakkoii gestures? Who wanted to BE in a boyband because she thought they were too cool.

The miracle of make-up hid most of the moles scattered on her face, but I knew where they were anyway. I couldn’t resist tracing my finger along a constellation path between those eyes and down her nose to rest briefly on the bottom lip of that expressive mouth.

That mouth.

The things that would come out of that mouth. Witty, funny statements. Cutesy, silly nonsense. Rough unrefined speech. Eloquent, wise advice. Bitter self-recriminating anger. Most importantly, silence- the good silence of companionship, the bad silence of estrangement, the awkward silence of uncertainty.

But one thing I cherished most of all, was the laughter.

It was an absolute joy to cause that laughter- and a bonus if she were laughing with you, rather than at you. Although, I admit I miss being laughed at by her. It’s masochistic, I know, it just feels really good when she laughs gleefully at me. I must say something brilliantly stupid one of these days.

It seems like forever since I’ve heard her laugh- real uproarious laughter that used to-

A ssexy beast. “Th’ heck are you doing?”

“What?” I turn around to face Miki, embarassed.

“You were smiling weirdly by yourself.” She peered over my shoulder, eyebrows raising as she registered what I was focussed on. I was about to say something to change the subject, when a wistful look in her eye as she regarded the photo stopped me.

We both examined the photograph without speaking- I cannot presume to even read Miki's thoughts right now.

"I miss her." It didn't matter who said it- nor if it was said aloud, even.

"Th' heck are the two of you doing?"

The both of us whirled around, staring wide-eyed at the object of our study. As if in perfectly rehearsed unison, Miki moved smoothly to distract her long enough for me to slide the photograph under a pile of songlist printouts.

We never spoke of it again, but I think somehow, our silent contemplation that day managed to bridge the gap between us awkward social niceties couldn't before.

FINI

---

Okay, and back to your regularly scheduled crack (when did that happen?). Somehow, I feel like I must apologize for this entire post. It was mostly written between the third and fourth line of Bee's fic's comment reply.

See you all soon.
Title: Re: Character Study [update 5Apr- Character Study #12]
Post by: rndmnwierd on April 05, 2011, 07:06:17 AM
I'm.. a little bit confused about the last subject. It could be the mind numbing tiredness that has begun to engulf me in it's warm fuzziness, begging me to watch movies in bed until I fall asleep for the next sixteen hours. Yeah, we'll just blame my ignorance on that, since it feels like it should be obvious.

My favorite would have to be Yuko's part. I just love Borderline Alcoholic!Yuko, she has the potential to be totally crazy or overly contemplative and everything in between. All in the same hour.

Quote
This made me go look everywhere to find Risa again. I have to admit I wasn't the biggest Gaki-san fan before, but you're right. The gap is absolute genius. I love it.
It hasn't happened a lot to the extent of the Bakajo Test recently, but I did love the Morning Labo event when she didn't know what an escalator school system was and tried to make a joke at Ai's expense about stairs. That makes more sense if you've actually seen what I'm talking about. :lol: Also, her WTF hairstyles.

I'm babbling, I'm going to stop now... XD
Title: Re: Character Study [update 5Apr- Character Study #12]
Post by: Tightrope on April 07, 2011, 12:30:10 AM
:cow:  :cow: Update, update!  :cow:  :cow:

I missed Character Studieeeees ~ :on gay:

I'll try to avoid spoilers(?) by minimizing or just not naming characters, just because I sometimes check a comment before actually reading and I don't want to spoil anyone. But I don't promise anything. Oh, and today I'm dangerously happy and I feel like quote-spamming and abusing emotis. Just sayin'

1

This one was pretty obvious. Those variety game shows :lol: ...My poor little bunny and her conflictive chara. If people critics wasn't enough, now she has to endure her fellow rookie half-serious, half-joking remarks? :cry: Awwww... Jealous!Reina being too straightforward with her feelings again? Those kinds of things get me too if I'm emotional :lol:

This one is the shortest of all, but it has someething that I absolutely love. I think I mentioned it before but this:

Quote
It doesn’t hurt, really.
 
[...]

It shouldn’t hurt at all, really.
:mon inluv:

The two sentences are very alike, but very different in meaning at the same time. It's such a nice way to start-end a writing. I reeaaally love the kind of feeling it leaves when you finish reading something like this. Maybe it's only me being exaggerated as always, but I seriously :heart: it. Even if it's angsty in this case. As an adorable fangirl said once, I love my drama as long it doesn't kill me XD

But I guess, in the end, I have mixed feelings about this. Because I spy hints of Tanashige and that worries me. Yes, I still don't know what problem I have with that pairing but I can't bring myself to like it  :lol: Bring Eri to make her feel better!

Oh, and I learned more English again thanks to this one. Yaaaaaay ~


2

[drama queen]

:mon wtf:

Quote
Aibon has been stricken off Hello! Pro existence.

:on speedy:   :on speedy:     :on speedy:   :on speedy:     :on speedy:   :on speedy:     :on speedy:

I WILL ANGST OVER THIS FACT UNTIL THE DAY I DIE. OH, CRUEL REALITY

[/drama queen]

Okay, we can continue now :lol:

Drama above aside, I find this one the angstier of all them. Because this is sad. Feeling being an outcast, a traitor, in those last moments she's spending there before she leaves... :cry:

Quote
I am almost certain that Matsuura is projecting it psychically, but I don’t feel like calling her on it.

I know this is supposed to be sad too, but the mental image I get from this is SO funny. I wish you could see Ayaya's expression in my mind right now XD I think Ayaya dissapointment was more directed to herself than anyone else but even so...  Bad Ayaya, you shouldn't make her feel even worse for her decision.  It's not like it was bad, anyway.

Yuko trying to help makes me happy. She really is a caring and sweet person deep inside. Deeep :lol: And I know she has plenty idol-angst too (as we can later).
 
Quote
Who will I turn to for comfort and advice when I’m no longer part of a larger whole? What is so bad about wanting more? If I fail, who will save me?

I'LL SAVE YOU  :mon nwei:

This seriously made me want to hug her badly. You know how much I love this girl? Aw, my heart suffer reading this :cry: The uncertainty and fear and loneliness, all mixed in a bad way.  She needs hugs urgently, why nobody is giving them to her? WHY? But then...

Quote
A slice of meat delicately held up between chopsticks in front of me interrupt my spiraling madness. I blink at the proffered item and then look up.

And I find salvation in Rika-chan’s smiling face.

Okay, now I want to cry :cry:  This is so beautiful I just can't explain it properly ;_; And it has the Rika's smile PLUS. I'm a sucker for smiles, specially Rika's. Aaaah, I loved this ending, I loved it very much. And now, thanks to it, I love Rika even more :wub:

3

What's this grac? I can't properly angst over Yuko when there are so many happy-distracting factors going on. The mix of  drama and crack with semi-drunk Nakazawa, hyper Yossie and cute Gomaki is delicious :heart:

I would love to see that woodwind duet with Kemeko. I remember being impressed when I watched her playing sax for first time. But I have this image of Yuko being really bad at playing anything and throwing her instrument or hitting someone with it the end. Or something like that :lol:

Quote
...and started searching the internet for ‘alcohol’, ‘poisoning’ and ‘delirium’. I add ‘cure’ there as an afterthought.

 :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

Have I ever tell you how much I love your alcohol/drunk crack? Yes? Just reminding it to you then XD But yeah, we all know that Yuko's soulmate is none other than alcohol. I'm sorry Yuu-chan but there is no cure for that. I think I'm going to make the Yuko/Alcohol ship my new OTP  along  with Yaguchi/Pizza. Yes.

If reading Yossie going all 'YAAAY Nakazawa-san!' wasn't enough to love that part, this:

Quote
‘Ah, sugoi kakkoii, Nakazawa Anego coolly looking up from her new mobile phone to regard me with a burning, sexy gaze’. This is all that is keeping me from yelling at her.

 :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

I can't decide which part made me laugh more. Nakazawa Anego, her burning sexy gaze or the fact she decided not to yell at Yossie because all that XD 
I love grac  for writing so much win in two sentences. I guess I should be used to you awesome crack skills  already, but seems I keep laughing like mad  like I did the first time. And the moxicated face... :lol: 

Awww at Yuko/Gomaki love  :mon inluv: I always find extremely cute the pat-pat thing. Never fails to make me Aw. Maybe it's because I love it myself :lol:  And again...! The ending :cry: Beautifuuuuuuul :cry: Yuko loves very much her girls :heart:  I like how she says things like "giggle girlishly about something nonsensical" (I laughed at that btw) sounding somewhat annoyed but at the same time, those are part of the things that make her feel good again. Aaah, Nakazawa Yuko, I love you :heart:

4

Can I squeal, can I? Because I'm going to do it anyway  :nya: I'll seriously have to restrain myself from quoting and fangirling too much here. I'll try. Really >_>. But again, I cannot angst over this while being an obsessive happy fangirl. I'm sorry not really I'm missing the main point XD

Quote
“So beautiful,” I whispered aloud as I traced my fingers across those planed features and I gazed into those eyes she was named after.
I think the most accurate way to express what I feel when I read this is something like: akjdfhakdjfhadkfj  :mon inluv:  :mon angel:

Because she is looking secretly at her photo and she is tracing her features because omg she's so in love with her and she can't help it and omg I'm gonna die this cuteness I can't It's too much  :panic:

I loved the subtle way you let us know a photo of whom is she looking at by the way. I like those things :heart:

Quote
The miracle of make-up hid most of the moles scattered on her face, but I knew where they were anyway. I couldn’t resist tracing my finger along a constellation path between those eyes and down her nose to rest briefly on the bottom lip of that expressive mouth.

That mouth.

OKAY. I'M SORRY I'M NOT REALLY RESTRAINING MYSELF AT ALL. BUT IT'S YOUR FAULT. YOU AND YOUR SO WELL WRITTEN OH-I'M-SO-I'M-LOVE-WITH-HER LOVELYCUTEFLUFFYNESS.

Omg I'm so happy and fangirly today, why isn't Bee here? I miss her even more when I'm fangirling!  BEE COME BACK AND FANGIRL ISHIYOSHI WITH ME ;_; ksjdnfskdf

*dies*

Okay, really, this is just so so so :mon inluv: Adorable. She knows where are those moles, of course she knows :heart: And yeah, everyone look at that, she's taking her time looking at her mouth, everyone knows why, right?  And omg maybe is just me in sugar rush but really, all this is so beautifully and lovely written :heart: It sent my fangirl levels to the max.

I'm going to stop quoting the fluffy cuteness or I'll quote it all. I'll calm down a little too XD . But I loooooove it. I mean she start to list all those little details she loves/d about her. It's so lovely and beutiful and fangirlable that I can't make proper sense. And it's  sad, but so still so Aww how she wants to do silly things just because that person haven't laughed in a while and she miss it.

And Miki. If someone could make this even better that person is Mikitty. Interrupting the fluffy inner monologue just to say 'You were smiling weirdly by yourself'. 'Weirdly' aka 'like an idiot in love' :lol: But she joins in photo contemplation anyway.

Quote
We both examined the photograph without speaking- I cannot presume to even read Miki's thoughts right now.
"I miss her." It didn't matter who said it- nor if it was said aloud, even.

I love this part too much  :heart: :cry: I needed to point it out ;_;

Charmikitty bonding wins at life here. Because of the mutual missing of how Yossie used to be and because of their joined effort for distract and then hide the proofs of what they were doing XD Also, the fact that  the same sentence was used each time photo contemplation was interrupted made me laugh. Awesome :heart:

Aah, I have so many feelings right now  :farofflook: I loved the four scenes so much :heart: But what's wrong with you, writing angsty stuff without warning?  :smhid... XD

Nah, you're awesome with everything, crack, or non-crack (even if the crack always find a way to sneak in, no matter what are you writing :lol: ). Don't say things like you feel like apologizing for posting this, because I enjoyed it very much. Way too much. Like always :heart: And I remind you I'm looking forward the drama in On call too just remember bad, angsty (and non-fixable) W drama is off-limits >_>.

Quote
It was mostly written between the third and fourth line of Bee's fic's comment reply.

This amuses me. Multitask writing late at night? :lol: I have to try that sometime.

And I just noticed! This is going to be my 100th post. This thread made me delurk for first time, and this post will be here as well. Okay, maybe it's stupid but it was unexpectly moving to me XD Thank you and Bee for making me delurk  :deco:

I :heart: you grac,  update soon ~  :mon inluv:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 5Apr- Character Study #12]
Post by: ShiroiHana on April 19, 2011, 12:36:30 PM
Character Study #12
Symphony in Angst, Movements 1-4


1

Quote
It doesn’t hurt, really.

Quote
It shouldn’t hurt at all, really.
It’s a lie, isn’t it? It did hurt, didn’t it? I thought, among all of the way, she’s chosen the harsh way. Being a narcissistic and poison tongue chara while she wasn’t really like that in the inside. That sure was difficult.  At one point I admire her for her strong side but, I feel bad for her because she has to go through this.

----

2

Quote
Yuu-chan bought me a book about depression- or managing emotions or something. I don’t remember the last time I read something that wasn’t work-related or a glossy magazine. So, the book said I’m probably experiencing depression from my life-changing decision.
You know, most book that’s filled with physiology one, my teacher said, that most of it were full of lie. So, I don’t think that she’s..wait, she may have a depression from the way she talked. But, I think..more than depression, it’s rather a sadness. 

Quote
What was so bad about my life here anyway? But why can’t they just let me produce myself instead of needing to ‘wait my turn’ at the roster? Who will I turn to for comfort and advice when I’m no longer part of a larger whole? What is so bad about wanting more? If I fail, who will save me?
when i positioned myself at her position, i feel hopeless. like, will there will be someone that come and save me? that's such a terrible feeling.

Quote
A slice of meat delicately held up between chopsticks in front of me interrupt my spiraling madness. I blink at the proffered item and then look up.

And I find salvation in Rika-chan’s smiling face.
Maybe all of this time that she need was someone else’s support..

---

3

Quote
Just standing and watching the girls filming our latest shuffle studio PV now. I actually woke up early today and decided to get into the studio to study my script for Hello Morning here. It doesn’t pay to not have a life outside of work and the dogs. Maybe I should take up an instrument- start a woodwind duet unit with Kei-chan. Yeah- a bassoon, thass the ticket. What the hell is a bassoon?
:lol: how could she start such unit. Umm.. lol, if my memories of nodame is right, bassoon is some kind of wind instrument?


Quote
Great, I’m nori-tsukkomi-ing myself, in my own head.
:lol:


Quote
I look up, my response sluggish and my temper short, to see Yoshizawa bounding up to me like an overexcited puppy in her uniform. I have no doubt that in that girl’s slightly messed-up head, her internalization goes something like: ‘Ah, sugoi kakkoii, Nakazawa Anego coolly looking up from her new mobile phone to regard me with a burning, sexy gaze’. This is all that is keeping me from yelling at her.
:lol:


Quote
As much as this job strips me of my sanity and dignity, it’s the girls that restore it back, bit-by-bit. I feel my sanity knitting together, surrounded by these crazy people I call my friends and family. It’s what makes me come back day after day even when there isn’t much to come to.
Life as an entertainer is harsh. No, really..i mean they have to keep their happy face always even though they aren’t happy at all. Her character study is funny yet sad at the same time.

---

4

Quote
But one thing I cherished most of all, was the laughter.

It was an absolute joy to cause that laughter- and a bonus if she were laughing with you, rather than at you. Although, I admit I miss being laughed at by her. It’s masochistic, I know, it just feels really good when she laughs gleefully at me. I must say something brilliantly stupid one of these days.

That’s masochistic? For some reason I thought that it isn’t. Nah, isn’t it just cause of her strong feeling? No harm in that laugh..i mean, it isn’t caused by some mean things. But, it is kinda cute.

Quote
We never spoke of it again, but I think somehow, our silent contemplation that day managed to bridge the gap between us awkward social niceties couldn't before.
It ends nicely. Somehow…somehow..i get this cloudy feeling after read the character study. Like some kind of realization that life sure is hard. It isn’t easy and we have to struggle in order to walk through it.


sankyuu for the update ^__^
will wait patiently for more update, and till that time, Gracula-san ganbare~ ^o^)/
Title: Re: Character Study [update 19May- Character Study #13]
Post by: gracula on May 18, 2012, 06:30:23 PM
Wow, I haven't even watched or really read any updates yet and I'm kinda depressed already.

-----

Character Study #13: Last Will and Testament of Niigaki Risa, Morning Musume


18 May 2012

Dear Sayu,

I don’t even know what to write here, but I’m told its tradition and I have to write you advice or whatever. I’ve been putting off writing this for so long and right now Iida-san is glaring at me from across the room. She’s sitting right in front of the dressing room door. I can’t even get out even if I wanted to. I think Yoshizawa-san is outside keeping people away too.

Okay, so that’s one long paragraph and I’m not even halfway down this piece of paper I’m supposed to fill. Shit. I’m never gonna get onstage and graduate tonight, the rate this is going.

So. Here we are. Here *you* are… at the top now~ ^__^ You made it! Finally! How does it feel?

Well, I guess you’ve already told me how it feels, but somehow, I think we’ve been keeping our feelings to ourselves quite a bit ever since Aichan left. I know you didn’t want to burden me and on my end, I guess I’ve just found it too embarassing to verbalise my feelings.

So I guess I’ll write it down here.

It hurts. Like my heart has been cracking slowly for many months now and it feels as though it will shatter later when I walk off the stage for the last time.

Remember how we sometimes performed while we were sick and we’d keep on dancing and moving til we see white and think to ourselves: “Ah, I’m going to fall over and die right now on this stage. What a way to go~”?

I feel as though a part of me will actually die tonight.

They always said that graduation was a great entrance into a better life ahead. But they lied, Sayu. It is being forced to leave the greatest love of your life. It’s being torn away from the thing you’ve loved with all your heart since you were a child. It is like losing your name. If I’m not a Morning Musume anymore, I might as well not be Niigaki Risa.



I didn’t know you could actually overreact on paper.

Sorry, I don’t want you to worry about me. I’m fine, really. Just wanted to write what I was actually feeling and all that stuff came out.

I don’t know if we will be as close as this in the future. I’d like us to be even closer but we’ve sent off enough groupmates to know the actual reality of what graduations can be like. But the one thing I would like to ask of you- is that even though your memories of me may grow dim, please always remember me as the Gakisan who loved Morning Musume more than her own life.

Haha. I can hear you through the door. You’re gonna get it if you keep flirting with Yoshizawa-san like that.

Anyway. Here we are, at the end. And Iida-san looks somewhat pleased. I think it has something to do with the fact that my makeup is absolutely ruined with tears and snot. Gross!

I love you, Sayu. Thank you for being such an amazing part of this Morning Musume that I love so much. I trust you to take care of it and take care of yourself.

And for the love of god, please don’t eat the children.

All my love,
Risa
Title: Re: Character Study [update 19May- Character Study #13]
Post by: kuro808 on May 18, 2012, 06:38:07 PM
 :lol:

Sayu will make an interesting leader if not for Reina trying to make puppet strings from behind XD
Title: Re: Character Study [update 19May- Character Study #13]
Post by: kjpop on May 18, 2012, 07:04:45 PM
Oh my god, I forced myself to read this. I did. Because I'm a wreck right now and I needed something~


Quote
I didn’t know you could actually overreact on paper.

 :lol:

Quote
I don’t know if we will be as close as this in the future. I’d like us to be even closer but we’ve sent off enough groupmates to know the actual reality of what graduations can be like. But the one thing I would like to ask of you- is that even though your memories of me may grow dim, please always remember me as the Gakisan who loved Morning Musume more than her own life.

K.O!!! RIGHT IN THE KOKORO!!! *le dead*  :farofflook:

Quote
And for the love of god, please don’t eat the children.

And now im tearing for a completely different reason ahhaha :mon lmao:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 19May- Character Study #13]
Post by: rndmnwierd on May 18, 2012, 08:22:52 PM
How can you make sad crack? My face doesn't know which expression to make! Until you ended with
Quote
And for the love of god, please don’t eat the children.

Now I'm grinning.

Gakisa~n :cry: XD :cry: :wub: :lol:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 23June- 9kie crack omake]
Post by: gracula on June 23, 2012, 10:35:08 AM
I procrackstinated during an important meeting to keep me from falling asleep. If its weird, it means my brain cells were not working enough to come up with proper sentences.

-----

title: the crack that grac came up with during a meeting zzzz

Reina had enough. As the only other adult in the group left, (and that isn’t really saying much) she felt her latent morality stir enough to want to do something about Sayu.

She resolutely marched into the break room where Sayu was holding court with the younger members. True to form, the predator was at her best, content in her natural habitat of tweens.

“You have five minutes to sort your shit out, Shige-san.”

“Why?”

“Aichan on her way up here. You’re so screwed.” Reina frowned as she considered the duality of her statement. “In the unpleasant way that doesn’t require us to evacuate the lolis from the room.”

“What other kinds of screwed are there?” Kanon muttered to Eri, who shrugged, for once smart enough to keep quiet.

“You gave me up?” Sayu sat up suddenly, Mizuki slid off her lap to land on the floor with a thump.

“This." Reina gestured in the general direction of Sayu. "This is too much- what kind of example are you setting for the lolis?”

“We’re not lolis!” Riho protested vehemently. “I’m already 14!”

“You are actually lolis,” Reina informed her matter-of-factly.

“But 14 means I’m older than 12 and a child!”

“That’s right, Riho is a big girl now and she can do big girl things,” Sayu cooed. “Does RihoRiho want to do big girl things?”

Riho looked cautiously over at Sayu, then to Mizuki who was nodding vigorously, eyes wide, as she witnessed the scenario play out before her like her secret fantasies come to life.

“What kind of big girl things?” Riho asked tentatively, her curiousity asserting itself over self-preservation.

“Sayu, I’m serious. This has to stop. I was okay with the ball gag and pudding massage jokes until you actually used poor Fukuchan here as tableware.”

“She was dripping! I had to eat it. What did you expect me to do?” Sparing a quick, benevolent smile for Mizuki who was still on the floor where she was dumped.

In hindsight, Sayu probably should have chosen her words better because Ai had just entered the room and took the statement completely out of context. Or perhaps not entirely out of context, given Sayu’s proclivity. In any case, it would take about 4 stitches and two weeks of recuperation before Sayu could resume work again.

After the initial apoplectic flurry of blows, Ai was incredibly remorseful especially when Reina, who was trying to hold her back, told her that Sayu didn’t actually eat any of the lolis. To which Riho took the appellation with some offense, firmly insisting that she was gonna do big girl things with Sayu, who was wheezing painfully on the ground.

That moment was actually when Sayu got beaten enough to require the four stitches. Ai wasn’t sorry at all afterwards, since she went for an easily concealable wound instead of the maiming she wanted to deal out.

-----

Before you start feeling sorry for Shigaysan, remember these three words: loli sponge baths.
Title: Re: Character Study [update 19May- Character Study #13]
Post by: kuro808 on June 23, 2012, 10:40:06 AM
We needed a bunch of innocent smiles while Ai beats up on Sayu

 :lol:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 19May- Character Study #13]
Post by: kawaii beam on June 23, 2012, 04:07:54 PM
omg i can hear the cries of michishige-san!!! while ai beats her up XD this is hilarious
Title: Re: Character Study [update 19May- Character Study #13]
Post by: rndmnwierd on June 23, 2012, 05:11:34 PM
OMG what is this? I love all the crack! XD :lol: XD :lol:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 19May- Character Study #13]
Post by: Estrea on June 23, 2012, 05:17:49 PM
Oooh you posted the cracklet! I needed that so bad haaaaaa. *wheezes*

Also, violent!Ai is incredibly hawt. XD
Title: Re: Character Study [update 11Jul- FLUFF intermission]
Post by: gracula on July 10, 2012, 08:59:28 PM
Doing some housekeeping on my computer and oh boy, do I have a lotta fluffy dust bunnies. Don't particularly want to open a new thread for my short one-shots that need to be posted and I figure if I can have crack intermissions, I can have fluff intermissions here too.

So behold! Fluff! Crack-free! Shock! Awe!

(runs away in shame embarrassment)

 -----

Living The Dream

She hated it. Needing to share hotel rooms. You would think that Morning Musume would’ve made enough money for their management to always afford single rooms.

It wasn’t so much the snoring or the sharing of bathrooms. It was lying awake at night, facing away from the girl you were kinda crushing on who was sexually disorientating you with their confusing touches and cute smiles. Dealing with raging hormones at the height of puberty and having your stupid roommate parade around in nothing but a bath towel.

Yossi woke up cold. The wisp of some damn weird dream about her early idol days dissipating. She’d have the oddest, oftentimes disturbing dreams everytime she woke up cold. She was beginning to remember why she hated hotels with their central air-conditioning that seemed to kick into sub-artic temperatures in the morning.

The Dream Morning Musume concert tour. It really did feel like a dream. Just like old times, rehearsals and travelling from venue to venue for performances. Living in hotels and missing the comfort of home. Unlike the bad old days of indie unpopularity and tightfisted management, they were allocated a room to themselves. But given the post-disaster situation, everyone had decided to double up during the tour, doing that small bit to save on electricity.

“Oi, Ishikawa. You’re going to be late.” Yossi zipped up her jersey and reached for her sneakers under the bed.

A muffled groan answered her, “Five more minutes.”

“I’m going down first, okay?”

It really was just like old times, Yossi smiled. Except for one major difference.

Yossi bent down and yanked the covers away, eliciting a louder groan of complaint. Pressing her forehead against Rika’s, she nuzzled the side of Rika’s face and leaned in for a kiss, which was deftly avoided. One would think that after several years of being together, morning breath would no longer be an issue. “You know, once I leave the room, this’ll be it for the rest of today,” she whispered against Rika’s cheek.

Rika huffed, her eyes still closed and turned to brush her lips against Yossi’s smiling mouth for a quick kiss.

“Good morning.”

Rika reached up and grabbed Yossi to pull her back into bed. “Five more minutes.”

-----

Ha! See? I am capable of writing IshiYoshi together. Sort of.

Title: Re: Character Study [update 11Jul- FLUFF intermission]
Post by: kuro808 on July 10, 2012, 09:31:43 PM
Yes.... I guess in a way we can always have the morsel of IshiYoshi once in a while hehe
Title: Re: Character Study [update 11Jul- FLUFF intermission]
Post by: kawaii beam on July 10, 2012, 09:33:04 PM
OH MAH GAH ITS SO CUTE N FLUFFY ;3; more! more~! :deco:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 11Jul- FLUFF intermission]
Post by: rndmnwierd on July 10, 2012, 10:17:21 PM
Aww, how sweet :wub: :wub:
Title: Re: Character Study [update 11Jul- FLUFF intermission]
Post by: kjpop on July 10, 2012, 11:03:24 PM
oh sweet jesus LOL

shame on me but i forgot to comment on the lolis + Sayu story xD I think I was just too busy crying and laughing so hard that I couldn't form words ahha  :rofl: <- accurate lol

Between you and Estrea, I don't even know what to do with myself with all these Loli + Sayu stories xD I just might stop breathing haha


Ishiyoshi goodness: It has been WAYYYYYYYYYYY too long since I've read anything with Ishiyoshi or the OGs <33333  :deco: TRUE LOVE FOREVER <3
Title: Re: Character Study [update 11Jul- FLUFF intermission]
Post by: Atreyuxex on August 04, 2012, 10:52:18 PM
Eeeeeeeeee IshiYoshi  :w00t:. I loved this  :lol: I really like how you have Rika doing not-so Charmy things lol

Quote
One would think that after several years of being together, morning breath would no longer be an issue
Quote
  A low, demonic rumbling that gradually rose in volume reverberated out of Rika, like a far-off storm, except that the far-off storm was right next to Yossie. She froze, wide-eyed and then gently nudged Rika’s head to rest on it’s side. The snoring stopped, and Yossie sighed in relief
Title: Re: Character Study [update 11Jul- FLUFF intermission]
Post by: gracula on May 17, 2013, 07:35:19 PM
あれ? What's this (http://forum.jphip.com/index.php?topic=35650.msg1185370#msg1185370)?
Title: Re: Character Study [update 18May- oh?]
Post by: shainingj on May 18, 2013, 04:23:27 AM
wow, welcome back!!