[ Yamimatsu, Gravi, Bleach, Tenipuri, Furuba, Cowboy Bebop, Peace Maker, FMA, GW, WK, XXXholic, KwG
Notes/Babbling: Despite not intending to, this list got away from me and wound up being much bigger than I was expecting. Also, there's been surprisingly little V-day fic. What's up with that? *pouts*
And now I run off to conquer dinner! THE DINNER SHALL BE MINE! >E
Series:
Yami no Matsuei - 6 Fanfics
Gravitation - 3 Fanfics
Bleach - 2 Fanfics
Prince of Tennis - 1 Fanfic
Fruits Basket - 1 Fanfic
Cowboy Bebop - 1 Fanfic
Peace Maker - 1 Fanfic
Full Metal Alchemist - 2 Fanfics
Gundam Wing - 1 Fanfic
Weiss Kreuz - 1 Fanfic
XXXholic - 3 Fanfics
Koko wa Greenwood - 1 Fanfic
- Yami no Matsuei - Exorcism by Gaudior - [ part 01 - part 02 - part 03 - part 04 ] - It had been easy to say then, desperately sobbing out the words-- I need you. Live for me. I don't want to be alone again. He hadn't been thinking about consequences or about all the things he usually kept so carefully from saying. He'd been too busy trying to find the right thing to say, the thing that would keep Tsuzuki from leaving him, and he didn't have time to think about why that threat scared him so much. So, Meg points out these fics on her journal (ALL HER FAULT) and I read the first line of the second fic (Surpassing) and I'm immediately, "Ooh. Gotta read that one." and spiral back into a mini-Yami no Matsuei whirl. (ALL HER FAULT.) And, wow, this fic was just... it combined casefic! with gorgeous writing and a fantastic Hisoka perspective, really getting some of the best insight into the troubles of the Tsuzuki/Hisoka relationship I've seen in fic form. There are moments in this story, before the demon pops up that they have to figure out and take care of, that hurt because their relationship couldn't be clean or neat or anything but painful and messy after the Kyoto arc. Every time Hisoka senses how his words hurt Tsuzuki, how he covers them up with a smile that Hisoka can't bring himself to call Tsuzuki on, is painful and gorgeous because it was just so vividly them. Then you get the demon in the woods that they stumble over, contrasting the feelings of the demon (the need to posesses, to take the girl by force, over and over again) and it plays beautifully against Hisoka's own experiences and feelings without being overwhelming. It's so quiet you have to pick it up on your own and, god, I loved that.
I'm gushing about this story because every so often the Yami no Matsuei gets a talented writer who will tackle these characters with the patience and deft writing that they really demand and Gaudior is another one of them that needs to be put on the "must read" list. She does these characters justice and writes a story that's so clean, smooth, and beautifully told that I was just sucked right into the words and couldn't stop reading until I was done with the story. Tsuzuki and Hisoka are so three-dimensional here, never flat or parody-ish, instead I could so very easily see this dovetailing with the ending of the anime perfectly. I also mentioned the beautiful writing, yes? What also impressed me was that the case fic was interesting in its own right, the original character did exactly what she was supposed to do, reminding me a lot of Hijiri or Maria Wong, the demon being an interesting legend turned into something more frightening for the characters, and there were even action scenes! Not super-long battles, but the kind that showed up in Yami no Matsuei, further lending the feel that this could indeed have taken place right after the anime. Definitely a must-read fic, I'd put this up there with the best of the fandom. (Tsuzuki/Hisoka.)
- Yami no Matsuei - Surpassing by Guadior - [ part 01 - part 02 - part 03 - part 04 - part 05 ] - I was a little worried about Surpassing at first, since I so enjoyed the casefic of the story that comes before this and I'd hoped for more in the same line, but then I actually started to sit down and read this story, which wound up sucking me in just the same way the previous one did. The writing is lovely, the kind that you barely even notice the words, it tells such a vivid picture, which is coupled with painfully sharp insights into both Tsuzuki and Hisoka's characters. This is one of the best fics I've read that deals with the aftermath of Muraki's attack on Hisoka, the way it got across the way it hurt Hisoka and is something that affected him completely, his revulsion of anything to do with sex, the turmoil he felt at wanting that with Tsuzuki, trying to seperate out his own feelings/desires from those around him, trying to deal with being in love with Tsuzuki and how to handle that, all while juggling Tsuzuki's own reactions... all of it was tremendous. All of it was done in that gorgeous Yami no Matsuei sort of style, so that I didn't have to tilt my head and squint to picture the characters, they were just there in my head.
- Yami no Matsuei - The Incident with the Owl by Asidian - How could I have never read this fic before? I know I've read at least one of Asidian's stories, but I missed the one with the Tatari hints? SHAME on me! Which makes me glad I've been going back through old files again to find some of the Yamimatsu fics I'd never read or rec'd, because this fic was just so much fun. I have great, great love for stories that can do Watari's character justice, that can balance the mad scientiest, the cheerful friend, and the surprisingly intelligent person all wrapped up underneath all that blonde hair and this story was very nice for that. But it's also that it got a genuine sense of humor to the writing as they tried to figure out just what the hell was making everyone act so weird (When Watari figures it out and goes to test his theory on Tsuzuki and Hisoka? GENIUS. Especially the final line, I LOVED THAT.) and every time Tatsumi and Watari would have a conversation... I fluttered because it was the sparkling, non-cliche, charming dynamic that I'd fallen in love with. Plus, 003 being so cute and an ending that made me utterly squee and cute/funny Yamimatsu cast antics, how could you possibly go wrong with any of that? ♥ (Tatsumi/Watari, Tsuzuki/Hisoka.)
- Yami no Matsuei - Something like Chemistry by Chained Dove - HI. I WOULD LIKE MORE OF THIS ONE NOW, PLZ. RIGHT NOW. KTHXBAI. It seems like it's the first part of a longer story and the author seems talented enough to really do these characters justice--Watari's characterization is lovely, he's not just the spastic mad scientist slash sort of doctor character, there's an actual personality here. And Tatsumi isn't just a walking cliche either, nor is their dynamic; when Tatsumi is talking to Watari and is vaguely suspicious of him, I could have sparkled like mad because they were both so... themselves. There was a real depth and edge to the characters that I don't get nearly enough. Also? Watari randomly talking to 003, seeming to actually understand the hootings and chirps, but you're never really sure if 003 can actually communicate or if Watari is just a little off-kilter? LOVED THAT. That Watari was running the betting pool for when Tsuzuki and Hisoka would get together, won, and it didn't come off as painfully cliche, instead it was funny and I could actually believe it? LOVED THAT. Tatsumi noticing that everyone around him was going a little nuts, that Watari wasn't being as obnoxious as usual, trying to have a conversation with him and it goes the usual way a conversation with Watari does when he doesn't want to give anything away? LOVED THAT. So many elements of this story could have been cliche, but... somehow I wound up just adoring this and looking forward to more. ♥ (Tatsumi/Watari.)
- Yami no Matsuei - Tuesdays by Baka Neko - "I believe I've emphasized that he's rare, nearly extinct, doesn't have the sense God gave a lemming." Another story from this author that has a sense of weirdness to it (Yamimatsu AU with Hisoka as a vampire hunter? Should have been SO weird and awkward, instead ended in a really cool little AU that fit surprisingly well with the tone of the original series.), but with an internal consistency that makes it work. The writing is again lovely, which pulled me right into the story, but it was also Hisoka's characterization, the way the relationship with his family was thought about, the adorableness of Tsuzuki that was just so Tsuzuki, the fantastic conversation with Tatsumi, the delightful batshit insanity of Hakushaku-sama, and so on. Very worth the read. <3 (A liiiiittle Tsuzuki/Hisoka, but blink and you'll miss it.)
- Yami no Matsuei - Breaking Tradition by Serilda - And then they turned to see him hovering just inside the doorway, empty mug of tea in hand and not liking the looks they were giving him at all. Things tended to happen when the two of them teamed up. Things that put anything the combined forces of Watari and Tsuzuki were capable of to shame. *shrieks incoherently* OMG, I LOVED THIS. Watari. Wakaba. Cohorting together. Not in evil ways, which JUST MAKES IT THAT MUCH GREATER. Not that the story is about that, but, dear lord, I loved the hints of Watari and Wakaba interaction in this one. But also? I am in love with Serilda's Tatari fic--she was the one who turned me on to the pairing as more than a leftover pairing in the first place and I still am reduced to a puddle of fangirl mush by her writing to this day. This is one of those stories that I'd only trust a really good writer with--the concept of misdirection that you KNOW is misdirection, Watari being handed a bag for "what comes later, after dinner" and going, "Oh! I always forget about that!", because so, so often it feels painfully forced, but here? I bought it, right down to Tatsumi's, "....I see." reaction that I could just hear. What I loved is that not only did it get me to buy a scenario that I won't spoil (but will instead say that I found it screamingly hilarious <3<3<3), but it was also sparkling characterization for both Tatsumi and Watari. So sharply in focus on both characters and the way they interacted that I just... I flail with love. Adored this. (Tatsumi/Watari.)
- Gravitaton - Condomcapades by DC - Hee! I really enjoyed this fic; it's one of those stories with a rather simple premise (Shuuichi bugging Yuki to wear a condom in traditional Shuuichi style--which includes sparkly condoms and there is little chance that I wouldn't love a Gravi fic where Shuuichi tries to get Yuki to wear a sparkly condom XD) that just had such fun with the premise that it turned into something really entertaining to read. But it was also the banter between Yuki and Shuuichi that was so very them, Yuki being cranky, Shuuichi being cute, and a conversation about love children. I cracked up reading that because it could have been so painfully cliche, but the author was talented enough to make it work, it was such a Shuuichi thing to say. The whole fic was, really, and it hit that balance between too much fluff, too much cliched meanness, and that spark these two had. I enjoyed the hell out of this one, really good fic. <3 (Yuki/Shuuichi, maybe light R content.)
- Gravitation - The Natural Order by Celeste - Some people are meant to be in charge. Some people are too dumb to realize this. Oh, I suspect I will never get tired of Yuki/Shuuichi banter fics, where Yuki is irritable, but not mean, where Shuuichi is whiny, but not grating (to me), and you can just see Yuki caving to the Power That Is Shuuichi. Yuki grumping about the order of things, about who should be in charge was so very Yuki-like and the ending was PERFECT. Loved this. (Yuki/Shuuichi.)
- Gravitation - Do Not Mix With Bleach by TheNeme - I can't decide which was more fun with this fic--Hiro and Shuuichi's antics as they're worrying over Suguru (who inhaled a little too much of the bleach fumes after Shuuichi's disasterous attempt at cleaning up the previous night) or the crack-addled and surprisingly hysterical hallucinations Suguru was having. I still laugh at the randomness of his shoutings when you switch back to Hiro and Shuuichi's POV that actually work because you get to see the hallucinations that are causing them. Great little humor fic so far. <3 (No real pairings/warnings.)
- Bleach - Ulterior Motives - Appropriate Adjective - A Modicum of Understanding - One Step Closer - The Problem With Passion by Triste - Okay, forgive me for using this fic as a springboard for this particular mini-essay, but I'll try to write a long rec to make up for it. Ishida/Ichigo isn't really my thing with Bleach, I think Ishida is the gayest straightboy ever, I'm all over Ichigo/Orihime, blah, blah, blah. So, some part of me feels like I shouldn't like this pairing, despite that I have such insanely mad love for their dynamic and probably would have been 'shipping them like hell if not for Orihime. And yet. Ichigo and Ishida (along with Orhime) are my favorite characters and I've liked whatever I've read of Triste's fic and this one looked long, so how could I not read? Some part of me continues to feel weirdly guilty about it, but... on the heels of Celeste's crack fic (and the lack of Ichigo/Orihime out there), this was exactly the right thing at exactly the right time. Really well-written Bleach fic that just nails the series' sense of humor to the point that I had to stop several times to just sit there and laugh like I do with the series.
The characterizations really sparkle--the first chapter of Ichigo and Rukia's friendship? Gorgeous banter that is so finely in tune with the characters, I didn't even have to try to picture it, it all just pops right to mind. So much of their dialogue feels like it could have come straight out of the show itself and, god, both characters were done fantastically. The only thing I might quibble on is that the story almost made Ishida a little too cool, leaving out what a giant DORK the character is, at least for most of the story, it starts coming around later on. Especially in chapter five, which is brilliant. No, seriously. Brilliant. I about killed myself laughing 3/4ths of the way through the final chapter and just... just... just... that was such a Bleach thing to do. Not to mention the sex was very hot.
More than anything I recommend this fic for the little touches of it, all the little details of the jokes and poor Ichigo's frustration/embarassment/whatever, all of them that felt like they were straight out of the series itself. I recommend this story despite not having been much of a fan of the pairing beforehand because it was one of those that convinced me, one of those that got me to cave on the pairing, because it was just so damned perfect and I could believe it here, especially the end. Because the writing is fantastic and it's just... one of those fics I flail over, despite having been wary at the beginning. Go read. So funny and so Bleach-like. (Ishida/Ichigo, R-verging-on-NC-17 content in the last chapter.)
- Bleach - Stranglehold by Triste - *beats head against the desk* Dammit, I'm not supposed to like this pairing. But... but... after the five-part story previously, the Ishida/Ichigo pairing is kind of growing on me and since there was a PWP to help scratch the itch a little more... and what I like about Triste's fic here is that she doesn't ignore the antagonistic relationship between the two characters, instead uses it to build on, not cutting corners and turning it into schmoop once they get somewhere. I get the sense that it'll always be there, that they'll always be fighting each other, even when they're attracted. And this was a nice little PWP fic, it got across the intensity of their dynamic very well and was actually a really nicely done handjob, I thought. *__* (Ishida/Ichigo, R-rated content.)
- Prince of Tennis - Photographs by Kentra Shinataku - [ prologue - part 01 - part 02 - part 03 - part 04 - part 05 - part 06 - part 07 - part 08 ] - I'm going to give this one a cautious rec... or perhaps it would be more accurate to say a rec with a few caveats that... *flaps hands vaguely* okay. The thing is, I have very set views of the characters. It's fine to disagree with them, doesn't make you wrong, doesn't make me wrong, blah, blah, blah. But this is a personal recs site and all that. My two biggest problems here are 1) the little details and 2) Tezuka. Little things like Fuji not being a good student, that he failed a math test, etc., don't jive with the character I recogonized. It's not that it's a rule that first years can't play, it's up to the captain to decide that or not (hence why Tezuka chooses to let Ryoma play, it was the captain's decision). Hyoutei doesn't have dorms. Saeki's friendship with Yuuta as well as Fuji. Etc. Second, the longer the fic went on, the more Tezuka's characterization faintly itched at me that something wasn't quite right, that I wasn't feeling the character. A lot of it was the obvious favoritism to Fuji's character, so that he won the quiet word match Every. Single. Time. Fuji was constantly catching Tezuka off-guard, saying something to make him dumbfounded, shocked, confused, surprised, etc. every single time they interacted. Never the reverse, it was completely uneven. After awhile, it eroded at my ability to believe the story and the characterizations because Tezuka is not that easy. (Also? Blushing? My brain cannot cough the image up, for the life of me.) Of course, I have a hair trigger with Tezuka's characterization, so take that as you will. (Also? I very much needed to get that out of my system because the rest of the fic is so lovely.)
Now. I don't mean to imply that this was a badly written story--quite the opposite, actually. The writing is lovely and Fuji's characterization fairly sparkles. The details are very nicely woven in, the prose is gorgeous, everything blends together seamlessly, from Fuji's role in the tennis club, to the way he was actually there when Tezuka's left arm was hit by his sempai (I was really impressed with the way that fit together with the series, I could buy this answer for why we didn't see it on the screen and it worked) to his love of photography to Yuuta's story in the background to lovely scenes with Yumiko. (Oh, my god, did I ever love the scenes with Yumiko.) Fuji's friendship with Saeki and the light influence of Rokkaku that pops up every now and again is wonderfully done. Fuji and Eiji's friendship is very well-done here, the kind that really worked and you could see why they were friends. If it weren't for the weak characterization of Tezuka to favor Fuji's character, I suspect this story would be among my absolute favorites in the fandom. I mean, the author really takes her time with the characters and the relationship, really builds an interesting background for Fuji that shows the progression of him learning to fit into Seigaku, finding a niche for himself, building relationships/friendships with people. The relationship with Tezuka wasn't rushed, the pacing of the story was very good. *sheepish grin* Which is why I think I went a little nuts with the story, actually. ;;;;;;; And if you don't have my particular biases, you'll probably enjoy this story all across the board, the author is very talented and I suspect I shall now proceed to devour everything of hers. (Tezuka/Fuji, Saeki/Fuji.)
- Prince of Tennis - A Pleasant Excursion to the Health Foods Aisle (OR, How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love K-Y Jelly) by Penguin - More delightful SanaYuki crack from Pengie! *twirls happily* She's one of those authors that can always make me drop everything and run to read her fic because she does anime-style humor so damned well, the kind that's not random and flat, but instead honestly funny. She's got a sense of humor that I think a lot of anime ficwriters would kill for--add to that the sparkly charm of her Sanada and Yukimura, that I can feel her affection for the pairing? Love. So much love. Plus! Best use of the calcium pill from 30_kisses EVER. Genius, even. ♥ (Sanada/Yukimura.)
- Fruits Basket - Sickness and Health by Celeste - Have I ever mentioned my love of Hatori/Shigure? I probably have, but that's never stopped me from going on about it before. ^_~ Especially when it's done with such a quiet touch, yet still has that punch of signifigance/poignancy behind it, when it touches my little fangirl heart that Shigure looks over at Hatori and is happy that Ha-san does care, when it's obvious that Hatori is concerned about Shigure, even when he knows the idiot is annoying most of the time. It's the way that Hatori is such a surprisingly gentle doctor and you get to see that so clearly here that makes me want to melt into a puddle. It's the way Shigure knows and cares about Hatori in return, but never has to say that I just... eeeee, gentle Hatori/Shigure fic! LUFF! (Light, could-almost-be-gen Hatori/Shigure.)
- Cowboy Bebop - Seguedille et Duo by Sabine - Going through 30 Kisses again this morning, happened to stumble over this one and really kinda liked it. I liked it because it was a very nice kiss, because it had that fun Spike/Faye dynamic, but didn't give them too much of a connection, especially placed early on in the series like this. It didn't feel forced here and I laughed like hell at the ending because that was such the Spike thing to do. XD (Spike/Faye.)
- Peace Maker - Onnagata by Karabana - I'm not sure what posessed me to read PM fic today, other than I happened to stumble across a link to a short-ish story and I thought, eh, what the hell, might as well at least skim it rather than chucking it into the already-hy00j backlog I have. I was pleasantly surprised to find writing that was actually really lovely, that captured Souji's personality, attitude, and relationship with Hijikata just beautifully well. It's mostly a fluffy story (with bits of angst here and there, much like the lighter moments of the series itself), but it's... it's the way Souji talks to Hijikata, half an innocent pout or coy look, half far more world-weary than anyone his age should be. It's the way there's an intimacy between the two lovers that never really has to be remarked on to feel it, especially when they're alone and Souji is getting dressed. It's the lovely, lovely prose and just... *flails* it felt like Hijikata and Souji! More than just being well-written it felt like THEM. I love. (Hijikata/Souji.)
- Full Metal Alchemist - Six Impossible Things by Baka Neko - "Alice laughed"There's no use trying" she said; "one can't believe impossible things."
"I daresay you haven't had much practice" said the Queen. "When I was younger, I always did it for half an hour a day. Why, sometimes I've believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast." - Alice in Wonderland. This is one of those stories that, if you'd told me the premise ahead of time, I would have looked at you a little strangely and probably passed the fic by. Hence, I'm going to attempt not to say anything specific about it, other than to say that it's the kind of story that could have been flat and unfunny with a lot of authors, but here I wound up giggling the entire way through. Actually, the third one got me to completely crack up, it hit me just right. Oh, and six? HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! *continues to sporfle madly* (No warnings/pairings.)
- Full Metal Alchemist - Janet by Baka Neko - Like the author's other fic (Six Impossible Things), there's a sense of weirdness to the fic, almost random in a lot of ways, but with an internal consistency here that makes it work. Meaning that I get the sense that the author knows what she's doing with the story, even if I don't fully understand what exactly happened to Al, why he's in the park, how he was human, what happened with Winry, etc. But the writing is absolutely lovely, I get a sense of something like an old fairytale off the prose, the imagery and symbolism is also very lovely, and Winry is a delight to read about in this fic. As I said, it's weird, but in such a way that's actually kinda neat. Oh and I thought the surrounding characters that had a hold on Al were REALLY neatly done. (Some Al/Winry.)
- Gundam Wing - Technicality by Jan - Every so often, there are these stories that just get to me, because they're exactly the kind of thing I wanted/needed for a pair--more than just reaffirming a connection between one alive/one dead character, it's done in such a way that fits together with the canon and give me a little bit of hope in my fangirl heart. Which is a vague way of saying that more than just the gorgeous writing and fantastic characterization (Oh, the OZ characters so rarely get this kind of sharp, clear writing that actually does them justice. I can't decide which one I love more, both so human and three-dimensional even in such a short fic, yet still so... amazing and depthful. ....SHUT UP, I LIKE THESE TWO SO I'M GOING TO BABBLE.) and the intensely hot blowjob, it made me happy by the end, without being in a denial sort of way. Which is something I really love--to incorporate the canon as it is, but still have an ending that eases the hurt of it. Blah, blah, blah, Barbie Shipper fangirl squealing about her beloved pairing, blah, blah, blah, just go read, Jan's fic is way better than this rec anyway, which you should know by now. (Treize/Zechs, NC-17 content.)
- Weiss Kreuz - Whiplash by Talya Firedancer - Mmm, Crawford and Schuldich like I like them, more than just a touch of insanity, cruelty, and dangerous, lethal attitudes, but something so charismatic and attractive in there, too. Sex that's not nice or pretty, but it's good, too, so very good and in tune with these characters, this harsh sex in Paris after a kill. Okay, I lie about the pretty, it's so very pretty, but not shoujo pretty, not kind sex, but not cruel sex, either. It's... well, what Schwarz should be. Intense, hot, and a very good fuck. >D ....okay, see, that was a terrible rec, very nearly pretentious or just bad, but people should go read the fantastic Crawford/Schuldich sex anyway. (Crawford/Schuldich, NC-17.)
- XXXholic - Playa Escondida by Kirisame - "Looks pretty," she spoke, looking at the sand castle, when the effect was fading. "But you know it's not going to last so long." The writing of this story is rough, it could have used a good, solid native English beta, but the basic foundation of the story is excellent, the relationship between Clow and Yuuko is terrific and the banter/chemistry fairly sparkles. It has all the right little touches--drinking, Keroberos and the Mokona playing at the beach, drinking, building sandcastles, drinking, Yue being embarassed, drinking...--that it felt right for these characters. I was terribly amused. <3 (Hints Clow/Yuuko, but could be gen, too.)
- XXXholic - The Things Kids Do by Laurus Nobilis - *bounces* Eeee! More Clow/Yuuko fic! With hysterical dialogue! It's one of those stories that is dialogue-only but still manges to get tone and background happenings across just fine, you get the whole picture, despite only knowing the words of what they're saying. Plus, the dialogue is genuinely clever and has that fantastic spark these two have when they start teasing each other. I love the ending. ♥ (Hints of Clow/Yuuko--SHUT UP YES THEY ARE TOO THERE--but could be gen, too.)
- XXXholic - Severus Snape And The Quest For The Bishounen's Eye by Laurus Nobilis - Heeheehee! Snape being forced to seek Yuuko out for a rare ingredient for a potion he needs to brew quickly and then has to deal with her while making the transaction. The HP parts of the story are adorable, but it's the brilliant characterization of Yuuko here that makes me cackle in delight over this story. Beautiful. <3 (No warnings/pairings.)
- Koko wa Greenwood - What is Family? (part 08) by Serilda - I love Koko wa Greenwood and this has always been one of my favorite stories (I even reread the entire thing this afternoon because I wanted it fresh in my mind for when I read the latest) and Serilda continues the story fabulously. Everything I've said about it before still applies--I adore the Shun POV, it gives so much insight into the character, truly makes him even more likable and it's a delight to read the entire story (minus the interlude, of course) from his perspective. His friendship with Suka-chan is perfectly done and the tone/style of the series is just so damned Greenwood that I can picture the whole thing and it does justice to this fabulous series. It was especially wonderful to watch Shun get mad at Suka-chan for putting himself down here, because he dealt with it in such a Shun-like way, right down to Mitsuru and Shinobu being evil to them about it. So, so much love for this story that really could have slipped right in between the pages of canon, that touches on that sense of heart that the series had, that isn't just about one facet, you get a sense of... it's got a plot that deals with everyone. I wait frantically for the next part. <3 (Some Shinobu/Mitsuru in the background, but it's not present in this chapter and not really the focus.)
And now I run off to conquer dinner! THE DINNER SHALL BE MINE! >E
Series:
Yami no Matsuei - 6 Fanfics
Gravitation - 3 Fanfics
Bleach - 2 Fanfics
Prince of Tennis - 1 Fanfic
Fruits Basket - 1 Fanfic
Cowboy Bebop - 1 Fanfic
Peace Maker - 1 Fanfic
Full Metal Alchemist - 2 Fanfics
Gundam Wing - 1 Fanfic
Weiss Kreuz - 1 Fanfic
XXXholic - 3 Fanfics
Koko wa Greenwood - 1 Fanfic
- Yami no Matsuei - Exorcism by Gaudior - [ part 01 - part 02 - part 03 - part 04 ] - It had been easy to say then, desperately sobbing out the words-- I need you. Live for me. I don't want to be alone again. He hadn't been thinking about consequences or about all the things he usually kept so carefully from saying. He'd been too busy trying to find the right thing to say, the thing that would keep Tsuzuki from leaving him, and he didn't have time to think about why that threat scared him so much. So, Meg points out these fics on her journal (ALL HER FAULT) and I read the first line of the second fic (Surpassing) and I'm immediately, "Ooh. Gotta read that one." and spiral back into a mini-Yami no Matsuei whirl. (ALL HER FAULT.) And, wow, this fic was just... it combined casefic! with gorgeous writing and a fantastic Hisoka perspective, really getting some of the best insight into the troubles of the Tsuzuki/Hisoka relationship I've seen in fic form. There are moments in this story, before the demon pops up that they have to figure out and take care of, that hurt because their relationship couldn't be clean or neat or anything but painful and messy after the Kyoto arc. Every time Hisoka senses how his words hurt Tsuzuki, how he covers them up with a smile that Hisoka can't bring himself to call Tsuzuki on, is painful and gorgeous because it was just so vividly them. Then you get the demon in the woods that they stumble over, contrasting the feelings of the demon (the need to posesses, to take the girl by force, over and over again) and it plays beautifully against Hisoka's own experiences and feelings without being overwhelming. It's so quiet you have to pick it up on your own and, god, I loved that.
I'm gushing about this story because every so often the Yami no Matsuei gets a talented writer who will tackle these characters with the patience and deft writing that they really demand and Gaudior is another one of them that needs to be put on the "must read" list. She does these characters justice and writes a story that's so clean, smooth, and beautifully told that I was just sucked right into the words and couldn't stop reading until I was done with the story. Tsuzuki and Hisoka are so three-dimensional here, never flat or parody-ish, instead I could so very easily see this dovetailing with the ending of the anime perfectly. I also mentioned the beautiful writing, yes? What also impressed me was that the case fic was interesting in its own right, the original character did exactly what she was supposed to do, reminding me a lot of Hijiri or Maria Wong, the demon being an interesting legend turned into something more frightening for the characters, and there were even action scenes! Not super-long battles, but the kind that showed up in Yami no Matsuei, further lending the feel that this could indeed have taken place right after the anime. Definitely a must-read fic, I'd put this up there with the best of the fandom. (Tsuzuki/Hisoka.)
- Yami no Matsuei - Surpassing by Guadior - [ part 01 - part 02 - part 03 - part 04 - part 05 ] - I was a little worried about Surpassing at first, since I so enjoyed the casefic of the story that comes before this and I'd hoped for more in the same line, but then I actually started to sit down and read this story, which wound up sucking me in just the same way the previous one did. The writing is lovely, the kind that you barely even notice the words, it tells such a vivid picture, which is coupled with painfully sharp insights into both Tsuzuki and Hisoka's characters. This is one of the best fics I've read that deals with the aftermath of Muraki's attack on Hisoka, the way it got across the way it hurt Hisoka and is something that affected him completely, his revulsion of anything to do with sex, the turmoil he felt at wanting that with Tsuzuki, trying to seperate out his own feelings/desires from those around him, trying to deal with being in love with Tsuzuki and how to handle that, all while juggling Tsuzuki's own reactions... all of it was tremendous. All of it was done in that gorgeous Yami no Matsuei sort of style, so that I didn't have to tilt my head and squint to picture the characters, they were just there in my head.
- Yami no Matsuei - The Incident with the Owl by Asidian - How could I have never read this fic before? I know I've read at least one of Asidian's stories, but I missed the one with the Tatari hints? SHAME on me! Which makes me glad I've been going back through old files again to find some of the Yamimatsu fics I'd never read or rec'd, because this fic was just so much fun. I have great, great love for stories that can do Watari's character justice, that can balance the mad scientiest, the cheerful friend, and the surprisingly intelligent person all wrapped up underneath all that blonde hair and this story was very nice for that. But it's also that it got a genuine sense of humor to the writing as they tried to figure out just what the hell was making everyone act so weird (When Watari figures it out and goes to test his theory on Tsuzuki and Hisoka? GENIUS. Especially the final line, I LOVED THAT.) and every time Tatsumi and Watari would have a conversation... I fluttered because it was the sparkling, non-cliche, charming dynamic that I'd fallen in love with. Plus, 003 being so cute and an ending that made me utterly squee and cute/funny Yamimatsu cast antics, how could you possibly go wrong with any of that? ♥ (Tatsumi/Watari, Tsuzuki/Hisoka.)
- Yami no Matsuei - Something like Chemistry by Chained Dove - HI. I WOULD LIKE MORE OF THIS ONE NOW, PLZ. RIGHT NOW. KTHXBAI. It seems like it's the first part of a longer story and the author seems talented enough to really do these characters justice--Watari's characterization is lovely, he's not just the spastic mad scientist slash sort of doctor character, there's an actual personality here. And Tatsumi isn't just a walking cliche either, nor is their dynamic; when Tatsumi is talking to Watari and is vaguely suspicious of him, I could have sparkled like mad because they were both so... themselves. There was a real depth and edge to the characters that I don't get nearly enough. Also? Watari randomly talking to 003, seeming to actually understand the hootings and chirps, but you're never really sure if 003 can actually communicate or if Watari is just a little off-kilter? LOVED THAT. That Watari was running the betting pool for when Tsuzuki and Hisoka would get together, won, and it didn't come off as painfully cliche, instead it was funny and I could actually believe it? LOVED THAT. Tatsumi noticing that everyone around him was going a little nuts, that Watari wasn't being as obnoxious as usual, trying to have a conversation with him and it goes the usual way a conversation with Watari does when he doesn't want to give anything away? LOVED THAT. So many elements of this story could have been cliche, but... somehow I wound up just adoring this and looking forward to more. ♥ (Tatsumi/Watari.)
- Yami no Matsuei - Tuesdays by Baka Neko - "I believe I've emphasized that he's rare, nearly extinct, doesn't have the sense God gave a lemming." Another story from this author that has a sense of weirdness to it (Yamimatsu AU with Hisoka as a vampire hunter? Should have been SO weird and awkward, instead ended in a really cool little AU that fit surprisingly well with the tone of the original series.), but with an internal consistency that makes it work. The writing is again lovely, which pulled me right into the story, but it was also Hisoka's characterization, the way the relationship with his family was thought about, the adorableness of Tsuzuki that was just so Tsuzuki, the fantastic conversation with Tatsumi, the delightful batshit insanity of Hakushaku-sama, and so on. Very worth the read. <3 (A liiiiittle Tsuzuki/Hisoka, but blink and you'll miss it.)
- Yami no Matsuei - Breaking Tradition by Serilda - And then they turned to see him hovering just inside the doorway, empty mug of tea in hand and not liking the looks they were giving him at all. Things tended to happen when the two of them teamed up. Things that put anything the combined forces of Watari and Tsuzuki were capable of to shame. *shrieks incoherently* OMG, I LOVED THIS. Watari. Wakaba. Cohorting together. Not in evil ways, which JUST MAKES IT THAT MUCH GREATER. Not that the story is about that, but, dear lord, I loved the hints of Watari and Wakaba interaction in this one. But also? I am in love with Serilda's Tatari fic--she was the one who turned me on to the pairing as more than a leftover pairing in the first place and I still am reduced to a puddle of fangirl mush by her writing to this day. This is one of those stories that I'd only trust a really good writer with--the concept of misdirection that you KNOW is misdirection, Watari being handed a bag for "what comes later, after dinner" and going, "Oh! I always forget about that!", because so, so often it feels painfully forced, but here? I bought it, right down to Tatsumi's, "....I see." reaction that I could just hear. What I loved is that not only did it get me to buy a scenario that I won't spoil (but will instead say that I found it screamingly hilarious <3<3<3), but it was also sparkling characterization for both Tatsumi and Watari. So sharply in focus on both characters and the way they interacted that I just... I flail with love. Adored this. (Tatsumi/Watari.)
- Gravitaton - Condomcapades by DC - Hee! I really enjoyed this fic; it's one of those stories with a rather simple premise (Shuuichi bugging Yuki to wear a condom in traditional Shuuichi style--which includes sparkly condoms and there is little chance that I wouldn't love a Gravi fic where Shuuichi tries to get Yuki to wear a sparkly condom XD) that just had such fun with the premise that it turned into something really entertaining to read. But it was also the banter between Yuki and Shuuichi that was so very them, Yuki being cranky, Shuuichi being cute, and a conversation about love children. I cracked up reading that because it could have been so painfully cliche, but the author was talented enough to make it work, it was such a Shuuichi thing to say. The whole fic was, really, and it hit that balance between too much fluff, too much cliched meanness, and that spark these two had. I enjoyed the hell out of this one, really good fic. <3 (Yuki/Shuuichi, maybe light R content.)
- Gravitation - The Natural Order by Celeste - Some people are meant to be in charge. Some people are too dumb to realize this. Oh, I suspect I will never get tired of Yuki/Shuuichi banter fics, where Yuki is irritable, but not mean, where Shuuichi is whiny, but not grating (to me), and you can just see Yuki caving to the Power That Is Shuuichi. Yuki grumping about the order of things, about who should be in charge was so very Yuki-like and the ending was PERFECT. Loved this. (Yuki/Shuuichi.)
- Gravitation - Do Not Mix With Bleach by TheNeme - I can't decide which was more fun with this fic--Hiro and Shuuichi's antics as they're worrying over Suguru (who inhaled a little too much of the bleach fumes after Shuuichi's disasterous attempt at cleaning up the previous night) or the crack-addled and surprisingly hysterical hallucinations Suguru was having. I still laugh at the randomness of his shoutings when you switch back to Hiro and Shuuichi's POV that actually work because you get to see the hallucinations that are causing them. Great little humor fic so far. <3 (No real pairings/warnings.)
- Bleach - Ulterior Motives - Appropriate Adjective - A Modicum of Understanding - One Step Closer - The Problem With Passion by Triste - Okay, forgive me for using this fic as a springboard for this particular mini-essay, but I'll try to write a long rec to make up for it. Ishida/Ichigo isn't really my thing with Bleach, I think Ishida is the gayest straightboy ever, I'm all over Ichigo/Orihime, blah, blah, blah. So, some part of me feels like I shouldn't like this pairing, despite that I have such insanely mad love for their dynamic and probably would have been 'shipping them like hell if not for Orihime. And yet. Ichigo and Ishida (along with Orhime) are my favorite characters and I've liked whatever I've read of Triste's fic and this one looked long, so how could I not read? Some part of me continues to feel weirdly guilty about it, but... on the heels of Celeste's crack fic (and the lack of Ichigo/Orihime out there), this was exactly the right thing at exactly the right time. Really well-written Bleach fic that just nails the series' sense of humor to the point that I had to stop several times to just sit there and laugh like I do with the series.
The characterizations really sparkle--the first chapter of Ichigo and Rukia's friendship? Gorgeous banter that is so finely in tune with the characters, I didn't even have to try to picture it, it all just pops right to mind. So much of their dialogue feels like it could have come straight out of the show itself and, god, both characters were done fantastically. The only thing I might quibble on is that the story almost made Ishida a little too cool, leaving out what a giant DORK the character is, at least for most of the story, it starts coming around later on. Especially in chapter five, which is brilliant. No, seriously. Brilliant. I about killed myself laughing 3/4ths of the way through the final chapter and just... just... just... that was such a Bleach thing to do. Not to mention the sex was very hot.
More than anything I recommend this fic for the little touches of it, all the little details of the jokes and poor Ichigo's frustration/embarassment/whatever, all of them that felt like they were straight out of the series itself. I recommend this story despite not having been much of a fan of the pairing beforehand because it was one of those that convinced me, one of those that got me to cave on the pairing, because it was just so damned perfect and I could believe it here, especially the end. Because the writing is fantastic and it's just... one of those fics I flail over, despite having been wary at the beginning. Go read. So funny and so Bleach-like. (Ishida/Ichigo, R-verging-on-NC-17 content in the last chapter.)
- Bleach - Stranglehold by Triste - *beats head against the desk* Dammit, I'm not supposed to like this pairing. But... but... after the five-part story previously, the Ishida/Ichigo pairing is kind of growing on me and since there was a PWP to help scratch the itch a little more... and what I like about Triste's fic here is that she doesn't ignore the antagonistic relationship between the two characters, instead uses it to build on, not cutting corners and turning it into schmoop once they get somewhere. I get the sense that it'll always be there, that they'll always be fighting each other, even when they're attracted. And this was a nice little PWP fic, it got across the intensity of their dynamic very well and was actually a really nicely done handjob, I thought. *__* (Ishida/Ichigo, R-rated content.)
- Prince of Tennis - Photographs by Kentra Shinataku - [ prologue - part 01 - part 02 - part 03 - part 04 - part 05 - part 06 - part 07 - part 08 ] - I'm going to give this one a cautious rec... or perhaps it would be more accurate to say a rec with a few caveats that... *flaps hands vaguely* okay. The thing is, I have very set views of the characters. It's fine to disagree with them, doesn't make you wrong, doesn't make me wrong, blah, blah, blah. But this is a personal recs site and all that. My two biggest problems here are 1) the little details and 2) Tezuka. Little things like Fuji not being a good student, that he failed a math test, etc., don't jive with the character I recogonized. It's not that it's a rule that first years can't play, it's up to the captain to decide that or not (hence why Tezuka chooses to let Ryoma play, it was the captain's decision). Hyoutei doesn't have dorms. Saeki's friendship with Yuuta as well as Fuji. Etc. Second, the longer the fic went on, the more Tezuka's characterization faintly itched at me that something wasn't quite right, that I wasn't feeling the character. A lot of it was the obvious favoritism to Fuji's character, so that he won the quiet word match Every. Single. Time. Fuji was constantly catching Tezuka off-guard, saying something to make him dumbfounded, shocked, confused, surprised, etc. every single time they interacted. Never the reverse, it was completely uneven. After awhile, it eroded at my ability to believe the story and the characterizations because Tezuka is not that easy. (Also? Blushing? My brain cannot cough the image up, for the life of me.) Of course, I have a hair trigger with Tezuka's characterization, so take that as you will. (Also? I very much needed to get that out of my system because the rest of the fic is so lovely.)
Now. I don't mean to imply that this was a badly written story--quite the opposite, actually. The writing is lovely and Fuji's characterization fairly sparkles. The details are very nicely woven in, the prose is gorgeous, everything blends together seamlessly, from Fuji's role in the tennis club, to the way he was actually there when Tezuka's left arm was hit by his sempai (I was really impressed with the way that fit together with the series, I could buy this answer for why we didn't see it on the screen and it worked) to his love of photography to Yuuta's story in the background to lovely scenes with Yumiko. (Oh, my god, did I ever love the scenes with Yumiko.) Fuji's friendship with Saeki and the light influence of Rokkaku that pops up every now and again is wonderfully done. Fuji and Eiji's friendship is very well-done here, the kind that really worked and you could see why they were friends. If it weren't for the weak characterization of Tezuka to favor Fuji's character, I suspect this story would be among my absolute favorites in the fandom. I mean, the author really takes her time with the characters and the relationship, really builds an interesting background for Fuji that shows the progression of him learning to fit into Seigaku, finding a niche for himself, building relationships/friendships with people. The relationship with Tezuka wasn't rushed, the pacing of the story was very good. *sheepish grin* Which is why I think I went a little nuts with the story, actually. ;;;;;;; And if you don't have my particular biases, you'll probably enjoy this story all across the board, the author is very talented and I suspect I shall now proceed to devour everything of hers. (Tezuka/Fuji, Saeki/Fuji.)
- Prince of Tennis - A Pleasant Excursion to the Health Foods Aisle (OR, How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love K-Y Jelly) by Penguin - More delightful SanaYuki crack from Pengie! *twirls happily* She's one of those authors that can always make me drop everything and run to read her fic because she does anime-style humor so damned well, the kind that's not random and flat, but instead honestly funny. She's got a sense of humor that I think a lot of anime ficwriters would kill for--add to that the sparkly charm of her Sanada and Yukimura, that I can feel her affection for the pairing? Love. So much love. Plus! Best use of the calcium pill from 30_kisses EVER. Genius, even. ♥ (Sanada/Yukimura.)
- Fruits Basket - Sickness and Health by Celeste - Have I ever mentioned my love of Hatori/Shigure? I probably have, but that's never stopped me from going on about it before. ^_~ Especially when it's done with such a quiet touch, yet still has that punch of signifigance/poignancy behind it, when it touches my little fangirl heart that Shigure looks over at Hatori and is happy that Ha-san does care, when it's obvious that Hatori is concerned about Shigure, even when he knows the idiot is annoying most of the time. It's the way that Hatori is such a surprisingly gentle doctor and you get to see that so clearly here that makes me want to melt into a puddle. It's the way Shigure knows and cares about Hatori in return, but never has to say that I just... eeeee, gentle Hatori/Shigure fic! LUFF! (Light, could-almost-be-gen Hatori/Shigure.)
- Cowboy Bebop - Seguedille et Duo by Sabine - Going through 30 Kisses again this morning, happened to stumble over this one and really kinda liked it. I liked it because it was a very nice kiss, because it had that fun Spike/Faye dynamic, but didn't give them too much of a connection, especially placed early on in the series like this. It didn't feel forced here and I laughed like hell at the ending because that was such the Spike thing to do. XD (Spike/Faye.)
- Peace Maker - Onnagata by Karabana - I'm not sure what posessed me to read PM fic today, other than I happened to stumble across a link to a short-ish story and I thought, eh, what the hell, might as well at least skim it rather than chucking it into the already-hy00j backlog I have. I was pleasantly surprised to find writing that was actually really lovely, that captured Souji's personality, attitude, and relationship with Hijikata just beautifully well. It's mostly a fluffy story (with bits of angst here and there, much like the lighter moments of the series itself), but it's... it's the way Souji talks to Hijikata, half an innocent pout or coy look, half far more world-weary than anyone his age should be. It's the way there's an intimacy between the two lovers that never really has to be remarked on to feel it, especially when they're alone and Souji is getting dressed. It's the lovely, lovely prose and just... *flails* it felt like Hijikata and Souji! More than just being well-written it felt like THEM. I love. (Hijikata/Souji.)
- Full Metal Alchemist - Six Impossible Things by Baka Neko - "Alice laughed"There's no use trying" she said; "one can't believe impossible things."
"I daresay you haven't had much practice" said the Queen. "When I was younger, I always did it for half an hour a day. Why, sometimes I've believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast." - Alice in Wonderland. This is one of those stories that, if you'd told me the premise ahead of time, I would have looked at you a little strangely and probably passed the fic by. Hence, I'm going to attempt not to say anything specific about it, other than to say that it's the kind of story that could have been flat and unfunny with a lot of authors, but here I wound up giggling the entire way through. Actually, the third one got me to completely crack up, it hit me just right. Oh, and six? HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! *continues to sporfle madly* (No warnings/pairings.)
- Full Metal Alchemist - Janet by Baka Neko - Like the author's other fic (Six Impossible Things), there's a sense of weirdness to the fic, almost random in a lot of ways, but with an internal consistency here that makes it work. Meaning that I get the sense that the author knows what she's doing with the story, even if I don't fully understand what exactly happened to Al, why he's in the park, how he was human, what happened with Winry, etc. But the writing is absolutely lovely, I get a sense of something like an old fairytale off the prose, the imagery and symbolism is also very lovely, and Winry is a delight to read about in this fic. As I said, it's weird, but in such a way that's actually kinda neat. Oh and I thought the surrounding characters that had a hold on Al were REALLY neatly done. (Some Al/Winry.)
- Gundam Wing - Technicality by Jan - Every so often, there are these stories that just get to me, because they're exactly the kind of thing I wanted/needed for a pair--more than just reaffirming a connection between one alive/one dead character, it's done in such a way that fits together with the canon and give me a little bit of hope in my fangirl heart. Which is a vague way of saying that more than just the gorgeous writing and fantastic characterization (Oh, the OZ characters so rarely get this kind of sharp, clear writing that actually does them justice. I can't decide which one I love more, both so human and three-dimensional even in such a short fic, yet still so... amazing and depthful. ....SHUT UP, I LIKE THESE TWO SO I'M GOING TO BABBLE.) and the intensely hot blowjob, it made me happy by the end, without being in a denial sort of way. Which is something I really love--to incorporate the canon as it is, but still have an ending that eases the hurt of it. Blah, blah, blah, Barbie Shipper fangirl squealing about her beloved pairing, blah, blah, blah, just go read, Jan's fic is way better than this rec anyway, which you should know by now. (Treize/Zechs, NC-17 content.)
- Weiss Kreuz - Whiplash by Talya Firedancer - Mmm, Crawford and Schuldich like I like them, more than just a touch of insanity, cruelty, and dangerous, lethal attitudes, but something so charismatic and attractive in there, too. Sex that's not nice or pretty, but it's good, too, so very good and in tune with these characters, this harsh sex in Paris after a kill. Okay, I lie about the pretty, it's so very pretty, but not shoujo pretty, not kind sex, but not cruel sex, either. It's... well, what Schwarz should be. Intense, hot, and a very good fuck. >D ....okay, see, that was a terrible rec, very nearly pretentious or just bad, but people should go read the fantastic Crawford/Schuldich sex anyway. (Crawford/Schuldich, NC-17.)
- XXXholic - Playa Escondida by Kirisame - "Looks pretty," she spoke, looking at the sand castle, when the effect was fading. "But you know it's not going to last so long." The writing of this story is rough, it could have used a good, solid native English beta, but the basic foundation of the story is excellent, the relationship between Clow and Yuuko is terrific and the banter/chemistry fairly sparkles. It has all the right little touches--drinking, Keroberos and the Mokona playing at the beach, drinking, building sandcastles, drinking, Yue being embarassed, drinking...--that it felt right for these characters. I was terribly amused. <3 (Hints Clow/Yuuko, but could be gen, too.)
- XXXholic - The Things Kids Do by Laurus Nobilis - *bounces* Eeee! More Clow/Yuuko fic! With hysterical dialogue! It's one of those stories that is dialogue-only but still manges to get tone and background happenings across just fine, you get the whole picture, despite only knowing the words of what they're saying. Plus, the dialogue is genuinely clever and has that fantastic spark these two have when they start teasing each other. I love the ending. ♥ (Hints of Clow/Yuuko--SHUT UP YES THEY ARE TOO THERE--but could be gen, too.)
- XXXholic - Severus Snape And The Quest For The Bishounen's Eye by Laurus Nobilis - Heeheehee! Snape being forced to seek Yuuko out for a rare ingredient for a potion he needs to brew quickly and then has to deal with her while making the transaction. The HP parts of the story are adorable, but it's the brilliant characterization of Yuuko here that makes me cackle in delight over this story. Beautiful. <3 (No warnings/pairings.)
- Koko wa Greenwood - What is Family? (part 08) by Serilda - I love Koko wa Greenwood and this has always been one of my favorite stories (I even reread the entire thing this afternoon because I wanted it fresh in my mind for when I read the latest) and Serilda continues the story fabulously. Everything I've said about it before still applies--I adore the Shun POV, it gives so much insight into the character, truly makes him even more likable and it's a delight to read the entire story (minus the interlude, of course) from his perspective. His friendship with Suka-chan is perfectly done and the tone/style of the series is just so damned Greenwood that I can picture the whole thing and it does justice to this fabulous series. It was especially wonderful to watch Shun get mad at Suka-chan for putting himself down here, because he dealt with it in such a Shun-like way, right down to Mitsuru and Shinobu being evil to them about it. So, so much love for this story that really could have slipped right in between the pages of canon, that touches on that sense of heart that the series had, that isn't just about one facet, you get a sense of... it's got a plot that deals with everyone. I wait frantically for the next part. <3 (Some Shinobu/Mitsuru in the background, but it's not present in this chapter and not really the focus.)