Danmei Tournament Bracket & Competitors
Round 1
Short Story of Shaowang vs. Where is Our Agreement to be Arch-Rivals? [WINNER: Where is Our Agreement to Be Arch-Rivals?]
Green Plum Island vs. You've Got Mail: A Cautionary Tale [WINNER: You've Got Mail]
Round 2
Lie Huo Jiao Chou vs. Where is Our Agreement to be Arch-Rivals?
Mist vs. the Earth is Online
Golden Stage vs. Nan Chan
Everyday I Get Up to See the Villain Stealing the Show vs. Little Mushroom
Fox Demon Cultivation Manual vs. Let's Talk About That Guy Who Transmigrated to Pursue Me
Copper Coins vs. Mistakenly Saving the Villain
Liu Yao: the Revitalization of Fuyao Sect vs. After the Disabled God of War Became My Concubine
You've Got Mail: A Cautionary Tale vs. Devil Venerable Also Wants to Know
Round 2 ends Tuesday, May 23rd, 2023, at noon CST. Let me know if you have any suggestions for the descriptions and content warnings!
After the Disabled God of War Became My Concubine
Author: Liu Gou Hua (刘狗花)
Other Names: After I Married the Disabled War God As My Concubine, Sau khi chiến thần tàn tật gả cho ta làm thiếp, 残疾战神嫁我为妾后
Media Type: Web novel
Chapters: 123 Chapters + 13 Extras
Main Pairing: Jiang Suizhou x Huo Wujiu
CW: ableism, violence, poisoning, death, war + more unknown
Links: Novel Updates, English Translation by SleepyTranslations
Description: [Jiang Suizhou] is a history lecturer transmigrated into a cutsleeve prince fated to be publicly beheaded by his new concubine Huo Wujiu, a captured legendary God of War given to JSZ in marriage to humiliate him by his brother the Emperor Jiang Shunheng.
“Aren’t you afraid of regretting this one day?” / “For him, never in this life.” - Ch.123
Copper Coins
Author: Mu Su Li (木苏里)
Other Names: Tong Qian Kan Shi, TQKS, Đồng tiền kham thế, เหรียญทองแดงปราบพิภพ, 铜钱龛世, 동전감세
Media Type: Web novel, Drama CD, Manhua
Chapters: 102 Chapters + 1 Extra (Completely Translated)
Main Pairing: Xue Xian (薛闲) x Xuanmin (玄悯)
CW: death, amnesia, ghosts, illness, murder + more unknown
Links: Novel Updates, English Translation/Introduction (Easier to sort via Novel Updates)
Description: “It's about the disembodied soul of a dragon who's looking for his lost body, as well as the people who were responsible for maiming him; he meets a mysterious demon-slaying monk with amnesia who only knows that he's looking for someone; maybe they fall in love idk. It's set in 11th century China and the magic is based on geomancy (feng shui).” - English Translation Introduction
“No Regrets. You have to hang out with me for hundreds or thousands of years, probably long. Even if you get tired of me, you can’t undo it.” / “It’s all I could ever wish for.”
Devil Venerable Also Wants to Know
Author: Cyan Wings / Qing Se Yu Yi / 青色羽翼
Other Names: Mozun ye xiang zhidao, 魔尊也想知道, DVAWTK
Media Type: Web Novel, Drama CD
Main Pairing: Wenren È x Yin Hanjiang - “Yinren��
CW: master-servant relationship*, death, suicide attempt, rape as a plot point (mentioned only, not main characters), body horror/gore, bus (gu parasites) - (Carrd), age difference, graphic violence, psychosis/hallucinations
Links: Carrd, Novel Updates
Description: The Devil Venerable, the Lord of Demon, Head of Xuanyuan Sect, Wenren È, discovers a book called <Abusive Romance: You Are the Unchanging One in My Heart>, which details the painful romance of two disciples of Shangqing Sect - Baili Qingmiao and He Wenzhao. In the novel, Wenren È is the devoted second male lead who sacrificed himself for Baili Qingmiao, which led to Yin Hanjiang, his subordinate and the fourth male lead, attempting to kill the female lead. Present-day Wenren È is now tasked with fixing the readers’ many complaints regarding the novel.
*While technically a master-servant relationship, especially at the beginning, the novel makes a point to show and explicitly state their progression to friends, not a servant and his master
**Wenren È is also sometimes referred to as Wen Renhe
Very aro-spec/ace-spec MCs, Yin Hanjiang is stupid and in love (and has rabies), side lesbians
Everyday I Get Up to See the Villain Stealing the Show
Author: Zhong Xiaosheng (钟晓生)
Other Names: EVSS, 每天起床都看到反派在抢戏
Media Type: Web Novel
Main Pairing: Han Changsheng x Huangfu Fengxuan Xichen / An Yuan
Chapters: 110 (Completely Translated)
CW: death, acceptance of death/suicidal idealation (HCS plans to die to An Yuan) + more unknown
Links: English Translation, Novel Updates
Description: Han Changsheng, the Head of the Tianning Cult, kills Lord An Yuan, a descended Immortal fated to eliminate the Tianning Demonic Cult. Confronted by an angry immortal and threatened with a new life surrounded by ugly men, Han Changsheng is sent back in time to fulfill his role: be killed by Lord An Yuan.
Fox Demon Cultivation Manual
Author: Feng Ge Qie Xing / 风歌且行
Other Names: FDCM, 狐妖修炼指南
Media Type: Web novel
Main Pairing: Song Ci x Rong Bai (Rongsong)
Chapters: 101 Chapters + 1 Extra (Completely Translated)
CW: abuse (to a main character & a side character), graphic violence, bigotry, minor character death, torture, shaming of appearance, suicidal idealation + more unknown
Links: Carrd, Novel Updates, English Translation by Lianyin
Description: Song Ci “mistakenly consumed the blood of the Demon King, causing himself to become a demon too. Since then, he hated the Demon King and wanted to take revenge” (Carrd). He ends up meeting Rong Bai without realizing he’s the aforementioned Demon King. Hijinks ensue.
Prequel: Your Ninth Royal Highness, Please Change Your Clothes
Sequel: The Demon Lord is Fleeing for HIs Life Again Today
Golden Stage
Author: Cang Wu Bin Bai (苍梧宾白)
Other Names: Golden Terrace, Hoàng Kim Đài/Đài Hoàng Kim, Huáng Jīn Tái, 黄金台
Media Type: Web Novel, Drama CD
Chapters: 79 Chapters + 4 Extras (Fully Translated)
Main Pairing: Fu Shen x Yan Xiaohan aka “Yanfu”
CW: ableism, slavery, death, violence, murder, animal death, fantasy drug use, implied sex (none depicted) - (Carrd)
Links: Carrd, Novel Updates, Character Guide, Official English Translation
Description: Returning to the capital after an assassination attempt, Fu Shen is ordered by a suspicious Emperor to marry Yan Xiaohan, the Emperor’s subordinate and Fu Shen’s rival, to weaken his growing power. “Enemies” → lovers
“I hope that you will hate me all your life.”
“Call me that again, and I may just give up the darkness and turn towards the light for you.”
Arranged political marriage, enemies in public but lovers in private, fluff, bickering/flirting, communication, doting/devoted
“From head to toe, where I’ve touched, and where I haven’t - I like all of it.”
Green Plum Island
Author: Hui Nan Que (回南雀)
Other Names: Qing Mei Yu, 青梅屿, 青梅嶼
Media Type: Web novel, Drama CD, Manhua
Chapters: 53 Chapters + 5 Extras (Completely Translated)
Main Pairing: Yu Mian x Yan Kongshan
CW: age difference (9 years; 18 & 27 at first meeting) + more unknown
Links: Novel Updates, English Translation
Description: After falling from a tree in his youth, Yu Mian can see people’s emotions via numbers and colors. When he meets his neighbor Yan Kongshan, he develops a crush. While he hopes Yan Kongshan will turn pink for love, he ends up turning yellow for desire without changing expression.
“Green Plum Island is well, your grandpa is well, Qiuqiu is well, the two cats are well. Only I’m not well…I miss you too much…I will be missing you when you read this letter.”
“‘But I can’t control who I like, so I’m going to keep on liking you.’ I think for a minute, then make a ridiculous statement: ‘I’ll like you until the day I don’t.’”
Let’s Talk About That Guy Who Transmigrated to Pursue Me
Author: Mo Xiao Xian (莫晓贤)
Other Names: 谈谈那个穿进书里来追我的家伙
Media Type: Web Novel
Chapters: 82 (Completely Translated)
Main Pairing: Wen Xuan x Jian Yi
CW: murder, fantasy racism + more
Links: Novel Updates, English Translation
Description: Wen Xuan is the Head Disciple of the Water Cloud Sect and the villain of an unnamed novel. Jian Yi is a new, talented shidi (younger fellow disciple) of the same sect who has transmigrated to support him and change his ending.
What is it about yearning characters with the surname Chu? Anyway, Chu Lian infests my brain like a dying rat. You will never be free of him <2
Lie Huo Jiao Chou
Author: Priest
Other Names: Drowning Sorrows in Raging Fire, LHJC, 烈火浇愁, Liehuo, 烈火澆愁, 열화요수
Media Type: Web novel, Donghua/Anime, Audio Drama, Manhua
Main Pairing: Xuan Ji x Sheng Lingyuan
Chapters: 137 Chapters + 8 Extras
CW: violence, gore, suicide mention, horror, war, murder, cannibalism, child torture, self-inflicted injuries, discrimination, slavery, genocide (via Carrd), claustrophobia, ableism, drug addiction, non-consentual (“sleeping beauty”) kisses between the main CP (Translation), death, demons, amnesia
Links: Carrd, Novel Updates
Description: Xuan Ji is the newest member of the Reparations Department of the Deviant Control Office, which is tasked with dealing with the aftermath of deviant cases. He encounters the deceased Emperor Sheng Lingyuan who has been awakened after a thousand years and ends up pretending to be Xuan Ji’s sword.
“Because he craved, he longed fanatically for a certain person. Since ancient times, this concealed longing had been a blade hung above the heart, and falling short would certainly be heartbreaking.”
Little Mushroom
Author: Yi Shi Si Zhou (一十四洲)
Other Names: Cây nấm nhỏ, Xiao Mogu / 小蘑菇
Media Type: Novel (printed & ebook), Drama CD, Manhua
Main Pairing: An Zhe x Lu Feng aka “LuZhe”
CW: gore, violence, death, non-graphic sexual assault (Carrd)
Links: Buy the Novel Here, Carrd, Novel Updates
Description: An Zhe is a mutated mushroom whose spore has been harvested by humans. Being discovered by the Judges, humans tasked with eliminating xenogenics like him, means certain death. Lu Feng is one such Judge with a 100% accuracy rate in identifying infected humans.
Liu Yao: The Revitalization of Fuyao Sect
Author: Priest
Other Names: Lục hào, ลิ่วเหยา, 六爻, 육효, Liu Yao: the Six Hexagrams
Media Type: Web Novel, Drama CD
Chapters: 109 Chapters + 3 Extras (Completely Translated)
Main Pairing: Yan Zhengming x Cheng Qian
CW: violence, death, major character death, gore, swearing + more
Links: Novel Updates, Chichi's Dives' English Translation
Description: “A cultivation story about how a declining sect is restored by a narcissist, troublemaker, meanie, idiot, and wimpy kid.” - Novel Updates
Found family/childhood friends, fantastic character growth, interesting characters
“My master’s way of cultivation is ‘follow one’s heart,’ ‘be unrestrained’ - Senior, pardon this junior’s insolence, but I’ve been wondering for a long time: Does suffering in solitude for the sake of longevity count as following one’s heart?” - Ch.46
“When he thought of Cheng Qian, he suddenly felt like there was nothing else that he desired in this life.” - Yan Zhengming, ch.56
Mist
Author: Wei Feng Ji Xu (微风几许)
Other Names: Bowu, Bạc vụ, 薄雾[无限], Mist [Unlimited], Mist: Unlimited Flow
Media Type: Web novel, Drama CD, Manhua
Chapters: 103 Chapters + 3 Extras (Completely Translated)
Main Pairing: Ji Yushi x Song Qinglan aka “Qingyu” (晴雨 )
CW: cannibalism, discrimination, homophobia, death, gore, zombies, suicide, graphic violence + possibly more
Links: Tumblr Review (Spoilers Warning; Re-Read Review), Carrd (CW: glitch effect, flashing lights), English Translation, Why You Should Read It
Description: Ji Yushi is a beautiful genius with a perfect memory who is openly gay. He’s transferred to Song Qinlang’s team, who is known as a homophobe. Idk how to describe it, but there’s very interesting and complex time travel and parallel worlds; you’re just gonna have to take a gamble.
Mistakenly Saving the Villain
Other Names: Bàn về kết cục việc cứu lầm nhân vật phản diện, MISVIL, The Conclusion to When I Mistakenly Saved the Villain, ว่าด้วยจุดจบของการไปช่วยตัวร้าย, 論救錯反派的下場, 论救错反派的下场
Media Type: Web Novel, Drama CD
Main Pairing: Song Qingshi (宋清时) x Yue Wuhuan (越无欢)
Novel Translations (Carrd): English, Indonesian, Portuguese, Spanish, Arabic, Burmese
CW: abuse to a main character, rape/sexual assault as a plot point (YWH was a sex slave), torture, suicide, depression, child abuse, PTSD, slavery/human trafficking
Description: Song Qingshi is a medical student who transmigrates into , an “angsty danmei novel” (submitter), to save the tragic protagonist. However, he mistakes the cannon fodder villain Yue Wuhuan for the protagonist and saves him instead.
Nan Chan
Author: Tang Jiuqing / 唐酒卿
Other Names: Nam Thiền, Nán Chán, หนานฉาน, 南禅
Media Type: Web noel, Drama CD
Main Pairing: Cang Ji x Jing Lin
Chapters: 126 Chapters + 3 Extras (Completely Translated)
CW: age difference, death, amnesia, child abuse, demons, date-rape/noncon between the MC and love interests, torture of a main character and side characters, ghosts, death, explicit sexual content (ch.111 + implied sex), child/sex trafficking, sexual abuse, implied pedophilia
Links: Carrd, Novel Updates
Description: Cang Ji is a brocade carp taken care of by Jing Lin, an exiled and amnesiac Immortal who killed his adoptive father, the Emperor of Heaven. When Jing Lin loses his copper bell, he and Cang Ji leave their mountain to find it, encountering the Eight Sufferings and learning more about their past.
“There’s a man I love. In the clouds. In the sea. In my heart.”
“Have you ever wondered? If the one to be devoured in the end would be you or me?” / “It doesn’t matter if I”m the one. As long as I’m together with you.”
The Earth is Online
Author: Mo Chen Huan (莫晨欢)
Other Names: 地球上线, Dìqiú shàngxiàn, EO, TEIO, Địa Cầu Online
ฝ่าวิกฤตพิชิตหอคอยดำ, 地球上線
Media Type: Web Novel, Drama CD
Main Pairing: Tang Mo x Fu Wendou
Links: Carrd (CW: glitch effect, flashing lights), Novel Updates, English Translation on Tea Novel
CW: death, child/infant death, gore + more unknown
Description: Six months after black towers appear around cities, a voice announces, “Ding dong! November 15th, 2017. The earth is online.” Players are encouraged to “attack the tower” during “game time”. Once pulled into a game, it must be completed, and the losing party seems to die.
“the Joongdok of danmei”
Short Story of Shaowang
Other Names: Shh! My Dear Alpha, 少汪几句
Media Type: Web novel, Drama CD, Manhua
Author: Little Ice Cube / 冰块儿
Chapters: 58 Chapters + 12 Extras (Completely Translated)
Links: Novel Updates, English Translation by Tailor’s MTL
CW: rape/noncon between the MC and love interest (later discussion about consent), graphic sexual content, omegaverse, mpreg + more unknown
Description: Jiang ShaoYan is the school tyrant and also an omega. While his heat is approaching, an underclassman suddenly confesses to him.
Sequel: Pay Attention to Me
You’ve Got Mail: A Cautionary Tale
Author: Hei Dan Bai / 黑蛋白
Other Names: YGMCT, คบสหายผ่านพิราบต้องพึงระวัง, 飛鴿交友須謹慎, 飞鸽交友须谨慎
Media Type: Web novel
Chapters: 106 Chapters
CW: age difference, rape/noncon between MC and love interest, graphic sexual content, suicidal idealisation + more unknown
Links: Novel Updates
Description: A 39-year-old gay bachelor in the Great Xia Dynasty, feeling his life is hopeless, resolves to get laid before committing suicide on his fortieth birthday. To do so, Wu Xingzi joins the Peng Society for Gentlemen, a secret organization for gay men to meet other gay men. (Based on Novel Updates Summary)
Where is Our Agreement to be Arch-Rivals?
Other Names: Did We Agree To Be Rivals?, Nói tốt trở thành lẫn nhau túc địch đâu [Xuyên thư], The Modified Script is Killing Me, 說好成為彼此的宿敵呢[穿書], 说好成为彼此的宿敌呢[穿书]
Media Type: Web novel
Chapters: 120 Chapters + 2 Extras (Completely Translated)
Main Pairing: Su Yang x Gu Feidi
Links: Novel Updates, English Translation by Peach Blossom Codex
CW: child abuse (the original Su Yang is implied to have had sex with/been interested in minors), sexual abuse, suicidal idealisation/attempts, violence, illness + more
Description: “The web celebrity, Chen Suyang, transmigrated into a film adaptation he’d just finished rolling the death scene. Now he has to play the villain—the Evil Sect’s young master, Su Yang. To return to his own world, he faithfully acted according to the script and solemnly recited his lines—waiting for the day he’d die under the protagonist’s sword. But… why were the scenes getting farther and farther from the script?” (Novel Updates)
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A Totally Subjective List of Favorite Danmei Novels I Read in 2023
Joyful Reunion :: 相见欢 by 非天夜翔
Governor's Illness :: 督主有病 by 杨溯
The Return of Cambrian Period :: 寒武再临
The Plays of Lips and Teeth :: 唇齿之戏 by 张佩奇
Blazing Armor :: 火焰戎装 by 水千丞
After the Disabled God of War Became My Concubine :: 残疾战神嫁我为妾后 by 刘狗花
Wilderness Vegetation :: 荒野植被 by 麦香鸡呢
In Name Only :: 有名 by 木更木更
Placid Chang’an :: 太平长安 by 盐盐 Yany
Eternities Still Unsaid Till You Love Me :: 欲言难止 by 麦香鸡呢
Joyful Reunion :: 相见欢 by 非天夜翔
“相见欢,原本是我们的曲子。”
"'Joyful Reunion' originally belonged to my people."
[action, political intrigue, coming of age] -- At its heart, Joyful Reunion is a young man's coming-of-age, as he grows up in a war-torn world and decides on the type of man and leader he wants to become. This novel isn't easy to read with it pacing and length, but its reputation as an iconic historical political danmei is well-deserved. There are no "good people" and "bad people", just humans trying to survive in a harsh world and live their own truths. The main romantic arc is fairly light, while the most controversial (i.e. beloved) "second male lead" in all of danmei is lurking in the background. But I love that Duan Ling finds someone who supports him through his worst days, and they give each other strength and hope to stay true to their best selves.
Governor's Illness :: 督主有病 by 杨溯
“去吧,”沈玦道,“你生,我去找你。你死,我去陪你。”
“Go,” Shen Jue says, “If you live, I’ll come find you. If you die, I’ll go with you.”
[wuxia, secrets and conspiracies, revenge plot] -- The powerful Governor of the Eastern Depot has a massive bounty on the head of an infamous assassin. Who knew it's because they are childhood friends who want to find each other? Despite a tiny bit of palace intrigue, this is mostly a wuxia story, focusing on the complicated bonds between masters and disciples, and far too many blood debts and sect secrets. The first part of the novel is brutal. I love plot-heavy stories but I intentionally ignore parts of this one during re-reads because it is just so heartbreaking (unrelated to the romance arc). But Xiahou Lian never stops seeing the best in Shen Jue and Shen Jue never stops wanting the best for Xiahou Lian. And that strong bond gives them -- and readers like me -- some hope and comfort as secrets and enemies from the ghosts of Xiahou Lian's past continue to launch them into one action-packed challenge after another. (My review here)
The Return of Cambrian Period :: 寒武再临 by 水千丞
这就是末世,个人的悲伤在全世界的悲伤面前,渺小无比。
This is the apocalypse, and the grief of an individual is utterly insignificant compared to all the grief in the world right now.
[apocalypse, action/adventure, superpowers/mutations] -- I don't know how to summarize 1.7 million words briefly so here's a much lengthier review. It's an action-adventure with super-powered humans and mutant "monsters of the week". It's a mystery and heroic epic trying to solve and conquer the cause of the apocalypse. It's a social commentary sketching out what humanity keeps and saves and becomes when modern society crumbles. It's a love story -- many love stories, romantic and familial and platonic and more-- that reminds you what gives humans the courage, purpose, and determination to stand up in face of overwhelming adversity is love for and from the people we keep in our hearts.
The Plays of Lips and Teeth :: 唇齿之戏 by 张佩奇
周辰瑜回到舞台中央,说:“这出《乌龙院》,我和贺辰烽常说,不过这还是我头一回演阎惜娇。”
说着,他转过身,对身旁的晏朝说:“人家第一次都给你了,你要对我负责。”
晏朝:“……”
Zhou Chenyu returns to the center stage, and says, "I have performed 'Wu Long Yuan' many times with He Chenfeng, but this is my first time playing Yan Xijiao."
He turns to Yan Zhao, who is standing beside him, "I'm giving you my first time, you need to take responsibility."
Yan Zhao: "..."
[ celebrities, comedy, traditional arts] -- This is a novel for when you want stories about celebrities, with all the fun of "CP fans" and Weibo drama, but also a break from actors and idols. A TV host and a Xiangsheng actor meet in a reality show that teaches them about each other's careers. While they are expected to provide some fan service to boost ratings, they also develop genuine respect and fondness for each other. With a comedian as a main character, this novel kept me laughing with xiangsheng performances and the main couple's funny antics. There is a bit of angst when the main characters struggle with their careers and their relationships with their respective families, but luckily, they find each other and a path forward together.
Blazing Armor :: 火焰戎装 by 水千丞
可那个"孩子",他又天真又残忍。
But that "child", he is so innocent and cruel.
[mystery/procedural, romance, firefighters] -- A departure from the norm in the 188 Boys Club, this novel is a plot-heavy slow-burn romance, following the work of fire captain Ren Yi and police officer Gong Yingxian. I got really drawn into the "cases" (fires) that Ren Yi deals with, and learned so much about fire trucks, rescue protocols, and fire risks of various materials. Gong Yingxian is a traumatized genius orphan with a large inheritance, weird hobbies, and no social skills. He repeatedly hurts Ren Yi's feelings and betrays his trust, for reasons ranging from uninformed callousness to intentional manipulation, but technically none of that is about their romantic relationship. I don't want to downplay the seriousness of his actions, but there is something precious about the guy who confesses his feelings with the bones of his dead pet lizard, and gets frustrated because Ren Yi can't decipher the romantic symbolism of the lizard's heart-shaped tail bone.
After the Disabled God of War Became My Concubine :: 残疾战神嫁我为妾后 by 刘狗花
“瞧好了,他,靖王,我是他的妾,他是我夫君。”
"Look carefully! Him, the Prince Jin, I am his secondary concubine, he is my lord husband."
[transmigration, romance, political intrigue] -- History professor Jiang Suizhou fails a student paper for using unofficial records, and ends up transmigrating into the wild events chronicled in the paper. Like any decent protagonist of a transmigration novel, Suizhou saves himself from a gruesome fate, falls in love with the coolest person in their universe, and change the world for the better. Despite the setting, the political plot is kept light and simple. A great treat for when you want sugar-pie feel-good comfort read with a tiny bit of plot.
Wilderness Vegetation :: 荒野植被 by 麦香鸡呢
如果可以,谁不想体体面面的,体面地爱人,体面地被爱。
If given the option, who wouldn't want dignity? To love with dignity, and be loved with dignity.
[scum gong crematorium, reconciliation, mental illness] -- My favorite HE crematorium novel! Xu Yan dumps emotionally abusive boyfriend Shen Zhi whom he has loved and tolerated for years, and starts a new life and career with supportive friends and family. This is finally a sane universe where no one retcons or minimizes or excuses Shen Zhi's actions, even if there were genuine misunderstandings and he genuinely loved Xu Yan. During the crematorium phase, Shen Zhi respects Xu Yan's boundaries and refusals (though he does repeatedly return to ask again). It takes time, but he works hard to grow as a person, to think and behave differently, and eventually lets Xu Yan go out of love and respect. When Xu Yan initiates the reconciliation, it feels like they have a chance this time because they have both changed and grown in meaningful ways.
In Name Only :: 有名 by 木更木更
“当他落在了我这儿,我这儿就是春天。”
"When he lands where I am, where I am becomes spring time. "
[actors/celebrities, fake relationship, mature characters] -- Two award-winning actors fake a relationship to quash a scandalous rumor. They gradually get to know the real person behind the other's accomplished career and polished public persona, and fall in love. The tone of the story veers is mostly sweet and funny, with a splash of angst that they conquer with their own strength and each other's support. It's so comforting and relaxing to read about the love story of "mature men" in their early 30s who know how to communicate productively, take care of the people they like, and really accept and empathize with each other's imperfections. (I wrote about the novel here.)
Placid Chang’an :: 太平长安 by 盐盐 Yany
“你既然选择了大理寺,查找真相、还原真相就是你的事,而我身为摄政亲王,稳定朝局,制衡天下是我的事。你做你该做的,剩下的我来处理。”
“Since you have chosen to join the Court of Judicial Review, investigating and uncovering the truth is now your duty; I am the Prince Regent, so stabilizing the court and governing the nation is my duty. Do your duty, and I will handle the rest.”
[mystery/procedural, court politics] -- The newest Zhuangyuan Su Cen has a sharp mind and keen eye for solving mysterious. As a high-profile rookie official, he is soon swept into the factional rivalries at court -- and the Prince Regent's bed at night. The plot is mainly driven by a series of cases Su Cen investigates for his work and at the behest of people around him, and many mysteries point back to a few old cold cases and a secret organization. The grand finale feels a bit underwhelming compared to the set up, and the side characters are somewhat flat, but the individual cases and the main couple are engaging. The relationship arc is a sweet but measured exploration into the charms and woes of a relationship with large gaps in power and age (40-ish vs early 20s). They are both capable but not overpowered, leaving the story with believable suspense throughout.
Eternities Still Unsaid Till You Love Me :: 欲言难止 by 麦香鸡呢
其实他知道不应该用‘等’来形容。许则像只风筝,没有人握着线,风筝在高空被吹得飘摇不定,但还是竭尽全力地留在原地,不是等谁来牵那根线,只是希望能再看某个人一眼。
Actually, he knows it shouldn't be called "waiting." Xu Ze is like a kite with no one holding the string. The kite wobbles as it flies high in the sky, but it still tries so hard to stay in place, not waiting for anyone to pick up that string, but just hoping to see that certain someone on more time.
[ABO, Alpha/Alpha, (temporarily) unrequited pining, amnesia] -- Scholarship kid Xu Ze has harbored a secret crush on Golden Boy and fellow Alpha Lu Heyang for years. They eventually begin a secret relationship in high school, but it ends after Lu Heyang gets amnesia, and they don't meet again until years later. The pining in this story is absolutely suffocating. Xu Ze has always prepared for his feelings to remain unrequited, and Lu Heyang is far from forthcoming and reassuring about his own feelings and commitment during their high school relationship. After adult Lu Heyang risks everything to recover his memory of their relationship, it's devastating to see Xu Ze break down in Lu Heyang's arms, finally coming to terms with how desparately he has wanted and waited for this reunion, and finally getting his Lu Heyang back. (I wrote more about this novel here)
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Decisive Battle! Battle for the Bride!? | 決戦!花嫁争奪戦!?〜稀咲鉄太編〜
Want to read along, but don’t have the game? Here’s a link to the event recorded!:
Event Period: 1 of June - 15 of June 2023
FEATURED CHARACTERS
Featured cards: Manjiro Sano / Takemichi Hanagaki
Event box: Hinata Tachibana
Event pass: Tetta Kisaki
CLICK READ MORE TO VIEW THE EVENT STORY
EVENT MISSIONS - Part 1
Defeat Tetta Kisaki (Beginner)
Challenge Tetta Kisaki x5, x10, x20
Exchange event points x10
Defeat the Tetta Kisaki using [Wedding] Hina
Clear all missions
EVENT MISSIONS - Part 2
Defeat Tetta Kisaki x3
Challenge Tetta Kisaki x30
Challenge Tetta Kisaki (Advanced) x3
Challenge Tetta Kisaki (Intermediate) x1
Clear all missions
STORY TRANSLATION
BEFORE BATTLE (BEGINNER)
STAFF
花嫁役のモデルさんはいられまーーす
And here’s our model to play the bride.
HINA
よ、よろしくお願いいたします
I-I look forward to working with you.
CAMERAMAN
そんなに緊張しなくても大丈夫よ。可愛く撮ってあげるからほら深呼吸して
HINA
スーハ―、スーハ・・・ ちょっと落ち着いてもきたかも
Hh… Hah… Hh… Hah… I think I’ve calmed down a little.
CAMERAMAN
表情もよくなってきたわねタウン誌のちょっとした写真だから気軽に行きましょう
Your expression is getting better, and it’s just a picture for a town magazine, so don’t sweat it.
HINA
はい!
Okay!
STAFF
花婿役のモデルさん入りまーす
Will the model for the groom enter.
TAKEMICHI
よろしくお願いいたします!!!!
Ah. I’m looking forward to working with you!!!
HINA
タケミチ君・・・!すっごい、似合ってる
Takemichi-kun…! Wow, it really suits you.
TAKEMICHI
ヒナも・・・すっげぇ、綺麗だ
Hina as well… Wow. You’re so beautiful.
STAFF
花婿役のモデルさんはいりまーす
Will the model for the groom enter.
TAKEMICHI
え?もう来てますけど・・・
Eh? I’m already here…
KISAKI
よろしくお願いいたします
I look forward to working with you.
MIKEY
なぁ、ネクタイ外しちゃダメ?この衣装窮屈なんだけど
Hey, can I take off the tie? This outfit’s too tight.
TAKEMICHI
え・・・?稀咲にマイキー君?
Eh…? Kisaki and Mikey-kun?
KISAKI
オレは今日頼まれてここに来たんだ・・・なんでテメェらがここに居るんだよ
I was asked to come here today… so why are you here?
MIKEY
なんか、その返歩いてたらモデルやるないかってスカウトされた
I was walking around and I got asked if I wanted to be a model.
TAKEMICHI
オレはヒナに式場のモデルやらないかって誘われたんすけど・・・
Hina had asked me if I wanted to be a model with her for a wedding venue…
HINA
新郎役は決まってないから、彼氏連れてきてもいいよってスタッフさんに言われたので・・・
The staff told me that I could bring my boyfriend since the groom’s role wasn’t decided yet.
CAMERAMAN
困ったな~。花嫁さん1人に花婿3人か
MIKEY
じゃ、オレはいいよ。別に暇だったからついてきただけだし
Well, I don’t mind. I just followed you cause I was free.
KISAKI
・・・オレはわざわざ時間を割いてきたんだ。何もしないで帰るつもりはねぇよ
I took the time to come all the way here. I’m not leaving without getting something out of it.
TAKEMICHI
オレだって!写真とはいえヒナの隣は譲れねぇ!
どっちがヒナの花婿になるか勝負だ稀咲!!
Me too! Even though it’s just a picture, I can’t give up this spot next to Hina!
Let’s see which one of us will be Hina’s groom!
KISAKI
妙な言い回しはやめろ・・・
けど、テメェに負けたと思われるのは気に食わねぇ。相手してやるよ
Don’t put it like that…
But I don’t like the thought of losing to you. I’ll face you.
_ _ _ _ _
POST BATTLE (BEGINNER)
KISAKI
なんだこんな面倒なことになったんだ・・・
花垣武道バカな勝負。乗るんじゃなかった。今からでも辞退するか・・・?
What’s with all this trouble…
This fight with Takemichi Hanagaki is stupid. I shouldn’t have done this. Should I back out now…?
TAKEMICHI
なんだよ、稀咲。諦めたのか?
What’s wrong, Kisaki? You giving up?
KISAKI
チッ・・・
バカを言うな。勝負はこれからだ!
Tch…
Don’t be stupid. The fight’s just begun!
_ _ _ _ _
POST BATTLE (INTERMEDIATE)
HINA
タケミチ君
Takemichi-kun…
MIKEY
心配なの?
You worried?
HINA
私がタケミチ君に声をかかせたいでこんなことになっちゃったから
I wanted Takemichi-kun to speak up, so that’s why we got into this mess.
MIKEY
ヒナちゃんは悪くないんだから気にすんなよ。にしてもタケミっち、真剣だな
本気でヒナちゃんの新郎になりたんだ
It’s not your fault, Hina, so don’t worry about it. But even still, Takemichi is serious.
He really wants to be your groom.
HINA
し、新郎役!ね!
うぅ・・・そんな言われて方すると変に意識しちゃう
T-The role of the groom! Hey!
Uuuu… It’s making me feel all funny when you say it like that.
MIKEY
私のことで争わないでー!って叫んでみる?
“Don’t fight over me~!” Why don't you try screaming that out?
HINA
もう!からかわないでください!
Hey! Don’t make fun of me!
MIKEY
ごめん、ごめん
Haha, sorry, sorry.
_ _ _ _ _
POST BATTLE (ADVANCED)
CAMERAMAN
新郎さん、表情硬いよ!もっと幸せ全開の笑顔ください~
Mr. Groom, your expression’s all stiff! Please smile with more happiness.
HINA
ふふ、幸せ全開の笑顔だってタケミチ君
Haha, he said a smile full of happiness, Takemichi-kun
TAKEMICHI
(そんなこと言ったって緊張して全然笑えねぇ!)
オレ、いつもどうやって笑ってたっけ・・・?
(I’m so nervous I can’t smile at all!)
How did I always smile…?
HINA
幸せなことを思い浮かべるといいよ
Think of something that makes you happy.
TAKEMICHI
幸せなこと?
Something that makes me happy?
HINA
うん。ヒナは・・・本当にタケミチ君と結構出来たらなって考えてらら・・・
・・・幸せな気持ちになるよ!
Yeah. When I think about marrying Takemichi-kun…
…thats what makes me happy!
TAKEMICHI
ヒナ・・・
Hina…
HINA
タケミチ君は?
And what about you, Takemichi-kun?
TAKEMICHI
ヒナとの結婚・・・
(全部が終わって未来に帰ったら・・・)
(Marrying Hina…
…when this is all over and I go back to the future…)
CAMERAMAN
おぉ!!いいね、その笑顔!!その調子よ!!
Yes! That’s it, I like that smile! Keep it up!!
TAKEMICHI
ヒナ
Hina.
HINA
なに?タケミチ君
What is it, Takemichi-kun?
TAKEMICHI
オレ、今すっげぇ幸せだ!!
I’m just really happy right now!
HINA
私も、すごく幸せだよ!
I’m really happy too!
MIKEY
稀咲、負けたからって。そんな不貞腐れんなよ
Kisaki, don’t be unfaithful just because you lost.
KISAKI
ハッ、不貞腐れてる?バカいうなよこんなお遊びの勝負勝ちを譲ってやっただけだ
Hah. Unfaithful? Don’t say such silly things. I just gave up a win cause it’s just a game.
MIKEY
ふーん?はたから見てる分には結構面白かったぜ、花嫁争奪戦
いい勝負してたじゃん
Hm? But it was pretty fun to watch from the sidelines.
It was a good fight.
KISAKI
そりゃどうも
Thanks.
HINA
・・・あの!やっぱり2人も撮影に参加できませんか?
…Um! Can these two participate in the shoot as well?
CAMERAMAN
ん~そうね。じゃ参列者ってことでフラワーシャワーでもしてもらおうかしら
Hm… Alright then. Guess we’ll just have them do the flower shower.
HINA
ありがとうございます・・・!
せっかくだし一緒に撮ってもらおうよ
Thank you so much…!
Since they’re here, let’s have them take a picture with us.
TAKEMICHI
オレは別にヒナとツーショトだけでいいんだけど・・・
I just wanted a shot with Hina…
MIKEY
待ってるだけも暇だったし参加してやるか。ほら、いくぞ稀咲
I’ve been here quite a while, so I’m gonna join in. Here, come on, Kisaki.
KISAKI
はぁ・・・仕方ねぇな
Hah… Guess it can’t be helped
[ EVENT END ]
You can view all my translations for Tokyo Revengers: Puzzle Revengers & Hypnosis Mic: Alternative Rap Battle in my discord: HERE.
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