F&L2: Sessions Part 1 uploaded

A chapter that took me three days to make.

F&L2 Chapter 5- Session on Fictionpress & Soompi.

For Fists and Lipsticks 2 – The Silver Crescent©, Reminiscence chapters will be named Sessions. Instead of being composed entirely of flashback chapters, the narration of ‘untold events’ would be done through a battery of psychological treatment sessions for Yoshida Ayane under Dr. Okamoto Shizuki. Like the Reminiscences, the chapters would be in first person, this time as told by Shizuki.

I had to learn the patho-physiology behind Post-traumatic Stress Disorder including the signs and symptoms. I had to learn how to make an acceptable medical history too. It was a hard task, but worth it since I learned a lot too. For a while, I felt as if I were a real doctor, hehe.

I figured out that using 'flashbacks' the ordinary way is too overused, so I came up with this new approach. Tell me how was it, was it hard to understand? I appreciate your opinion.

BTW, do I have a Korean reader around? I need help for Yoon's future speaking lines. Do PM me if you're willing to translate some lines for me and I'll credit you. Thank you.

-The Author

F&L2 Chapter 3 & 4 uploaded

For some reason, I couldn't access Blogspot the previous day so I wasn't able to post an update AN.

Anyway, here it is-

Chapter 3 in Fictionpress (unabridged)
Chapter 3 in Soompi (abridged)

Chapter 4 in Fictionpress
Chapter 4 in Soompi

These chapters will tell what became of Yuken & Shizuki ^_^. Also, a little glimpse of Kosuke's 'new' life and 'hobby' hehe...

Also, I casted myself hahaha. Oh come on, give me the role of the Senior Investigator Hiro. That's one of my dream jobs, you know (aside from being an astronaut, lol).

Hope you enjoy it. Thank you for dropping by.

-hiro (for some reason I've been growing lazier and lazier in updating this blog. hmm.)

F&L2 Chapter 2: Changes uploaded

Chapter 2: Changes have been uploaded...

Chapter 2 in Fictionpress
Chapter 2 in Soompi Forums

And yes, for Fists and Lipsticks 2, it would be written in 1st person (except for parts without Ayane, which would be written in the usual 3rd person).

A little glimpse/introduction to the new characters...

Enjoy and thank you for reading, especially to the old readers who have come back to read and the new readers too!

-hiro

Chapter 1 of F&L2: Dance of Death uploaded

Ah, at last we're ready for another chapter posting spree, hehe.

Hey readers, welcome back to F&L. I've finished up to chapter five now, but I'll post the first one at the mean time -

Fists and Lipsticks 2: The Silver Crescent
Chapter 1 in Fictionpress
Chapter 1 in Soompi

Ayane's back for some big revenge. New characters, new conflicts, new love-triangles, new secrets, new action...

No censored scene for Soompi for Chapter 1. Contents are the same.

Happy reading!

-hiro

Fists and Lipsticks 2: The Silver Crescent - Prologue posted!

I was planning to keep this first until I finish at least the initial 5 chapters, but due to insistent public demand, okay guys here it is - -


The prologue has been posted both on Fictionpress and Soompi Forums.

But Chapter 1, I'll be holding it first. Give me a week or two since I'm still making the flowchart of the sequence of vital events so that I'll not end up lost in the process.

Thank you for supporting me and this project ^_^

-hiro

Fists and Lipsticks "Season 1 Finale" uploaded

Hehe, sounds like CSI or something...

Season 1 Finale at Fictionpress.

Season 1 Finale at Soompi Forums


Thank you to all the readers!

(I'll be right back for a longer comment... I'm hungry right now. I'll just go out and grab a dumpling!)

-hiro

F&L currently undergoing massive revisions for PDF version

Since the next chapter I'm going to post will be the last chapter for Part 1 of Fists and Lipsticks, I decided to proofread the chapters not included in the Version 2.0 PDF/.doc Version so that once the final chapter is released, the .doc version containing all the chapters can be released too.

F&L Chapter 74: Bloodstains - uploaded

Second to the last chapter up... One to go before Part 1 of F&L ends

74 in Fictionpress

74 in Soompi Forums


I've included some confirming data regarding the 'hinted' secrets that remained unanswered. Also, a brief narration of what happened in Keiko's past is included in this chapter (about the Silver Crescent).

I intentionally made that narration confusing. I have a chapter that would explain that part in-depth, but it will come in the "Season Two".

Another bulk of Reminiscence chapters? Well, maybe... maybe... But it wouldn't be as long as those in the first part.

Thank you for reading F&L. One to go... ^_^

-hiro

F&L Chapter 73: Keiko's Secret - posted

This chapter contains the two biggest twists in the story.

Chapter 73 in Fictionpress

Chapter 73 in Soompi

I was always to confident that no one could guess both these twists. Well, the one for Keiko's identity - as I revealed several clues on the previous chapters, I could say that that was pretty much easy to predict, but the big twist towards the end of the chapter, surprisingly, someone from Soompi was able to guess it (hehe, and here I thought I was being perfectly unpredictable ... geez... lol...)

I'm sure you guys know "whom" I was referring to with the last sentence of the chapter ^_^

Well, see you in Chapter 74. I'm happy, there's 2 more to go before I conclude Part 1 of F&L. Thank you for reading!

-hiro

F&L Climax Chapters uploaded

First part of climax chapters of Fists and Lipsticks uploaded - -

Chapter 70-72 in Fictionpress

Chapter 70-72 in Soompi Forums


I feel happy that at last, I'm already writing this part of the story. It has been a long road indeed... and in 3 more chapters, Fists and Lipsticks is to be finally concluded ^_^.

As early as now, I'd like to thank you, the reader, who took your time to read this humble work of mine. You're part of this creation, and at every chapter, I am inspired to write and tell this tale by to the encouraging words and even your clicks to links leading to my fic.

I bow to you, saying thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Due to a drastic change of genre & ratings for the second part of the story, I decided to cut F&L at Chapter 75. The story will continue in a new thread, in a new story link - a sort of 'Fists and Lipsticks Book 2' - but I won't reveal the title of the sequel yet since it would be a major spoiler as of the moment. I'm hoping that you'll join me in this new journey. It would be long... but definitely shorter than the first part.

Again, thank you very much for reading Fists and Lipsticks.

-hiro

"Bridges Over Ropes" wins Soompi Short Story Battle for May 2008

The goal is to create a <= 2,500 word story which conveys the month's theme (See image above). I am happy to win again for this month's round (which was unexpected hehe...). There are fewer voters for this month's round compared to April, but there are 18 participants (and all works were good I may say).

I tried out writing something new by using Korean names and coming up with a romantic story with a 'Soompi-ish' touch.

Some scenes depicted some of my real life experiences... (I'll leave that to your imagination, haha.)

You can read Bridges Over Ropes by clicking on the following links:

Read BOR in Soompi Forums

Read BOR in Fictionpress


Much thanks to those who voted and those who read my story.

-hiro

Fists and Lipsticks PDF Version 2.0 Released

Fists and Lipsticks E-book 2.0 (.doc Version) released.

Here's the download link:

http://www.mediafire.com/?mmmybskjgz2

The following changes has been made:

1) Added Chapter 1 - 40

2) Spelling and grammar re-checked (but I will appreciate it very much if you would be kind enough to point out things I missed)

3) Added Table of Contents

4) Added Author Notes and credits

5) Minor editing for some speaking lines


Fists and Lipsticks can ONLY be redistributed via this PDF file. Any MS-Word version is unauthorized and considered as unauthorized copying and distribution.

Chapter 70: Game Over - uploaded

3,000+ words on this chap. I wrote this on the plane going to Tokyo (stopover) then to Beijing. Wow, they have cozy seats in Northwest Airlines ^_^.

Chapter 70 on Fictionpress

Chapter 70 on Soompi Forums

Action-packed scenes here... Uh, just read it, hehe. I'm off to rest for a while. Thanks everyone for reading F&L!

-hiro

Chapter 69: Password Accepted - - uploaded

Another quick update before I fly to Beijing tomorrow. I MAY not be able to update as quick I as I did the previous weeks now.

Chapter 69 on Fictionpress

Chapter 69 on Soompi Forums

This chapter will hint a lot of things regarding the contents of the Silver Disk, noted by the 'weird passwords' the disk had as noted by Tomo. Also, a hidden feature of the Circa Constellation is discovered here (but was also hinted in the previous chapter). Now, Yamazaki gang cracks the disk... but will be halted by some 'unexpected visit'.

Thank you for reading F&L.

Chapter 68: Silver Secrets uploaded

Chapter 68 has been uploaded

68 in Fictionpress

68 in Soompi Forums


A handful of revelations were given here. You'll read about the secret of the Circa Constellation and how it is related to the Silver Disk. Ayane also pays her father a visit in jail while Crosse receives a visit from his father, Dmitri Williams.

These are the chapters that I'm so excited to write - the action ones. Now we're all escalating to reveal another major secret in this story - something you'll never expect coming.

Thank you for reading!

Chapter 67 - Vigilant Watch ... now up

Chapter 67 is quite long (8 pages in MS Word, a little wordy).

Chapter 67 in Fictionpress

Chapter 67 in Soompi Forums

There's another Kosuke - Aya scene I prepared here... A little cheesy and funny, but hey, these scenes could be of reference in the future episodes, don't you think so?

And now that the funeral's over, Kosuke and the others are already on the move to take action to defend themselves from the Spectra.

Geez, I feel lazy to blog again today. Hehe...

Thank you for reading F&L!

-hiro

Chapter 66 - Aftermath - - - uploaded

Someone unexpected pays Yoshida Ayane a visit...

Chapter 66 at Fictionpress

Chapter 66 at Soompi Forums

A little Tomo-Makiko segment has been added too to dampen the panic a bit... but not for long.

I'm too lazy to make an author note today, I don't know why, ehehe. Sorry if I sound lame today. My pizza's taking so long! Where's that delivery man?!

Oh, thank you for reading F&L!

-hiro

F&L Chapter 65 - "Blames and Deadlines" now up ^_^

7-pages in MS Word - - action-packed, full of emotions, dramas, and a little serving of much-anticipated revelations...

65 in Fictionpress

65 in Soompi Forums

And yeah, things will get more serious from this point. I'll drop more bombs, so hold on tight, okay? Hehe...

I'm very overwhelmed with the kind reviews I have received lately. A lot of new readers too, both signed and unsigned. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank each and everyone of you. Too many to mention, but man, it was one heck of a ride and despite everything, you're all still there giving me your words of encouragement and support.

*Bows*

Thank you everyone ^_^

F&L 64 - Race of Fists *uploaded*

Short chapter...

F&L 64 in Fictionpress

F&L 64 in Soompi Forums

This chapter has the Kosuke-Crosse face-off (I figured that this scene should be expected... but I created the scene in a manner least-expected by starting it off with a race before the fist-exchange part...)

And with the ending - this makes chapter 64 the "transition chapter" I was talking about.

Did I surprise you? Was it too soon?

Damn you, hiro0911! I was just enjoying the sweet romantic scenes in the previous chapter, you write something like this?! %*^&^!

Hehe, I'm sorry.

Don't hate me yet. There are a lot of things to be revealed that would make you hate me more, hehe... *evil grin*

I'm considering changing the rating of F&L... Not yet, but I'll weigh things out as to whether I should stick to the Teen rating or not... But for now, let's just let things be...

... as we prepare for Ayane's "mad scenes" ^_^

Thank you for reading F&L.

-hiro

F&L Chapter 63 - "Real" Gangster Date - - - Uploaded

9-page chapter with all the cheesiness... and drama.

F&L 63 in Fictionpress

F&L 63 in Soompi

I could say that this chapter is one of the chapters that readers really look forward to. It would be including those sweet, little scenes while retaining its hilarity and depiction of the character's emotions. You'll see the soft side of Ayane & Kosuke in this chapter.

It would get a little dramatic towards the end, though... I made a 'foreshadowing' scene to ready you for the escalating events now coming near.

And like I've said, the climax chapters are coming near now... And yeah, there's going to be another big twist in the story... So hang it there, okay?

Hehehe...

Thank you very much for reading F&L!

-hiro

F&L Chapter 62: Power of the Heart - Uploaded

Short chapter... Seven pages in MS Word, but isn't very wordy.

62 in Fictionpress

62 in Soompi

Kosuke comes back (due to insistent public demand, hehe). LOL, nah. He really is coming back in this chap. Some comedy on this chapter, but will get really cheesy on Chapter 63 so go enjoy the 'happy times' while you can ^_^.

... because I feel that F&L is now nearing climax chapters...

And when I say "near", I mean it this time.

It has indeed been a long run, this story... I'm truly grateful to the readers who are still hanging on till this day. I hope you enjoy this installment.

-hiro

F&L Chapter 61: Backseat posted

A cheesy and sad chapter, but answers the latter bunch of questions: What's the complete decoy plan? How did Ayane come to replace Aya eventually? Why are there replicas of her Circa Constellation? How did Crosse truly feel about Ayane?

Here are the links:

F&L 61 in Fictionpress

F&L 61 in Soompi Forums

And for sure you guys miss Kosuke and the rest of the gang. Well, welcome them back next chapter ^_^

-hiro

Concluding Reminiscence Chapter for F&L Released

This is the longest chapter for F&L. Brace your self for a 20-page chapter which contains major revelations regarding Aya's past.

Chapter 60 in Fictionpress

Chapter 60 in Soompi

The chapter originally spanned 25 pages. To maintain its readability, I decided to cut down on superfluous descriptions that may just confuse the readers. It took me three days (and roughly 12 hours) to create the scenes as they appear. I decided to keep individual details for later (like details of what transpired in the court trial).

The original plan was to include here the flashback scene where Ayane decides to take Aya's place, how she tricked the Spectra by making herself the lure, the rationale behind the thousands of Circa Constellation replicas, how she met her gang (Ruri, Kaede, and the others...) how she ended up in Tsuzuya Academy, which marked the start of the story. But then, given the amount of pages, I decided to stop here for now. I devised a better plan of how to retell that particular parts.

I feel good being able to finish the Reminiscence chapters at last.

But as I've said, this is only the beginning. Lots of things are still bound to happen... now that Kosuke has entered the picture.

I'd like to thank the readers for taking the time to read this really long chapter. I apologize if it strained your eyes (hehe...). I guess it just can't be helped.

^_^

- hiro

"100 Goodbyes" Wins April's Soompi Short Story Battle

I was snoring in the middle of my peaceful sleep, dreaming about... (nevermind... *grins*) when my mobile phone suddenly rang. On the other line was Meia, my girlfriend. She was literally screaming (as in 'fan girl' screaming).

She told me that Ben Faraday won in the Soompi SSB!

Read 100 Goodbyes in Soompi Forums

Read 100 Goodbyes (unabridged version) in Fictionpress (soon - currently editing grammar errs...)

Haha, it was totally unexpected. With all the good entries, when the 18 stories were first posted, I initially felt that my entry was a little out of place with all its 'silliness'... To be honest, I haven't gone online recently because of some projects for school which I had to finish with my group so I really haven't dropped by to check the forums to see if there were people voting for #3, and I feel kinda guilty of not being able to vote too. But I've finished reading the submitted stories, which I have downloaded into my Palm.

Wow, brilliant people with amazing talents and thoughts... God surely is giving.

During the writing process, I had difficulty cutting down the piece to 2500 words.

First thing was a huge amount of deletion in the first part. Ben should have been further described as a "dumb, fat guy who separates himself from the world because he feels that everyone dislikes him ... a guy that would lock himself everyday in his apartment, if not making/executing suicide plans, caught with food and popcorn, slouching on a sofa, and preoccupied the whole day with watching DVDs - hence, his movie-like monologues like the part where he says - - "To the tides of Death, I shall submerge myself..." which pretty much sounds like Sailor Moon preparing to make a magic attack". (LOL... but you get the idea...).

The initial plan was to present 5 scenes depicting the last 5 needle pricks, but I ended up deleting the other two - -

The deleted scenes were the following:

5) A train station scene, where Ben meets a run-away teen, crying and guilty from running away from home (like the Bible story - the Prodigal Son... but this one's a Prodigal Daughter bound for home). The female teen wanted to go home already, but she has no money left. Ben helped her by lending her money and sending for a cab to take her back to her home. As she rides the cab, she thanks Ben for his help and told him "to stay if you could stay rather than leave with uncertainty and regret it in the last hour..." and waves goodbye.

4) Where Ben helps an old man cross the street - and the old man will say that he hopes that more people should be as kind as he was, then says goodbye to him.

I also deleted some of his suicide attempts like the voodoo doll scene, drinking expired poison, jumping to a snake pit in a zoo, but the snake goes to him and acted all friendly like Puss in Boots of Shrek...

About the inspiration, it all came from a crazy mixture of ideas. A reviewer actually mentioned about reminding her of 'Death Note'. Actually, that's where the idea of 'Death' first occurred to me (I was reading the manga the night before I started 100 Goodbyes). I'm glad that someone pointed it out. Then, the evening when I worked on the piece, Meia & I were watching Brad Pitt's movie 'Troy' on DVD. After watching the movie, we went to dinner and mentioned it during our conversation. I mistakenly said '300' instead of 'Troy'. So yeah, part of Ben was me... okay, fine. I'm dumb sometimes, but I'm not a mermaid and I have an original Lacoste! *grins*

And the briefs?

Uh... nevermind that... I'll leave it to your imagination *grins*.

And there's something I need to apologize about, BTW. I made a mistake about the dinosaur. I actually found out that there IS a dinosaur that floats! (LOL!)

Okay guys, I'd like you to meet Mr. tPod. Nah, kidding. Above is a non-avian therapod dinosaur.

And yeah, it floats...

But the T-rex definitely does NOT float (lol...)

Source: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/05/070524091023.htm

To those who voted for 100 Goodbyes, namely:

T w e e !
kc_chua
PsstChii
Orange Ogre
SoompiSnoopi
lenaaa._
rootless. (although the vote was not counted...)

And to everyone who made comments for my work, I greatly appreciate it. Thanks a lot and I'm glad you enjoyed it. I hope that in one way or another, my piece inspired you to think positively of life. Every hour of this life may be difficult. Problems may wound you, but don't let these wounds kill you in the end by giving up on everything. Remember that every person has a purpose, even those who are not blessed with physical features of that of Kwon Boa or Brad Pitt. All we have to do is bring out our goodness to inspire others, and you'll be surprised that one way or another, people will come to love you naturally.

Ahhh, what a beautiful world.

Kudos to all the writers of the other stories. You all made me happy today ^_^.

-hiro

Second to the last Reminiscence Chapter Posted

Much much more revealed in this installment.

FL 59 in Fictionpress

FL 59 in Soompi

I'm updating really fast recently. It's because I'm excited to get to the bottom of things once and for all!

And it's because I'm ready to throw in some new batch of questions hehe...

I'm in such a good writing mood recently. I dunno... The ideas just continued to drill in unceasingly as I type. I just had to put it to Word before it disappears in my head.

The next chapter will tie several loose ends up - How Aya went into a coma, how Yoshida Akira was sent to jail, & how Ayane came to double for Aya.

But then again, this is just the beginning...

Bigger things are bound to come...

~hiro

Fists and Lipsticks CH 58 posted

Lots of questions answered in this installment:

1. Who are the original members of the Miyazawa Gang?
2. How did Miyazawa Aya learn how to fight?
3. Who is Tanaka Seiichi's (a member of Yoshida Ayane's fake Miyazawa Gang) older brother? How is he related to Miyazawa Aya?
4. How did Ayane and his father, Yoshida Akira, come to Japan?


It's getting to the big part... And I already feel the climb of this story towards its climax ^_^

Thanks to the readers - especially to KittyKaiya & Kaiyako Kagami from Fictionpress and the bunch of kind reviewers from Soompi Forums, non-silent & silent readers alike.

BTW, here are the links:

58 in Fictionpress

58 in Soompi

Thanks everyone!

~hiro

F&L Summary has been changed

I realized that the summary really sounded lame... It didn't reflect what F&L truly is. It sounded more like a love-story-cutey-cutey story when it is far from that. Hehe.

Here's the new summary:

The prestigious Tsuzuya Academy is home to Tokyo’s most fearsome high school gang,
led by the famous, arrogant, yet exceptionally attractive Yamazaki Kosuke, who gets away with all his trouble-makings, being the only son of Japan’s most respected judge. And so, he, along with his four other colleagues bounded by their strong influences to the school administration, vowed to drive out anyone who attempts to claim their reign.

One day, however, a transfer student arrives in Tsuzuya.

Her hair is perfect,

her eyes are sapphire,

and her lips are pink - - -

VERY pink.

Turns out that this girl is no other than the infamous Miyazawa Aya – who is a gang leader herself !

Rumors have swept every corner of the campus. The news of Aya’s rising popularity
did not fail to alarm Kosuke's gang.

Now, they have a new mission:

Drive Miyazawa out of Tsuzuya Academy after making her life a living hell!

However, what if things do not turn out as planned?

What if Miyazawa Aya happens to be much more than a high school gangster?

That she rides fast bikes and is wanted by the world's biggest mafia?

That everything would go beyond matters of school 'kingship' - -


To a struggle to keep oneself alive...


This is a story of nasty bullies,

powerful punches,

fast bikes,

very pink lips,

and... love.

F&L Reminiscence 7 & 8 has been uploaded

I realized that I forgot to write a blog entry regarding the Reminiscence 7 (hahaha...)

Anyhow, here they are:

Reminiscence 7 (Chapter 56) in Fictionpress
Reminiscence 7 (Chapter 56) in Soompi Forums

Reminiscence 8 (Chapter 57) in Fictionpress
Reminiscence 8 (Chapter 57) in Soompi Forums

These chapters will reveal how Miyazawa Aya and Crosse Williams were involved in the underground motorcycle racing. It would also tell about the secret of the Williams Motors Corporation.

Secrets are now unfolding one by one, like finding the matching puzzle pieces to fit in their right places. I hope you do enjoy reading these flashback chapters. After these Reminiscences, there would be a little drama left and right, then the end of F&L will be near...

Wow, it has been a long journey, hasn't it? I'm pretty happy that you're all still here to give me your support.

~hiro

FL55 - Reminiscence Part 6 now up

A long chapter (see, I warned you...) 11 pages in MS word.

FL 55 at Fictionpress

FL 55 at Soompi

This chapter unveils how Aya got into motorcycle racing in Japan. Don't kill me for more questions presented here (especially regarding Keiko's blindness).

And yeah, things will get more serious from here on...

Thank you for reading F&L! --hiro

New Fists and Lipsticks Cast Chart

Made by Meia - - here it is:


Cool huh?

Chapter 54: Okaa-san - F&L posted

This is a very short chapter. Second to the shortest, by the way (next to Date? No Way)

Here are the links:

Fictionpress 54

Soompi 54


This is short because the next chapters are going to be long (hehe). Yes, the remaining half of the Reminiscences will be next. Stay tuned until then.

Thank you again for reading F&L. --hiro

Fists and Lipsticks PDF Version 1.1 out

Finished 5 more chapters.

This PDF version 1.1 has Chapter 1 - 30:

http://www.mediafire.com/?wtmda0lgdj3


To the old readers of F&L - - Sorry if the next chapter is taking so long. Right now, I'm making revisions to my previous chapters, specifically grammar errors and inconsistency checks.

You would also notice that Meia has revised the first 25 chapters of F&L in Soompi Forums. Now, each chapter has the cute emoticons care of Onionclub. Feel free to re-read the first chapters. You'll notice some changes AND some additions (especially the staircase scene and Miyazawa and Kosuke's post-auction ball date). After reading them, I realized that the bonding between Miyazawa and Kosuke just WEREN'T enough. There MUST be something deeper, and the progression of how Kosuke has come to like Miyazawa should be drawn clearer and more dramatically. I realized that it came too dense and too fast. I don't like it that way. I'm pretty happy with the new one though. And yeah, the emoticons were really funny. Credits to Onion-club ^_^

Fists and Lipsticks PDF Version 1.0 Up ^_^

Good news to new readers (and old readers as well).

I have completed almost half of the revisions to Fists and Lipsticks. This time, it is available as a one-click download in PDF-version.

Here is the link:

http://www.mediafire.com/?vmwtewtwt3n

http://www.mediafire.com/?vmwtewtwt3n

If for some reason the link does not work, you can e-mail me and I can send it to you personally.

Version 1.0 only includes Chapter 1 - 25. You will also notice that I have added, changed, and revised some conversation lines, events, and names.

Revisions included the following:

1. Removed the excessive usage of honorifics. I heard from a Japanese friend that these honorifics are not always used in typical conversations, especially among male friends. So you may notice that some -kuns are omitted, but the -chans remain.

2. Hidemi's coffee shop - I named it this time as 'Concorde'. I just liked the name ^_^

3. As for the conversation lines, I've done some revisions to correct several inconsistencies (like the fact that only Yuken should call Kosuke as 'Kosuke', while others should refer to him as 'Yamazaki' instead). I can't give the complete details of the changes I made since they were MASSIVE. I realized that there were really many grammar and spelling errors, especially in the first ten chapters. It took me a long time to edit them. I feel good that I finally finished them. But if I happen to miss some parts, I would really appreciate it if you could point them out to me so that I can change them in the next version release.

In addition, I also added some conversation lines that weren't present before.

4. I changed the staircase scene. Yup, that sweet staircase scene. You're free to re-read it if you want.

5. I made some minor detail revisions too. Like the 'speeding ticket' for instance. Instead of having that law where "in incessant over-speeding, all people in the vehicle gets a ticket too" - I scrapped that one and changed it to something else (since I realize that it is really unrealistic and stupid, hehe...) . Feel free to check out that revision too.




The revisions for the remaining 28 chapters will be release probably in three days.

I'll post the link as soon as I'm done.

Thank you for reading F&L ^_^

Fists and Lipsticks PDF version - Soon

Due to the great number of chapters F&L has involved into, a lot of people has been requesting for a 1-click download version (or what they call the .doc version) of Fists and Lipsticks to facilitate easier off-line reading (especially for new readers who would like to catch up).

Currently, I'm starting to do massive revisions to Fists and Lipsticks (including grammar and spelling checks and correcting some inconsistencies as noted by the helpful replies from Fictionpress.com). I'm targeting next week for the release of the 1st part of the PDF version (Chapter 1 to __... depends on what I can finish). I prefer uploading a PDF version rather than a Microsoft Word document version so that the format and the text would not be easily altered.

F&L Chapter 53: Herbivore Now up in FP and Soompi

Here's a light chapter. Some humor and yeah, some cheesy ones too.

Chapter 53 in FP

Chapter 53 in Soompi

As you may have noticed, the previous chapters and this one has been a little bit like 'filler chapters' (well, not really. These chapters are necessary, but compared to the other ones, they don't contribute much to the plot). This is because I am establishing a smooth transition from drama to heavy emotional drama to a little comedy (like this one) then later to heavy action. I'm just doing a little 'building-up' as far as the characters are concerned.

And while things are getting a little too romantic around these past few chapters, I'd say they would be really necessary. As much as possible, the bond between the characters (Ayane to Kosuke, Kosuke to his friends, Kosuke to his father and mother, Ayane to Crosse... Ayane to Aya.. and the list goes on...) must be stressed in preparation for the later chaps. There are still pending scenes like the second half of the 'Reminiscences' and the big 'heavy action' transition I was talking about. I don't want to 'shock' my readers by putting those scenes right away.

As you might have expected from the very first time you opened this story, this is a "gangster" fic... and with the present chapters, there hasn't been a "full-blow" of "gangster-ness" in the story - up to this point, just little fights here and there, puny school brawls, nothing much, eh? However, this would be reserved for later. Lots of things are still bound to happen, lots of secrets to be revealed, and yeah... Ayane's gonna go "mad" at some point. That's the "heavy action" part I'm talking about. I hope that you, the reader, will still be there to give it a read ^_^.

Thanks again to all the readers ~ hiro

F&L Chapter 52: On Emergency Kits and Refuge now up!

No Kosuke-Aya scenes... but is a must read for Shizuki-Yuken Fans ^_^

And also, we get to know more about Tomo too.

52 Fictionpress

52 Soompi

So there, I'm too lazy to put up some good author notes... so till then!

Fists and Lipsticks Trailer - New and Improved

Meia bragged me for almost a week, asking me to teach her some more about video editing.

We started with a few of our personal videos, but then later she had this crazy idea to come up with another video for F&L - this time, not a promotional video but a TRAILER.

I guess the bragging-sessions were worth it. It came out... Wow... ^_^



Kinda pixelated though (since the videos were only downloaded randomly via YouTube)

F&L 51 - Confessions - - - Up in FP & Soompi

A must read for Kosuke x Aya fans ^_^

It feels kinda weird to revert back to 3rd person writing after 5 long chapters of 1st person narrations. This chapter tells what happens during their confinement in the hospital after the Tsuzuya brawl, which (if you recall) left the two of them with the most injuries.

I've made a plot sequence change too, in case you have noticed. I stopped in Reminiscence Part 5, so I haven't revealed the flashback which would narrate how Aya Miyazawa ended in a coma. Well, to unveil that part, I came up with a better plan. So let's keep that suspense for now (*grins*)

I realized that even though some people requested to be taken off from the PM list in Soompi, the number of readers has been growing through the months, both in FP and Soompi. To this reason, I've become more inspired to write and finish this story.

Thank you very much to everyone who has been with me all throughout the ride.

`hiro

F&L Reminiscence Part 5 Chapter 50 posted

Haaaaa.... Chapter 50...

Man, I suddenly realized how long this story is now. I just hope I'm not starting to bore the readers. But anyway, here it is:

Chapter 50 in Fictionpress

Chapter 50 in Soompi

I could say that this chapter, by far, is one of the best (if not the best) chapter ever posted for F&L. There are lots of emotions poured out here, specifically by Yoshida Ayane. This chapter is long btw (13 pages in MS word) and centers on Yoshida Aya and Crosse Williams' untold relationship in the past. This will stress how deep their relationship was, and how it will be upturned with Miyazawa Aya's entry to the scene.

Aside from this, the origin of how the Circa Constellation got it name will be briefly noted here, but not detailedly. I'm leaving the flashback for that in another separate chapter.

I've realized that I cannot actually fit in all the reminiscences in 4 chapters just as planned. Now, I think I'm going to exceed 7 now that I look at it... But I'll weigh things probably according to my judgment of the plot from here on.

An option is to stop here in Part 5 and resume the reminiscence after the hospital scene of Aya and Kosuke... Or probably continue until part 7 and reveal about the 'accident' that left Aya in a coma before I present the Aya-Kosuke scene after the school incident.

Right now I'm still deciding on that... and so - - -

Any suggestions are welcomed ^_^

Thanks ~ hiro

F&L Reminiscence Part 4 CH49 Posted - Hardship in 1st person writing!

Wow, it actually took me a while before I finished this one - -


F&L 49 in FP

F&L 49 in Soompi


Actually I have two reasons why it took me a while to post the next chapter. One is that I just came from Mexico for an English conference (which was pretty cool btw. Mexicans are really nice people!).

Second reason was that I personally had difficulty in writing this chapter. I had to ask Meia's help, since this chapter was written in first person and was meant to be 'filled with emotions'. This is the chapter where I unfold the true relationship between Crosse and Yoshida Ayane and how the tides turned for them when Miyazawa Aya came in the picture. This is a pretty long chapter too (9 pages in MS Word) and a lot of things happened and were revealed here.

Thanks for reading F&L, especially to the new readers both in FP and Soompi. ~hiro

Reminiscences

F&L has been updated again for this week.

48 in FP

48 in Soompi

I'm actually getting the hang of this 1st-person narration. Although sometimes I still sound 'mechanical' (which I'm trying my best to avoid doing), so far everything is going smoothly as far as the narration is concerned.

Now that I look at it, I think I won't be able to compress the 'Reminiscences' into 4 parts. Probably it would reach up to 5. I'm avoiding uploading chapters that are too long too, since it may end up tad boring for the readers.

The secrets are slowly coming into the open, huh? Well, there's more coming... and I really hope you will be there until this story comes into an end (which wouldn't be anytime soon I guess - lots of pending scenes has not yet been written to this moment. You could imagine them swirling around my head, crazy to break free and reveal themselves! Man, that's difficult, mind you!)

I'm actually happy of the direction of my fic, and happy because of the feedback I've been receiving. Thanks a lot everyone!

Reminiscence Part 1 & 2 up!

Here it is - the first 2 of the 4 part "Flashback" chapters that would tell about Miyazawa Aya's past and how she came to the situation she is in right now.

This would answer a great fraction of the questions that I've planted in the previous chapters, although not entirely. You'll see a part of her childhood, how she came to meet her gang mates, how she landed in a race then later an underground race, how she met Crosse Williams and Yoshida Ayane in America, and the 'accident' they were talking about.

Here are the links:

Fictionpress 46 & 47

Soompi 46 & 47


After the 4-part flashback chapters, you'll surely love the next one *grins*.

F&L Chapter 45 Up in FP and Soompi

Wow, FP actually has some cool new updates. This time, it's easier to edit newly uploaded documents since the file does not disappear in the archive right after updating.

To the readers, I'm sorry for the late update. You see, this week was pretty busy for Meia and I. It was Meia's birthday last Feb13 then Valentines Day on the 14th, so yeah it was pretty busy (and we were pretty busy, haha! Leave it to your imagination *grins*.

Enough of that, this is my fiction blog, not my personal life's blog for heaven's sake!

Ahem...

This chapter is really long (14 pages). I originally planned to break it into two chapters, but then to make up for the late update, I decided to upload them all altogether. Finally, Aya and Kosuke meets again after more than a month and he surely missed her huh? And yeah, it was a pretty emotional scene... and a little surprise... and little revelations right and left.

From here on, the story would mellow down a bit from action to drama... Like one reviewer said, Aya has some massive explaining to do!

Hope you'll still be there to catch the next chapter! Thanks for reviewing and reading!

F&L Chapter 44 up in FP and Soompi

44 in Fictionpress

44 in Soompi

A chapter of moderate-length... but some other revelations revealed here. And the whole Tsuzuya now knows of the 'big-secret', but everything does not end there. There are still many unanswered questions.

I consider this as a transitional chapter though, just like the INTERLUDE chap. The next chapter's going to be big too. Yes, Kosuke and Aya are about to see each other after a long time! You wouldn't wanna miss that huh?

Thanks to all the reviewers of Chapter 43 BTW. I gained a lot of readers apparently, although not all of them left a review. In Fictionpress, I gained more than 2,000 hits and some new subscribers. Same went with Soompi, where people are really excessively nice ^_^.

Thanks thanks thanks, everyone!

The BIG Chapter 43 now up in FP and Soompi

That was a big bulk of info I let out here... *sigh*

But hey, it went great huh?

Chapter 43 in FP

Chapter 43 in Soompi

An error for the previous installment, btw. I uploaded Chapter 43 earlier in Fictionpress, only to realize later that I actually uploaded the unedited file. I immediately re-uploaded the chapter after spotting the horrendous spelling and grammar mistakes in the final version (tsk tsk tsk...).

And yes, Aya finally appears in this chapter. Well, I could say - - the Ayas *grins*

But still the mystery lingers huh? What could be the reason behind this? Well, I guess you have to continue reading to find that one out ^_^.

The next chapter will cater a lot more action... But there would be a transition from action to drama in the latter parts. Why? Because I wouldn't want to kill you with heart attack by putting the suspense one after another after another after another... You might sue me in court :( - - poor hiro... (lol)

Well I hope you liked this chapter. If you have any inquiries, feel free to e-mail me, alright?

And again, silent readers are welcomed ^_^ Just don't plagiarize my work. I'll get really mad if that happens.

F&L Chapter 42 up in FP and Soompi

Yup, a fast update for the weekend ^_^

42 in Fictionpress

42 in Soompi

There's a big revelation in this chapter - and I bet you NEVER saw that coming *grins*.

Wow, I'm actually very excited to reveal the secrets one by one. I also feel good reading the speculations from the readers and I feel good that although the guesses were NEAR my actual plan, still no one guessed it 'exactly'. So that must mean my stealth is working pretty well *hahaha*.

Thanks to the readers... Really you guys know who you are. Thanks from the bottom of my heart!

F&L Chapter 41 up in FP & Soompi

41 in Fictionpress

41 in Soompi


I kinda had a hard time making this chapter for a reason I do not know. Maybe it's because I'm too tired of playing NBA in the PS2 - hahaha...

It was a rather short chap (6 pages in MS Word). And voila! Another set of unanswered questions! (Sorry readers, am I literally cracking your head already or what?).

A big surprise in the end, huh?

Aya's big come back is drawing near ^_^. Man, I'm enjoying writing this fic a lot now. The fact that it's approaching its climax and as I start revealing the keys to the secrets never fails to give me that excitement.

I'm very happy to have some new people reading my fic (mostly from Soompi forums). Man, the people there are very very generous! Once I get the time, I plan to return the favor to them at least by reviewing their stories to, even though I'm not really acquainted with Korean terminologies, celebrities, and culture.

Soompi people:
kawaii999
PinkCloud92
kute_me_not
w00dchild.jnR ---> The poster maker! Thanks for submitting to us a nice poster ^_^
xaznxxangelx
chng234
Angel Cakes ---> Special thanks for the generous review for Chapter 40 ^_^
rikuu
~~PuhPuhMuh~~
SteFF1004
james18
babygiirl16
Sw33t SiMPLiCiTy x3
raven
stephypham
cream1004
xtrammieex
xradiostarx
nashi kanata ---> fellow Filipino (although I'm half ^_^), thanks for your interest in my fic
yamaki_LOVE
wookie<3
ms.joongie
blaise7259
MRS.CHANGMIN(:
qiianer
renchew
strawberrylova79
windy_vang
loveme100x ---> Thanks for the recommendation of F&L in the Recommended Fics Thread!
angelgurl1058
xong_thao
iLOVEyunho=)
yippieyeah
littlemisstiny --- > wow, I saw your per-chapter reviews. I could only drop my jaw and grin. Thanks!

FP people:
Yas 'Yz' Shah ---> thanks for your enthusiastic, energetic reviews! never seize to make me happy when I open my inbox ^_^
Saiyan Tear
goblinishelves
KittyKaiya ---> thanks for the generous amount of reviews. I'm glad you like F&L
Vanilla.Chocolate
MistyRose14 ---> Geez, what to say to you? Thank you for your per chap reviews ^_^
Keemii
xXMisz-meXx
Esther
peaceout


And some people were asking about silent readers - Well, as far as I am concerned, I do not have anything against silent readers. I treasure them just as I treasure those who leave reviews. It just amuses me that in Fictionpress for example, my fic has A LOT of hits (I mean, a lot) but the reviews do not seem to match up with that. Though I must admit that I feel quite sad that I had a drastic decrease in reviews as far as FP.com is concerned, the overwhelming feedback in Soompi compensated for that. For Soompi, I would sometimes spot silent readers too (both anonymous and signed). They would drop by the fic whenever a new chapter is up. Well, to you guys, Thanks a lot for reading my fic. The mere fact that you take time to stop and drop by even you don't leave a note is a big thing for me.

Some, however, drops review via e-mail (perhaps they're shy to post up in the forums or FP?). And really, I really appreciate those little notes of appreciation. Motivates me to do better for every chapter. ^_^

Yeah, I welcome silent readers to my fic... but what I do NOT tolerate is plagiarism (heck, who doesn't anyway?!). So to readers, can I ask for a favor? When you see my work someplace else being owned by some old geezer from God-knows-where, can you please tell me about it and send me the link... and also help me BASH them? Thanks! Thanks! Thanks!

F&L Chapter 40 Up in FP & Soompi

40 on FP

40 on Soompi


10 pages in MS word - quite long, but I could say it is one of the most beautiful chapters I've come up with, especially to Yuken-Shizuki fans. The big revelations are about to come out, so everyone hang on to their seats ^_^.

I finished chapter 40 inside a hospital room. Last night, Meia's dad was rushed to the hospital due to dyspnea. Gladly, he's alright now and recovering. I had to go all the way to Florida and help Meia go to places to run a few errands. She was so worried, but at the end of the day when things stabilized, she's now alright - so are the rest of her family.

So kids, don't smoke alright? Smoking is bad for the health. You'll just land in the hospital. (*points ridiculously to self - - - alright alright, I'm sorry. I won't smoke anymore Meia ^_^)

I'm also thinking about changing genres in Fictionpress. One reason is because I am getting fewer reviews nowadays for a reason I don't know. In Soompi, however, things are different. The reviews and feedback are actually getting more as I update. Another reason is that the Manga section of FP is becoming a haven of MalexMale, FemalexFemale fics (which is NOT evident in F&L btw...). Maybe I'll transfer it to Romance section and see how it runs from there.

F&L Chapter 39 up in FP & Soompi

Another update for the week!

Fictionpress 39

Soompi 39


I included some Shizuki-Yuken scenes. Kosuke's back in the chapters, but unfortunately still none of Aya (I know you guys miss her, but she won't show up for another... i think 2 chapters?). There would be a brief Seiichi scene - an 'implied' fight scene by the way and a reminiscing mood for Kosuke.

In the next one, we'll be having some Makiko-Tomo-Kaede meeting and yes, another Shizuki-Yuken scene that readers would love.

Again, thanks for reading Fists and Lipsticks!

F&L Chapter 37 *Up*... and Promotional Video uploaded in YouTube

My AN is kinda late, but it's better late than never. For some reason, my connection 'time out' whenever I access Blogger for the past few days, I dunno why....

Oh yeah, chapter 37 is up - - Fictionpress 37 Soompi 37

It would be a rather... action-packed chapter in the first half, but would turn quite dramatic in the end. Kosuke will act differently - and you'll be surprised ^_^


I realized that I haven't posted this one yet here. Above is the new Live-Action poster. Meia collated the pics while I made the poster. And still, I don't have any idea who those actors/actresses are... well except for Aya Ueto (who is HOT by the way hahaha...) and Ikuta Toma (whom I've seen in Hana Kimi).

And after nagging me for a week, Meia finally finished the promotional video for Fists and Lipsticks. Here's the video:



Cool huh?

To the readers, thanks for reading F&L! I'd take the inspiration to make the next chapters even better ^_^

F&L Chapter 36: Aya's Protector now up!

Another short chapter, but this chapter contains the conversation between Crosse and Kosuke.

But Kosuke surely would be dismayed :(

For Shizuki-Yuken fans, the next chapter would be rather interesting ^_^

Thanks for reading!

(Hiro, why are your author notes getting shorter and shorter lately? - - - it's because I'm so sleepy already, haha.)

F&L Chapter 35: Weakness up in FP & Soompi

Fictionpress 35

Soompi 35

This is a relatively short chapter when compared to the previous ones. More Kosuke-Yuken bonding here. I was planning to place the whole Crosse-Kosuke conversation in this same chap, but it might reach past 10 pages. And so, I opted to cut it from here and save the suspense for the next installment! Haha... I know you're pissed off with my cliffhangers - but that gives the whole writing and reading stuff more 'suspense'. LOL.

Thanks for reading!

F&L Chapter 34: Yamazaki Gang Investigating Team - Up in FP and Soompi

Aya didn't show up here, but this is quite a relevant chapter.

Fictionpress F&L34

Soompi F&L34

The gang finally decides to investigate by themselves the mystery behind the Spectra Gang and the reason behind their pursuit of Miyazawa Aya.

You'll learn something big about Crosse too as the chapter ends - one of the secrets behind his real identity.

Hold on to your seats for the following updates! Thanks for reading! ^_^

F&L Chapter 33: Pretense up in FP and Soompi

The first story that updates in Fictionpress > Manga Section is Fists and Lipsticks! ^_^

http://www.fictionpress.com/s/2191842/34/

Read C33 in Soompi

Happy New Year Everyone!

This chapter takes you on a sneak peak behind Aya x Crosse relationship. Some hints are given, so it's up to you to speculate *grins*.

And as I've said in the previous author notes, the story already climbing towards its climax. There would be a cut-down on introductions as F&L's secrets begin to unravel. The significant role of Yamazaki Daisuke as well as the Spectra and the Miyazawa Gang and some political themes will now enter. Hence, expect this previously "light" highschool drama become quite complicated. But dont' worry, I'll maintain it on a certain point that it still has the 'romance' factor and the overall 'easy-read'.

Again, thank you for your time reading the fic. I know that it is quite long, but I promise to do my best to make each chapter appealing for your reading pleasure ^_^.

F&L Chapter 32: Second Night Up in FP and Soompi

Chapter 32 in Fictionpress

Chapter 32 in Soompi

A moderately long chapter (8 pages in MSWord). Spectra gang leader known only by the name of 'Stream' enters the story and threatens Crosse and Aya. What is his role in the story? What is the 'secret' he is pertaining to? Well, you have to buckle your seatbelts. We're just about to ride towards there *wink*.

And yeah, another Aya-Kosuke scene. This is because the bond between them should be maximized as much as possible now that the story is inclining. To Yuken-Shizuki fans, you'll not be disappointed in the next chapters. I know that there has been some Aya-Kosuke overload, but you'll find out that these scenes are critical (even the perverted scenes? Hell yeah! Haha. Kidding... But hey, I'm keeping it in a modest level, am I not? ^_^)

Thanks again to the readers - for the reviews, emails, crits, and simple hellos. You guys know how much I love those things haha.

Meia, I miss you badly :( REaLLY Badly... :(

F&L Chapter 31: Race and Chase Up in FP and Soompi

Chapter 31 in Fictionpress

Chapter 31 in Soompi

Ah... The effect of a rainy-day boredom - - instant update (and missing Meia a lot :( ) I'm still here in Manila and the Christmas weather here is gloomy... While Meia's having some icy holiday at Florida :(

About 31: Well, like I promised, another Kosuke-Aya moment here with a bulk of action going on as things get a little more serious from here on. It was kinda long (10 pages on MS Word) and now the story is going to its inclining phase.

Actually, I'm writing the next chapter right now so who knows... another instant update? Lucky readers ^____^

F&L Chapter 30: Speed for Need Up in FP and Soompi

Chapter 29 in Soompi - CLICK HERE
(Uploaded by me)

Chapter 30 in Fictionpress.com - CLICK HERE
Chapter 30 in Soompi - CLICK HERE

It kinda slipped out of my mind to update my blog after my surprise 2-chapter update. Actually, I was planning to make the two chapters (29 & 30) fit in one chapter, but when hit 15 pages in MSWord, I decided to break them up.

Well, in chapter 30 there have been some important revelations - the real money thief (I bet you never saw that one coming) and the reason behind the title of this fic as 'Fists and Lipsticks' ^_^.

The next chapter would be action-packed (as implied in #30). Actually, from here on things will get a little serious and a little broader (again, as I've said in the previous A/Ns I've placed here on my writing blog). But for 31, expect again another Kosuke-Aya moment *grins*. Just hold on to that seat coz you might topple over as you read Chapter 31 *grins again*.

Thank you again to the readers, both in FP and Soompi:

japanera
MistyRose14
Yas 'Yz' Shah
KittyKaiya
Nanao Nagase
Saiyan Tear
greek4lyf
kawaii999
PinkCloud92
kute_me_not
w00dchild.jnR
xaznxxangelx
chng234
Angel Cakes
rikuu
~~PuhPuhMuh~~
SteFF1004
james18
babygiirl16
Sw33t SiMPLiCiTy x3
raven
stephypham
cream1004
xtrammieex
xradiostarx
nashi kanata

To the many others whom I already credited, for e-mails and reviews and words of encouragements through PMs. You guys know who you are, thank you really!

F&L Chapter 29: Money Thief Up in FP

For some reason, Meia couldn't access Soompi forums. I'll try uploading this to Soompi myself later.

http://www.fictionpress.com/s/2191842/30/

Not so much happened here, but we have ruled out one of the suspects regarding the lost orphanage fund.

The next chapter will be the interesting one. Originally, I was planning to already include it in this one. However, it would take 15 pages so I opted to break it to separate chapters.

I'm currently here in Manila spending the seasons with my family.

Merry Christmas everyone!

F&L Chapter 28: Surprises, Surprises, Surprises now up in FP and Soompi

A moderately long chapter, this one - 8 pages in MS word.

Click here to read in Fictionpress.com

Click here to read in Soompi Forums

I was so not-in-the-mood to write the descriptions as detailed as possible, hence the short sentences. I compromised by putting several 'first-person POVs' to wrap up mood. Another KosukexAya moment in this chapter to take the relationship even further, since this 'pairing' will be highly significant in the latter chapters.

No one guessed the bike exhibit huh? Told ya, it'll be the last thing on your mind.

From now on, the story will revert from romance to action/mystery (although of course I'll still be placing 'kawaii' scenes). However, the plot would be more concentrated this time on unlocking some secrets that are still unrevealed (Aya's identity? Who is Crosse? Miyazawa Gang? Spectra Gang? Why were Keiko, Aya, and Crosse in the hospital when Yuken came? Why is Aya's dad in jail? Daisuke Yamazaki?... and a lot more).

Hope you'll still be around to see them unfold through reading my work by then. Thank you everyone ~hiro

F&L Chapter 27: Gangster Date *Up in FP and Soompi

A quick one, but long!

Fictionpress link

Soompi link

For some altered original plot line again - Originally, I was actually planning to have those "cheesy stuff" in this chap - AyaxKosuke dance under the spotlight with melodic music, candlelit dinner, etc... Then Crosse will come in to ruin it blah blah blah... But I wanted a diversion from what is cliche and came up with a new (and hilarious) plot. I'm quite happy that it turned out right. And the scenes are connecting well with each other to this part so yeah, I'm really happy of where FP's coming at.

There's a big cliffhanger on the end - you'll never guess what the surprise is, believe me (Only I know - not even Meia knows hahaha...)

F&L Chapter 26: Walking Emergency Kit *Up in FP and Soompi

For the FP link : http://www.fictionpress.com/s/2191842/27/

For the Soompi link: http://www.soompi.com/forums/index.php?s=&showtopic=176416&view=findpost&p=7834498

This chapter is a long one - 11 pages in MS Word. Originally, I was planning to make this chapter a direct narration of the Kosuke-Aya bidding scene; however, in the process I just thought of adding little Yuken-Shizuki and Tomo-Makiko scenes to make things more interesting.

Due to predictability also, I originally thought of NOT making Kosuke go to the ball. I was thinking of a 'gangster' attack prior to the ball so Aya herself couldn't come. However, it may disappoint some readers and I'm afraid that I might have a writer's block after coming up with such a complicated scene too early in the story. Those kind of things would come later.

Another thing about the Tomo-Makiko exit in this chapter. Actually, that interval has some significance in the next chapter. You'd know the reason why Tomo pulled Makiko out of the ball temporarily (although after me saying this, you could have gotten the idea).

I anticipate that probably on Chapters 30+, the plot will eventually turn from romantic to a little action-packed, considering that the main important characters has been built up and presented already. The Spectra gang and Miyazawa gang will now have a more active part and some Yamazaki Daisuke issues and political setups will be detailed. So yeah, the first 20+ chapters were typically a vast bulk of introduction.

F&L may sound a little cliche for the moment, but a lot of things are bound to be revealed in the upcoming chapters. I just hope I grab the time to finish them. Actually, my midway target is by the end of the year. I'm targeting until about chapter 32 to be finished within 2007.

To all the readers, both in Fictionpress and Soompi, I am very much thankful of the support I am getting. Thanks for the emails, PMs, messages that never failed to make me strive harder in making this story better and better. God bless! ~hiro

F&L Chapter 25: Interlude *Up in FP and Soompi

Yeah, it's a pretty boring chapter from the previous 'intense' ones - hence the title 'INTERLUDE'.

But this chapter is essential to interlink important elements in the story, especially the hospital scene, which would be relevant in the latter parts of the story.

Here's the FP link:
http://www.fictionpress.com/s/2191842/26/

Here's the Soompi link:
http://www.soompi.com/forums/index.php?s=&showtopic=176416&view=findpost&p=7765528

Thank you for taking the time to read and comment on my works. You guys know who you are.

Live Action Version Poster of Fists and Lipsticks

There was this trend in Soompi Forums of making "pseudo-posters" of fanfics. Meia came up with this crazy idea (which turned out amazingly cool, though) to come up with a Live-Action Version of Fists and Lipsticks.

Akanishi Jin as Yamazaki Kosuke
Ito Yuna as Miyazawa Aya
Ikuta Toma as Sato Yuken
Takizawa Hideaki as Yamada Hidemi
Miyavi as Tomohiko Kagure
Teppei Koike as Suzuki Akio
Ueto Aya as Kimura Ruri
and
Kim Jae Joong as Crosse Williams

Pretty cool huh? But honestly, I don't have any idea who those actors and actresses are. Ikuta Toma, though - I think I've seen him in the Hana Kimi jdrama. He's that guy named Nakatsu - Meia told me ^_^

F&L Chapter 24: The Star That Shines UP in FP and Soompi

A quick update, yes... Because originally, this part should be part of the previous chapter. However, I don't think a 16-page single chap is a good idea so I kinda decided to break it into two.

http://www.fictionpress.com/s/2191842/25/

http://www.soompi.com/forums/index.php?s=&showtopic=176416&view=findpost&p=7700987

This chapter is one of the highlights of the story. I particularly enjoyed writing this one. Funnily, during the previous chap people were anticipating that they would actually do 'it'. But yeah, I'm sticking to the T-rating ^_^. Keiko to the rescue, that is...

This is the chapter where Kosuke finally realizes something --- watch out for it!

F&L Chapter 23: First Night UP in FP and Soompi

Here's the link to Fictionpress.com

http://www.fictionpress.com/s/2191842/24/

And the link to Soompi Forums:

http://www.soompi.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=176416


This chapter took me almost a week to make and edit. You'll know why once you finish reading it. Haha.

Its just that I kinda find it hard to put details in 'love scenes'. Well, it isn't exactly the 'all-out' type of love scene, but somehow I'd like to present it in such a way that it is 'romantically sweet', not 'romantically perverted', if you know what I mean.

Well, hope you like it! Thanks to the reviews: from FP, Soompi, Multiply, or e-mails. You guys know who you are.

F&L Chapter 22: Hidden Eyes now Up in FP

Here's the link - -

http://www.fictionpress.com/s/2191842/23/

This chapter features Keiko, Aya's mother. We get to learn more about Aya and her mom, although this chapter isn't as lengthy as the previous chapters.

The next chapter's going to be very interesting *Wink*

Fists and Lipsticks Posted in Soompi Forums

My girlfriend, Meia, posted my fic 'Fists and Lipsticks' in Soompi Forums.


Here's the link

http://www.soompi.com/forums/index.php?s=&showtopic=176416&view=findpost&p=7580186




She's been so addicted to Korean dramas lately and came across this website with loads of pictures of celebrities. Now, she spends more time looking at the pictures of her celebrity crushes than our own pictures :( So to make up for it, she offered to post my fiction there. I think it wasn't a bad idea at all.

Thanks for the Reviews

I'd like to thank the following people from Fictionpress for dropping by my fic and giving their opinions. Thanks guys for giving me the motivation to write and learn.

FXRG
DaveHM
Maiya
The Goddess of Night
Noihseret
wolfblood82
ainedamdz
Spirit Tigress
Lady Asuna
MistyRose14
goblinishelves
Aadi
RavenkingPlayer
Unfulfilled
random writers block
Ayamin
Rynx-too-genki
Tsubaki Kuragi Kurosaki
livebeyondtomoko
LIFE....GET ONE
sweetcynicism-chan
CrimsonTear02
-'cErVaNa'-
Souzou-chan
Yamikan
Tamachi
ceva2864
Hiroyuki11
Cherry Blossom Avenger

I'm going to make the next chapters a lot better, thanks to your kind words, motivations, and PMs/e-mails

F&L Chapter 21: Little Discipline

Chapter 21 of Fists and Lipsticks is now up in Fictionpress

http://www.fictionpress.com/s/2191842/22/

I made some revision to the plot sequence. Instead of having the 'School Ball Scene' first, I opted to place the 'Tutorial Scene' ahead. You'll know why as you read *wink*.

And also, I wrote a song (with Meia's help - I'm not really good in poetry)... which is still pending for Japanese translation c/o my classmate in BU.


Also, I received an apology e-mail from MediaMiner.org regarding the deletion of my Fiction art in their website. Here's the content:

I am very pleased to be wrong, this is the first time I have deleted art and found myself in error. Thank you for sending me the link and I apoligize for having removed your art.

I do ask that when you (which I hope you do) repost your work you could please call it cover art since banners/avatars are not allowed on the site.

Again I am sorry that you had to supply proof, but I am gald you did.

Sincerely,

Fanilia

Administrator

Mediaminer.org


Well, I'm relieved that at least clarifications were made.

F&L Chapter 21: Unbeatable! now Up in FP

This chapter is quite long (12 pages long in MS Word), but I could say that this chapter is one of my favorites so far. It does not only show how GOOD Aya is but depicts how "shocked" Kosuke is with each scene. I describe this chap as clever and hilarious.

http://www.fictionpress.com/s/2191842/21/

It will also lead to the next chapter - which you should watch out for -- The School Ball *wink wink*. I'll do my best to make it a blast... and you'll be shocked ^_^

~hiro

Zero Dragon Episode 2 Chapter 7 Uploaded

Yes, I've uploaded a newly revised chapter of Zero Dragon

Here it is - - http://www.fictionpress.com/s/1027750/16/

I was kinda having this 'editing' mood all of a sudden, and I thought of editing an unedited chapter of Zero Dragon. Really, it is literally screaming for edits. Lots of grammar errors I've spotted - ah, high school days of writing that bulk... Just now when I get the time to make the necessary revisions.

Aside from editing ZD, I also edited Chapter 7 and 10 of Fists and Lipsticks. I spotted quite a number of grammar mistakes. In addition, I also edited the Crosse-Aya conversation that night and removed the 'You even changed your name' party, since I thought of something more interesting. I also added the info pertaining to Kosuke's dad being one of the chosen by the Diet to become the next prime minister. In the previous installment, it mentioned merely 'as a chief justice'. Also, I spotted a line by Tomo calling Kosuke as 'Kosuke' when it should have been 'Yamazaki-kun', since I've mentioned that Kosuke is called by his first name only by Yuken (and Fuuko... and yes, later by Aya).

Well, enjoy!

F&L Chapter 19: The Highest Bidder - now UP!

http://www.fictionpress.com/s/2191842/20/

It's a short chapter (only 5 pages in MSWord)...
This one I made in the plane from Manila back to the US.

And yeah, this chapter doesn't have too much of the
much anticipated Aya-Kosuke; however, Crosse enters the
story and faces off with Kosuke for the first time, although
indirectly...

I'll stop here, or I'll end up telling the whole story.



Hope you like it!

Fists and Lipsticks Banner - Banned in MediaMiner.org?!?!

Here's the e-mail I received:

=========================================================
Dear hiro-0911,
Your artwork 'Fists and Lipsticks Official Banner'
was removed by MM.org administration staff due to:
Unless you actually drew the pictures in your image
you can Not post it here.  This is for art which you
created not someone else's art you took and edited.
Do not repost this unless you can verify you drew
the figures in it.

Please avoid violating MM.org Gallery Guidelines,
repeated violations may lead to your account
being disabled.

Regards,
MM.org Managment

P.S. Please do not reply to this message

========================================

Well, all I can say is THANK YOU! They
actually thought that I stole it
somewhere, so they must think the art rocks!


Lol...


I already sent a mail, explaining to them
that I really drew and
CG'ed those drawings myself.

F&L Chapter 18: Hidemi's Pursuit Now UP!

I always hope that things would remain as smooth flowing as now. Day after day updates - man, it can't get any better!

Chapter 18 of Fists and Lipsticks now up! - - http://www.fictionpress.com/s/2191842/19/

From the 'cheezy' scenes, the story leaps back to some action. I'm pushing the plot an inch further with this particular chapter.

I'm still here in the beach, but we're leaving this afternoon. Ahhh, the wind feels great here and the people are really friendly. Earlier, we had some yummy BBQs, calamares (breaded squid), and adobo (Filipino pork cooked in soysauce, yumm). We rented a jet ski and went island hopping. And the girls... man! (Oops, I hope Meia doesn't read this haha...). Yeah, Meia's the only one missing here. Otherwise, it would be the perfect vacation!

In case you haven't seen it yet, I've placed above the CG of Aya. Pretty eh?! I drew that ! I drew that! Hahaha...

F&L Chapter 17: Kosuke's Secret Revealed! Now up

How I love beach vacations...

I'm currently in an island in the Oriental Mindoro, Philippines called Puerto Galera. It's beautiful here. Actually, I made this chapter by the seaside (while occasionally disturbed by pearl vendors every now and then lol...)

Here's another chapter of F&L - http://www.fictionpress.com/s/2191842/18/

I enjoyed writing this installment too. And yeah, because of Akio's big mouth, alas Kosuke's secret is revealed to the whole school *grins*

Enjoy!

F&L Chapter 16: I am the Competition Now Up!

Another fast update ^_^

http://www.fictionpress.com/s/2191842/17/

Well, from the all-Kosuke-Aya scenes, the other characters would be playing more roles now. Shizuki and Makiko's back on the story as well as the Yamazaki gang. Ruri will also come in the story (remember Aya's blue-haired female gang colleague?).

Nothing very notable in this chap as far as the story line is concerned (as compared to the previous chapters, which are typically one of the highlights of the story). Watch out for the next chapter, however. It would be kind of... amusing ^_^

Chapter 15: The Love Charm, The Kiss, Him, and Her

I just happened to watch The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe in DVD... Maybe that's why my title kinda sounds like it (haha...)

Well, that was a short interval from the previous update. I guess because the ideas are coming and coming. More shoujo-ness in the particular chapter. Don't miss it:

http://www.fictionpress.com/s/2191842/16/


It was fun writing this chapter (and Meia was like 'oh my god Hiro-kun, I loved it!'). I particularly placed stresses on 'awkward intervals'. You'll see another side of Kosuke and Aya - nothing of the harsh, I'm-ready-for-battle kind of aura. This is the chapter where you see them blush like typical high-schoolers in-love (nothing like a gangster at all) and seemingly unsure of what to do next for every surge of 'doki-doki's.

The original plan was to lock them in the staircase, but I realized that it is too cliche. The world has gotten enough Hana Yori Dango-like scenes. So I came up with another idea, hence the necklace scene... I dunno if it has been done before (please message me if you know of one movie / anime / book where a similar scene happened) but I SWEAR I thought of the idea myself.

I may be uploading new chapters more often since, as I have said, the ideas are currently smoothly flowing in my brain (good thing for me!). The story hasn't gotten much plot to this point, and it seems as if the whole 15 chapters were all Aya-introductions. But now, things would revolve around the characters. In fact, in the next chapter it would be Hidemi who's going to be in the spotlight (and a FEMALE character... *grins* Watch out for it.)

I said before that Fists and Lipsticks may be patterned to a movie's length. But I guess the story wouldn't fit in a 2 and a half hour film. So perhaps yeah, this one's a series already. Although, the story is still much much shorter than Zero Dragon.

Ah... Zero Dragon... When can I ever find time to re-edit you *sweatdrop*. Currently, ZD is also in the 15th installment. However, I pulled it out from FP for editing (so you may have noticed that I have more than 200 reviews, a number of them reviewing for chapter numbers that do not actually exist - - - that's because I pulled the latter chapters out for revisions).

I'm coming to Manila tomorrow. My lil' brother (not really little, he's 16 already) e-mailed me, inviting me to go with them to Puerto Galera, a beach spot in the Philippines. Apparently, they're having their November break. So yeah, since I think it would be nice to go for some tropical heat, I'm flying back to Manila and get some sun.

My Oakley shades, my handy-dandy $20 beach shorts, yellow Havainnas, and the vanity lotion... Pack pack pack... Galera, here I come!

Oh, I'm bringing my laptop too. It might be good writing stories at beachside.

Official Website for Fists and Lipsticks NOW AVAILABLE

Yep, yep, yep! It's up. Way too early for a 3-day initial target.

Here's the website: http://fistsandlipsticks.multiply.com

Although I've finished only CGs of Aya and Kosuke (I've been up all day, sheeez...), I'm happy to finally have it running at last. I chose Multiply.com (as opposed to the Angelfire Zero Dragon site, which is too difficult to access nowadays) since the overall format of the site allows easy browsing and easy updates. No html required, so it really is easy to use not only for me but also for those who would come and visit.

Aya's CG is omgwtf it turned out perfectly! Just like how I wanted her to look like. Pink lips (but does not look like make-up), doll-like features, blonde hair, and intimidating and mysterious blue eyes. I always wanted her to be someone that you can easily recognize in the middle of a crowd - striking features - a look that you would never expect belongs to a female gangster.

Kosuke's CG on the other hand... Ugh... I've tried correcting his eyes for gazillion times but there's really something wrong with it... It's either too big, or one is bigger than the other, or it's not aligned... I really don't know what's wrong with it. I actually wasted 9 or 10 pieces of drawing paper to come up with a what-my-girlfriend-Meia-refers-to-as 'bishie' looking guy (oh Meia, I'm sorry, I think I murdered Kosuke's face *sweatdrop*). But when cover half of his face, he looks fine... then cover the other half, he still looks fine... but totally remove the cover... WTF! Warped!

Aside from the CGs, I came up with this idea to put some kind of anime/manga simulation, which turned out really, really good (at least for me). It kinda looks like a real fan-subbed anime and a translated manga hahaha... Serious! See them in the website if you don't believe me and see for yourself! Hahaha...

Well, I'm thinking of a good melody for an opening and ending theme MP3... And also I'm planning to draw either Yuken or Crosse next. I just hope they'll turn out just fine. Lots and lots of work to do! Great that I have a lot of free time recently! Works for me, hahaha...