[ Jun's been made aware it's Leo's birthday soon! Yep, the day before, so he's sort of scrambling. ]
hey, ohii-san, it's tsukinaga-senpai's birthday tomorrow, and he wants a birthday cake. i said i'd do it no problem, but i was wondering if you had ideas for gifts? thinking about something he could use for composing, or, dunno, what else could he want?! we could all pitch in, if you want? but i'm gonna go ask rinne-senpai for ideas, just so he knows. i dunno if his ideas'll be helpful, though...?
[ So watch this space??? Leo's a 10, so he likely has everything he needs, but that doesn't mean he deserves to go without a present or have his fellow idols not know it's his birthday! ]
Is it? That's awfully sudden. He ought to give more notice next time!
[He didn't see this one coming. He's never given much thought to the issue of celebrating birthdays in this place. Surely he and Jun won't still be here when July and August come around... will they? It's a depressing thought.
But he pushes that aside for now. He'd much rather focus on gift-giving, celebrations, and other fun things like that! Those are his specialties.]
I'm not sure what he loves, other than composing and his little sister. I know he has a recording studio in his room, though, so perhaps we could find him some new equipment? There's always stationery and fountain pens and the like, as well, but my feeling is that he's happy to compose wherever and doesn't need to do it in a leather-bound journal.
When I'm stumped for what to get someone, I usually have our personal chef whip them something up. But he's not here right now, and instead we have you! I'm also not sure what food Leo-kun likes, since he doesn't seem to eat much. Maybe something coffee-related? A gift basket with different beans, perhaps? I'll figure something out!
Are we also throwing him a party? Or are we simply delivering the gifts up to his room?
[Was Hiyori expecting a response to his text? A good one that tells him Rinne is all right, alive, and just messing with him? Too bad, he just gets this.]
[ First things first, he's leaving Weiss on read. (Sorry, Weiss!) But the moment he's finished reading these words, "Bring a friend if you'd like," he's already known exactly who he'd like to bring along with him. (He's fine not knowing all the details yet. She did say, "more details in the coming days," which will lead towards Weiss' post on the Bulletin Board.
Secondly, he's running straight from the gym in search for Hiyori. Perhaps it would be better to text him, just so he's not looking all across the resort, but he'll end up at Hiyori's door anyway. A little out of breath from frantically running, he lightly raps his knuckles against the door. It's also to the tune of their hit single "Sunlit Smile," so hopefully Hiyori knows it's him.
And if Hiyori's not there, he'll be patient and even text him. But he wants to ask in person; therefore, this could not wait! Jun is a man on a mission! ]
[Hiyori spends a fair amount of time outside his room, eating and exploring and browsing shops and meeting up with people who seem useful. Fortunately Jun chooses to show up at a time when he is there, sitting on the couch and tapping away at his smartwatch. No doubt he's composing an annoyingly long message to someone on the Network, punctuated with heart and sparkle emojis!
He is expecting someone to knock, actually. A staff member was supposed to come up to his room and install something at some point. But he can tell this particular knock doesn't belong to any one of the brainwashed staff, but to someone he knows intimately. He smiles, jumps up from the couch, and opens the door.]
(Continued from here so they're not just banging on Weiss's birthday post)
[He steps into the elevator alongside Jun and presses the button. At the same time, Jun strokes his hand with his thumb, replying to his banter with sweet words that make his heart squeeze. But he refuses to swoon or do anything embarrassing, no matter how surprisingly smooth Jun is these days. He just smiles and teases back!]
Fill it with even more thoughts, of course! ♪ If you're head's already full, we'll just have to make some more room in there!
[An answer befitting of the spoiled, selfish side he shows when he's with Jun. Though, in all honesty...
His own head is pretty full at the moment. Full of thoughts of Jun, that is.
The feeling of that thumb stroking his hand sends sparks of electricity shooting up his wrist. As the doors shut behind them, the atmosphere seems to shift: the air turned thin and shivery, goosebumps prickling all along his bare arms. Unlike at the beach, he feels underdressed now. Or maybe he's overdressed? He glances at Jun, sees that strong chest and muscular arms in his periphery, and something sinks in his stomach like a hot stone.
He remembers their kiss at the beach, the way Jun gradually drew him into his arms until they were finally pressed chest-to-chest, and he suddenly wants nothing more than to be that close again.
It feels like a hardship to even have to wait. And unfortunately, they have two elevator rides ahead of them, if the elevator that goes to Nami's suite can only be taken to and from a "special location." But they get where they need to go, thankfully without being interrupted by any talking portraits or deliberate "malfunctions." Soon they're standing in front of the door to his suite without having committed any public indecency. What excellent self-restraint they have!
But not for much longer. His impatience shows in how aggressively he opens the door, in how quick his footsteps are in his sandals against the floor. And as soon as they get inside the room, Hiyori more or less flings himself at Jun, throwing his arms around Jun's neck and connecting their lips in a kiss.]
( Fair!! I'm sure Weiss wouldn't want them as an early birthday gift. )
[ Honestly, It's best if he avoids answering, as they're already in the elevator, plus he was out to tease. Besides it seemed unfitting for a beach, having his shirt still on and thought nothing else regarding the request. And especially since Hiyori can take it off whenever he likes, he shrugs that off.
But it might be easier to focus if Hiyori wasn't constantly on his mind, making it hard to function normally. After their kiss on the beach, the warmth of Hiyori's body against his has left him struggling to think clearly.
It's a struggle to maintain self-control when they're alone, but they both seem to understand the need for restraint. At the end of the day, they are idols, despite the half-public kiss at Weiss' party. Both elevator rides feel endless, though he wouldn't dare complain out loud. Wanting to avoid seeming desperate, and needy while also wanting Hiyori alone is the key. But there's an itch, a need only Hiyori can satisfy.
Besides, it seems they are on the same page, he notices how aggressively Hiyori opens the door and he grins. As they've barely made their way inside, kicking the door shut, his arms move instinctively to Hiyori's waist, pulling him closer. He nibbles playfully across Hiyori's lips, hoping to convey his desire and hunger through the kiss, just as he had done on the beach. Already swiping his tongue across Hiyori's lower lip, wanting to mirror the same sensual gestures from earlier. ]
Mmm.
[ The only words worth mustering as the rest will come in a moment. ]
[ This morning Jun awoke much earlier than usual, but there’s a good reason why. Why you might ask? It’s Hiyori’s birthday, which means it’s an even more special day! Starting with his first gift of the day, which just so happens to be breakfast in bed.
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so what better way to start the day by having breakfast while being comfortable in bed!
He hopes not to wake Hiyori just yet, not while he’s sleeping and very cutely, too. With their makeshift kitchen, he manages to keep the noise down (or so he believes) not wanting to wake or disturb the sleeping princess in the next room. For good measure, Jun carries in the tray first, placing it on their nightstand while turning down the quilt. And sitting on the trays filled with breakfast food are plates of pancakes shaped into a design of the sun, French toast, a mixture of fruit and croissants. Rounded off with a pot of tea, teacups and edible flowers placed around the tray.
In the middle there is a single red rose, which has “apparently,” been removed of all pollen. (As per the shopkeepers words.) It’s romantic, cheesy and sweet. And all of Jun’s best intentions on display, wanting to show off his love and affection to his special someone. * Not as if Jun needs to display said love only on Hiyori’s birthday, he can and will provide him with enough love to last a lifetime.
Now’s the time to rouse the sleeping princess, or if he’s awake due to the noise, which Jun is no longer being discreet about. He’ll lean in close, closing the distance between them and planting a soft, tender kiss against Hiyori’s soft lips. Brushing their lips together for a moment, while smiling from ear-to-ear. ]
Happy birthday, Ohii-san.
[ All while placing the breakfast tray on top of his legs; pouring a cup of tea. Well, not before placing a soft towel underneath to catch any crumbs. (Don’t ask what time Jun woke up for this. And the day is much more important, anyway!)
He’s fairly pleased with himself, also hoping Hiyori enjoys the meal while not having to worry about a thing all day as Jun has it covered. ]
[It's a momentous occasion, one that only comes once a year: the day the great Hiyori Tomoe was born! A holiday on par with Christmas, or perhaps even more important, depending on who you ask. Hiyori's fans would certainly believe so. And Hiyori's partner ought to think so, too!
If they were back home, why, he'd be doing all sorts of things to celebrate: giving a special concert, or enjoying a private party at CosPro. Perhaps getting a special photoshoot done in a special birthday suit. (No, not that kind of birthday suit.) As it stands, however...
There will be no party. He'll be lucky to get in any celebrating. Because for his birthday, he's about to be cursed! Or so he just assumes, but the evidence in favor of it is overwhelming, in his view. Rinne and Hua Cheng were both cursed for their birthdays, and the House has every reason to dislike him more than them. After all, he talks smack about them constantly, plots against them at every turn, and refuses to do any of the stuff they ask him to do! He's been here for about five months, and he's only collected one card! Sex between people from different worlds is apparently how the resort gets most of its energy, which means he and Jun are what you call "freeloaders!" This was a badge of honor for him, until it became a huge fear.
But his sleep is mercifully free of any more nightmares where Jun turns into a statue. He sleeps peacefully, waking up later than his partner, as per usual. Jun is no longer sleeping all snuggled up next to him by the time that he awakes, also per the usual. He's always off to the gym in the mornings. (And often in the afternoons, too!) He'd probably never skip a day.
Except he's not gone. Instead he's back on the bed, his lips pressed against Hiyori's in a soft, fleeting kiss. Hiyori's eyelashes flutter in surprise, his eyes blinking open groggily. When Jun draws back and he meets those eyes, they're a lovely gold color, like the morning sun.]
Mm...?
[He drops his eyes down to the tray that's been set in his lap, looking dazed. Laid out on that tray is a shockingly high-class breakfast, fit for a noble like him. A far cry from the prepackaged food and drinks he stocked up on in preparation for being stuck in his room for a while. Rinne and Hua Cheng's curses lasted for days, after all.
But he doesn't feel cursed. At least not yet. There's no foreignness or discomfort, apart from the usual sleep deprivation. Their newborn chick is quite the chatterbox, chirping around the clock. Yet even she's quiet for the moment, sleeping soundly in her makeshift nest, leaving him and Jun free to enjoy this moment of peace.]
You did all this?
[Hiyori seems a bit surprised. Maybe even a little awed. But the dazed look in his eyes soon turns as warm as the tea Jun poured, sitting out on the tray in a pretty cup next to the breakfast spread.]
It looks so elegant, I'm shocked. In a good way, mind you. If it wouldn't overturn the whole tray, I'd hug you right now! ♪
( happy 24th of july. as promised, a small birthday gift is dropped off by resort staff, sometime in the afternoon: a small tin of about a dozen small cookies. the tin itself is clearly a product of the resort, something grabbed from a souvenir shop— as if there would be any way for them to bring a souvenir back home— but the cookies are homemade, buttery and flavored with earl grey.
a piece of paper taped to the lid appears to have just been torn off the complimentary pads provided in the more generic suites. written on it in a hand that is certainly not that of an illiterate man is a list of ingredients, nice and normal and not spiked in the slightest. at the bottom, it merely reads happy birthday, followed first by a half-hearted, heavy handed scribble, then by kirma's name in a fancy script, decorated with a drawn pawprint and ears. it is impossible to say if he had any part in the creative direction of this.
all this to say: happy birthday to his favorite (and only) "coworker." hopefully you didn't get too cursed, buddy. )
[Hiyori was prepared. He stocked up on food and water, he warned the people closest to him, and he instructed Jun not to let in any visitors while he's suffering from his horrible curse. Today would be the day he'd receive his comeuppance from the House: he was sure of it!
But the comeuppance never comes. He doesn't feel cursed. And when he receives a delivery first thing in the morning, it's from Jin Mingming, not the House. A lovely-looking gift that fits him like a glove. She even threw in something for Jun-kun!
He's still wary he'll receive something else from the House later, which means he's highly suspicious of the second delivery. So what if it looks like a cookie tin? Perhaps the cookies were poisoned! Or, more likely, drugged with aphro. But he reads the attached note before he opens the lid, and that earns a big eyebrow raise.
With its adorable embellishments, that signature is fit to be an idol's. It tells him who the gift is allegedly from. Though who exactly wrote it when Kirma's supposed to be illiterate...?
Oh well. It doesn't matter, he supposes. It's the thought that counts.]
He'd be such a good, cute boy if not for that other stuff.
[But again, oh well. Now's not the time to dwell on the prince's recent kidnapping! Or the other kidnapping, or the whole arm-breaking scandal. He calls out to Jun.]
Jun-kun, look! There are cookies! These seem like they'll go perfectly well with tea, so let's brew some~ ♪
[He doesn't respond until the next day. Jun comforts him in the aftermath of his nightmare, and it leads to them finally having a conversation they should've had weeks ago. Checking his watch isn't a priority. Neither is Esikko, for that matter.
When he does read the message the next day, sometime after breakfast, he grimaces. Esikko hadn't said anything about his tears earlier in the week! Whatever happened to silent support? But it figures that he'd say something now, after having his sleep interrupted. Not that Hiyori feels too bad about that given what Esikko's been putting him through...]
Nope, no one. There's nobody trying to kidnap me or cut my chest open.
The new arrival is my sister, and I want you to refrain from talking to her about magic as much as you can feasibly manage. If you promise to do this I'll show you my magecraft.
[Her sister. Goodness, that's rough. Even he can't think of something funny to say.]
First of all, I'm sorry to hear it.
[He tries to imagine his older brother being here, and nope. Done thinking about it!]
Just your magic, or all magic? I can promise either way, but it strikes me as a fool's errand to keep her away from all magic. Almost everyone can do it here. Even I've learned a little bit.
[ first, an attachment: a photo of one of the "nonspecific holiday gift man" figurines that seem to be decorating every inch of the public spaces of the resort all of a sudden.
[It's not every day that an immortal ghost king texts him to ask who Santa Claus is, but he can roll with this!]
Looks like Santa!
Which some people might say is a bit premature, since it's not December yet. But I say there's nothing wrong with getting in the Christmas spirit early! I'm just glad he still has his suit on and they're not making him do something weird.
[ on the morning of december 25, which hua cheng has come to understand is christmas day, a knock on the door will herald the arrival of a gift. it's nestled in a box and wrapped in paper of his signature crimson and tied with a gold ribbon, both very auspicious colors for such an auspicious(?) holiday! it's also addressed to both jun and hiyori, but it's getting delivered to jun because hua cheng can do a lot but he can't be in two places at once.
the box contains a short length of red thread that flashes just slightly gold in the right light. when touched, it seems to resonate with spiritual energy, and it lengthens or shortens according to the distance between them when each of the ends is held.
along with the red string is a brief note from hua cheng, in his neatest and most legible handwriting. ]
Jun & Hiyori —
Affix the string to a finger of your choosing and make a vow to one another. When imbued with evidence of your affection, the string will from that point forward always lead you to each other — no matter how far separated you may be by space or time. The string will not always be visible, but the connection will always be there.
It can be removed, but only at a cost. Be certain.
[The good news is that Hua Cheng doesn't need to be in two places at once, because Hiyori and Jun live together in Hiyori's suite!
The bad news is that this means asking for a gift to be delivered to "Jun Sazanami's suite" means Jun almost certainly won't be around to receive it. But Hiyori has gifts from a few other people coming his way, and at some point, he gets the idea that perhaps they should check Jun's abandoned room down in the basement, just to see if there are any gifts waiting for Jun, too. That's when the mysterious red thread is discovered.
A single piece of thread would be an odd gift to start with, but there's something particularly odd about this one. The vibe he gets as he stares down at the box is a strange one. Why, it almost reminds him of those strings during the Hearts game.
And that's before he reads the note.]
"The red thread of fate."
[He recalls what he heard from Hua Cheng over the Network, and he turns to Jun with wide, stunned eyes.]
(on the morning of christmas, hiyori will find two carefully wrapped up packages. no card, but there is a note: buon natale, hiyori & jun. ― texas. p.s. give him (jun) his for me.
[After their interaction in the treehouse, Hiyori makes sure to send a gift Texas's way, too. She should also be receiving it on the day of the 25th!
He's somewhat surprised to receive such a thoughtful gift from her, though. And not just any sort of gift, but a couple's gift. He never told her that sunshine is his motif both onstage and off the stage, but he didn't need to, did he? It's obvious just from looking at him!
Unless maybe Jun told her that he was warm and bright like the sun. Wouldn't that be nice?
He sends a picture over sometime in the late afternoon. It shows him and Jun wearing the necklaces, Hiyori giving the camera a smile and a wink.]
( A staff member will knock on Hiyori's door some time this holiday to deliver a few potted sunflowers along with a bag of tea and a note.
Normally, sunflowers can't live for long without the sun. There are methods to create an artificial sun, of course, and I'm capable of doing that with magic— however, I tried something different while growing these. Try singing them a song.
The tea is a blend of other plants I grow that will help soothe the nerves without any additional drowsiness. It tastes rather floral, but sweet. Enjoy.
- Esikko
The sunflowers, he'll find, will treat Hiyori like the sun itself whenever he sings. Singing will keep them alive, blooming long past their season, all year round— and they'll turn to him if he moves. Slowly. In a plant way. )
[Though he likes most flowers and other kinds suit him too, sunflowers are undoubtedly the kind that suits him best! Still, he didn't expect to receive any real ones today. They're not a winter plant.
The gift comes as a pleasant surprise. The real shock, however, is the line about singing to them. He absolutely performs a mini-concert for them as soon as he reads that, and he'll be happy to keep doing so! He needs to practice his singing every day, anyway! But the way the flowers seem to move on their own is a bit, er...]
Excuse me! I have a question about these sunflowers!
[He sends that message at some point on Christmas.]
( Have you ever pulled up someone's contact information and sat there with an open message for hours because you can't decide what to say, or how to say it?? Esikko is getting used to this feeling about now, but this is the first time he's left evidence behind when he's closed out and "given up" on the idea of trying to speak in any serious way to Hiyori about his gloomy feelings right now.
So, strangely, the only message sent is this silly little bracket that he hit send on while trying to back out. )
[A new message from the user known as "wildflower." But when he clicks it, there's nothing! Just blank space.
If he was busy, he might just ignore it. It's not like he's never gotten an accidental call or message before. That sort of thing happened at home sometimes. What the commoners call "butt dialing!" But would someone really sit on their own smartwatch by mistake while it's still strapped to their wrist...?
[Once Senku knew which homemade pepper spray formula fit Hiyori's needs, the only thing he needed was a suitable container. After a bit of trial and error and consideration of what he might want to carry with him, it doesn't take him too long to decide on a perfume spray bottle. He soon leaves the spray at Hiyori's door, with a helpful note attached.]
[It's not every day that he finds a mysterious package left at his door. He opens it, and inside he finds...
... it's a good thing Senku left a note. The liquid is so well-disguised that he might've really thought it was perfume otherwise. (Not that he goes around spraying unlabeled substances on himself willy-nilly!) In any case, he's grateful Senku remembered his request, and he likes the presentation.
Even if he has one small criticism about another aspect.]
That's a somewhat scary-looking drawing of me! I'm not sure it captures my charms too well.
But it *does* get the point across.
Anyway, thanks for the gift! In return, please accept this rainbow of gratitude!
[It's strange to be told these things to his face, like how one talks about a late loved one who had not been given a just life. Was it injustice to talk poorly of a version of himself that he's never known, but everyone else has? Is that even someone he could really be.
It's weird to hear it. To be told things that were true and things that could be true, but they were also things that can't be true, because he's never experienced it. It's a strange thing to see Hiyori working himself up in a stupor, voice slowly escalating in volume even in such a strange environment. It's easy to forget where they are at the moment, and what they were wearing-- or well, what they lacked wearing. Like a discussion they should be having in the privacy of a room and not here, in a paintball war in near nakedness.
It's so strange to hear all that, so much so that Rinne isn't sure how to react.
And he might not even realize he's smiling the more Hiyori talks about him, not truly understand the way his heart aches fondly, even if Hiyori was practically a stranger. Or perhaps it's also because he was a fellow idol, and hearing someone speak highly of him after everything he'd done... It was a strange moment.]
... The way you talk about me, you'd think I ain't livin' and breathin' right at this moment. You tryin' to write me off as a memory already?
[He starts, the joke falling flat, even as he sighs and leans back. Already, he doesn't care if they get caught and he's forced out naked. Whatever. This was bizarre enough as is.]
If I got you thinkin' that much about me, then I guess I made a mark somehow. Doesn't sound like you ended up hatin' me, so does that mean ya love me now?
[A memory. The words hit strangely as he comes down from his emotional high, rattling around in his brain.
That's all "that" Rinne is: a memory. He won't ever exist again. Not the Rinne who gave him advice about Jun and performed with him at the beach. Not the one who confided in him about Akan and held him when he cried. The only record of that person's existence is his own memories. And who knows how long he'll be allowed to keep those? Rinne lost his memories, after all. It's enough to make him feel acutely, momentarily hopeless.
But then Rinne sighs and says those last words, and all at once, his chest constricts. It sounded, to him, like acceptance-like Rinne's not throwing out his feelings or denying they could've ever had a bond. And it sounded so Rinne-like, too. After all, wasn't he always saying like things like that? "Gyahaha, you love me, don'tcha?" It's enough to make him realize this isn't a different person. With or without his memories, this is Rinne Amagi, sitting next to him for the first time in months.
His vision blurs with tears, and he gives Rinne a defiant look.]
So what if it does? Whose fault is that?
[And then he breaks eye contact, scrubbing at his face with his hands. He doesn't even have a sleeve he can dry his tears with! How horrible.]
You're still below a lot of people, though. Like Nagisa-kun, Jun-kun, Mary, my family, and my birds. So don't go getting too carried away.
[He speaks while wiping at his eyes. Then he hears footsteps approach—unsurprising, given that he's been making no effort to keep his voice down. But he still gives an exhausted grimace.]
What a pain.
[He glances at Rinne again. It's tempting to tell him to do all the work. But if they do want to beat their opponent...]
greetings to the most talented idol around 🙏 are you busy? I was wondering if we could spend some time coming up with the lyrics to the song we'll be performing. I've recruited a few people to play instruments and robin is also interested in singing too! 💖💖
Busy panicking. He just spent two hours outside Leo's door, knocking and messaging to no avail. It hasn't been long since Hiyori last heard from him. It seems impossible that he could be gone. That he could be a statue somewhere, when he's been at the resort even longer than Hiyori has. Smiling, laughing, playing impromptu concerts, holing up in his room and composing the night away...
He slumps over on a bench, staring at the registry. Hoping against hope that somehow, he missed Leo's name the last time he looked. But it isn't there. He doesn't see it anywhere, which means...
He gets a new message.
It takes him a moment to check it, and then several moments to reply.]
Reira-chan. How lovely to hear from you.
[He replies like normal (albeit with fewer emojis). There's no reason to dump his problems on her. Though, can he really hope to carry on like nothing's changed...?
Even thinking about making music makes him think of Leo, and his stomach sinks. Maybe he should be upfront with her.]
I'd be happy to come up with lyrics. Write them, rehearse them, meet your other collaborators, and whatever else you like.
But I'm not sure now's the best time. Someone I know went missing, so. That's been a bit stressful.
Hmm... So we only get the basics if we don't do anything too risque, but we can't have any luxuries? Then doesn't that mean you can live comfortably without finding a partner?
[Though actually...]
Do you have a choice whether or not you can do it? They're so vague with their instructions, I feel like they can trick you into doing things you're not ready for.
[No, not "sort of." Even if you have enough vouchers to support yourself, you'll still turn to stone if you don't have sex. How exactly should he break that to her, though?
It's always difficult. Meeting these wide-eyed new arrivals and having to be the bearer of bad news. But as someone who's been trapped here much longer than she has, he's basically her "senpai." And as her senior, and her partner for this activity, he wants to help. Both by telling her what she needs to do to survive, but also by telling her what she doesn't need to do, so she won't push herself too far.
He quits hemming and hawing and addresses her seriously.]
They will try to trick you, I'm sorry to say. And if you avoid going to bed with someone for over a month, you'll start to run into trouble. Which is absolutely horrid, since that's the sort of thing that shouldn't be forced on anyone. Still, there is some degree of choice, no matter how awful the system is.
[He clears his throat, pointing in a finger in the air.]
First of all, you don't need to go "all the way." I knew someone who was saving that for marriage, and he never got penalized for it, as far as I'm aware. Second of all—
[He holds another finger in the air.]
—there are a surprising number of loopholes that can work. For example, simply watching someone else can count; if two people invited you to watch them be intimate, you could get their cards without having letting anyone touch you. Which I know might sound strange, but it takes some of the pressure off, doesn't it? And simply exchanging pictures or messages can also work, as long as someone "enjoys themself" to the fullest. That's what the commoners call "sexting," apparently. I know doing that sort of thing can be somewhat nerve-wracking as an idol, though.
[He holds up a third figure.]
And third of all, you should always get to choose your partner. This place may try to shove you together with certain people, but you can always say, "Nope, no thanks!" Even if someone begs you for help with their suit, it's still within your right to say, "I don't feel like it today, so go find someone else!"
[His voice rises in volume. He's already invested in her well-being and he wants her to be alright, even if this place is absolutely, positively awful.]
You mustn't let anyone guilt you into things. There are always willing people here, and you seem like a lovely woman whom anyone would want, which means you can be picky as you please. And if anyone has a problem with that, they can cry themselves a river. Understood? That all makes sense, doesn't it?
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
@lilith ~4/5
hey, ohii-san, it's tsukinaga-senpai's birthday tomorrow, and he wants a birthday cake. i said i'd do it no problem, but i was wondering if you had ideas for gifts? thinking about something he could use for composing, or, dunno, what else could he want?! we could all pitch in, if you want? but i'm gonna go ask rinne-senpai for ideas, just so he knows. i dunno if his ideas'll be helpful, though...?
[ So watch this space??? Leo's a 10, so he likely has everything he needs, but that doesn't mean he deserves to go without a present or have his fellow idols not know it's his birthday! ]
no subject
[He didn't see this one coming. He's never given much thought to the issue of celebrating birthdays in this place. Surely he and Jun won't still be here when July and August come around... will they? It's a depressing thought.
But he pushes that aside for now. He'd much rather focus on gift-giving, celebrations, and other fun things like that! Those are his specialties.]
I'm not sure what he loves, other than composing and his little sister. I know he has a recording studio in his room, though, so perhaps we could find him some new equipment? There's always stationery and fountain pens and the like, as well, but my feeling is that he's happy to compose wherever and doesn't need to do it in a leather-bound journal.
When I'm stumped for what to get someone, I usually have our personal chef whip them something up. But he's not here right now, and instead we have you! I'm also not sure what food Leo-kun likes, since he doesn't seem to eat much. Maybe something coffee-related? A gift basket with different beans, perhaps? I'll figure something out!
Are we also throwing him a party? Or are we simply delivering the gifts up to his room?
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
...
...
...
...
...
...
@hunnyB 5/2
Great Tit, 2pm. Be there.
[He's even using proper spelling. How serious. Well, Hiyori is free to ignore this command.]
no subject
And then his expression turns incredulous when he sees what it is.]
That's all you have to say??
[And why Great Tit? That's his least favorite food place here! But he gets up and goes, of course, since he really has no choice. He needs answers!!]
action; backdated 6/5 (sorry) i promise this one can be quick 🫡
Secondly, he's running straight from the gym in search for Hiyori. Perhaps it would be better to text him, just so he's not looking all across the resort, but he'll end up at Hiyori's door anyway. A little out of breath from frantically running, he lightly raps his knuckles against the door. It's also to the tune of their hit single "Sunlit Smile," so hopefully Hiyori knows it's him.
And if Hiyori's not there, he'll be patient and even text him. But he wants to ask in person; therefore, this could not wait! Jun is a man on a mission! ]
never apologize
He is expecting someone to knock, actually. A staff member was supposed to come up to his room and install something at some point. But he can tell this particular knock doesn't belong to any one of the brainwashed staff, but to someone he knows intimately. He smiles, jumps up from the couch, and opens the door.]
Jun-kun! ♪
🥰
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
@wildflower
( That's how you greet someone when you have info for them, right. )
no subject
[... wait.]
But does this mean you're back from investigating the "roots of the House"?
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
no subject
[He steps into the elevator alongside Jun and presses the button. At the same time, Jun strokes his hand with his thumb, replying to his banter with sweet words that make his heart squeeze. But he refuses to swoon or do anything embarrassing, no matter how surprisingly smooth Jun is these days. He just smiles and teases back!]
Fill it with even more thoughts, of course! ♪ If you're head's already full, we'll just have to make some more room in there!
[An answer befitting of the spoiled, selfish side he shows when he's with Jun. Though, in all honesty...
His own head is pretty full at the moment. Full of thoughts of Jun, that is.
The feeling of that thumb stroking his hand sends sparks of electricity shooting up his wrist. As the doors shut behind them, the atmosphere seems to shift: the air turned thin and shivery, goosebumps prickling all along his bare arms. Unlike at the beach, he feels underdressed now. Or maybe he's overdressed? He glances at Jun, sees that strong chest and muscular arms in his periphery, and something sinks in his stomach like a hot stone.
He remembers their kiss at the beach, the way Jun gradually drew him into his arms until they were finally pressed chest-to-chest, and he suddenly wants nothing more than to be that close again.
It feels like a hardship to even have to wait. And unfortunately, they have two elevator rides ahead of them, if the elevator that goes to Nami's suite can only be taken to and from a "special location." But they get where they need to go, thankfully without being interrupted by any talking portraits or deliberate "malfunctions." Soon they're standing in front of the door to his suite without having committed any public indecency. What excellent self-restraint they have!
But not for much longer. His impatience shows in how aggressively he opens the door, in how quick his footsteps are in his sandals against the floor. And as soon as they get inside the room, Hiyori more or less flings himself at Jun, throwing his arms around Jun's neck and connecting their lips in a kiss.]
no subject
[ Honestly, It's best if he avoids answering, as they're already in the elevator, plus he was out to tease. Besides it seemed unfitting for a beach, having his shirt still on and thought nothing else regarding the request. And especially since Hiyori can take it off whenever he likes, he shrugs that off.
But it might be easier to focus if Hiyori wasn't constantly on his mind, making it hard to function normally. After their kiss on the beach, the warmth of Hiyori's body against his has left him struggling to think clearly.
It's a struggle to maintain self-control when they're alone, but they both seem to understand the need for restraint. At the end of the day, they are idols, despite the half-public kiss at Weiss' party. Both elevator rides feel endless, though he wouldn't dare complain out loud. Wanting to avoid seeming desperate, and needy while also wanting Hiyori alone is the key. But there's an itch, a need only Hiyori can satisfy.
Besides, it seems they are on the same page, he notices how aggressively Hiyori opens the door and he grins. As they've barely made their way inside, kicking the door shut, his arms move instinctively to Hiyori's waist, pulling him closer. He nibbles playfully across Hiyori's lips, hoping to convey his desire and hunger through the kiss, just as he had done on the beach. Already swiping his tongue across Hiyori's lower lip, wanting to mirror the same sensual gestures from earlier. ]
Mmm.
[ The only words worth mustering as the rest will come in a moment. ]
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
@wildflower
Hello, Hiyori. I hope you've been doing well. From your performance at the "beach," I assume so.
I have some relevant information to share, but it's not exactly the pleasant kind, so do tell me when you think you're prepared to stomach it.
no subject
[But alas, it doesn't sound like he's here to
tell him how pretty he iscompliment his performance ability. Pity about that.]I'd be more surprised if you said it was pleasant. It's always some awful new thing with this place.
But it does no good to turn our eyes away. So, go ahead. What revolting thing did you find out this time?
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
1/3
2/3
3/3
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
no subject
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so what better way to start the day by having breakfast while being comfortable in bed!
He hopes not to wake Hiyori just yet, not while he’s sleeping and very cutely, too. With their makeshift kitchen, he manages to keep the noise down (or so he believes) not wanting to wake or disturb the sleeping princess in the next room. For good measure, Jun carries in the tray first, placing it on their nightstand while turning down the quilt. And sitting on the trays filled with breakfast food are plates of pancakes shaped into a design of the sun, French toast, a mixture of fruit and croissants. Rounded off with a pot of tea, teacups and edible flowers placed around the tray.
In the middle there is a single red rose, which has “apparently,” been removed of all pollen. (As per the shopkeepers words.) It’s romantic, cheesy and sweet. And all of Jun’s best intentions on display, wanting to show off his love and affection to his special someone. * Not as if Jun needs to display said love only on Hiyori’s birthday, he can and will provide him with enough love to last a lifetime.
Now’s the time to rouse the sleeping princess, or if he’s awake due to the noise, which Jun is no longer being discreet about. He’ll lean in close, closing the distance between them and planting a soft, tender kiss against Hiyori’s soft lips. Brushing their lips together for a moment, while smiling from ear-to-ear. ]
Happy birthday, Ohii-san.
[ All while placing the breakfast tray on top of his legs; pouring a cup of tea. Well, not before placing a soft towel underneath to catch any crumbs. (Don’t ask what time Jun woke up for this. And the day is much more important, anyway!)
He’s fairly pleased with himself, also hoping Hiyori enjoys the meal while not having to worry about a thing all day as Jun has it covered. ]
no subject
If they were back home, why, he'd be doing all sorts of things to celebrate: giving a special concert, or enjoying a private party at CosPro. Perhaps getting a special photoshoot done in a special birthday suit. (No, not that kind of birthday suit.) As it stands, however...
There will be no party. He'll be lucky to get in any celebrating. Because for his birthday, he's about to be cursed! Or so he just assumes, but the evidence in favor of it is overwhelming, in his view. Rinne and Hua Cheng were both cursed for their birthdays, and the House has every reason to dislike him more than them. After all, he talks smack about them constantly, plots against them at every turn, and refuses to do any of the stuff they ask him to do! He's been here for about five months, and he's only collected one card! Sex between people from different worlds is apparently how the resort gets most of its energy, which means he and Jun are what you call "freeloaders!" This was a badge of honor for him, until it became a huge fear.
But his sleep is mercifully free of any more nightmares where Jun turns into a statue. He sleeps peacefully, waking up later than his partner, as per usual. Jun is no longer sleeping all snuggled up next to him by the time that he awakes, also per the usual. He's always off to the gym in the mornings. (And often in the afternoons, too!) He'd probably never skip a day.
Except he's not gone. Instead he's back on the bed, his lips pressed against Hiyori's in a soft, fleeting kiss. Hiyori's eyelashes flutter in surprise, his eyes blinking open groggily. When Jun draws back and he meets those eyes, they're a lovely gold color, like the morning sun.]
Mm...?
[He drops his eyes down to the tray that's been set in his lap, looking dazed. Laid out on that tray is a shockingly high-class breakfast, fit for a noble like him. A far cry from the prepackaged food and drinks he stocked up on in preparation for being stuck in his room for a while. Rinne and Hua Cheng's curses lasted for days, after all.
But he doesn't feel cursed. At least not yet. There's no foreignness or discomfort, apart from the usual sleep deprivation. Their newborn chick is quite the chatterbox, chirping around the clock. Yet even she's quiet for the moment, sleeping soundly in her makeshift nest, leaving him and Jun free to enjoy this moment of peace.]
You did all this?
[Hiyori seems a bit surprised. Maybe even a little awed. But the dazed look in his eyes soon turns as warm as the tea Jun poured, sitting out on the tray in a pretty cup next to the breakfast spread.]
It looks so elegant, I'm shocked. In a good way, mind you. If it wouldn't overturn the whole tray, I'd hug you right now! ♪
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
1/2
2/2
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
delivery.
a piece of paper taped to the lid appears to have just been torn off the complimentary pads provided in the more generic suites. written on it in a hand that is certainly not that of an illiterate man is a list of ingredients, nice and normal and not spiked in the slightest. at the bottom, it merely reads happy birthday, followed first by a half-hearted, heavy handed scribble, then by kirma's name in a fancy script, decorated with a drawn pawprint and ears. it is impossible to say if he had any part in the creative direction of this.
all this to say: happy birthday to his favorite (and only) "coworker." hopefully you didn't get too cursed, buddy. )
1/2
But the comeuppance never comes. He doesn't feel cursed. And when he receives a delivery first thing in the morning, it's from Jin Mingming, not the House. A lovely-looking gift that fits him like a glove. She even threw in something for Jun-kun!
He's still wary he'll receive something else from the House later, which means he's highly suspicious of the second delivery. So what if it looks like a cookie tin? Perhaps the cookies were poisoned! Or, more likely, drugged with aphro. But he reads the attached note before he opens the lid, and that earns a big eyebrow raise.
With its adorable embellishments, that signature is fit to be an idol's. It tells him who the gift is allegedly from. Though who exactly wrote it when Kirma's supposed to be illiterate...?
Oh well. It doesn't matter, he supposes. It's the thought that counts.]
He'd be such a good, cute boy if not for that other stuff.
[But again, oh well. Now's not the time to dwell on the prince's recent kidnapping! Or the other kidnapping, or the whole arm-breaking scandal. He calls out to Jun.]
Jun-kun, look! There are cookies! These seem like they'll go perfectly well with tea, so let's brew some~ ♪
(no subject)
@wildflower ; backdated to hiyori's nightmare
no subject
When he does read the message the next day, sometime after breakfast, he grimaces. Esikko hadn't said anything about his tears earlier in the week! Whatever happened to silent support? But it figures that he'd say something now, after having his sleep interrupted. Not that Hiyori feels too bad about that given what Esikko's been putting him through...]
Nope, no one. There's nobody trying to kidnap me or cut my chest open.
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
@edelstein | text
no subject
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
...
@edelstein | text
The new arrival is my sister, and I want you to refrain from talking to her about magic as much as you can feasibly manage. If you promise to do this I'll show you my magecraft.
no subject
First of all, I'm sorry to hear it.
[He tries to imagine his older brother being here, and nope. Done thinking about it!]
Just your magic, or all magic? I can promise either way, but it strikes me as a fool's errand to keep her away from all magic. Almost everyone can do it here. Even I've learned a little bit.
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
@sanlang / text, in the absence of any santa prompts
then, a text: ]
what is this??
no subject
Looks like Santa!
Which some people might say is a bit premature, since it's not December yet. But I say there's nothing wrong with getting in the Christmas spirit early! I'm just glad he still has his suit on and they're not making him do something weird.
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
1/2
2/2
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
Text | UN: iceicebaby
Location: My current 10th Floor Suite.
Please RSVP and feel free to bring a plus one.
no subject
Is it really your thousandth birthday?
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
*and yes, not and yet
👍
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
( 12/25 ) — xmas ding dong ditch (to jun, technically, but also for hiyori)
the box contains a short length of red thread that flashes just slightly gold in the right light. when touched, it seems to resonate with spiritual energy, and it lengthens or shortens according to the distance between them when each of the ends is held.
along with the red string is a brief note from hua cheng, in his neatest and most legible handwriting. ]
Jun & Hiyori —
Affix the string to a finger of your choosing and make a vow to one another. When imbued with evidence of your affection, the string will from that point forward always lead you to each other — no matter how far separated you may be by space or time. The string will not always be visible, but the connection will always be there.
It can be removed, but only at a cost. Be certain.
— Hua Cheng
<3
The bad news is that this means asking for a gift to be delivered to "Jun Sazanami's suite" means Jun almost certainly won't be around to receive it. But Hiyori has gifts from a few other people coming his way, and at some point, he gets the idea that perhaps they should check Jun's abandoned room down in the basement, just to see if there are any gifts waiting for Jun, too. That's when the mysterious red thread is discovered.
A single piece of thread would be an odd gift to start with, but there's something particularly odd about this one. The vibe he gets as he stares down at the box is a strange one. Why, it almost reminds him of those strings during the Hearts game.
And that's before he reads the note.]
"The red thread of fate."
[He recalls what he heard from Hua Cheng over the Network, and he turns to Jun with wide, stunned eyes.]
That's what this is! That's our Christmas gift!
― 12/25
p.s. give him (jun) his for me.
it's a pair of matching necklaces for them!)
no subject
He's somewhat surprised to receive such a thoughtful gift from her, though. And not just any sort of gift, but a couple's gift. He never told her that sunshine is his motif both onstage and off the stage, but he didn't need to, did he? It's obvious just from looking at him!
Unless maybe Jun told her that he was warm and bright like the sun. Wouldn't that be nice?
He sends a picture over sometime in the late afternoon. It shows him and Jun wearing the necklaces, Hiyori giving the camera a smile and a wink.]
✨☀️💖🌙✨
[That's all he sends as a caption.]
12/25
Normally, sunflowers can't live for long without the sun. There are methods to create an artificial sun, of course, and I'm capable of doing that with magic— however, I tried something different while growing these. Try singing them a song.
The tea is a blend of other plants I grow that will help soothe the nerves without any additional drowsiness. It tastes rather floral, but sweet. Enjoy.
- Esikko
The sunflowers, he'll find, will treat Hiyori like the sun itself whenever he sings. Singing will keep them alive, blooming long past their season, all year round— and they'll turn to him if he moves. Slowly. In a plant way. )
no subject
The gift comes as a pleasant surprise. The real shock, however, is the line about singing to them. He absolutely performs a mini-concert for them as soon as he reads that, and he'll be happy to keep doing so! He needs to practice his singing every day, anyway! But the way the flowers seem to move on their own is a bit, er...]
Excuse me! I have a question about these sunflowers!
[He sends that message at some point on Christmas.]
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
...
...
un: wildflower
So, strangely, the only message sent is this silly little bracket that he hit send on while trying to back out. )
]
no subject
If he was busy, he might just ignore it. It's not like he's never gotten an accidental call or message before. That sort of thing happened at home sometimes. What the commoners call "butt dialing!" But would someone really sit on their own smartwatch by mistake while it's still strapped to their wrist...?
He replies just to make sure!]
What's up?
1/2
2/2
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
1/2
2/2
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
To make it official - backdated to ???
no subject
... it's a good thing Senku left a note. The liquid is so well-disguised that he might've really thought it was perfume otherwise. (Not that he goes around spraying unlabeled substances on himself willy-nilly!) In any case, he's grateful Senku remembered his request, and he likes the presentation.
Even if he has one small criticism about another aspect.]
That's a somewhat scary-looking drawing of me! I'm not sure it captures my charms too well.
But it *does* get the point across.
Anyway, thanks for the gift! In return, please accept this rainbow of gratitude!
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜💖✨
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
text @knights;
i have a super important question for you
no subject
Go ahead and shoot! 🏹
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
moves this here coz i got tired of waiting for captcha
[It's strange to be told these things to his face, like how one talks about a late loved one who had not been given a just life. Was it injustice to talk poorly of a version of himself that he's never known, but everyone else has? Is that even someone he could really be.
It's weird to hear it. To be told things that were true and things that could be true, but they were also things that can't be true, because he's never experienced it. It's a strange thing to see Hiyori working himself up in a stupor, voice slowly escalating in volume even in such a strange environment. It's easy to forget where they are at the moment, and what they were wearing-- or well, what they lacked wearing. Like a discussion they should be having in the privacy of a room and not here, in a paintball war in near nakedness.
It's so strange to hear all that, so much so that Rinne isn't sure how to react.
And he might not even realize he's smiling the more Hiyori talks about him, not truly understand the way his heart aches fondly, even if Hiyori was practically a stranger. Or perhaps it's also because he was a fellow idol, and hearing someone speak highly of him after everything he'd done... It was a strange moment.]
... The way you talk about me, you'd think I ain't livin' and breathin' right at this moment. You tryin' to write me off as a memory already?
[He starts, the joke falling flat, even as he sighs and leans back. Already, he doesn't care if they get caught and he's forced out naked. Whatever. This was bizarre enough as is.]
If I got you thinkin' that much about me, then I guess I made a mark somehow. Doesn't sound like you ended up hatin' me, so does that mean ya love me now?
no subject
That's all "that" Rinne is: a memory. He won't ever exist again. Not the Rinne who gave him advice about Jun and performed with him at the beach. Not the one who confided in him about Akan and held him when he cried. The only record of that person's existence is his own memories. And who knows how long he'll be allowed to keep those? Rinne lost his memories, after all. It's enough to make him feel acutely, momentarily hopeless.
But then Rinne sighs and says those last words, and all at once, his chest constricts. It sounded, to him, like acceptance-like Rinne's not throwing out his feelings or denying they could've ever had a bond. And it sounded so Rinne-like, too. After all, wasn't he always saying like things like that? "Gyahaha, you love me, don'tcha?" It's enough to make him realize this isn't a different person. With or without his memories, this is Rinne Amagi, sitting next to him for the first time in months.
His vision blurs with tears, and he gives Rinne a defiant look.]
So what if it does? Whose fault is that?
[And then he breaks eye contact, scrubbing at his face with his hands. He doesn't even have a sleeve he can dry his tears with! How horrible.]
You're still below a lot of people, though. Like Nagisa-kun, Jun-kun, Mary, my family, and my birds. So don't go getting too carried away.
[He speaks while wiping at his eyes. Then he hears footsteps approach—unsurprising, given that he's been making no effort to keep his voice down. But he still gives an exhausted grimace.]
What a pain.
[He glances at Rinne again. It's tempting to tell him to do all the work. But if they do want to beat their opponent...]
Shall we ambush them together?
text | @reira
greetings to the most talented idol around 🙏 are you busy? I was wondering if we could spend some time coming up with the lyrics to the song we'll be performing. I've recruited a few people to play instruments and robin is also interested in singing too! 💖💖
no subject
Busy panicking. He just spent two hours outside Leo's door, knocking and messaging to no avail. It hasn't been long since Hiyori last heard from him. It seems impossible that he could be gone. That he could be a statue somewhere, when he's been at the resort even longer than Hiyori has. Smiling, laughing, playing impromptu concerts, holing up in his room and composing the night away...
He slumps over on a bench, staring at the registry. Hoping against hope that somehow, he missed Leo's name the last time he looked. But it isn't there. He doesn't see it anywhere, which means...
He gets a new message.
It takes him a moment to check it, and then several moments to reply.]
Reira-chan. How lovely to hear from you.
[He replies like normal (albeit with fewer emojis). There's no reason to dump his problems on her. Though, can he really hope to carry on like nothing's changed...?
Even thinking about making music makes him think of Leo, and his stomach sinks. Maybe he should be upfront with her.]
I'd be happy to come up with lyrics. Write them, rehearse them, meet your other collaborators, and whatever else you like.
But I'm not sure now's the best time. Someone I know went missing, so. That's been a bit stressful.
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
...
...
kicks captcha i waited long enough
Hmm... So we only get the basics if we don't do anything too risque, but we can't have any luxuries? Then doesn't that mean you can live comfortably without finding a partner?
[Though actually...]
Do you have a choice whether or not you can do it? They're so vague with their instructions, I feel like they can trick you into doing things you're not ready for.
no subject
[No, not "sort of." Even if you have enough vouchers to support yourself, you'll still turn to stone if you don't have sex. How exactly should he break that to her, though?
It's always difficult. Meeting these wide-eyed new arrivals and having to be the bearer of bad news. But as someone who's been trapped here much longer than she has, he's basically her "senpai." And as her senior, and her partner for this activity, he wants to help. Both by telling her what she needs to do to survive, but also by telling her what she doesn't need to do, so she won't push herself too far.
He quits hemming and hawing and addresses her seriously.]
They will try to trick you, I'm sorry to say. And if you avoid going to bed with someone for over a month, you'll start to run into trouble. Which is absolutely horrid, since that's the sort of thing that shouldn't be forced on anyone. Still, there is some degree of choice, no matter how awful the system is.
[He clears his throat, pointing in a finger in the air.]
First of all, you don't need to go "all the way." I knew someone who was saving that for marriage, and he never got penalized for it, as far as I'm aware. Second of all—
[He holds another finger in the air.]
—there are a surprising number of loopholes that can work. For example, simply watching someone else can count; if two people invited you to watch them be intimate, you could get their cards without having letting anyone touch you. Which I know might sound strange, but it takes some of the pressure off, doesn't it? And simply exchanging pictures or messages can also work, as long as someone "enjoys themself" to the fullest. That's what the commoners call "sexting," apparently. I know doing that sort of thing can be somewhat nerve-wracking as an idol, though.
[He holds up a third figure.]
And third of all, you should always get to choose your partner. This place may try to shove you together with certain people, but you can always say, "Nope, no thanks!" Even if someone begs you for help with their suit, it's still within your right to say, "I don't feel like it today, so go find someone else!"
[His voice rises in volume. He's already invested in her well-being and he wants her to be alright, even if this place is absolutely, positively awful.]
You mustn't let anyone guilt you into things. There are always willing people here, and you seem like a lovely woman whom anyone would want, which means you can be picky as you please. And if anyone has a problem with that, they can cry themselves a river. Understood? That all makes sense, doesn't it?
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)