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[Jun's finger curls right into where he needs it most, and he lets out a soft near-whimperâalmost granting Jun's wish. The way Jun swaps his thumb for his forefinger strokes Hiyori's excitement higher, and the sweet kiss calms his nerves. Jun's about to give him "more" and soon he'll feel even better.
Just as soon as Hiyori clarifies what "more" is.
Hiyori's eyes blink open (when had they fallen shut?) and he stares dazedly at Jun. From the drunken flush suffusing his cheeks to the intoxicated look in his eyes, his desire is clear as day. But it's still hard to ask for what he want specifically, since he's never been touched there before. Things would be so much easier if Jun could read his mind (or his body, rather) and figure it out for him.
But he won't make any quips about how Jun "should always know what he wants, because they're partners." As Jun's partner, it's his job to give direction.
He nods a little after making up his mind.]
I can take more.
[Finally releasing the sheets, he embraces Jun, looping his arms around his neck while he squirms against his hand again.]
Right where Jun-kun was touching me before. If you press two there, I have a feeling it might feel twice as good. So, try that! âȘ
Just as soon as Hiyori clarifies what "more" is.
Hiyori's eyes blink open (when had they fallen shut?) and he stares dazedly at Jun. From the drunken flush suffusing his cheeks to the intoxicated look in his eyes, his desire is clear as day. But it's still hard to ask for what he want specifically, since he's never been touched there before. Things would be so much easier if Jun could read his mind (or his body, rather) and figure it out for him.
But he won't make any quips about how Jun "should always know what he wants, because they're partners." As Jun's partner, it's his job to give direction.
He nods a little after making up his mind.]
I can take more.
[Finally releasing the sheets, he embraces Jun, looping his arms around his neck while he squirms against his hand again.]
Right where Jun-kun was touching me before. If you press two there, I have a feeling it might feel twice as good. So, try that! âȘ
[ He wishes it were easier to come out and say what sort of compliments youâd like to receive, but Junâs not that sort of person. With the confirmation he does look handsome, his chest bursts with warmth, having Hiyori say something and say he does mean it, makes Jun the most happiest person in the world. Wearing a suit isnât usually his style! But as he looks back in the mirror, glancing between himself and Hiyori; something is abundantly clear! They do make an attractive couple, and Junâs so happy, having what it seems like their love being recognised.
Hiyori articulates it in words better than Jun could, which is exactly what heâs been thinking. Here they are, in a shitty casino, being forced here against their will⊠but all throughout it all theyâve had one another. Itâs the most comforting feeling waking up each morning seeing Hiyoriâs beautiful sleeping face. Itâs a comfort to Jun more than anything, more than Hiyori knows. ]
Itâs like youâre reading my mind, Ohii-san.
[ Which means theyâre on the same page! But being partners they usually are, arenât they? Besides his heart doing a little flip, his thumb presses into Hiyoriâs palm, rubbing circles. Really, Jun isnât quite sure how to explain it either, but itâs exactly how he feels. Why else would someone in the resort go to the effort? ]
Iâm not the sorta person who gets sappy âbout it, but it feels really good.
[ More than really good, but if he continues, heâd only be rehashing everything Hiyoriâs already said. Though, itâs true! They donât need anyoneâs permission to love one another, or matching anything. Itâs still nice to have, isnât it? Maybe love made Jun soft, but it goes to show even he can experience a feeling that intensely and still be the same person.
What Hiyoriâs proposing only makes sense. Itâs Junâs last string, too, but what else makes sense is how theyâre still connected to one another. It may not be the red string, but who needs it? The House just gave them the wrong string, thatâs all.
Itâs not exactly what he had planned for Hiyoriâs birthday, itâs definitely different. But the idea of having this, on Hiyoriâs birthday, sounds nice. But one thing! ]
The thing âbout that⊠I donât wanna get âem for the strings sake. Just for fun, but if youâre thinking itâll count⊠Guess it depends? Whatâs âgiving ourselvesâ really mean, anyway? Weâve done all that, and whoeverâs deciding what counts is probably having a good time watching us fumble it.
[ Hearts or the House, who knows at this point! ]
Hiyori articulates it in words better than Jun could, which is exactly what heâs been thinking. Here they are, in a shitty casino, being forced here against their will⊠but all throughout it all theyâve had one another. Itâs the most comforting feeling waking up each morning seeing Hiyoriâs beautiful sleeping face. Itâs a comfort to Jun more than anything, more than Hiyori knows. ]
Itâs like youâre reading my mind, Ohii-san.
[ Which means theyâre on the same page! But being partners they usually are, arenât they? Besides his heart doing a little flip, his thumb presses into Hiyoriâs palm, rubbing circles. Really, Jun isnât quite sure how to explain it either, but itâs exactly how he feels. Why else would someone in the resort go to the effort? ]
Iâm not the sorta person who gets sappy âbout it, but it feels really good.
[ More than really good, but if he continues, heâd only be rehashing everything Hiyoriâs already said. Though, itâs true! They donât need anyoneâs permission to love one another, or matching anything. Itâs still nice to have, isnât it? Maybe love made Jun soft, but it goes to show even he can experience a feeling that intensely and still be the same person.
What Hiyoriâs proposing only makes sense. Itâs Junâs last string, too, but what else makes sense is how theyâre still connected to one another. It may not be the red string, but who needs it? The House just gave them the wrong string, thatâs all.
Itâs not exactly what he had planned for Hiyoriâs birthday, itâs definitely different. But the idea of having this, on Hiyoriâs birthday, sounds nice. But one thing! ]
The thing âbout that⊠I donât wanna get âem for the strings sake. Just for fun, but if youâre thinking itâll count⊠Guess it depends? Whatâs âgiving ourselvesâ really mean, anyway? Weâve done all that, and whoeverâs deciding what counts is probably having a good time watching us fumble it.
[ Hearts or the House, who knows at this point! ]
[Was it the wrong string?
At first he thought it was, because it wasn't a red string. The resort gave them red strings leading to other people, which of course was bogus. (Even if those strings did lead them to deepen their bonds with the people they did connect to.) And it gave Hiyori a second gold string, which was how he ended up shivering and whimpering in pain from phantom ailments that still haven't subsided. But the text on the screen regarding their gold string hadn't been all wrong, at least not from Hiyori's end. He may not believe in "destiny" or "soulmates" exactly, but Jun is his other half. And to find someone who will "take in every part of him" is a blessed thing. That might not be something he only shares with Jun. His relationship with Nagisa is like that, too: a bond based on mutual, unconditional acceptance. But when it comes to "having" and "being had," who else does he want to "have" more than Jun?
Jun, whom he wants to possess every part of. Jun, whom he's always confidently declared belongs to him. There's a reason Hiyori was so delighted to put a collar around his neck. But Jun wearing that collar wasn't enough to sever their string, and it's now that Hiyori realizes why that might have been: Jun might've given himself to him, but he hasn't given himself fully to Jun in return yet. Has he?
Maybe it's stupid of him to take any of this seriously. It is just another game. But...]
It's not just about the string.
[That, Hiyori can say with certainty. Looking Jun in the eye, he speaks with plenty of confidence.]
With or without this game going on, I'd still want us to match. But it isn't just about us matching. We didn't just talk about any rings, but about "promise rings." And there's a lot I want to promise Jun-kun.
[He squeezes Jun's hand, taking a breath before he launches into this next bit.]
For example, that I won't turn into one of those brainwashed career residents. That I'll never lose sight of what's important, and always stay true to my dazzling self. That I'll protect you from turning into a stone statue, and from all the horrors that go on in the basement. That we'll go home, reunite with Mary and Nagisa-kun and Ibara, and sit around a table eating delicious quiche together. That we'll perform the song we practiced for SS. And then, once all of that's done, that Jun-kun can have my future afterwards.
[He pauses, then, still squeezing Jun's hand, still looking Jun straight in the eye, hoping to convey that everything he said came straight from his heart. His expression is serious.
Then, finally, it relaxes, lips forming a smile again, soft and exhilarated.]
I don't know what nonsense Hearts has in mind. But I think that's what "giving oneself" means, at least for me. And I don't need to do it with a ring, but I like shopping and jewelry, so why not? Jun-kun said he also wanted something that matches, so that sounds like the best idea to me! âȘ
At first he thought it was, because it wasn't a red string. The resort gave them red strings leading to other people, which of course was bogus. (Even if those strings did lead them to deepen their bonds with the people they did connect to.) And it gave Hiyori a second gold string, which was how he ended up shivering and whimpering in pain from phantom ailments that still haven't subsided. But the text on the screen regarding their gold string hadn't been all wrong, at least not from Hiyori's end. He may not believe in "destiny" or "soulmates" exactly, but Jun is his other half. And to find someone who will "take in every part of him" is a blessed thing. That might not be something he only shares with Jun. His relationship with Nagisa is like that, too: a bond based on mutual, unconditional acceptance. But when it comes to "having" and "being had," who else does he want to "have" more than Jun?
Jun, whom he wants to possess every part of. Jun, whom he's always confidently declared belongs to him. There's a reason Hiyori was so delighted to put a collar around his neck. But Jun wearing that collar wasn't enough to sever their string, and it's now that Hiyori realizes why that might have been: Jun might've given himself to him, but he hasn't given himself fully to Jun in return yet. Has he?
Maybe it's stupid of him to take any of this seriously. It is just another game. But...]
It's not just about the string.
[That, Hiyori can say with certainty. Looking Jun in the eye, he speaks with plenty of confidence.]
With or without this game going on, I'd still want us to match. But it isn't just about us matching. We didn't just talk about any rings, but about "promise rings." And there's a lot I want to promise Jun-kun.
[He squeezes Jun's hand, taking a breath before he launches into this next bit.]
For example, that I won't turn into one of those brainwashed career residents. That I'll never lose sight of what's important, and always stay true to my dazzling self. That I'll protect you from turning into a stone statue, and from all the horrors that go on in the basement. That we'll go home, reunite with Mary and Nagisa-kun and Ibara, and sit around a table eating delicious quiche together. That we'll perform the song we practiced for SS. And then, once all of that's done, that Jun-kun can have my future afterwards.
[He pauses, then, still squeezing Jun's hand, still looking Jun straight in the eye, hoping to convey that everything he said came straight from his heart. His expression is serious.
Then, finally, it relaxes, lips forming a smile again, soft and exhilarated.]
I don't know what nonsense Hearts has in mind. But I think that's what "giving oneself" means, at least for me. And I don't need to do it with a ring, but I like shopping and jewelry, so why not? Jun-kun said he also wanted something that matches, so that sounds like the best idea to me! âȘ
You're certainly not wrong that we're opposites in certain ways. I believe that's called a foil.
If we're choosing flowers, I'd much prefer to be loosestrife. However, I do enjoy them all in their own ways, so I'll take that, thorn and all, as a compliment.
Who is it that can see your soul in that way?
If we're choosing flowers, I'd much prefer to be loosestrife. However, I do enjoy them all in their own ways, so I'll take that, thorn and all, as a compliment.
Who is it that can see your soul in that way?
[ Hiyori's soft sounds cause his chest to convulse, wanting to press up even more against him. He feels like they're almost one, like this, feeling all of Hiyori and wanting to feel even more. It does make him nervous, not knowing what Hiyori wants, at least not right now.
Maybe the more they engage in this, the better theyâll understand each otherâs desires. He releases a soft whimper as Hiyoriâs eyes flutter open, the intense, dark gaze making his pulse race. Jun's beginning to understand, from feeling the way Hiyori clenches around his finger to the desire painted across his face. Itâs slow, a result of their inexperience and fear of hurting Hiyori. But now he gets it, with his heart racing a mile per minute, exploring more and more. Future Jun will know; he'll read the atmosphere (and Hiyori's body) and figure it out.
That's the kind of attentive lover he wants to be. ]
Yeah, alright. I got it.
[ Heâs nearly breathless, the words hanging in the air long after theyâre spoken. As he shifts his body, the warm arms encircling his neck make him feel more connected than ever. The tip of his finger presses in, and itâs difficult to discern his emotions. With Hiyori here, telling him he can handle another, his nerves begin to ease up. ]
You're so warm, Ohii-san. I promise to make ya feel twice as good âȘ
[ He mumurs, repeating some of the words back. It's true, Jun does want to make him feel "twice as good." And shouldn't that be a given? Having the validation helps; things will get better, and he'll learn how to do this properly. Hiyori looks so beautiful like this, expression hazy and unfocused. Completely mesmerised, he slides his finger in, inch by inch. Slow, but not too slow, wanting to find the same rhythm and spot from earlier. ]
Maybe the more they engage in this, the better theyâll understand each otherâs desires. He releases a soft whimper as Hiyoriâs eyes flutter open, the intense, dark gaze making his pulse race. Jun's beginning to understand, from feeling the way Hiyori clenches around his finger to the desire painted across his face. Itâs slow, a result of their inexperience and fear of hurting Hiyori. But now he gets it, with his heart racing a mile per minute, exploring more and more. Future Jun will know; he'll read the atmosphere (and Hiyori's body) and figure it out.
That's the kind of attentive lover he wants to be. ]
Yeah, alright. I got it.
[ Heâs nearly breathless, the words hanging in the air long after theyâre spoken. As he shifts his body, the warm arms encircling his neck make him feel more connected than ever. The tip of his finger presses in, and itâs difficult to discern his emotions. With Hiyori here, telling him he can handle another, his nerves begin to ease up. ]
You're so warm, Ohii-san. I promise to make ya feel twice as good âȘ
[ He mumurs, repeating some of the words back. It's true, Jun does want to make him feel "twice as good." And shouldn't that be a given? Having the validation helps; things will get better, and he'll learn how to do this properly. Hiyori looks so beautiful like this, expression hazy and unfocused. Completely mesmerised, he slides his finger in, inch by inch. Slow, but not too slow, wanting to find the same rhythm and spot from earlier. ]
Is that what you'd call it? Better foils than enemies, I guess!
Loosestrife, huh? That sounds nice. As long as you don't mean the purple kind. Then it's an invasive species!
And it was Weiss-chan who taught me how to bear my soul like that. She said it's called an Aura, but it sounds like the same thing as a soul. The good news is that when it's active, it can warm you right up like a blanket! Which is a wonderful help while I'm dealing with this emotional link thing! I can't always get it to work properly, though. She said you need to have a "calm mind" for it to work.
I do feel calm right now, though, so perhaps it'd be best just to show you. If you share it with someone else, it can warm them up, too! And we still have that "Hearts task" left to do, don't we? The one you were so keen on doing with me last time!
Loosestrife, huh? That sounds nice. As long as you don't mean the purple kind. Then it's an invasive species!
And it was Weiss-chan who taught me how to bear my soul like that. She said it's called an Aura, but it sounds like the same thing as a soul. The good news is that when it's active, it can warm you right up like a blanket! Which is a wonderful help while I'm dealing with this emotional link thing! I can't always get it to work properly, though. She said you need to have a "calm mind" for it to work.
I do feel calm right now, though, so perhaps it'd be best just to show you. If you share it with someone else, it can warm them up, too! And we still have that "Hearts task" left to do, don't we? The one you were so keen on doing with me last time!
[ Maybe it's not.
Jun has realised now they don't need a silly, little red string to prove their love. He understands connections can form through the string, and it doesn't always have to be romantic. Besides, Jun doesn't have deep, romantic feelings for anyone else! After being afraid of intimacy for so long, finally he's grown comfortable enough for this. Sadly, Jun doesn't share this intense connection with anyone else, as his bond with Ibara isn't at the same level. Ultimately, there's no one else Jun would allow to have "all of him" the way Hiyori does.
It makes sense, doesn't it? If he has to wait his entire life to possess Hiyori, he just might. Honestly, it's not as if the string bothers him despite giving himself to his partner.
His head tilts, squeezing the hand in his tighter. ]
I justâhad to be sure, y'know? 'Cause I know we kinda did, but I still don't wanna get ahead of myself, Ohii-san.
[ He knows there's nothing to be afraid of, and he shouldn't when Hiyori's been nothing but accepting. All in all, Jun should know better. ]
Good thing Iâm not gonna let you become some brainwashed resident. And remember, we promised weâd stick together! Weâre getting outta here and head back to Mary, Nagi-senpai, and Ibara. Maybe we can still perform in SS? Who knows, maybe time's stopped back home, and weâll return to win! But I want that, 'cause you already have mine, and I'd be lying if I said I didn't.
[ His heart feels full hearing all of this, knowing Hiyori truly means it. They've already spoken about much of what they'd like to do back home, even before they were together! But he'd be lying to say he didn't want all of Hiyori's future, just as he's giving him.
When Hiyori turns serious, he knows it's real. Sure, Ohii-san is fussy, and needy and demands all of his attention, but as he's said before...! Jun could have tapped out at any time. His expression softens, a warm, fond smile spreading across his lips as he gazes at Hiyori filled with affection. ]
Don't really care what Hearts has in mind, Ohii-san. What we do shouldn't matter to 'em! But I get it, 'sides knowing shopping is your favourite hobby! And for your birthday, I wanted to pick out something nice, but guess itâs not really a surprise anymore, huh~?
[ It sounds like the "best idea" to him, too. Not because of the game, nothing ever has to do with the games this place throws at them. Jun wants to do it because he loves Hiyori, and wants to continue giving his best self every day. ]
I've got another lil' surprise for you, so you'd better be ready for it! âȘ
Jun has realised now they don't need a silly, little red string to prove their love. He understands connections can form through the string, and it doesn't always have to be romantic. Besides, Jun doesn't have deep, romantic feelings for anyone else! After being afraid of intimacy for so long, finally he's grown comfortable enough for this. Sadly, Jun doesn't share this intense connection with anyone else, as his bond with Ibara isn't at the same level. Ultimately, there's no one else Jun would allow to have "all of him" the way Hiyori does.
It makes sense, doesn't it? If he has to wait his entire life to possess Hiyori, he just might. Honestly, it's not as if the string bothers him despite giving himself to his partner.
His head tilts, squeezing the hand in his tighter. ]
I justâhad to be sure, y'know? 'Cause I know we kinda did, but I still don't wanna get ahead of myself, Ohii-san.
[ He knows there's nothing to be afraid of, and he shouldn't when Hiyori's been nothing but accepting. All in all, Jun should know better. ]
Good thing Iâm not gonna let you become some brainwashed resident. And remember, we promised weâd stick together! Weâre getting outta here and head back to Mary, Nagi-senpai, and Ibara. Maybe we can still perform in SS? Who knows, maybe time's stopped back home, and weâll return to win! But I want that, 'cause you already have mine, and I'd be lying if I said I didn't.
[ His heart feels full hearing all of this, knowing Hiyori truly means it. They've already spoken about much of what they'd like to do back home, even before they were together! But he'd be lying to say he didn't want all of Hiyori's future, just as he's giving him.
When Hiyori turns serious, he knows it's real. Sure, Ohii-san is fussy, and needy and demands all of his attention, but as he's said before...! Jun could have tapped out at any time. His expression softens, a warm, fond smile spreading across his lips as he gazes at Hiyori filled with affection. ]
Don't really care what Hearts has in mind, Ohii-san. What we do shouldn't matter to 'em! But I get it, 'sides knowing shopping is your favourite hobby! And for your birthday, I wanted to pick out something nice, but guess itâs not really a surprise anymore, huh~?
[ It sounds like the "best idea" to him, too. Not because of the game, nothing ever has to do with the games this place throws at them. Jun wants to do it because he loves Hiyori, and wants to continue giving his best self every day. ]
I've got another lil' surprise for you, so you'd better be ready for it! âȘ
[The fact Jun wants to give his future to himâthat he wants them to spend their lives togetherâmakes him feel horribly glad. It drives out all the dark thoughts swirling around in his head, dulls the pain in his chest and melts away the cold. Silly Jun-kun; he really should have known better.
It makes Hiyori feel so good, in fact, that he's willing to consider that idea that time is stopped back home, even though it sounds preposterous. Can the House's magic really influence their world? Does this whole place exist outside of time somehow, even though there are birthday celebrations and a calendar and seasonal activities like beach parties? He doesn't know, but that would be best. And it'd make things simplest for when they return.
Which they will, one day, hand in hand. He'll make sure it happens somehow.]
Mm~âȘ Maybe so. One way or another, I have faith that we'll win someday.
[A part of him wonders if that could be part of their wish: not just to go back home, but to go back to the time they were pulled from. If the House really does grant wishes. And if they completed their 52 boards. He hasn't really spent much time thinking about what-ifs like that, because he doesn't want to delude himself, and he figured that was an option that was closed to them, anyway. But given that loophole they now know about...
Well. Now isn't the time to talk about that.
Jun says he picked something out for himâthat he has another gift for him besides the breakfast in bed. Which isn't a huge surprise, but Hiyori had gotten so wrapped up in their conversation that he forgot about gift-giving. He beams at Jun.]
Jun-kun has another gift he's been waiting to unveil, huh? Excellent! Let'sâ
[see it.
But he stops before he can finish, his eyes widening as he clues into Jun's meaning. Is he saying he already bought them?
Hiyori's tempted to just ask, but after a moment's pause, he just nods, feeling uncharacteristically shy all of a sudden, his heart lodged somewhere in his throat.]
... on second thought, since Jun-kun wants to surprise me, I'll close my eyes.
[And that he does, standing there expectantly with his eyes shut.]
It makes Hiyori feel so good, in fact, that he's willing to consider that idea that time is stopped back home, even though it sounds preposterous. Can the House's magic really influence their world? Does this whole place exist outside of time somehow, even though there are birthday celebrations and a calendar and seasonal activities like beach parties? He doesn't know, but that would be best. And it'd make things simplest for when they return.
Which they will, one day, hand in hand. He'll make sure it happens somehow.]
Mm~âȘ Maybe so. One way or another, I have faith that we'll win someday.
[A part of him wonders if that could be part of their wish: not just to go back home, but to go back to the time they were pulled from. If the House really does grant wishes. And if they completed their 52 boards. He hasn't really spent much time thinking about what-ifs like that, because he doesn't want to delude himself, and he figured that was an option that was closed to them, anyway. But given that loophole they now know about...
Well. Now isn't the time to talk about that.
Jun says he picked something out for himâthat he has another gift for him besides the breakfast in bed. Which isn't a huge surprise, but Hiyori had gotten so wrapped up in their conversation that he forgot about gift-giving. He beams at Jun.]
Jun-kun has another gift he's been waiting to unveil, huh? Excellent! Let'sâ
[see it.
But he stops before he can finish, his eyes widening as he clues into Jun's meaning. Is he saying he already bought them?
Hiyori's tempted to just ask, but after a moment's pause, he just nods, feeling uncharacteristically shy all of a sudden, his heart lodged somewhere in his throat.]
... on second thought, since Jun-kun wants to surprise me, I'll close my eyes.
[And that he does, standing there expectantly with his eyes shut.]
( HE DOES MEAN THE PURPLE KIND. HE KNOWS. )
You were able to learn some type of magic like that after just one meeting?
Well, I am curious about that, now. So. We should finish it up.
You were able to learn some type of magic like that after just one meeting?
Well, I am curious about that, now. So. We should finish it up.
[đ]
That's the thing, she said it's not magic! But she also said it can heal minor scrapes and bruises, which sounds an awful lot like magic if you ask me.
And great! I'll just pass our bird to Jun-kun and head over! Though I'm not quite sure where I'm headed to. Maybe we can meet at a bench somewhere? Unless there's somewhere specific you wanted to do this cuddling thing.
That's the thing, she said it's not magic! But she also said it can heal minor scrapes and bruises, which sounds an awful lot like magic if you ask me.
And great! I'll just pass our bird to Jun-kun and head over! Though I'm not quite sure where I'm headed to. Maybe we can meet at a bench somewhere? Unless there's somewhere specific you wanted to do this cuddling thing.
People may have their special little names for things, but magic is magic. This sounds like a type of it. Too many worlds equate "magic" with something unreal or fantasy-like, despite their own methods being based on the same concepts.
Anyway, let's meet in the gardens. There's a number of benches there.
Anyway, let's meet in the gardens. There's a number of benches there.
[ Hiyori never has to worry about their future; he truly means it. It's not just a comforting statement for Hiyori or himself. When he looks at Hiyori and reflects on all they've been through, there's no one else he wants to share his future with. Even back home, he had been ready to commit to Eve and Eden. What Jun was uncertain about years ago, now completely certain of.
"I have faith we'll win someday." Hearing these words make Jun feel a comforting warmth, as if everything will be alright once they return home. Regardless of the circumstances, their fans would still want them to win SS, even if they knew about their time in a sex casino. Jun wonders if time has stopped back home, or if he's only avoiding the thought of how Ibara and Nagi-senpai are managing without them. Eden would likely need to go on hiatus, something he's sure Hiyori wouldn't want to think too deeply about. Perhaps Ibara and Nagisa are performing as Adam, keeping the excitement alive for Eden and, by extension, Eve, ensuring that fans still talk about them. ]
Right, you'd better keep your eyes closed âȘ
[ It's nothing extravagant, especially in a place where you can buy almost anything. But it's something Jun made himselfâsimple yet heartfelt. He steps away briefly, retrieving the gift from its hidden spot in one of their drawers. With a warm smile, he hands the package to Hiyori. Though Hiyori can't see the fondness in Jun's eyes right now, heâll notice it once he opens the gift. ]
Made it myself, so dunno if it's good... But you can open 'em now!
[ He'll move to place the gift in Hiyori's hands, waiting for his eyes to open.
And as for what's inside the wrapped package? Well, it's a hand-knitted blanket. Not that it's necessary in a place where everything is easily bought, Jun intended to offer Hiyori a touch of extra comfort. The blanket is near the shade closest to Hiyori's image colour, with some uneven edges. It's not perfectly knit by any means, with a few gaps near the bottom, but it reflects Jun's most recent efforts in relearning sewing and knitting. (With thanks to the Ugly Duckling University!) ]
You know how we sometimes cuddle on the couch together? Well, I sorta figured itâd be nice to have this. And I didn't wanna buy anything, 'cause I think this'd show off my feelings better âȘ
[ Of course, heâll wait until Hiyori unwraps the gift, but heâs excitedly waiting to tell him all about it. ]
It's even got a lil' 'H' sewn into the bottom, 'cause it's all yours ~ âȘ
"I have faith we'll win someday." Hearing these words make Jun feel a comforting warmth, as if everything will be alright once they return home. Regardless of the circumstances, their fans would still want them to win SS, even if they knew about their time in a sex casino. Jun wonders if time has stopped back home, or if he's only avoiding the thought of how Ibara and Nagi-senpai are managing without them. Eden would likely need to go on hiatus, something he's sure Hiyori wouldn't want to think too deeply about. Perhaps Ibara and Nagisa are performing as Adam, keeping the excitement alive for Eden and, by extension, Eve, ensuring that fans still talk about them. ]
Right, you'd better keep your eyes closed âȘ
[ It's nothing extravagant, especially in a place where you can buy almost anything. But it's something Jun made himselfâsimple yet heartfelt. He steps away briefly, retrieving the gift from its hidden spot in one of their drawers. With a warm smile, he hands the package to Hiyori. Though Hiyori can't see the fondness in Jun's eyes right now, heâll notice it once he opens the gift. ]
Made it myself, so dunno if it's good... But you can open 'em now!
[ He'll move to place the gift in Hiyori's hands, waiting for his eyes to open.
And as for what's inside the wrapped package? Well, it's a hand-knitted blanket. Not that it's necessary in a place where everything is easily bought, Jun intended to offer Hiyori a touch of extra comfort. The blanket is near the shade closest to Hiyori's image colour, with some uneven edges. It's not perfectly knit by any means, with a few gaps near the bottom, but it reflects Jun's most recent efforts in relearning sewing and knitting. (With thanks to the Ugly Duckling University!) ]
You know how we sometimes cuddle on the couch together? Well, I sorta figured itâd be nice to have this. And I didn't wanna buy anything, 'cause I think this'd show off my feelings better âȘ
[ Of course, heâll wait until Hiyori unwraps the gift, but heâs excitedly waiting to tell him all about it. ]
It's even got a lil' 'H' sewn into the bottom, 'cause it's all yours ~ âȘ
Sounds like I'll just have to show you, and you can decide for yourself if it's magic!
And sure! Just make sure the bench is stationed far away from any suspicious-looking flowers, alright?
[He means the sex pollen ones. And with that, he's off!
He's not as prompt as he would be if he weren't fighting pain and exhaustion every step of the way. But he gets to the Cloud-Dwelling garden before too long, wearing one of the winter coats he and Jun found inside the flower maze back in April. Assuming Esikko's already there, he'll be checking the benches for him.]
And sure! Just make sure the bench is stationed far away from any suspicious-looking flowers, alright?
[He means the sex pollen ones. And with that, he's off!
He's not as prompt as he would be if he weren't fighting pain and exhaustion every step of the way. But he gets to the Cloud-Dwelling garden before too long, wearing one of the winter coats he and Jun found inside the flower maze back in April. Assuming Esikko's already there, he'll be checking the benches for him.]
( Luckily for Hiyori, Esikko knows exactly where flowers like that are, after his own gardening experiences. So, he sits on a bench that faces a nice view of the flowers, but from a respectable distance, near a nice little gazebo and water feature that he's currently watching. Eyes follow the trickling flows of water as he plucks at his own fingers and the strings that remain, including the one attached to Hiyori.
It's when he's close enough that he recognizes the string reacts differently to his plucks, shortening in distance. So, he glances over to him, stuck on that dramatic coat for just a moment before he pats the spot next to him. )
This spot works, doesn't it?
It's when he's close enough that he recognizes the string reacts differently to his plucks, shortening in distance. So, he glances over to him, stuck on that dramatic coat for just a moment before he pats the spot next to him. )
This spot works, doesn't it?
[The winter coat is the most abormal-looking thing about him. He's been wearing it around the resort, pale and drawn and shivering, while his fellow shoppers eyed him nervously and tried to move away from him, afraid that whatever he had going on was contagious. But he doesn't seem too terribly uncomfortable right now, approaching the bench with a smile.]
Yep. This seems like a good view.
[He doesn't feel miserable, either, Esikko will notice. His worries haven't all washed away but they've receded, his emotions calm. He sits next to Esikko on the bench and then gets right to business.]
So!
[He faces Esikko.]
As far as that Aura thing goes, I need to be touching you to share it anyway, so I guess you can go ahead and lean on me. I'm wearing this cushy winter coat, so it just makes sense! Your head will be nice and comfortable~âȘ And that'll satisfy the whole string challenge thing, which is what you'd call a double-win in my book.
Yep. This seems like a good view.
[He doesn't feel miserable, either, Esikko will notice. His worries haven't all washed away but they've receded, his emotions calm. He sits next to Esikko on the bench and then gets right to business.]
So!
[He faces Esikko.]
As far as that Aura thing goes, I need to be touching you to share it anyway, so I guess you can go ahead and lean on me. I'm wearing this cushy winter coat, so it just makes sense! Your head will be nice and comfortable~âȘ And that'll satisfy the whole string challenge thing, which is what you'd call a double-win in my book.
[Back home, whenever the holidays rolled around, he always made a show of expecting gifts. "Jun-kun, it's almost Christmas! Don't forget my present, alright?" It was a way of building anticipation, but he also just liked the thought of Jun scrambling around, trying to find something that would please him. Gifts are a way of showing you care, after all, and it was always nice to have proof Jun was thinking of him. It was a way of pushing himself into Jun's thoughtsâand his heartâeven more. But also, it's just plain fun to celebrate with gifts!
Now it's still fun, but the sense of anticipation is different; he feels like a schoolkid waiting to receive Valentine's chocolate from the classmate they love. He's not expecting any one thing in particular, and yet he can't help the way his brain buzzes with possibilities. Did Jun get them matching jewelry or "promise rings"? If so, how did he know his measurement? Did Jun secretly measure his ring finger while he slept, the way the heroine's boyfriend did in a drama he watched back home?? Sneaky Jun-kun! He never knew he had it in him!
He closes his eyes, his cheeks lightly flushed. As he's waiting there with his hands outstretched, Jun announces his return, placing a package in them. Even before he opens his eyes, he realizes it's too big, too bulky to be a box with a ring in it. So what did Jun buy him?
As it turns out, nothing. Jun's gift to him is something he made himself, not something he bought. Hiyori looks surprised to hear it, but not in a bad way.]
Now I'm really curious.
[He tears off the wrapping and opens the package. What he finds inside is some soft knitting. Is it a sweater? No, he realizes, it's a blanket. He turns it over in his hands, looking mesmerized. It's not that he's shocked by the quality, but rather by the effort that surely went into it. Jun has knit small items for Mary before, but he's never taken on a big project like this, has he? And yet he completed it without Hiyori even noticing. He really is sneaky.
He looks up at his partner to find him smiling softly as he talks about cuddling; how he knitted the blanket so they could snuggle together underneath it. It's such a cute explanation, sugary sweet like birthday cake, that it sends his heart fluttering. Even without the chill brought on by his connection with Esikko, this blanket would seem like just the thing he needs. And as Jun talks about the stitching he did at the end, sounding proud of himself, Hiyori loses the ability to hold back.]
So this is Jun-kun's handiwork, hmm? âȘ
[His eyes briefly drop down to the blanket, looking it over for another moment, before he smiles at Jun again.]
Very impressive! But it looks like you missed a letter.
[He speaks without a trace of admonishment. Smiling ear to ear, he shifts the blanket to his free hand and steps forward to throw his arms around Jun, draping the blanket over Jun's back. He presses their foreheads together and continues,]
It's missing a J, since this is a gift for both of us. When I'm wrapped up in Jun-kun and the blanket, I'm sure I'll feel twice as warm âȘ Just as Jun-kun will feel even more warm when he's cuddling me! That's what it means to share warmth! âȘ
[With that, he closes his eyes, tucking his head against the side of Jun's face, his voice lowering to a heartfelt murmur.]
... thanks, Jun-kun.
Now it's still fun, but the sense of anticipation is different; he feels like a schoolkid waiting to receive Valentine's chocolate from the classmate they love. He's not expecting any one thing in particular, and yet he can't help the way his brain buzzes with possibilities. Did Jun get them matching jewelry or "promise rings"? If so, how did he know his measurement? Did Jun secretly measure his ring finger while he slept, the way the heroine's boyfriend did in a drama he watched back home?? Sneaky Jun-kun! He never knew he had it in him!
He closes his eyes, his cheeks lightly flushed. As he's waiting there with his hands outstretched, Jun announces his return, placing a package in them. Even before he opens his eyes, he realizes it's too big, too bulky to be a box with a ring in it. So what did Jun buy him?
As it turns out, nothing. Jun's gift to him is something he made himself, not something he bought. Hiyori looks surprised to hear it, but not in a bad way.]
Now I'm really curious.
[He tears off the wrapping and opens the package. What he finds inside is some soft knitting. Is it a sweater? No, he realizes, it's a blanket. He turns it over in his hands, looking mesmerized. It's not that he's shocked by the quality, but rather by the effort that surely went into it. Jun has knit small items for Mary before, but he's never taken on a big project like this, has he? And yet he completed it without Hiyori even noticing. He really is sneaky.
He looks up at his partner to find him smiling softly as he talks about cuddling; how he knitted the blanket so they could snuggle together underneath it. It's such a cute explanation, sugary sweet like birthday cake, that it sends his heart fluttering. Even without the chill brought on by his connection with Esikko, this blanket would seem like just the thing he needs. And as Jun talks about the stitching he did at the end, sounding proud of himself, Hiyori loses the ability to hold back.]
So this is Jun-kun's handiwork, hmm? âȘ
[His eyes briefly drop down to the blanket, looking it over for another moment, before he smiles at Jun again.]
Very impressive! But it looks like you missed a letter.
[He speaks without a trace of admonishment. Smiling ear to ear, he shifts the blanket to his free hand and steps forward to throw his arms around Jun, draping the blanket over Jun's back. He presses their foreheads together and continues,]
It's missing a J, since this is a gift for both of us. When I'm wrapped up in Jun-kun and the blanket, I'm sure I'll feel twice as warm âȘ Just as Jun-kun will feel even more warm when he's cuddling me! That's what it means to share warmth! âȘ
[With that, he closes his eyes, tucking his head against the side of Jun's face, his voice lowering to a heartfelt murmur.]
... thanks, Jun-kun.
( Already, Esikko lets out a rather heavy sigh. For the most part, his emotions feel deadened somehow, in their link. Tired, muted, barely there— it's a coping mechanism. Hiyori, though, earns a little spike of annoyance before Esi listens and leans his head down to the side.
Well, the coat is fluffy and comfortable, at least. )
The more you make this sound like a business transaction, the less I like it. Just so you know.
( He doesn't know what he'd prefer, but he knows this is just awkward. )
Alright, let's see it.
Well, the coat is fluffy and comfortable, at least. )
The more you make this sound like a business transaction, the less I like it. Just so you know.
( He doesn't know what he'd prefer, but he knows this is just awkward. )
Alright, let's see it.
You're awfully hard to please. This is me when I'm in a cuddly mood!
[Poor Esikko-kun. Hiyori's been too irritated with him to muster much sympathy in the past week or so, but now he can manage. Everything's always miserable in his life, and his emotions are dreary to match. But he has something like a partner here, so it's not always terrible, is it?
Maybe he can be taught to appreciate the little things. Like a lovely garden view, or sharing warmth with someone else. Hiyori lies his head on top of his, then reaches for Esikko's hand. Weiss took his hand when she shared her own warmth and taught him how to do this, so that's what he should do too, right?
"Think of something that will make you calm and happy." That's what she told him, and so that's what he does, recalling the same lullaby from Jun he used last time.]
âȘ~âȘ~âȘ
[He hums along to the memory softly, and after a moment his Aura activates. It manifests as a glow that envelopes himâthe appearance depends on the person, apparently, and his is almost blindingly bright and sparkly. The brightest she'd ever seen, she said! That glow brings warmth along with it, starting from their joined hands, spreading from palms to fingertips and then traveling up their arms. It settles over their heads like a blanket. Hiyori opens his eyes.]
See? Like that! âȘ
[That bright and dazzling glow fades away after a moment, but the warmth doesn't leave with it.]
[Poor Esikko-kun. Hiyori's been too irritated with him to muster much sympathy in the past week or so, but now he can manage. Everything's always miserable in his life, and his emotions are dreary to match. But he has something like a partner here, so it's not always terrible, is it?
Maybe he can be taught to appreciate the little things. Like a lovely garden view, or sharing warmth with someone else. Hiyori lies his head on top of his, then reaches for Esikko's hand. Weiss took his hand when she shared her own warmth and taught him how to do this, so that's what he should do too, right?
"Think of something that will make you calm and happy." That's what she told him, and so that's what he does, recalling the same lullaby from Jun he used last time.]
âȘ~âȘ~âȘ
[He hums along to the memory softly, and after a moment his Aura activates. It manifests as a glow that envelopes himâthe appearance depends on the person, apparently, and his is almost blindingly bright and sparkly. The brightest she'd ever seen, she said! That glow brings warmth along with it, starting from their joined hands, spreading from palms to fingertips and then traveling up their arms. It settles over their heads like a blanket. Hiyori opens his eyes.]
See? Like that! âȘ
[That bright and dazzling glow fades away after a moment, but the warmth doesn't leave with it.]
[ Back home, many things were different. Of course, he still managed to gift Hiyori something, but what could you get someone who has everything? Back then it made Jun nervous, and now it makes him even more nervous. He wants the gifts to be useful, something Hiyori likes, just to be certain he knows his partners' preferences. Even more now, where not only does Hiyori occupy his thoughts, but also his day-to-day life.
That's why there's a hint of nervousness as he hands over something he made himself. He's not a professional at all, the stitching isn't perfect, with the "H" being off by an inch or two. But it's brimming with love and care, reflecting Jun's personality just as much. (Besides, he had been thinking about buying them rings, and he can do that any day he likes!) But this was the first big project he had worked on. While knitting something Mary's size was easier, this took time and effort, and he wanted to put in the effort to see it through to the end. ]
Yep, all my handiwork! Pretty proud I got it done âȘ
[ He seems prouder, chest puffing out a little as the motivation behind his actions becomes clear. Knitting from scratch hadn't been easy, there were times when he wanted to give up, thinking the project was bigger than planned. But wanting Hiyori to enjoy the gift, something filled with love, made the blood, sweat and tears worth it.
Jun looks a little confused by Hiyori's wording. Did he miss a letter? Nope, the H is right there! Unless he should have added a T for his last name!
Oh, that's what Hiyori meant.
He pulls Hiyori closer, rubbing their noses together as he feels the blanket around his shoulders. When Hiyori moves his head down, Jun moves his head down a little, pressing a short, soft kiss against his forehead. ]
Seems like I've got more sewing to do âȘ Though that'll hafta wait, 'cause we got a blanket to break in first! Well, I mean at least Ohii-san wants to share the warmth.
[ A blush blooms on his cheeks, feeling the shared warmth radiate between them. It's nice, having this, and wanting more. ]
You're welcome, Ohii-san. I'm glad ya like it âȘ
That's why there's a hint of nervousness as he hands over something he made himself. He's not a professional at all, the stitching isn't perfect, with the "H" being off by an inch or two. But it's brimming with love and care, reflecting Jun's personality just as much. (Besides, he had been thinking about buying them rings, and he can do that any day he likes!) But this was the first big project he had worked on. While knitting something Mary's size was easier, this took time and effort, and he wanted to put in the effort to see it through to the end. ]
Yep, all my handiwork! Pretty proud I got it done âȘ
[ He seems prouder, chest puffing out a little as the motivation behind his actions becomes clear. Knitting from scratch hadn't been easy, there were times when he wanted to give up, thinking the project was bigger than planned. But wanting Hiyori to enjoy the gift, something filled with love, made the blood, sweat and tears worth it.
Jun looks a little confused by Hiyori's wording. Did he miss a letter? Nope, the H is right there! Unless he should have added a T for his last name!
Oh, that's what Hiyori meant.
He pulls Hiyori closer, rubbing their noses together as he feels the blanket around his shoulders. When Hiyori moves his head down, Jun moves his head down a little, pressing a short, soft kiss against his forehead. ]
Seems like I've got more sewing to do âȘ Though that'll hafta wait, 'cause we got a blanket to break in first! Well, I mean at least Ohii-san wants to share the warmth.
[ A blush blooms on his cheeks, feeling the shared warmth radiate between them. It's nice, having this, and wanting more. ]
You're welcome, Ohii-san. I'm glad ya like it âȘ
( When the aura begins to form, Esikko finally slips out of that tired looking frown and into a small little smile. Maybe whoever taught Hiyori this said it wasn't magic, maybe they don't consider it such, but— he reaches his free hand out to run through the sparkles, useless in everything except gesture. Like pressing a hand through a ray of sunlight itself, and just as warming. )
This is most certainly magic...
( His voice is soft, though, fond, and he lets his hand rest back down, the other one still nestled easily in Hiyori's hold. )
To me, anyway. Magic varies from person to person, so it makes sense that any sort of projection you create would be unique like this. Hmm, what does it use... Does it take some energy? A little bit of stamina, perhaps?
This is most certainly magic...
( His voice is soft, though, fond, and he lets his hand rest back down, the other one still nestled easily in Hiyori's hold. )
To me, anyway. Magic varies from person to person, so it makes sense that any sort of projection you create would be unique like this. Hmm, what does it use... Does it take some energy? A little bit of stamina, perhaps?
[Jun presses in with the tip of another finger, and he clings tighter, holding onto him for comfort and warmth. Jun sounds more confident now, which makes his heart throb. But beyond that, he sounds sweet. A devoted lover, promising to make him feel even better.]
Jun-kun, too. Jun-kun's also...
[Warm. But his voice trails off on an intake of breath as Jun slides another finger into him.
The stretch is wider, something he can really feel this time. He's flushed all the way down to his chest, his arms shifting restlessly around Jun's neck while he focuses on the feeling. It's not a mathematical equationâit doesn't automatically feel "twice as good" to have two in him. That spot inside him is small enough that it only takes one finger to rub, anyway. But having more of Jun does bring pleasure, both physical and psychological. He feels like he's being prepared, opened up so they can become one soon, and when Jun shifts his hand and crooks his finger in search of that one spot that drives him wild, he moans again and rocks his hips.]
Mm...
[His vision's all blurry. Jun's doing what he asked of him and it feels good. There's no criticism to be had. But he can always ask for more. He's the ever-greedy Hiyori Tomoe, after all, who never hesitates to give demands.]
Jun-kun should keep touching there. But my lips might get lonely, so he should kiss me, too! âȘ
[Does he have the coordination to do both? Hopefully if Hiyori asks for it, he will.]
Jun-kun, too. Jun-kun's also...
[Warm. But his voice trails off on an intake of breath as Jun slides another finger into him.
The stretch is wider, something he can really feel this time. He's flushed all the way down to his chest, his arms shifting restlessly around Jun's neck while he focuses on the feeling. It's not a mathematical equationâit doesn't automatically feel "twice as good" to have two in him. That spot inside him is small enough that it only takes one finger to rub, anyway. But having more of Jun does bring pleasure, both physical and psychological. He feels like he's being prepared, opened up so they can become one soon, and when Jun shifts his hand and crooks his finger in search of that one spot that drives him wild, he moans again and rocks his hips.]
Mm...
[His vision's all blurry. Jun's doing what he asked of him and it feels good. There's no criticism to be had. But he can always ask for more. He's the ever-greedy Hiyori Tomoe, after all, who never hesitates to give demands.]
Jun-kun should keep touching there. But my lips might get lonely, so he should kiss me, too! âȘ
[Does he have the coordination to do both? Hopefully if Hiyori asks for it, he will.]
[He watches that hand reach out to grasp the sparkles, just in time for them to fade. Between that and the comment about magic, he gets the sense that he's impressed him, and that's nice.]
That's what I thought! But if it is, that would mean I can do magic now, correct?
[And that thought sure is a doozy. Not that he dislikes it.
In response to the question about stamina,]
I'm not really sure! She did say it can drain, though. And that it drains faster when I'm sharing it with people. So maybe it does take stamina.
[He pauses, still leaning against Esikko, still basking in the newfound work. It doesn't completely drive away the bone-deep chill, but it feels like sweet relief every time, akin to coming indoors after being outside in the cold. And it feels like that for Esikko, too, doesn't it? He continues,]
I feel like it's also a matter of will, though. For example, just now I wanted to share my warmth with you, so I willed it into existence. Which is exactly what I've always wanted to do. Or it's who I want to be, rather: someone like the sun, who can drive away all the cold and darkness in the world.
That's what I thought! But if it is, that would mean I can do magic now, correct?
[And that thought sure is a doozy. Not that he dislikes it.
In response to the question about stamina,]
I'm not really sure! She did say it can drain, though. And that it drains faster when I'm sharing it with people. So maybe it does take stamina.
[He pauses, still leaning against Esikko, still basking in the newfound work. It doesn't completely drive away the bone-deep chill, but it feels like sweet relief every time, akin to coming indoors after being outside in the cold. And it feels like that for Esikko, too, doesn't it? He continues,]
I feel like it's also a matter of will, though. For example, just now I wanted to share my warmth with you, so I willed it into existence. Which is exactly what I've always wanted to do. Or it's who I want to be, rather: someone like the sun, who can drive away all the cold and darkness in the world.
[Jun's lips brush his forehead and he smiles. It seems that whenever he hugs Jun these days, Jun remembers to plant a kiss somewhere. He's doing great at this whole "boyfriend" thing. Their fans would surely be impressed.]
Mm~âȘ Whenever I'm with Jun-kun, all the cold seems to melt away.
[He stands with his arms still looped around Jun's neck, his voice full of warmth. After how the past week has gone, Jun can surely understand those words' significance; Hiyori has been shivering from cold, wearing a winter jacket everywhere, and his skin's still unnaturally cool to the touch. He's been in pain, too. But Jun's been there with him through all of it, serving as his personal heater, and in more ways than just physical. Whenever he feels cold and alone, and when he broke down in tears after that nightmare two nights ago, Jun is there to remind him that things are alright. That he's not alone and he has love in his life.
He continues,]
I've been thinking "Jun-kun is just like a blanket" for a while now, actually. Almost like a security blanket. So your gift couldn't be more fitting.
[Like Jun's poster of Jin Sagami. Funny, how Hiyori has lightly teased him about that before. How Hiyori has teased Jun about needing him, about being a helpless (but adorable) kouhai who needs his guidance, when it's Hiyori who needs him. But all he can do is accept the simple truth. He needs Jun, which is why he'll hold onto him forever.
He untucks his head so he can look Jun in the eye again, still smiling, but speaking seriously.]
But I don't want to hog all the warmth. I'd rather bask in it together. And that's why I want to promise that one day, the two of us will feel real sunlight again. That we'll escape this place and live out our dreams.
[Not artificial sun. Not an "artificial view."]
Since that's my promise to Jun-kun, perhaps we should buy promise rings. You can even call it my wedding vow, as hopelessly cheesy as that sounds.
Mm~âȘ Whenever I'm with Jun-kun, all the cold seems to melt away.
[He stands with his arms still looped around Jun's neck, his voice full of warmth. After how the past week has gone, Jun can surely understand those words' significance; Hiyori has been shivering from cold, wearing a winter jacket everywhere, and his skin's still unnaturally cool to the touch. He's been in pain, too. But Jun's been there with him through all of it, serving as his personal heater, and in more ways than just physical. Whenever he feels cold and alone, and when he broke down in tears after that nightmare two nights ago, Jun is there to remind him that things are alright. That he's not alone and he has love in his life.
He continues,]
I've been thinking "Jun-kun is just like a blanket" for a while now, actually. Almost like a security blanket. So your gift couldn't be more fitting.
[Like Jun's poster of Jin Sagami. Funny, how Hiyori has lightly teased him about that before. How Hiyori has teased Jun about needing him, about being a helpless (but adorable) kouhai who needs his guidance, when it's Hiyori who needs him. But all he can do is accept the simple truth. He needs Jun, which is why he'll hold onto him forever.
He untucks his head so he can look Jun in the eye again, still smiling, but speaking seriously.]
But I don't want to hog all the warmth. I'd rather bask in it together. And that's why I want to promise that one day, the two of us will feel real sunlight again. That we'll escape this place and live out our dreams.
[Not artificial sun. Not an "artificial view."]
Since that's my promise to Jun-kun, perhaps we should buy promise rings. You can even call it my wedding vow, as hopelessly cheesy as that sounds.
...Then that's magic, I would say.
( It's unusually soft, coming from Esikko, but his suit has been flaring up off and on, and his emotions are in knots. Knots of feelings that have always had the capability to show themselves, but have normally done so in far more unhinged manners. This resort is simultaneously a whole new expanse of worlds opened up to him, and a gilded cage.
Right now, there's this strange juxtaposition of sadness and relief that he can't explain. He doesn't know why it's coming here, with Hiyori, in response to some foreign magic that's nearly wholly useless. It's showy, it's... warm, and it's nice, and it's almost comforting. Useless...?
His heart aches with loneliness even as a small, genuine smile persists, his eyes closing from his own exhaustion. Like this, maybe he can pretend that he's with anyone that he wants to be trying to share warmth with him, with any of the backs he's been chasing for one reason or another. But Hiyori is one of those too, in a way— the false idea of a "friend" that doesn't quite seem right. Familiar, in a way, to one or two relationships from home, to people close to him physically, but only out of obligation.
He thinks that, maybe, he needs to start showing his own worth a little more, to make sure these scraps of company don't vanish completely. )
But your music at the beach was like that, too, you know. ( Kind, from him? His voice is barely above a whisper. ) It felt a little like magic. Not anything like when you speak.
( A light jab, all things considered, to offset the oddity of his kind words. )
( It's unusually soft, coming from Esikko, but his suit has been flaring up off and on, and his emotions are in knots. Knots of feelings that have always had the capability to show themselves, but have normally done so in far more unhinged manners. This resort is simultaneously a whole new expanse of worlds opened up to him, and a gilded cage.
Right now, there's this strange juxtaposition of sadness and relief that he can't explain. He doesn't know why it's coming here, with Hiyori, in response to some foreign magic that's nearly wholly useless. It's showy, it's... warm, and it's nice, and it's almost comforting. Useless...?
His heart aches with loneliness even as a small, genuine smile persists, his eyes closing from his own exhaustion. Like this, maybe he can pretend that he's with anyone that he wants to be trying to share warmth with him, with any of the backs he's been chasing for one reason or another. But Hiyori is one of those too, in a way— the false idea of a "friend" that doesn't quite seem right. Familiar, in a way, to one or two relationships from home, to people close to him physically, but only out of obligation.
He thinks that, maybe, he needs to start showing his own worth a little more, to make sure these scraps of company don't vanish completely. )
But your music at the beach was like that, too, you know. ( Kind, from him? His voice is barely above a whisper. ) It felt a little like magic. Not anything like when you speak.
( A light jab, all things considered, to offset the oddity of his kind words. )
[*newfound warmth... not work... ghh.
The prince's voice sounds softer than usual. Hiyori glances at him, but mainly just sees the top of his head at this angle (blond roots included). Despite the connection, he can't quite grasp what Esikko's feeling. There's some underlying sadness somewhere in there, but at least he doesn't seem worried at the moment, and that's good. While they're like this, it'd be best if he could let his worries melt away.
It comes as a surprise when Esikko brings up the beach concert, the complimenting triggering a little burst of happiness and pride.]
So you were dazzled! âȘ
[He sounds audibly pleased to go along with it.]
That just makes it sound like there's something wrong with the way I talk! But I do think songs are the universal language. They have the power to reach people's hearts, lift up their spirits, and speak to something inside themselves that they might not have known how to express. All that could be considered a kind of magic, I suppose. I know that's someone's motto...
[He thinks of "that" unit while staring down at his hand, examining his two remaining gold strings.]
The prince's voice sounds softer than usual. Hiyori glances at him, but mainly just sees the top of his head at this angle (blond roots included). Despite the connection, he can't quite grasp what Esikko's feeling. There's some underlying sadness somewhere in there, but at least he doesn't seem worried at the moment, and that's good. While they're like this, it'd be best if he could let his worries melt away.
It comes as a surprise when Esikko brings up the beach concert, the complimenting triggering a little burst of happiness and pride.]
So you were dazzled! âȘ
[He sounds audibly pleased to go along with it.]
That just makes it sound like there's something wrong with the way I talk! But I do think songs are the universal language. They have the power to reach people's hearts, lift up their spirits, and speak to something inside themselves that they might not have known how to express. All that could be considered a kind of magic, I suppose. I know that's someone's motto...
[He thinks of "that" unit while staring down at his hand, examining his two remaining gold strings.]
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