[ Two things Hiyori gets to see before laying eyes on Kleken himself. The first, a bag of birdseed that looks the size of a large bag of dog food. Like that is a lot of birdseed. An excessive amount even. Carried happily by a tentacle that appears rising from the depths of the stairwell followed closely by another. ]
[ The second tentacle? Holding a single strawberry. ]
[ And there's Kleken bringing up the rear behind them both. ]
[It'd be silly to complain about the tentacles. He arranged to meet with The Tentacle Man, after all. Still, he was so not expecting that. He bolts upright and reflexively steps back, startled by the sight of tentacles with no owner attached!]
It's creepy when they appear on their own like that!
[He calls down the staircase, assuming Kleken must be behind around the corner. Then he sees what they're carrying.]
Hm? ... you bought all that?
[His eyes widen even more at the size of that bag!]
[ Please, they're behaving, how dare someone call them creepy. ]
I could have them make more noise when they appear next time.
[ Because there will be a next time. ]
[ Kleken comes to a stop as the pair of tentacles deliver their packages of sort, the sack of birdseed placed on the ground between them, while the singular strawberry is placed delicately into the conman's waiting palm. A palm he proceeds to hold up and examine the strawberry contained within as if Hiyori were addressing this and not the literal sack between them. ]
I had thought it might be too much, but young have healthy appetites I hear.
Yep, you should! Though if you mean a writhing, slimy noise, I'll pass on hearing that! So on second thought...
[Sorry he's such a tentaclephobe. The encounter with Splat surely didn't help. But at least this time, the tentacles are being used for good (delivering gifts for his birds) rather than evil (tweaking his nipples in public). He examines the strawberry for a moment before glancing down to the hefty bag of birdseed, then finally up to Kleken.]
Well... thanks, I suppose. You went above and beyond what I asked. I'm sure they'll be very grateful.
[He hadn't meant to make Kleken spend the chips on a larger bag. But, well, it is what it is. Hiyori eyes the bag for one more moment (still not bending down to pick it up off the floor—he's never been one for carrying things), then comes to a conclusion.]
Since it's quite a lot of birdseed, I wonder if we should share some of it with your bird. With Eel, that is. Either way, we ought to head straight to the Vale! You'll accompany me, won't you?
[And now he looks at Kleken again. Who could say no to his face??]
[ It's a spur of the moment suggestion, but an amusing one once he lets it settle in. Enough of one that he's actively thinking about purchasing some small jingle bells now. The main problem would be effectively attaching them to his tentacles, not to mention which ones... ]
[ He's dragged out of his chaotic thoughts though by the invitation, which merits a raised brow in response at first. He'd been expecting the other man to take off with strawberry and birdseed in tow, but to invite Kleken along is, well. Interesting, at least. Enough that he picks up the bag with one of his tentacles without thought, offering a winning smile and nod. ]
Of course- Oh, is that what Eel eats?
[ Father of the year, right here. To be fair, Splat's diet is markedly different from his sister's, but in a way that made sense considering everything going on in this resort. ]
[He blinks, picturing that for a second... and then smiles.]
Now there's an idea. Then they'd sound like a children's choir! ♪
[Hey, it is an amusing visual. Perhaps it would even help him get over his tentaclephobia.
Though another thing that might help is Kleken using the tentacles to do things for him, like carry his stuff. That may just be the thing to endear him to them, since Hiyori is well-known for refusing to lift anything heavier than a chopstick. As Kleken picks the bag back up and smiles at him, he smiles back! He'd wondered if Kleken might show some strange reluctance to go to the Vale and meet his bird, since they don't seem to have much of a relationship, but it appears not! Which means now is the time to form one, clearly.
Though, as for the question...]
I assume so. I wouldn't know since she's not my daughter. Since we're both unsure, perhaps it's best we ask her other dad.
[And then he's toggling his watch and shooting off a quick message to Baizhu.]
[ Either he gets past his tentaclephobia or he develops a new terrible Pavlovian response to ringing bells. Which would be rather terrible for Hiyori's day to day life, not to mention his idol one... ]
I'm certain they could take the time to learn a pleasant tune.
[ He's oblivious to his role in this inadvertent exposure therapy, his uncharacteristic helpfulness a result of his interest in the Vale more than anything else. He's been terrible at visiting it on his own, and this seems the perfect opportunity to investigate it further. Not to mention bound to be much more interesting than a solo trip by virtue of Hiyori always being interesting. ]
[ At the comment about the responsible father of the pair, he glances over with some interest, a tentacle curling around to try and peer at the exchanged conversation. ]
He's been quite the diligent father, hasn't he?
[ Kleken has no idea, he's the deadbeat absentee father- ]
[Hey, his fans don't ring bells for him, they wave penlights!
At this point he's beaming, tickled pink by the idea of Kleken putting on such a unique performance.]
Then you should try it! Perhaps if they get good enough at it, you can even join me onstage sometime! There are a bunch of us who've been gearing up to put on a concert. Me, Jun-kun, Reira-chan, Till-kun...
[He knows he's seen collars with bells on them in some of the shops. Though those are definitely for people with petplay fetishes. People like him, in other words.
Hiyori taps away at the timescreen, asking Baizhu if Eel eats birdseed just like other birds (and throwing in a few emojis, of course). After sending the message, he drops his wrist.]
Yep, he seems plenty diligent, alri— eeek!
[Then he jumps when he notices the tentacle hovering near his shoulder, giving Kleken a pouty look afterwards.]
That spooked me!
[But then his watch beeps, and he looks back at his message screen again. Baizhu has responded! And his response is: that she'll eat almost anything, as long as it's small enough to fit in her beak. This includes seeds and grains.]
Sounds like your birdseed should be fine. Which means we'll just have to feed all our birds. Then maybe they can have a playdate! We'll just have to keep our eye on Eel, since she tried to squeeze Hiro-kun awfully tight last time.
[ It's a 50/50 whether or not he'll actually do any sort of practice, or even get the bells they're discussing, but it's not a bad gamble. Especially since he does see some appeal in surprising Hiyori with the sudden skill development. It's hardly his fault that the other man wears surprise so well- even his reaction to the unexpected tentacle is just amusing enough that it won't be the last time Hiyori finds a tentacle hovering over his shoulder. ]
[ Sorry, Hiyori. ]
A playdate sounds enjoyable. A shame Splat will miss it.
[ It is in fact better for all parties involved that Splat is absent, even and especially Eel. ]
Perhaps that's simply how Eel expresses affection. Her brother is quite the same.
[He doesn't truly believe it. But then again, Kleken did pull through when it came to the birdseed. Maybe in a few months there will be another Truth or Dare game, and he can dare Kleken and his tentacles to play him a little jingle.
In any case, he nods along to what Kleken's saying while tapping away at his watch.]
That's just what I thought. I wondered if it was her way of showing love! Though that was supposedly their first-ever meeting, so I guess that would make it "love at first sight."
[He is very tempted to make a crack about Eel's feelings for Hiro mirroring Kleken's for Rinne. But he'll be nice and refrain from doing so, since Kleken bought food for his pets and is even carrying it. Meanwhile Baizhu says some less-than-flattering things about Kleken himself during their text convo ("I'm surprised he's being so responsible"), but Hiyori doesn't repeat that. He does, however, say this:]
I guess you're the one they got their "unpredictability" from. That's what Baizhu-san seems to think, anyway.
I'm quite the romantic, so perhaps she takes after me in that regard.
[ Nothing about Kleken's usual behavior suggests he's any sort of romantic, but surely Eel's aggressively... 'loving' behavior came from somewhere. It's an explanation at least, even if one pulled out of thin air given he has very limited knowledge about Eel's habits. ]
[ He really has been a terrible 'father' to her, and perhaps bringing Splat around for more frequent meetings might teach them all something. Or just keep Kleken entirely entertained, either or. ]
[ His gaze shifts over at the relayed comment from Baizhu, brow raising delicately as he smiles suspiciously sweetly in return. ]
Oh? I had always thought he was the one for surprising turns of events. I think I'm rather predictable in comparison.
[His eyes gleam, and then he smiles at Kleken, all bright and innocent!]
I'd love to hear all about that. We should talk about romance sometime. Perhaps we can even share date ideas! ♪
[He doesn't need more ideas, and he knows full well that whatever Kleken would plan for a date probably isn't something he'd enjoy, but he can't resist the urge to tease. Maybe he'll get the chance to nauseate Kleken with his feelings for Jun, after all. Or maybe he'll just bully him about Rinne some more. Who's to say?
Hiyori taps out a quick reply to the message from Baizhu (commenting on the fact that Kleken is reading over his shoulder), and gets one in return. The return message is somewhat insulting towards Kleken ("I don't think surprises are a good idea as far as he's concerned"), but Baizhu does at least wish them good luck and say he thinks Eel will come around to Kleken eventually. Awww.]
Sounds like you're birds of a feather in some ways. You both do magic, you both like slithery things, and you both see each other as "unpredictable"!
[(Plus they both wear glasses!)]
But I love some good gossip, so if you want to tell me something Baizhu-san's done to surprise you, be my guest. I'm all ears~♪
[He is definitely willing to play both sides here :)]
[ One of them is going to end up with a lot better date ideas than the other and spoilers, it isn't going to be Kleken. Kleken's current running idea of a date is consensual kidnapping and carrying around people in his tentacles, something which Hiyori might find himself a little hard pressed to do on his own. Or completely disinterested in doing. Still, he is quite honestly interested in seeing what other people would think of as dates. Particularly someone as animated as his current companion. ]
Myself and Baizhu? One might say we're a match made in... duress.
[ Considering their numerous encounters up to this point and the circumstances they'd often found themselves in, he's rather sure Baizhu would agree, at least internally. He's not fully sure what the doctor has been going around saying about him, but he imagines the man tries his best to retain a better impression than Kleken does, and so wouldn't be talking terribly of him. Maybe. He might be warning people, actually... ]
[ Which meant it was only fair of Kleken to talk about the man in turn. ]
Hmm... perhaps when he introduced me to his plants? You should ask him the details on that.
Great! We can talk about that in the treehouse~♪
[Inside the Vale, he means. They're almost there. But in the meantime: more gossip! He smirks as Kleken describes his relationship with Baizhu, commenting:]
That's not very romantic.
[Or is it? Sometimes romance is in the eye of the beholder.
Hiyori's brow arches ever-so-slightly when he hears that last bit, and it's obvious he's curious. But he won't ask Kleken; he wants to hear it from the plant man himself.]
Will do! Now I'm curious, since that sounded a tad ominous. I can't picture Baizhu-san doing anything too bad, though. You didn't get your hand stuck in a Venus flytrap, did you?
[ He has also never been to the Vale so still true. He's not much for that sort of scenery, after all, and his relationship with Eel was close to nonexistent, so why bother? ]
And I'm afraid the romance has died between us in spite of my best efforts. He's quite the difficult soul to court.
[ There has never been a romance between them, unless the strange, one-sided rivalry, one-sided active distrust they had going on counted as some kind of romance. Kleken thought it could, but it's likely that Baizhu would disagree with that opinion. Vehemently. ]
No, he's quite... stubborn. I've only ever been patient with him.
[ ... Is that a lie. ]
sorry, I thought I replied to this (also sorry for the deleted comment)
I guess someone with your peculiarities would rather hang out in public bath caves than treehouses. Or the pool, or an aquarium. Not that we have one of those around here. I wonder why that's the one thing we don't have? I feel like it's just asking for trouble if we say there should be an aquarium, though. We do not need more tentacle monsters.
[And then he flashes a reassuring smile.]
No offense, of course!
[As for Baizhu:]
Is that what went on?
[A failed courtship? He has his doubts, but is willing to play along.]
That's not a big shock. Again, no offense intended. But you know the old story about the boy who cried wolf, right? When you act insincere, people stop believing you even when you do speak from the heart. So if you want him to understand your feelings, you'll just have to keep showing him how serious you are.
[And then his eyes light up as something else occurs to him. That's it: he's found a way to tie things together!]
Which is why it's a good thing you're making an effort with Eel! That should help win her over, and it might please Baizhu-san. I could tell he cared for her a lot, even though she's the difficult type.
[Which means he might just care for Kleken, too, even though Kleken is also difficult.
Hiyori exits the stairwell into the hall. The Vale is now within view: a place he knows well. He motions for Kleken to follow along with him, practically skipping.]
Now let's go! ♪
no worries, my inbox likes to play hide and seek with my tags
[ Kleken's never considered himself a tentacle monster, so why would he take offense? And Splat was... well he wasn't sure what Splat was, but he was sure the little creature could take his own offense if he wanted to. Which meant it was quite lucky for Hiyori that the bundle of energy wasn't here at the moment. ]
[ He nods along to the wildly incorrect conclusions the younger man pulls together about the false romance existing between himself and Baizhu, far too amused by it to put a stop to it. Why would he, when there were so many entertaining angles he could work this? And though he lacks any sort of paternal instinct toward either of his spawn, he does see the merits in creating a positive association with a creature capable of utilizing tentacles just as he does. ]
[ Hiyori also seems like a useful associate to have; exuberant individuals are often in the know of their social circles and information is always useful. The cost to his dignity has been rather minor in comparison, so he follows along at a clipped pace and not a skip. ]
It seems like though I may be able to tell lie after lie, I can't hide my true intentions from you. Though I ask that you don't tell Baizhu, I'm quite shy.
I can't tell if you're saying that because you don't like him, or to hide the fact you do! There's a term for that, I think. "Refuge in audacity!" Or was it "reverse psychology"?
[He thinks about it for a second... and then just shrugs.]
Well, either way is fine, I guess. I'm not entitled to any of your secrets. I just like gossiping about love and stuff like that, since it's a fun way to kill time here!
[And having said that, he heads into the Vale.
Inside the entrance, he tells Kleken:]
Let's wait here, alright? I want to show you something.
[And then, standing in place, he starts to sing under his breath.]
♪~♪~♪
[Not too loudly. Just a little lullaby, soft enough that it can't be heard very far into the Vale. And yet, as he sings, something happens: something comes flying towards them. A round, blue-winged bird. As she flies down from the trees, Hiyori extends an arm for her to perch on.]
See? That's a good girl...♪
[The bird lands on the back of his hand. She's got beady eyes, blue wings, and a plump green belly. It's his magpie daughter!]
[ He helpfully suggests, which is of course no help at all. ]
And I would hardly be one to fault you for finding your entertainment in the gossip of others. It can be quite fruitful as well.
[ Gathering information had been one of his specialties back in Umbraton, given his variety of talents, but he hadn't been particularly motivated to utilize them here. At least, he hadn't gotten bored enough to yet. ]
[ His good mood has him following further instruction, his brows raising the slightest as Hiyori begins to sing, and raising even further at the response to it. That's certainly a way to call over a creature. ]
[ He remains a respectful distance away even, setting the oversized bag of bird seed down for the moment as he draws in his wandering tentacles. ]
[Of course the bespectacled smiling liar associated with slithery things would be good at info-gathering. That's how it always goes!]
We're in agreement there, so feel free to keep my name on your lips. In return, I'll keep talking about whomever I please~♪
[Which may sometimes be Kleken. Later he'll tell Loki about him and suggest they drink wine together! But for now, he has another someone to introduce Kleken to. That "someone" chirps happily from her perch on Hiyori's hand, submitting to his petting: not typical behavior for magpies, but typical for her.]
Right? I don't think most birds come when they're called, or have such sensitive hearing. But that's Hina-chan! She's such a good girl! ♪
[He pets her fondly for a few more moments, then stops and say:]
Now, why not say hi to each other? I know this man's a stranger, but he won't hurt you. And he brought birdseed! A hefty bag of the stuff!
[He then looks meaningfully at Kleken. The bird on his hand turns slowly in Kleken's direction as well. Is she wary? Curious to meet an acquaintance of her loving father? It's hard to tell, because so far she's just staring with her little bird eyes!]
[ Wow don't stereotype the shady man, it's very rude. Even if it is true. ]
[ He gives a light smile and nod in recognition of their mutual understanding that they would undoubtedly gossip about one another to some other third parties and lets himself focus on their latest addition with a critical if completely unknowing eye. Kleken's experience with birds was rather limited, admittedly. The creatures were generally ignored by him with everything else going on in his life in Umbraton, so 'normal' bird behavior is something he wouldn't be able to tell if asked. What he does know, however, is general social etiquette. Something he decides to put to use when engaging with an unknown being. ]
It is a pleasure to meet you, Miss Hina-chan.
[ This was definitely normal bird-related interactions, right? ]
[Hiyori's experience with birds was non-existent before coming here. But he's had about a year with this bird, and it shows in the gentle way he handles her, her obvious comfort with him. He'd been so sad, on the morning she disappeared from his suite on Tanabirda. He'd cried to Jun about it, thinking he'd never see her again. But when he found her again at the Vale, his heart had soared. Compared to his human friends at the resort, who've turned to statues in many cases and who he knows could disappear at any minute, his bird children are pillars of support.
He hasn't said any of that, but hopefully it's obvious how precious she is. Either way he doubts Kleken will try anything. He may be shady, but he's given no indication that he'd ever want to harm a small, defenseless creature. And sure enough, Kleken does behave, introducing himself properly with a smile on his face. Is there something "off" about that smile? Does he give off shady vibes inherently? Even if he does, it wouldn't matter. Hina inherited traits from both her parents, and both Hiyori and Jun are used to dealing with bespectacled smiling schemers. He's nothing she can't handle! She chirps back, high and clear, and Hiyori beams.]
She said hi back! I'm absolutely positive that's what that meant! ♪
[He strokes her head some more, a reward for being so good. Hina, meanwhile, continues to watch Kleken, rather than turn her attention back toward Hiyori.]
I wonder if she recognizes you as Eel's dad? Whatever the case, she seems comfortable! Which means we can safely proceed onward~♪
[And then he starts in the direction of the treehouse. Still holding the bird in his hand, and still expecting Kleken to transport the birdseed.]
There should be at least one other bird waiting in the treehouse. Perhaps two birds, and maybe even three! Depends whether Eel shows up. I'm sure you'll recognize the one I had with Rinne-senpai right away, since that one's so distinctive.
[ That's far more than Kleken has, though bird-friendly experience isn't something he's particularly interested in being jealous over. For now, at least. ]
[ He does, however, note the sincerity and kindness Hiyori handles the bird with, a warmth he's seen a few times and never fails to have him shifting his eyes elsewhere to avoid looking at directly. It's just a touch too blinding for someone like him. ]
She's quite intelligent, it seems, so she surely must see the similarities in family.
[ Oh are they going deeper in. He holds back an urge to sigh dramatically over the continued expectation of effort from him, picking up the birdseed once more with his tentacles and following after. At least this effort came with the incentive of knowledge about people he was terribly interested in. ]
They'll come when they learn there's food there, I imagine.
True, the similarities are obvious! "Like father, like daughter," so they say~♪
[The fact that Kleken doesn't recoil at Hiyori talking about him and Eel like they're a happy family is almost surprising. Perhaps it's a good sign? In any case, on towards the treehouse. He chirps back:]
True, you certainly brought lots of that! They should be glad to meet such a generous benefactor. ♪
[The journey to the treehouse doesn't take long. Once they reach the base of the tree, he stops and says:]
Here we are. Their home, sweet home...♪
[Hina chirps something that probably means "See you in a minute," then leaves her perch to fly on up. Hiyori then turns to Kleken and explains:]
Whenever I visit with Baizhu-san, he uses his magic to create a wooden platform that carries us through the air. But since he's not here, we'll just have to climb! I bet that'll be a cinch for you, since you have all those extra arms.
[With that, he starts to climb up the steps himself, still leaving Kleken carry the birdseed. It's a little precarious, especially as he gets higher up, but he's used to doing this. And this time if he falls, he knows he won't get hurt, since Kleken could just catch him with his spare octo-arms!
.....
On second thought, not something he wants to happen.
Thankfully he doesn't fall, assuming Kleken isn't up to any funny business behind him. Once they reach the top, Kleken will find a relatively spacious treehouse awaiting them. A pair of bird feeders hang from the ceiling, a big colorful blanket sits on the floor, and there may even be leftover flowers blooming from the last time Baizhu visited. But are there any birds present, besides Hina-chan, who's sitting on a windowsill?
Inside, Hiyori doesn't see any. But by this point, he also knows their hiding places. He goes ahead and lifts the blanket off the ground, just to check and see if the Rinne bird is somewhere underneath, but all he sees are scattered casino coins. And after Hiyori told him so many times not to keep stealing those...
He bends down to pluck one off the ground, then looks at Kleken.]
I have an idea for summoning "that" bird. Want to see?
[ The notion of actually being a father or having a family to call his own is so far removed from his mind that he doesn't even register when implications are made. No, he's far too used to joking about such things, and when Hiyori says them, he processes them in the exact same way. ]
So they say.
[ As they journey further into the Vale Kleken takes careful note of the surroundings. While he may not be very interested in returning on his own to visit the birds, he's certain that in some way in the future it may be useful to know the path. He also faintly hopes that the birds won't be expecting him to show up with food again should he ever return... ]
Climb-?
[ He barely manages to mutter out the words in response to Hiyori's quick explanation before the other man is throwing himself into the trees and. Well. Climbing. An activity he felt himself ill-dressed for and thereby terribly un-inclined to do. Nevermind that he likely wouldn't have climbed even if he were properly dressed for it. ]
Perhaps a set of stairs should be installed...
[ His grumbling falls on deaf ears though, Hiyori well up ahead, and it's with a sigh that Kleken resigns himself to following after him. Though the man may have zero issues with sticking himself to walls or ceilings for his own amusement, there was something about climbing a tree that felt all too... strange, to him. His tentacles, which he does in fact rely heavily upon to do all the work of transporting himself and the bird seed up, move rather awkwardly in the tree. ]
[ Branch swinging is apparently not a common octopus tentacle activity. ]
[ But they get both dead weights up in the end and it's while Kleken is standing and absently dusting off his clothes that each tentacle gives a small, annoyed slap to the useless man in protest. An action he aggressively ignores in favor of smiling at Hiyori. ]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
no subject
[ The second tentacle? Holding a single strawberry. ]
[ And there's Kleken bringing up the rear behind them both. ]
Were you waiting long?
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It's creepy when they appear on their own like that!
[He calls down the staircase, assuming Kleken must be behind around the corner. Then he sees what they're carrying.]
Hm? ... you bought all that?
[His eyes widen even more at the size of that bag!]
That's so much!
no subject
I could have them make more noise when they appear next time.
[ Because there will be a next time. ]
[ Kleken comes to a stop as the pair of tentacles deliver their packages of sort, the sack of birdseed placed on the ground between them, while the singular strawberry is placed delicately into the conman's waiting palm. A palm he proceeds to hold up and examine the strawberry contained within as if Hiyori were addressing this and not the literal sack between them. ]
I had thought it might be too much, but young have healthy appetites I hear.
no subject
[Sorry he's such a tentaclephobe. The encounter with Splat surely didn't help. But at least this time, the tentacles are being used for good (delivering gifts for his birds) rather than evil (tweaking his nipples in public). He examines the strawberry for a moment before glancing down to the hefty bag of birdseed, then finally up to Kleken.]
Well... thanks, I suppose. You went above and beyond what I asked. I'm sure they'll be very grateful.
[He hadn't meant to make Kleken spend the chips on a larger bag. But, well, it is what it is. Hiyori eyes the bag for one more moment (still not bending down to pick it up off the floor—he's never been one for carrying things), then comes to a conclusion.]
Since it's quite a lot of birdseed, I wonder if we should share some of it with your bird. With Eel, that is. Either way, we ought to head straight to the Vale! You'll accompany me, won't you?
[And now he looks at Kleken again. Who could say no to his face??]
no subject
[ It's a spur of the moment suggestion, but an amusing one once he lets it settle in. Enough of one that he's actively thinking about purchasing some small jingle bells now. The main problem would be effectively attaching them to his tentacles, not to mention which ones... ]
[ He's dragged out of his chaotic thoughts though by the invitation, which merits a raised brow in response at first. He'd been expecting the other man to take off with strawberry and birdseed in tow, but to invite Kleken along is, well. Interesting, at least. Enough that he picks up the bag with one of his tentacles without thought, offering a winning smile and nod. ]
Of course- Oh, is that what Eel eats?
[ Father of the year, right here. To be fair, Splat's diet is markedly different from his sister's, but in a way that made sense considering everything going on in this resort. ]
no subject
Now there's an idea. Then they'd sound like a children's choir! ♪
[Hey, it is an amusing visual. Perhaps it would even help him get over his tentaclephobia.
Though another thing that might help is Kleken using the tentacles to do things for him, like carry his stuff. That may just be the thing to endear him to them, since Hiyori is well-known for refusing to lift anything heavier than a chopstick. As Kleken picks the bag back up and smiles at him, he smiles back! He'd wondered if Kleken might show some strange reluctance to go to the Vale and meet his bird, since they don't seem to have much of a relationship, but it appears not! Which means now is the time to form one, clearly.
Though, as for the question...]
I assume so. I wouldn't know since she's not my daughter. Since we're both unsure, perhaps it's best we ask her other dad.
[And then he's toggling his watch and shooting off a quick message to Baizhu.]
no subject
I'm certain they could take the time to learn a pleasant tune.
[ He's oblivious to his role in this inadvertent exposure therapy, his uncharacteristic helpfulness a result of his interest in the Vale more than anything else. He's been terrible at visiting it on his own, and this seems the perfect opportunity to investigate it further. Not to mention bound to be much more interesting than a solo trip by virtue of Hiyori always being interesting. ]
[ At the comment about the responsible father of the pair, he glances over with some interest, a tentacle curling around to try and peer at the exchanged conversation. ]
He's been quite the diligent father, hasn't he?
[ Kleken has no idea, he's the deadbeat absentee father- ]
no subject
At this point he's beaming, tickled pink by the idea of Kleken putting on such a unique performance.]
Then you should try it! Perhaps if they get good enough at it, you can even join me onstage sometime! There are a bunch of us who've been gearing up to put on a concert. Me, Jun-kun, Reira-chan, Till-kun...
[He knows he's seen collars with bells on them in some of the shops. Though those are definitely for people with petplay fetishes. People like him, in other words.
Hiyori taps away at the timescreen, asking Baizhu if Eel eats birdseed just like other birds (and throwing in a few emojis, of course). After sending the message, he drops his wrist.]
Yep, he seems plenty diligent, alri— eeek!
[Then he jumps when he notices the tentacle hovering near his shoulder, giving Kleken a pouty look afterwards.]
That spooked me!
[But then his watch beeps, and he looks back at his message screen again. Baizhu has responded! And his response is: that she'll eat almost anything, as long as it's small enough to fit in her beak. This includes seeds and grains.]
Sounds like your birdseed should be fine. Which means we'll just have to feed all our birds. Then maybe they can have a playdate! We'll just have to keep our eye on Eel, since she tried to squeeze Hiro-kun awfully tight last time.
no subject
I'll begin practicing right away then.
[ It's a 50/50 whether or not he'll actually do any sort of practice, or even get the bells they're discussing, but it's not a bad gamble. Especially since he does see some appeal in surprising Hiyori with the sudden skill development. It's hardly his fault that the other man wears surprise so well- even his reaction to the unexpected tentacle is just amusing enough that it won't be the last time Hiyori finds a tentacle hovering over his shoulder. ]
[ Sorry, Hiyori. ]
A playdate sounds enjoyable. A shame Splat will miss it.
[ It is in fact better for all parties involved that Splat is absent, even and especially Eel. ]
Perhaps that's simply how Eel expresses affection. Her brother is quite the same.
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[He doesn't truly believe it. But then again, Kleken did pull through when it came to the birdseed. Maybe in a few months there will be another Truth or Dare game, and he can dare Kleken and his tentacles to play him a little jingle.
In any case, he nods along to what Kleken's saying while tapping away at his watch.]
That's just what I thought. I wondered if it was her way of showing love! Though that was supposedly their first-ever meeting, so I guess that would make it "love at first sight."
[He is very tempted to make a crack about Eel's feelings for Hiro mirroring Kleken's for Rinne. But he'll be nice and refrain from doing so, since Kleken bought food for his pets and is even carrying it. Meanwhile Baizhu says some less-than-flattering things about Kleken himself during their text convo ("I'm surprised he's being so responsible"), but Hiyori doesn't repeat that. He does, however, say this:]
I guess you're the one they got their "unpredictability" from. That's what Baizhu-san seems to think, anyway.
[Referencing this text.]
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[ Nothing about Kleken's usual behavior suggests he's any sort of romantic, but surely Eel's aggressively... 'loving' behavior came from somewhere. It's an explanation at least, even if one pulled out of thin air given he has very limited knowledge about Eel's habits. ]
[ He really has been a terrible 'father' to her, and perhaps bringing Splat around for more frequent meetings might teach them all something. Or just keep Kleken entirely entertained, either or. ]
[ His gaze shifts over at the relayed comment from Baizhu, brow raising delicately as he smiles suspiciously sweetly in return. ]
Oh? I had always thought he was the one for surprising turns of events. I think I'm rather predictable in comparison.
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[His eyes gleam, and then he smiles at Kleken, all bright and innocent!]
I'd love to hear all about that. We should talk about romance sometime. Perhaps we can even share date ideas! ♪
[He doesn't need more ideas, and he knows full well that whatever Kleken would plan for a date probably isn't something he'd enjoy, but he can't resist the urge to tease. Maybe he'll get the chance to nauseate Kleken with his feelings for Jun, after all. Or maybe he'll just bully him about Rinne some more. Who's to say?
Hiyori taps out a quick reply to the message from Baizhu (commenting on the fact that Kleken is reading over his shoulder), and gets one in return. The return message is somewhat insulting towards Kleken ("I don't think surprises are a good idea as far as he's concerned"), but Baizhu does at least wish them good luck and say he thinks Eel will come around to Kleken eventually. Awww.]
Sounds like you're birds of a feather in some ways. You both do magic, you both like slithery things, and you both see each other as "unpredictable"!
[(Plus they both wear glasses!)]
But I love some good gossip, so if you want to tell me something Baizhu-san's done to surprise you, be my guest. I'm all ears~♪
[He is definitely willing to play both sides here :)]
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[ One of them is going to end up with a lot better date ideas than the other and spoilers, it isn't going to be Kleken. Kleken's current running idea of a date is consensual kidnapping and carrying around people in his tentacles, something which Hiyori might find himself a little hard pressed to do on his own. Or completely disinterested in doing. Still, he is quite honestly interested in seeing what other people would think of as dates. Particularly someone as animated as his current companion. ]
Myself and Baizhu? One might say we're a match made in... duress.
[ Considering their numerous encounters up to this point and the circumstances they'd often found themselves in, he's rather sure Baizhu would agree, at least internally. He's not fully sure what the doctor has been going around saying about him, but he imagines the man tries his best to retain a better impression than Kleken does, and so wouldn't be talking terribly of him. Maybe. He might be warning people, actually... ]
[ Which meant it was only fair of Kleken to talk about the man in turn. ]
Hmm... perhaps when he introduced me to his plants? You should ask him the details on that.
[ Let Baizhu be the one to explain it. ]
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[Inside the Vale, he means. They're almost there. But in the meantime: more gossip! He smirks as Kleken describes his relationship with Baizhu, commenting:]
That's not very romantic.
[Or is it? Sometimes romance is in the eye of the beholder.
Hiyori's brow arches ever-so-slightly when he hears that last bit, and it's obvious he's curious. But he won't ask Kleken; he wants to hear it from the plant man himself.]
Will do! Now I'm curious, since that sounded a tad ominous. I can't picture Baizhu-san doing anything too bad, though. You didn't get your hand stuck in a Venus flytrap, did you?
[Actually, he does ask one question.]
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[ He has also never been to the Vale so still true. He's not much for that sort of scenery, after all, and his relationship with Eel was close to nonexistent, so why bother? ]
And I'm afraid the romance has died between us in spite of my best efforts. He's quite the difficult soul to court.
[ There has never been a romance between them, unless the strange, one-sided rivalry, one-sided active distrust they had going on counted as some kind of romance. Kleken thought it could, but it's likely that Baizhu would disagree with that opinion. Vehemently. ]
No, he's quite... stubborn. I've only ever been patient with him.
[ ... Is that a lie. ]
sorry, I thought I replied to this (also sorry for the deleted comment)
[He tilts his head.]
I guess someone with your peculiarities would rather hang out in public bath caves than treehouses. Or the pool, or an aquarium. Not that we have one of those around here. I wonder why that's the one thing we don't have? I feel like it's just asking for trouble if we say there should be an aquarium, though. We do not need more tentacle monsters.
[And then he flashes a reassuring smile.]
No offense, of course!
[As for Baizhu:]
Is that what went on?
[A failed courtship? He has his doubts, but is willing to play along.]
That's not a big shock. Again, no offense intended. But you know the old story about the boy who cried wolf, right? When you act insincere, people stop believing you even when you do speak from the heart. So if you want him to understand your feelings, you'll just have to keep showing him how serious you are.
[And then his eyes light up as something else occurs to him. That's it: he's found a way to tie things together!]
Which is why it's a good thing you're making an effort with Eel! That should help win her over, and it might please Baizhu-san. I could tell he cared for her a lot, even though she's the difficult type.
[Which means he might just care for Kleken, too, even though Kleken is also difficult.
Hiyori exits the stairwell into the hall. The Vale is now within view: a place he knows well. He motions for Kleken to follow along with him, practically skipping.]
Now let's go! ♪
no worries, my inbox likes to play hide and seek with my tags
[ Kleken's never considered himself a tentacle monster, so why would he take offense? And Splat was... well he wasn't sure what Splat was, but he was sure the little creature could take his own offense if he wanted to. Which meant it was quite lucky for Hiyori that the bundle of energy wasn't here at the moment. ]
[ He nods along to the wildly incorrect conclusions the younger man pulls together about the false romance existing between himself and Baizhu, far too amused by it to put a stop to it. Why would he, when there were so many entertaining angles he could work this? And though he lacks any sort of paternal instinct toward either of his spawn, he does see the merits in creating a positive association with a creature capable of utilizing tentacles just as he does. ]
[ Hiyori also seems like a useful associate to have; exuberant individuals are often in the know of their social circles and information is always useful. The cost to his dignity has been rather minor in comparison, so he follows along at a clipped pace and not a skip. ]
It seems like though I may be able to tell lie after lie, I can't hide my true intentions from you. Though I ask that you don't tell Baizhu, I'm quite shy.
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I can't tell if you're saying that because you don't like him, or to hide the fact you do! There's a term for that, I think. "Refuge in audacity!" Or was it "reverse psychology"?
[He thinks about it for a second... and then just shrugs.]
Well, either way is fine, I guess. I'm not entitled to any of your secrets. I just like gossiping about love and stuff like that, since it's a fun way to kill time here!
[And having said that, he heads into the Vale.
Inside the entrance, he tells Kleken:]
Let's wait here, alright? I want to show you something.
[And then, standing in place, he starts to sing under his breath.]
♪~♪~♪
[Not too loudly. Just a little lullaby, soft enough that it can't be heard very far into the Vale. And yet, as he sings, something happens: something comes flying towards them. A round, blue-winged bird. As she flies down from the trees, Hiyori extends an arm for her to perch on.]
See? That's a good girl...♪
[The bird lands on the back of his hand. She's got beady eyes, blue wings, and a plump green belly. It's his magpie daughter!]
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[ He helpfully suggests, which is of course no help at all. ]
And I would hardly be one to fault you for finding your entertainment in the gossip of others. It can be quite fruitful as well.
[ Gathering information had been one of his specialties back in Umbraton, given his variety of talents, but he hadn't been particularly motivated to utilize them here. At least, he hadn't gotten bored enough to yet. ]
[ His good mood has him following further instruction, his brows raising the slightest as Hiyori begins to sing, and raising even further at the response to it. That's certainly a way to call over a creature. ]
[ He remains a respectful distance away even, setting the oversized bag of bird seed down for the moment as he draws in his wandering tentacles. ]
How interesting.
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We're in agreement there, so feel free to keep my name on your lips. In return, I'll keep talking about whomever I please~♪
[Which may sometimes be Kleken. Later he'll tell Loki about him and suggest they drink wine together! But for now, he has another someone to introduce Kleken to. That "someone" chirps happily from her perch on Hiyori's hand, submitting to his petting: not typical behavior for magpies, but typical for her.]
Right? I don't think most birds come when they're called, or have such sensitive hearing. But that's Hina-chan! She's such a good girl! ♪
[He pets her fondly for a few more moments, then stops and say:]
Now, why not say hi to each other? I know this man's a stranger, but he won't hurt you. And he brought birdseed! A hefty bag of the stuff!
[He then looks meaningfully at Kleken. The bird on his hand turns slowly in Kleken's direction as well. Is she wary? Curious to meet an acquaintance of her loving father? It's hard to tell, because so far she's just staring with her little bird eyes!]
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[ He gives a light smile and nod in recognition of their mutual understanding that they would undoubtedly gossip about one another to some other third parties and lets himself focus on their latest addition with a critical if completely unknowing eye. Kleken's experience with birds was rather limited, admittedly. The creatures were generally ignored by him with everything else going on in his life in Umbraton, so 'normal' bird behavior is something he wouldn't be able to tell if asked. What he does know, however, is general social etiquette. Something he decides to put to use when engaging with an unknown being. ]
It is a pleasure to meet you, Miss Hina-chan.
[ This was definitely normal bird-related interactions, right? ]
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He hasn't said any of that, but hopefully it's obvious how precious she is. Either way he doubts Kleken will try anything. He may be shady, but he's given no indication that he'd ever want to harm a small, defenseless creature. And sure enough, Kleken does behave, introducing himself properly with a smile on his face. Is there something "off" about that smile? Does he give off shady vibes inherently? Even if he does, it wouldn't matter. Hina inherited traits from both her parents, and both Hiyori and Jun are used to dealing with bespectacled smiling schemers. He's nothing she can't handle! She chirps back, high and clear, and Hiyori beams.]
She said hi back! I'm absolutely positive that's what that meant! ♪
[He strokes her head some more, a reward for being so good. Hina, meanwhile, continues to watch Kleken, rather than turn her attention back toward Hiyori.]
I wonder if she recognizes you as Eel's dad? Whatever the case, she seems comfortable! Which means we can safely proceed onward~♪
[And then he starts in the direction of the treehouse. Still holding the bird in his hand, and still expecting Kleken to transport the birdseed.]
There should be at least one other bird waiting in the treehouse. Perhaps two birds, and maybe even three! Depends whether Eel shows up. I'm sure you'll recognize the one I had with Rinne-senpai right away, since that one's so distinctive.
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[ He does, however, note the sincerity and kindness Hiyori handles the bird with, a warmth he's seen a few times and never fails to have him shifting his eyes elsewhere to avoid looking at directly. It's just a touch too blinding for someone like him. ]
She's quite intelligent, it seems, so she surely must see the similarities in family.
[ Oh are they going deeper in. He holds back an urge to sigh dramatically over the continued expectation of effort from him, picking up the birdseed once more with his tentacles and following after. At least this effort came with the incentive of knowledge about people he was terribly interested in. ]
They'll come when they learn there's food there, I imagine.
[ Most creatures would. ]
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[The fact that Kleken doesn't recoil at Hiyori talking about him and Eel like they're a happy family is almost surprising. Perhaps it's a good sign? In any case, on towards the treehouse. He chirps back:]
True, you certainly brought lots of that! They should be glad to meet such a generous benefactor. ♪
[The journey to the treehouse doesn't take long. Once they reach the base of the tree, he stops and says:]
Here we are. Their home, sweet home...♪
[Hina chirps something that probably means "See you in a minute," then leaves her perch to fly on up. Hiyori then turns to Kleken and explains:]
Whenever I visit with Baizhu-san, he uses his magic to create a wooden platform that carries us through the air. But since he's not here, we'll just have to climb! I bet that'll be a cinch for you, since you have all those extra arms.
[With that, he starts to climb up the steps himself, still leaving Kleken carry the birdseed. It's a little precarious, especially as he gets higher up, but he's used to doing this. And this time if he falls, he knows he won't get hurt, since Kleken could just catch him with his spare octo-arms!
.....
On second thought, not something he wants to happen.
Thankfully he doesn't fall, assuming Kleken isn't up to any funny business behind him. Once they reach the top, Kleken will find a relatively spacious treehouse awaiting them. A pair of bird feeders hang from the ceiling, a big colorful blanket sits on the floor, and there may even be leftover flowers blooming from the last time Baizhu visited. But are there any birds present, besides Hina-chan, who's sitting on a windowsill?
Inside, Hiyori doesn't see any. But by this point, he also knows their hiding places. He goes ahead and lifts the blanket off the ground, just to check and see if the Rinne bird is somewhere underneath, but all he sees are scattered casino coins. And after Hiyori told him so many times not to keep stealing those...
He bends down to pluck one off the ground, then looks at Kleken.]
I have an idea for summoning "that" bird. Want to see?
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So they say.
[ As they journey further into the Vale Kleken takes careful note of the surroundings. While he may not be very interested in returning on his own to visit the birds, he's certain that in some way in the future it may be useful to know the path. He also faintly hopes that the birds won't be expecting him to show up with food again should he ever return... ]
Climb-?
[ He barely manages to mutter out the words in response to Hiyori's quick explanation before the other man is throwing himself into the trees and. Well. Climbing. An activity he felt himself ill-dressed for and thereby terribly un-inclined to do. Nevermind that he likely wouldn't have climbed even if he were properly dressed for it. ]
Perhaps a set of stairs should be installed...
[ His grumbling falls on deaf ears though, Hiyori well up ahead, and it's with a sigh that Kleken resigns himself to following after him. Though the man may have zero issues with sticking himself to walls or ceilings for his own amusement, there was something about climbing a tree that felt all too... strange, to him. His tentacles, which he does in fact rely heavily upon to do all the work of transporting himself and the bird seed up, move rather awkwardly in the tree. ]
[ Branch swinging is apparently not a common octopus tentacle activity. ]
[ But they get both dead weights up in the end and it's while Kleken is standing and absently dusting off his clothes that each tentacle gives a small, annoyed slap to the useless man in protest. An action he aggressively ignores in favor of smiling at Hiyori. ]
I'm quite interested in summonings.
[ As he ignores his own 'summons' of a sort. ]
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