[Perhaps one day he'll be perfectly willing to admit to his exhibitionism kink, even when he's not "in-character." But today isn't that day it seems, so alas.
Not on his kinklist: making out with cameras. He's not remotely interested in that, so it's fortunate Bakugo refrains from mashing the lens against his lips. But the romantic side of him likes the message sent by that final shot: that his character was acting like such a showoff in order to attract one person's attention. The viewer's! This was all for them, and his efforts are rewarded when he gets a kiss from his subject. ~Happy ending.~
In any case, the shoot is now on pause, leaving him and Bakugo free to squabble about more silly stuff.]
Not true, since our time here is valuable! And I already plan to take a relaxing bath later, once I'm back in my suite where all my bath salts are. ... or maybe I'll use a bath bomb today? Yep, I might just do that!
[Of course he's the type to use bath bombs.
Bakugo returns his comments about the handcuffs with another joke, intended to be insulting, no doubt. Hiyori's eyebrow twitches, and it looks like he's about to retort, to turn his chin up and huff, perhaps. But instead of doing that...]
... well... if it's just for the photoshoot...
[He seems to be considering it???]
I guess I could try wearing them. [Pause.] But if I was going to do it, the photos would need to have a specific vibe! Something like, "A cute newbie police officer who got tangled up in his own handcuffs." Or, "'I've tied up myself, now here's your present!'" Sort of like putting a bow on yourself for Christmas.
[Another pause, and then he adds:]
Or I could take them off my belt, hold them up to the camera and smile suggestively. It depends on whether you'd rather see my "dominant" streak continue or not, I suppose. I know Jun-kun will like me either way, so as the shoot director, I might just let you choose.
[It's easier to say he wants to look dominant than to say he wants to look submissive. But he does like showing off multiple sides of himself, and in any case, he might not have looked too "dominant" when he was bent over the hood of the car a minute ago. He'll busy himself with taking a drink while he waits for Bakugo's answer.]
[Don't all idols have some level of exhibition streak? Most of them come off the stages flushed, breathing hard, glistening with sweat, completely euphoric after dancing and showing off their voices and bodies on the stage to a sea of ogling fans drinking up everything they toss their way. How the hell does exhibition streak seeds avoid germinating in such soil? ... And don't compare it to heroes! Mile-wide difference.
Once Hiyori slides off the car, Bakugo keys in a few commands and the rainy background begins to fade away. Street lamps shrink into the ground like plants growing in reverse, the back half of the car folds inward until nothing's left, sky and buildings become ghostly see-through and silently cease. Leaving naught but a white canvas for their next shoot requirements.]
I don't need to hear a bath report! [Hiyori's also the type to piss off a person bomb if he keeps standing here chattering away while he could be getting into the shower and talking over the water. Didn't he admit just now their time here was valuable?! Bakugo clicks his tongue as he checks the camera download. He can extend their time easily if they need to. The photography administrator isn't going to turn down an Ace's request. Not this one...
Ugh. He talks WAY too much.] I'm already downloading the photos! Police shoot's over.
[Less Hiyori forgot, Bakugo already too a lot of pictures earlier with the model posing in different manners. Dominance played a theme in those shots. Maybe they didn't get the handcuffs, but he made sure the idol wasn't in a "submissive" state during most of this particular shoot.]
[Sure, but there's loving to sing and look pretty in front of an audience, and then there's... this attitude.
Anyway, here he was tossing out some ideas while still giving Bakugo the final say, only to be told he's "already downloading the photos" and "the police shoot's over." He stares for a moment, looking a bit surprised to have his idea shut down so definitively, before he hops off the car again and turns his nose up in the air.]
Fine! Since Baku-kun's eager to move on and see me in a new cute outfit, so be it!
[That is not what Bakugo said... but either way, he's taking another swig of water and then he's disappearing behind the privacy screen. He sheds his clothes, and with them, his identity as Officer Booty Shorts, before skipping into the bath and rinsing himself off. He emerges wearing the skimpy resort-issued robe, one elbow propped on the edge of the privacy screen as he peers around the corner.]
I have returned! ♪ And since there's no time to waste, I'm keen to hear your next idea! You didn't say you had one, but I got the vibe like you had something in mind.
[His eyes wander from Bakugo, wherever he is (still hunched over the computer?) to the background, checking to see if he's done anything new with it.]
[He is already downloading the photos. The set's halfway done deconstructing itself. Hiyori's idea came too late. Bakugo focuses on the pictures, tossing a few unpleasing ones into a side folder while quickly categorizing the others in sub-folders of the police set. Doesn't take a genius to figure Hiyori's miffed at him for the quick idea shot. Che, speak up quicker next time, Parrot. His brows take a knotted dive towards his nose bridge, a vein bunching on his forehead when the idol keeps picking at him. Don't make him blast your shitty ass into the shower! Nose first!]
Stop putting words in my mouth! [Ugh, Hiyori and his personal-themed worldview lens. Finally gets behind the screen and Bakugo's free to work on his next idea. He had been saving this for later, but considering what just happened, he changes the rotation.
A large semicircular rim carves a black half-moon from the floor as it raises, an outlining row of stage lights flare up and shin multi-colored streams of illumination into the air, city lights blink on in a sprawling skyline, dark buildings wink their windows in a twinkling backdrop amid a flow of mist carrying cross the stage. Above, a grand moon casts silver rays over what's apparently a rooftop model shoot with idol-themed accents surrounding the circular runway. Flanked on one side by a fan capable of casting "breeze" to "full-borne gusts" as desired.]
This is your stage; you pick the outfit that matches it.
[Giving full rein to Hiyori for his clothes on this one.]
[His pouty attitude evaporates as he watches the scenery change. The whole production with the moon rising from the floor is impressive, as are the multi-colored stage lights. But what's most impressive is the result: a rooftop photoshoot against a city skyline. With a wind machine, even.
His eyes widen, face showing faint surprise. Given the previous theme was jungle animals and cheesy cops, he perhaps expected something more outlandish. Something less connected to him. If this is the backdrop, though, he hardly needs to invent a new character or role. This sort of environment, after all, suits "the idol called Hiyori Tomoe" perfectly well.
His expression changes to a thoughtful one, his eyes sparking as he starts to visualize ideas. Of course he's limited to whatever outfits are inside the wardrobe, but he's up to the task of picking one. When Bakugo tells him to, he nods.]
Will do!
[And then he disappears without any further commentary.
Some rustling sounds as he goes through the wardrobe, followed by him changing behind the screen. Getting ready takes a bit longer this time around, but he isn't dilly dallying. When he does emerge, he's all dressed up. On top, he's wearing a uniform-like shirt, cropped with fancy embroidery and gold epaulets—a common fixture of idol costumes. His pants are the same royal blue color, hugging his hips and then flaring out below the knee. He's got on a black belt and platform shoes, and he accessorizes with gold earrings. It looks a little like his Conquest get-up.
And then there's his face: while he was behind the screen he touched up his make-up, going for a more dramatic look. Dark eyeliner, some lip color, his eyebrows sharply defined.
When he catches Bakugo's eyes, he smiles cooly and walks up to the stage.]
Well? [He plants one foot on top of it.] What do you think of this "match"?
[Heh. Flawless victory. Seeing Hiyori's expression and attitude change is all the prize he needs. Didn't matter if he had this planned earlier, pulling it up to the present won him back his pouty audience. The show goes on. Bakugo clicks the fan on, setting one to its lowest power. Mist instantly begins drifting aside, curling in on itself with each trip over stage lights or runway edge. Stepping back from those "outlandish" scenery shoots gives a breath of fresh air to the entire production, preventing Hiyori from getting too lost in unnatural settings. Even if Bakugo thinks this kinda crap is pretty unnatural as well. Who wants to strut down walkways between a sea of people getting blinded by lights flaring up below and flashing in your eyes from the crowd? Models, apparently. Whatever. He knew Hiyori would like it. Maybe Bakugo was tired of capturing someone who wasn't Hiyori in his camera and wanted to snare the man he came here to shoot. Hmph. No comment.
Let the guy fish around in his closet; he props his back on the wall nearby and begins checking his camera. A finger swipes across its screen in regular intervals, passing through pictures he's no longer keeping after dumping them safely onto the computer. Space frees up, he checks his lens and camera strap, making sure everything is in order for his next shot. Instead of staring at the screen Hiyori's changing behind. Pretty damn sure the hotel's waiting for one exact moment to flash a light behind it and throw Hiyori's half-naked weird-posed silhouette all over. Red eyes flick towards his model when footsteps alert his presence.
Not surprised at the epaulets or embroidery. Looks like some kind of stage production for the theater. Do people actually wear that kind of crap out in the real world? Hopes not. But the ensemble works for Hiyori. Dramatic and alluring with sparkling standout for emphatic effect. Lights flood the stage as the man steps onto it, catching elements of his costume in multiple colors.]
You're gonna fight the moon for people's attention.
[Do normal people wear such outfits? Not often perhaps, but idols sure do. The only thing setting it apart from Hiyori's usual costumes is the amount of skin it shows, and even then, he'll show about as much when he dons a certain outfit later in canon...
He had a feeling Bakugo would approve his choice. They don't have the same taste in clothes, but the other boy clearly prefers "cool" looks over "cute" ones, and this outfit is plenty cool. He chose it specifically to match the background Bakugo chose, the vibe he clearly wants to give off. Given Bakugo's usual attitude, he half-expects some light ribbing. Maybe a jab about the epaulets or his exposed midriff. Instead, he receives a lovely, sincere compliment. Or what sounds unmistakably like one. It actually catches him by surprise, widening his eyes just a fraction, before those same eyes light right up, his grin spreading wider.]
Perfect! An all-out clash between the sun and the moon! I like it! ♪
[The "sun" being himself, of course.
He hops fully onstage, standing tall in his platforms. He watches the way the light catches on his outfit, considering the different angles. When his eyes meet Bakugo's again, they're positively sparkling.]
I know just where to start. With my grand entrance! Everyone braved the evening chill to come out here, and they've been waiting for so long. But then, who should emerge from midst but me? The one, the only Tomoe Hiyori! ♪ That's the kind of story you're aiming for, right?
[Bakugo always found it stupid when people walked down those runway model lanes wearing shit no one would be caught dead hanging in their closet. He'd had requests and offers to model a few times in his life and always turned them down out of sheer disgust. Why bother doing something so ridiculous?! (Unfortunately, Pro Heroes keep getting those requests, for advertisements and shit.) At least Hiyori makes his outfit look good like he always does.
Picking the outfit he did matches well with the stage Bakugo set up. Figures he'd be able to keep his own preferences in line with something suitable for the blonde's likes and his moonlit background. Hmph, did Hiyori think that was a sincere compliment? Che, he compared him to a pale chunk of rock in the sky. Hardly a compliment at all. Maybe he'll turn the moon's light up brighter and drown the parrot out in its glow! Instead, he brings his camera up to bear and peers through the lens. Beams of illumination spire up from the stage lights, lunar rays bloom behind Hiyori, the idol's own shine adds in a mixture he has to capture without letting any overpower the other. Not the easiest shoot. Most other photographers would die trying.]
Yeah, yeah. Get on with it. [Once Hiyori's positioned within the setup, Bakugo moves to his initial X-marked spot, where he's started each of his shoots. Taking in light glimmering off the idol's costume and the moon's shine behind him, he can't fire off pictures so easily. Too much glare or brilliance. An ashen brow quirks up towards his choppy bangs, eyelids drooping slightly and lips setting in a wry line. That's the kind of story you're aiming for, right? Fuck, hardly. He was going for a rooftop modeling shoot. But if the guy wants to spin his own glamor...]
You gonna give me that story? Get to telling it then, Parrot! [And lifts the camera to his face.] We'll kill them with your shoot!
[Bakugo has exercised admirable restraint in not blowing off his head so far. ... not!! Whoever heard of a hero that blows people's heads off?? Listening to him talk (and talk and talk) instead of jumping to violence is the bare minimum of what a hero should do. That's his opinion, and it's also the correct one!
But right now Bakugo's job is to be a photographer, not a hero. And it's Hiyori's job to strut his stuff, not yap, so he prepares to do just that! Though not before saying some more totally necessary stuff.]
Yep, that's what I'll do! [Vigorous nodding.] Except that sounds a bit violent! So instead we'll say, "let's dazzle them!" Also, we've been showing off my legs a lot, so this time we'll try emphasizing some other parts. The rest of me is cute too, so let's capture a~ll my angles. ♪
[And then he turns on the runway, strutting off towards the city backdrop. (The pants have glittery embellishments on the back and also hug his ass suspiciously tight, but it's the Golden Peacock, so that can't be helped.) He calls over his shoulder:]
Let's get some more mist, please!
[Bossy as ever.
Whatever the mist situation ends up being, Hiyori knows how he wants to proceed. He taps his foot a few times, and then turns on his heel dramatically, one dangly gold earring swinging behind his shoulder while he does so. He cuts a dark figure for just a second, but then he steps into the light, purposefully stopping where he knows one of them will hit his face. His eyes flash, focusing on Bakugo, on his camera. He can pay attention to the position of both things, the lights and the camera; that's what years of professionalism have taught him. And as he faces the camera and the audience...
He smiles. Cool and lofty, like the persona he takes in most Eden songs. When performing as half of Eve, he's a little more sweet, more feminine and "cute" seeming. But Eden was conceptualized as a dark and noble sort of unit, and that's more in line with the impression he's trying to give off here. He strikes "cool" pose after pose, holding his head up high, letting the lights play off his body.
And also posing to accentuate his bared midriff, since he wasn't kidding about trying to show off different parts of himself. If you've got it, flaunt it, and he figures that when the light hits his abdomen just right, it'll give his skin an enticing glow.]
Dazzle them to death! [He's gonna get his vicious spin on their shoot somehow! Bakugo runs his thumb along the camera's bottom, eyes dropping to Hiyori's legs. Has he been emphasizing the guy's legs? Most of his shots come from various angles, trying not to make any one part stand out unless he's focusing on a set of captures. Hmph, well if Hiyori thinks they need a new focus-] Baka. I've been every degree around your body in each shoot.
[If legs get more screentime, it's because the idol put them there! Taking his place on his X position, Bakugo lifts the machine to his face and snaps a few shots of Hiyori's back, kicking off the photoshoot even if the idol wasn't deliberately posing. What? It's a paparazzi shot! Jun's getting a few sparkly ass shots whether he wants them or not.]
Don't order me around! I'm the photographer! [Bossy right back! He'll add more mist if it helps the shot; right now, he wants to capture more of Hiyori's body and clothing without getting mist wisps crossing his figure too heavily. Two foot taps, muscles tense, and he instantly sends the shutter fluttering in rapid captures of the idol's pirouette. From his shirt hem flaring around his stomach to the outward swing of a gilded streaming earring, a perfect scene of motion study and fluidity. Before the backlights flare up and he snaps off a few silhouettes. Lights down, a walk starts, he moves from one side to the next in quick succession, taking an arching series of photographs as illumination captures Hiyori in one place after another. Sometimes letting him look directly at his viewer, other times lifting a hand and indicating with a few points or the idol to avert his head and gaze elsewhere for profile shots and back captures.
"Cool" poses are always going to be his preference rather than cutesy crap. Yet his professionalism never fails with each change. The next time Hiyori retreats and comes forward, mist floods in from the side, trailing the motion of his feet and the swing of his hands as his body passes through its wake. Bakugo makes a point of keeping the idol's legs out of main focus, save for low angle shots which capture his thighs or lower on purpose to make foreshortening impacts of his upper body beyond his legs' length. Including those stomach shots.]
[He'll put an egotistical spin on Bakugo's vicious spin.
It may not be Bakugo's photography as much as Hiyori's costume choices that emphasized his legs (and ass). First the animal print shorts with the tail in the back, then Officer Booty Shorts' booty shorts. But now he's trying to tantalize with a different sort of outfit, one that emphasizes his stomach... a stomach his partner has called flabby before. Can you believe Jun has called his belly "puni puni" on multiple occasions? Lies and slander!
But he knows full well how much Jun likes his body, so. For Jun's sake, as well as the imagined audience's, he'll keep doing his best to show it off.
For Bakugo's sake, too, since it's his job to capture his good looks. "I'm the photographer," he says, all self-important. But being tasked with taking his photo is an important job, and Hiyori does trust his judgment, so fine: if he'd rather not add more mist or the tech doesn't allow for it, that's that! Hiyori will just have to make do with what he has.
And that's exactly what he does, strutting down the runway with a cool and confident smile. He strikes pose after pose meant to emphasize his exposed skin, straightening his spine and sucking in his breath, hips rocking slowly back and forth so the light hits at slightly different angles. Hand and arm placement are important too, so he tries a few variations: lifting both elbows up over his head (and causing his top to ride up even more), holding his hands aloft at his waist, even running them down his own front. There's something he does onstage all the time, a super sexy move his fans go wild for. Even better if he accompanies it with a body roll, which he does.
Through it all, he wears a cool and sultry smile, though he playfully sticks his tongue out for one of the shots where his top is riding up. The mood is fun and flirty. But then, because he loves variety and he wants to make the most of the dramatic backdrop, he gets the idea to take things in a new direction.
He turns on his heel again, sticking out his waist a bit so Bakugo can photograph the small of his back, before speaking up again.]
Want to take some close ups? I bet with this kind of lighting, my eyes could look like they're flashing with intensity! For example...
[He spins around abruptly. When he does, his face is serious, his sultry smile gone without a trace. He moves into just the right spot for the light to hit his face, illuminating his wavy hair, his gold accessories, and most of all, his piercing stare.
And then he changes expressions again, back to smiling cheerfully.]
Like that! That was a really cool vibe just now, no? And if we could get a lighting flash or some thunder, that'd be even more awe-inspiring!
[He may he expecting too much of the special effects now...]
[This is the guy who only agreed to be part of his class concert so long as everyone was ready to murder the rest of the school with their sound! What Hiyori wants to accent with his costumes is his choice; Bakugo's focused on capturing the entire man in various poses and emphasis. He's not about to slap down a book full of boyfriend ass shots in front of Jun! Arms, legs, ass, stomach, head, face, profile, close up, far away, full body, side, top, rear, underneath, one click after another seals Hiyori's image in frame after frame. Each keeping the idol and the man he loves in mind.
This time around, Bakugo doesn't call directions and poses for the idol's command. He lets him do his own walk while he focuses on the captures and angles. Straight spine and deep inhale snapped from the side, accenting Hiyori's slender toned profile against the backlight of the moon. Arms lifted and stomach exposed, bathed in ever-changing light hues pulsating from below. Hands tracing the contours of his chest and sides while Bakugo swiftly circles around him taking shots in subsequent order to follow the same flow of Hiyori's tangible descent. Capping off with a sassy hip pop pushing puffs of mist away.
Yeah, he got the playful sultry one, tongue exposed and stomach bared beneath a half-hiked top. What should've been sexy is spliced with funny, and Bakugo's left looking at the camera screen for a few seconds. Meh, not sure he likes that one. Whatever. Hiyori's meshing different looks together with alternating moods. Tossing the concept over his proverbial shoulder, he narrows his attention on the idol's back-turned image.]
You're facing away- [A grumbled commentary quickly shuts up and his finger hits the button the second Hiyori begins turning around. What? He knows the guy well enough now to predict he's gonna try a fast one. Capturing momentary stills of his pivot and changed facial expression, bangs sweeping across his eyes and flicking off one side as he transitions into a frozen pose at the very end. Illuminated accents, glittering accessories, eyes snaring each audience member. He got all of that without missing a damn beat.] There's no lightning in his scene setting, Parrot.
[And cocks the camera to one side with a smirk of his own.] I caught all of that.
[He puts his whole ass into his modeling shoots, thank you very much!]
Anyway, that's enough arguing! Just watch and be amazed~♪
[Bakugo's taunting only invigorates him. Makes him focus more intensely, switching between more expressions and isolating more poses, legs swinging before he plants his feet on the runway. More, he'll give him more. Not a half-assed shoot, but a professional-level one. He'll wow everyone in his imagined audience.
The sticking-his-tongue out thing is second nature at this point; he's posed like that so many times, after all. A quick cheat to look cheeky and cute. For that particular shot, anyway, before he decides to pivot. Given the dramatic backdrop and cool lighting, it'd be remiss not to snap any serious pictures. The backdrop Bakugo selected could be used for all sorts of scenarios, including sci-fi cyberpunk. Maybe models and idols are banned in this universe, reduced to doing guerrilla lives and hosting secret photoshoots on top of rooftops, under cover of darkness. His mind easily conjures such scenarios, as he always has plenty of imagination where his idol work is concerned. It's even easier to imagine along those lines after being trapped in what's essentially a gilded dystopian prison for the past year-plus...
Though there's something else he's using as reference, too. In any case, he shows Bakugo a fierce look of defiance. Cool, unflappable and determined! But he's back to looking carefree as they start to banter about the shoot. Bakugo turns down his idea about the lightning, but says he caught what he just did, and Hiyori smiles his approval.]
Knew you would.
[Not every photographer could keep up with him, but Bakugo hasn't missed a beat, following along with all of his whims (that don't involve handcuffs or lightning).]
A pity about the lightning. One of our song starts with the sound of crashing thunder! But I was also thinking about another song—this one time, the higher-ups needed some conflict, so they spread rumors about "a clash between Adam and Eve." Me and Nagisa-kun had to go toe-to-toe onstage and pretend like we were fighting. Which doesn't make any sense, since we've been close since childhood, and we love each other a lot!
[He shakes his head.]
But that was how things were, so I put on my very best glare. That's what I tried to emulate just now. In fact...
[He trails off for a second, and then his eyes light up, smile stretching wide as he makes his newest proposal.]
Why don't I try dancing to that song? I should have that one on my phone! The only question is whether Baku-kun can capture me in motion or not. What do you think? Up for a challenge? ♪
Uh-huh. [That's what he was getting at! Hiyori doesn't half-ass his idol work! "Just watch and be amazed," he says. He does both through the camera lens. Why wouldn't he capture every part of of the idol's efforts when he's the one who set this up? Each change of position, each shift of his expression, makes the next shot a new creature from the last. If there were an audience here, he's pretty damn sure they'd be screaming their stupid heads off and trying to mob the stage like a normal crazy concert. There's a reason he doesn't go to those things.
Fierce and defiant. Good. He lifts the camera to his face, turns it on its end, and starts capturing profile shots. A different way of viewing Hiyori in full-length scenes. Zooming in when the idol tilts forward, framing his expression in a dramatic close up with the lights blazing all around. Shadows catch on the hollows of his brows and the lift of his cheekbones, making the shine on his tongue gleam in strobe colors. Retreating one more for a wide shot from his hands to his feet in a fierce pose.
If he was going to include lightning, he would've put a damn storm in! There's no lightning on a full moonlit night!]
Che. Simple. [As far as he's concerned, Hiyori's a photo opportunity at any given second in his room. A more perverted person would snap pictures while he was changing. That's Jun's venue if he ever wanted. Bakugo rests the camera on his shoulder as they take a quick pause, heading for the nearby desk to swipe a water bottle and toss it to Hiyori for a drink.] You want lightning, I'll set up a storm scene.
Haa? That's a stupid idea? Who the hell greenlit it? [Creating discord between the fans and forcing friends to act like enemies for some shitty 'views' they could've gotten otherwise? "Higher-ups" were braindead morons for concocting trash. Hiyori doesn't sound too shaken up about it, even if he's shaking his head in wry annoyance. Bakugo would've straight up refused such a ridiculous notion. He drops his hand to his hip, eyeing the idol when he proposes the next scene.]
This camera can capture 1080 fps. I won't have a damn problem catching you in action. [Might even take a few short clips while he's at it.]
[Lightning can also strike on moonlit nights! But he'll settle for a storm without lightning.
Or for dancing on top the stage, an idea which has him disregarding the lightning one. He explains the idea behind Conquest to Bakugo and is pleased to hear Bakugo agree with him about the project. At that, Hiyori nods vigorously.]
Right? Some higher-ups wanted it, but it was so not our style. I thought you might like the idea as a hero, since I figure you must like "clashes between good and evil." But in this case, it was totally inappropriate. Nagisa-kun isn't a villain, and neither am I! We may disagree occasionally, but for the most part, we're all lovey-dovey!
[He and Nagisa really are like that. They hold hands and even sleep in the same bed occasionally, even at the ripe old age of 19... and Hiyori also sulked about Conquest and tried to get out of participating it, but in the end, Nagisa really did pick a fight with him, and that spurred him into action.
There's a happy ending though, as he goes on to explain.]
Fortunately, our "fight" didn't last long. We made up with a hug, and all of our fans loved it!
[By the end of that little story, Hiyori's back to smiling. He wouldn't want to do another project like that, but Conquest isn't a bad memory for him now. And there's a song attached to the event which is just as good as their other songs. One he's happy to play for Bakugo! He smiles again when Bakugo seems to go along with his idea, then hops off the runway.]
In that case, give me just one minute!
[He's off to retrieve his smartphone. Despite not needing to carry it (since he has his watch and can't actually text anyone on it), he keeps it charged and tends to bring it with him places. Just in case a valuable opportunity presents itself to show people pictures of Mary, or other pictures from his home. Or show off his music, like he's about to do right now! It doesn't take long to find the right song, though then there's the question of how to play it. It'd be best if he could play it over speakers, but that might take a minute to figure out how to set up and they're booked for a limited time here. So...
He holds out his smartphone to Bakugo. The song is already pulled up; it's called Rakuen Tsukihou -FAITH CONQUEST-.]
Just hit Play whenever you're ready.
[And then he gets back on the runway. He poses at one age of the stage, waiting for the song to begin. Assuming Bakugo follows his instruction and lets his music fill the air, he'll begin the choreography for Faith Conquest.
The most striking thing is probably his attitude. To sell the idea of a "clash between subunits," he was coached to look angry and defiant through parts of the song. That's reflected in the frown on his lips, the steely expression in his eyes, and even the choreography himself, which incorporates kicks and martial arts stances. Hiyori remembers it well enough: he's a bit out of practice, but as soon as the music hits, the routine is all muscle memory.
There are some parts he has to adapt for a solo performance. Like the one where he mimes cupping Jun's face (while singing about burning desire, no less). Even in a song like Faith Conquest, they can't forget the fanservice! For his solo performance, that part gets changed so he's extended a hand to the audience instead, his expression shifting to a smile while he does so. He smiles during the chorus, too—though it's more of a smirk, really. He looks cool rather than cutesy, and his movements aren't too fast or hard to pick up on it.
Ah, but the dance break is coming up, and will Bakugo be able to capture all that? Soon, they'll find out!]
{It's rare, okay! If Hiyori wants a storm, he can have it for the next shot. And be prepared for rain and wind blowing all around. Unless he wants to go the cheap way and simply have it as a backdrop rather than photo within it. That said, he's still disgusted by the idea behind the Conquest theme. Hiyori's troupe and the other should've straight up rejected it. Hell, it never should've gotten past their managers.}
Haa?! That's completely different, Parrot! [Heroes versus villains has nothing to do with friends going at each other's throats over something petty for a bunch of stupid views! He doesn't like something as serious as those battles being trivialized into what amounts to schoolyard brawls.] They didn't even cast your groups as heroes or villains.
[He would've grit his teeth and snorted at the attempted mimic, but those idiots didn't even try. Disgusting. Bakugo lowers the camera and begins cycling through the images, eyes noting different aspects of his shots while Hiyori talks. This one's going in the trash. This one's definitely going in the album.]
PR's gross. [One of the things he dreads going forward into his future career as a Pro. All those stupid PR appearances, business deals, advertisement offers, modeling chances, and other bullshit wanting to bank on his image like he's some kind of commodity to exploit. Bakugo looks up from the camera, lips together, one brow a bit higher than the other. Another song... But if this is the route they're going, he swipes the phone (carefully) from Hiyori's hand and waits for him to get his ass back on the stage. Only when the idol's ready for action does he bother tapping the Play button with a brief tap of his thumb.
Balancing the phone between his jaw and shoulder, Bakugo returns to his job. Camera shots click and snap as he grabs one shot after another, noting the way Hiyori's facial expression accents the physical actions he's going for. Martial arts? Heh, this guy had those kinds of choreographed moves and still bitched about it when Bakugo trained him in basic counter holds. Whiny bastard. He could've made use of this muscle memory! Anyone'd know within a few minutes the blonde's far more impressed with "cool" than "cute" so Hiyori gets to see his investment in the shot increase (even if all his actions are professional and skilled since the start).
Yeah, he'd alternating between photographs and video shots. Besides, unbeknownst to Hiyori, the lights around the stage also double as shielded cameras below their glowing shells.]
[He tried to reject it, but that only led to him getting lectured on how he was too old to be pitching tantrums over work assignments (since this was shortly after he'd graduated high school). His reasoning was that Eden was as close as family, and families don't wage war on each other (... or at least they shouldn't). But despite his dislike of the assignment, he and Nagisa reaffirmed their bond in the end, and he became more convinced than ever that Eden was a "family."
Still not a job he liked, though.]
It would've made me even angrier if they had, since we most certainly aren't villains. Nor are we heroes, exactly. I'm fine with leaving the heroics to people like Baku-kun.
[Though as previously discussed, idols and heroes do share similarities. Both have to deal with "gross" PR, for instance, though Hiyori's generally not the slightest bit bothered by brand deals, advertisements, modeling and all that stuff. Especially not modeling, since that's what he's doing right now!
That, and dancing. It's a bit indulgent, taking this opportunity to perform a song he hasn't performed in a while. But he seizes it anyway, knowing it's something he may never get the chance to perform again: at least not in front of his fans or with the rest of Eden. He'd need to go home for that. But here, with his audience of one, he can relive those idol memories, and he can show off some cool moves. Perhaps his training sessions with Bakugo have even improved his choreography: made his martial arts poses a bit more striking, given his kicks some extra oomph.
There are no complaints from his photographer. Bakugo seems to be keeping up. Hiyori is unaware he's alternating between video and photography. If he did know, he might tell him to switch to video for this next part: the dance break. But it's up to Bakugo how he wants to handle that. He goes through a series of rapid movements, crossing his arms and dropping to a half-crouch before stepping out of it. Gesturing to the audience and then himself with a haughty look on his face, all cocky like he's looking for a fight. That's what the theme was, so that's how the song's choreography is! And it may just be a side of him Bakugo's never really seen before. ... though his behavior while holding the riding crop during the police shoot was probably a bit similar.
He does a spinning kick before the final chorus, then opens his mouth, miming along to the track's autotuned wail. That's his voice crying out! And that's him staring defiantly at who he imagines to be Nagisa, then smiling boldly out at the audience, gesturing along to each "Wake up, wake up." Mouthing the song's final words, he stands tall as the track comes to a close. Showing his back to the audience, he imagines their cheers, their excitement over having been given a private concert, a sea of penlights on a moonlit night. It's no substitute for being back home, but it's a nice fantasy.
[Hiyori had more acceptance than Bakugo. He flat out refused to do certain school assignments and PR gigs during his first year at U.A. because they were stupid. But then again, probably much smaller stakes refusing those than Hiyori just out of school and fresh into the "real world" work force refusing his job.]
Che! Dressing up and pretending to be heroes or villains is something kids do for Halloween. [There's also hero conventions and some creepy fanatic groups, shit he's not gonna bother referencing. Weirdos. Over his time spent with Hiyori, he's had to begrudgingly concede the idol was right about how heroes and idols had similarities. He made enough good points and nuances without stretching the facts. Does he think the world needs idols like it needs heroes? Hell no! But Hiyori's world is different. They do need idols.
His training better have worked in tandem with Hiyori's martial arts movements! No longer faking the strength or aim behind his strikes, but actually having some power behind his kicks and knowledge where to aim his punches. Bakugo notes a few motions he thought he taught the idol, even if he secretly had the basic body learning already down. Che. Luckily the blonde's quick on reaction and predicts when Hiyori's winding up for something impressive. A dance break has its own tell and he films the entire segment. Filming requires him to slow down far more than taking pictures, not wanting to blur or shake the film. From crossed arms to rolling crouches to rising gestures and cocky come hither's. He's not seen these looks or motions from Hiyori before. Jun's fucking lucky.
Gonna need to work on that spinning kick... It sucked compared to his earlier ones. Bakugo quickly snaps several shots of Hiyori's back-turned finish, from colored illumination to the flash of moonlight swallowing his body in a blackening silhouette until everything vanishes in a brilliant white glow. There's no place like home... but he's glad he was able to give Hiyori the semblance of such.
Bakugo leans back and rests the camera against his shoulder.] Che! Of course I did! Don't ask stupid questions.
[Hiyori's heart would be warmed if he heard Bakugo acknowledge his world needs idols.
Though Hiyori once wasn't strong enough to break a single karate board, his kicks and chops have added power, and he delivers a convincing performance as a "fighter"—even though Adam, the group he's clashing with, isn't onstage with him. Though he wasn't a fan of Conquest, it makes him wish he could perform this song again. Put up a more convincing fake fight next time and wow his fans with his coolness. There's no telling if that day will ever come, but he'll hold that earnest wish inside his heart until the day he turns to stone here. "No place like home" indeed.
But if he has to be stuck in the resort, there are worse places than on a stage prepared by a friend who cares about him. Bakugo leans back, the shoot evidently over, and responds gruffly in affirmative, which just makes Hiyori smile even more.]
Yep, of course you did! ♪
[He speaks in his usual cheerful singsong, letting go of the cocky attitude he had during the shoot. It wasn't fake, exactly, since he is an ultra-confident type, but it was still a stage persona he affected for the cameras. This is him off the stage, dealing with a friend: cheerful, relaxed and in good spirits. He hops off the stage in his platforms, reaching for a water bottle and a hand towel to wipe the sweat from his brow.]
Jun-kun's going to be so appreciative. He always has to focus on his own performance when we're onstage, so I'm sure he'll love the chance to sit back, relax, and just watch me for a change. I'm awfully curious to see the results myself, of course. But that'd eat into our precious time, so for now I'll just trust Baku-kun!
[He takes a long gulp of water, then checks the time on his watch: they've used up more of it than not, but there's still some left over. He muses out loud to himself:]
So far I've been a cute-but-wild cheetah, a police officer, and "the idol called Hiyori Tomoe." Is there a fourth role that could tie all that together, I wonder?
[He's thinking. Not just about what's in the wardrobe, but about the sort of roles that suit him best and what Jun might want to see.]
[The fact he isn't dismissing idols in Hiyori's world should lean towards his acknowledgement. They aren't as important in Bakugo's own world, though they exist. Giving the masses entertainment, popularizing themselves and heroes with the public, and providing an entertainment link so many people need to escape from stress and struggles. He's not so rude as to think idols, movies, and the like should eradicate themselves from the world. Hell, he's spent time kicked back in his bed crawling through youtube for mundane crap to detox... Maybe some of the training Bakugo's beaten into Hiyori's body will find a way to linger with him. Deep in his heart and muscles, a memory he won't know or recognize, but remains in him either way. A compliment to how real his kicks and punches look triggers the faintest sound of an explosion in his mind, unknown why, but somehow comforting...
While this scrapbook is for Hiyori and Jun, Bakugo's going to keep a few shots for himself. If not a copy of the photos with the idol's permission just in case. And in the future... he'll be adding the scrapbook to his library, lingering a hand on the spine for longer than necessary. Memories within of a happy voice amid moonlight and photo flashes.]
Don't break your ankle. [Gruffly tossed his way as Bakugo begins swiping through the pictures. Save save, dismiss dismiss, save, dismiss, splitting them up with a scrutinizing eye. Of course Hiyori will get to go through them all once the hero's sorted them into his initial opinion. No need to grouch at the green-haired guy to get some water and wipe off. He pads cross the room and stations himself in front of the computer, a quick shove plugging the camera into the machine. Download commence.]
You've never watched your own performances before? [Bakugo glances at Hiyori over his shoulder, lips slightly warped in a confused sneer. He's done that plenty in his hero training. Sometimes it pisses him off, chuffing or snarling at a mistake. Sometimes it makes him laugh, crowing over a victorious shot or awesome move.]
Aa. Next one's downtime. [And hits the pre-recorded setup he had ready since the start. Always knew he wanted to wrap with this one. The stage quickly replaces itself with a sunlit living room, lights and ribbons decorating the ceiling, curtains brushing gentle in open window breezes, a large pillow-laden couch sprawling in the center for comfort and lounge. Cozy set up, bringing the idea of a relaxing retreat from work, with a hint of intimacy at seeing an idol in such a reclined and off-stage setting. Whether Hiyori wants to make this racy or casual is up to him; it can go either way. He wouldn't even look out of place going makeup-less in the building set scene.]
[Hiyori would be happy to let him hang onto dupes of the photos (or the book itself, once he and Jun are gone); Bakugo took them, after all. And he likes showing himself off like an exhibitionist, so what better legacy to leave behind than a bunch of slutty photos?
He stops drinking long enough to answer the question.]
Of course we both have before. It's just that we're usually paying attention to the group formation or our own performance, so he isn't focusing 100% of his attention on me. But now he can do that, which I'm sure is what he wants to do! ♪
[Moving on, though... A few possible ideas had occurred to him based on what he saw in the wardrobe. There's no shortage of cute outfits he'd like to try wearing next, and he could take on any number of other roles. Jun isn't exactly picky when it comes to him; just about anything would probably be fine. But if he thinks about how he wants to follow up that last shoot, which showcased his cool, glamorous, professional idol self, one thing that comes to mind is...
His own thoughts trail off into ellipses. Bakugo gives an immediate response, transforming the stage with the press of a button. Goodbye moonlight and skyscrapers; hello cozy interior, all blankets and soft lighting. He blinks, spending a moment taking that in, and then he breaks into a warm, beaming, wholly sincere smile.]
Good instinct! ♪
[He's impressed, actually. It's just what he'd been thinking. After playing out silly scenarios and showcasing his idol persona, the right way to end things was with something stripped-down and intimate. No more persona, just himself, Hiyori Tomoe the human being, captured in a relaxing scene at home. Of course these aren't going to be candid shots at his real home, but that's not to say he won't put any of himself into them. Fans love catching glimpses of their life off the stage. And as for Jun, well—Hiyori knows his partner loves him even when he's not caked in a dramatic make-up or wearing cool costumes.]
I'll just change into some around-the-house clothes~♪
[He disappears behind the privacy screen.
First, he washes up and takes care of his make-up. He does still reapply some, but it's light and subtle; lighter even than what he wears on a daily basis. There was a time when Loki said he wanted to see him "au naturale," so he left off the fragrance, the hair product, and most of the make-up before visiting him, and that's exactly what he does now. Even his just-got-out-of-the-shower hair will be fitting for this shoot. Then it's just a question of what to wear.
He could go for a sexy look. The wardrobe has some cute lace-trimmed negligees. He could go a more masculine-but-still sexy route: shirtless with comfortable pants hanging from his hips and a towel draped around his neck. He could wear ultra-cute pajamas, complete with fuzzy pastel-colored knee-high socks; those are an option, too. He could even opt to wear nothing but the Mating Season robe, since people relax around the house in their bathrobes all the time.
A few moments' consideration, and then he gets changed, re-emerging from behind the screen.
He's wearing a simple silk pajama set. Its pastel color compliments the pillows and couch, a lavender purple some shades lighter than his eyes. The only skin showing is some chest and collarbone; he's left the first few buttons of the top undone, but the overall effect is still more cozy than sexy, especially since he's wearing a knitted cardigan over it. The cardigan sits low on his shoulders, making the sleeves look oversized, which everyone knows is an easy shortcut to make yourself look cuter. But the cardigan didn't come from the wardrobe—Bakugo will recognize it as part of the outfit Hiyori wore into Mating Season.
He smiles sweetly, seeming pleased with his selection.]
Well? What do you think? [He gestures with one long sleeve.] Nothing says "around the house" like wearing a piece of my own clothes.
You can watch the performance repeatedly, idiot. [First time, pay attention to the group formation, next time their own performance, and the third one would be 100% on Hiyori. Shouldn't be hard to alternate focus with each repetition. Should be even easier, knowing which parts not to pay attention to.... Whatever.
Hiyori doesn't get to call the shots on the next setting. He had this one planned out since the start. Comfortable and cozy, probably something you'd find in a magazine shilling perfume or lingerie. Bakugo flicks his eyes sideways, peering through his peripheral to capture Hiyori's reaction. One or two blinks. Surprised? Then melting into a sunset smile. Heh, thought so.
There was a large market for "downtime" heroes in his own world. Shitty idiots running around with hidden cameras or ladders trying to sneak in shots of favorite heroes when they're out of costume, off the clock, trying to live some fucking personal time without having a damn photographer shoving their camera into their faces for some snapshots. He's had people crowd him on the subway until his nose clenched from cologne. A lunch interrupted by some idiot jumping out of the bushes yelling for autographs. A fucking kid latched onto his shin refusing to let go because he had a brain problem! ("Brain problem" here meaning admiration of Dynamight.) So far no one's tried anything personally invasive, like bugging his home, but... Having this relaxing ending to a model shoot touches a little on such ideas. A model in his own relaxing home.]
Scram. [Dismissing Hiyori to go change. Bakugo tunes the camera while his model washes off behind the screen. They tried to put a sheer screen up around the shower when he rented the room; he raged at them immediately and they got an opaque screen. Bastards. Camera good to go, he begins arranging pillows and cushions around the couch, spreads a rug on the floor for lounging photos, tugs curtains into a free-flow breeze, and adjusts the lighting until perfect daylight streams through each charming window on either side... No, he tones the light down. The way it was, the thing looked like a fucking cathedral rather than a common living room. Maybe he should mess up the pillows? ... Nah, Hiyori will muss them as he wants.
Bakugo turns his head when his object of attention emerges to light once more. Silk pajamas and natural look with only scant makeup accents. Lavender and mint green matching with the sky blue and whites of the pillow and couch. Gonna look like a "sky-born" theme with those colors. He can easily see Hiyori climbing into bed with such an ensemble. Maybe with his bangs pinned up or his hair wrapped in a cap of sorts. Cozy. Perfect for a lounge shot. Minus the cardigan... Yeah, he recognizes it. Who wears a sweater over their pajamas? "Some" people might think it makes Hiyori look cuter. Bakugo think it makes him look cold and grabbed the first thing he could to make the trip to his bed. Where blankets are. Rendering sweater moot point. But it's Hiyori's, so it gets a pass.]
You look like you're getting ready for bed. [Which is completely on point.]
[He replies, nose in the air. Goodness, all he did was point out Jun would appreciate the opportunity. This is what happens when two stubborn people are friends. But he's already made his point, so it's time to move on!
He steps out from behind the privacy screen and awaits Bakugo's reaction. It turns out to be neither complimentary not disapproving; the boy merely states facts, saying he looks ready for bed. But by this point, Hiyori's gotten good at reading between the lines where Bakugo is concerned, and he knows the lack of snide comments or criticism means approval.]
That's the idea! ♪ That or someone who's sleeping in late, since the set is still daytime. I thought about stepping out in one of those sheer nightgowns, but I figured I'm better off taking those photos in front of the bedroom mirror. And anything too fancy wouldn't have the right "downtime" vibe, so casual it was.
[It might have been funny to walk out in lingerie just for the reaction he would've gotten, but he thinks he prefers this. As for the sweater, that's there to add a personal touch and sell the idea of someone who wants to be comfortable in their pajamas without being too cold.
With his last words, Hiyori's eyes fall on the set. He immediately notices the changes Bakugo has made to the scene: pillows and cushions added to the couch, softer lighting. It looks less sterile and more homey now, as though Bakugo could predict he'd take with his outfit, and his smile is an approving one.
To kick things off, he pads over in slippers and sits on the couch. He muses out loud:]
It'd be nice if I had a mug of hot tea to pose with. [Then, his eyes lighting up:] So let's order one! You're an Ace, so I'm they'll obey your room service requests. Then while we're waiting for that to be delivered, we can take photos where I'm hugging the pillows all cutely. Sound good?
[They're not friends, dammit! Yes they are and he'll admit it in private but not to Hiyori's face. Bakugo switches to a different camera this time. A smaller one without as large a lens or as many options. In exchange, he retrieves multiples of them. As well as a few curious items. Tripods with extendable necks and T-shaped tops which look like they're fitted with small rails. To each one, he affixes a small square camera on the rail, before hauling the tripod power cord to the wall and shaving the dick-shaped prongs into the equally-lewd-shaped sockets. Disgusting. A white light blinks on instantly at the main joint, indicating power's active.
Those charging, Bakugo returns to the computer and opens another program. One by one, he finds and syncs the tripod's wireless connection to the computer's. Didn't put in as much time as he could have to be a complete master of operating these things, but he learned enough to set their basic programs from the options available. He knocks a knuckle on the "Enter" key and sends the command. Each tripod begins raising and lowering their necks, shrinking almost to their three-legged base and extending to max height (about four feet), while the cameras on their T-shaped head rails slide back and forth from one side to the other. They can't capture as intricate an angle as Bakugo can while moving in and around the set, but they can snap plenty of variable shots in the meantime.]
Che, I would've chucked you back in the damn closet if you wore that crap. [So he says. It wasn't the ideal companion for the setup he had, save for agreeing with the sheer curtains. This one is better. It keeps a level of intimacy alongside a casual cozy without veering into sensual erotic like some crass horny greeting card. Bakugo never intended to shoot Hiyori in a perverse light since he came up with the idea. That sort of business is left between the idol and his boyfriend. Hence the comfortable pillows and throws tossed onto the couch, a change to natural atmospheric lighting, and eradication of anything too professional or clinical. Hiyori's even got slippers on.]
HAA?! YOU COULD'VE SAID THAT EARLIER, DAMMIT! [BOOM! Rage face and loud mouth roar. He just spent all this time waiting for Hiyori to clean up and get his ass changed! NOW he comes up with the idea of a damn hot tea mug?! Idols are so goddamn finicky!] You spill this shit and I'll drown you in your own stupid mug!
[Because he's grumblingly putting in the kneejerk order regardless.]
[When Hiyori buys Bakugo an expensive camera as a parting gift later, he'll be sure not to include any dick-shaped prongs.
Three different cameras, all mounted on top of tripods that move at the press of a button. When he sees them move, his eyes widen slightly. Not that there aren't bigger technological marvels at the resort, but it's still pretty impressive. And Bakugo knows how to operate all this? If he wasn't set on being a hero, he'd make a good photographer, film director, or behind-the-scenes technician.
Though his on-set behavior could definitely use some work, as usual.]
Volume control, please! [He singsongs.] I just came up with that, or I would've asked earlier! I'm almost tempted to ask for a book too, so we could take some "light reading at home" shots, but I think we both know what kind of cover the books here would have.
[Anyway, he'll get ready now. He plants both slippered feet on the rug, then picks up one of the pillows as promised. He hugs it loosely to his chest, sitting against one arm of the couch and smiling sweetly. By the time Bakugo finishes grumpily placing the order for tea, he looks picture perfect.]
All ready for my close-up~♪
[After "hugging the pillow," he'll cycle through other poses. Relaxing without the pillow, gazing out the window, yawning. The last one differs from the yawn he did during the cheetah photoshoot; an "I'm ready for a nap" yawn rather than a waking-up-from-one yawn. They're similar but distinct! This should take them until the steaming hot beverage arrives, delivered to the door by staff.
... guess who's not moving from the couch to get it.]
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Not on his kinklist: making out with cameras. He's not remotely interested in that, so it's fortunate Bakugo refrains from mashing the lens against his lips. But the romantic side of him likes the message sent by that final shot: that his character was acting like such a showoff in order to attract one person's attention. The viewer's! This was all for them, and his efforts are rewarded when he gets a kiss from his subject. ~Happy ending.~
In any case, the shoot is now on pause, leaving him and Bakugo free to squabble about more silly stuff.]
Not true, since our time here is valuable! And I already plan to take a relaxing bath later, once I'm back in my suite where all my bath salts are. ... or maybe I'll use a bath bomb today? Yep, I might just do that!
[Of course he's the type to use bath bombs.
Bakugo returns his comments about the handcuffs with another joke, intended to be insulting, no doubt. Hiyori's eyebrow twitches, and it looks like he's about to retort, to turn his chin up and huff, perhaps. But instead of doing that...]
... well... if it's just for the photoshoot...
[He seems to be considering it???]
I guess I could try wearing them. [Pause.] But if I was going to do it, the photos would need to have a specific vibe! Something like, "A cute newbie police officer who got tangled up in his own handcuffs." Or, "'I've tied up myself, now here's your present!'" Sort of like putting a bow on yourself for Christmas.
[Another pause, and then he adds:]
Or I could take them off my belt, hold them up to the camera and smile suggestively. It depends on whether you'd rather see my "dominant" streak continue or not, I suppose. I know Jun-kun will like me either way, so as the shoot director, I might just let you choose.
[It's easier to say he wants to look dominant than to say he wants to look submissive. But he does like showing off multiple sides of himself, and in any case, he might not have looked too "dominant" when he was bent over the hood of the car a minute ago. He'll busy himself with taking a drink while he waits for Bakugo's answer.]
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Once Hiyori slides off the car, Bakugo keys in a few commands and the rainy background begins to fade away. Street lamps shrink into the ground like plants growing in reverse, the back half of the car folds inward until nothing's left, sky and buildings become ghostly see-through and silently cease. Leaving naught but a white canvas for their next shoot requirements.]
I don't need to hear a bath report! [Hiyori's also the type to piss off a person bomb if he keeps standing here chattering away while he could be getting into the shower and talking over the water. Didn't he admit just now their time here was valuable?! Bakugo clicks his tongue as he checks the camera download. He can extend their time easily if they need to. The photography administrator isn't going to turn down an Ace's request. Not this one...
Ugh. He talks WAY too much.] I'm already downloading the photos! Police shoot's over.
[Less Hiyori forgot, Bakugo already too a lot of pictures earlier with the model posing in different manners. Dominance played a theme in those shots. Maybe they didn't get the handcuffs, but he made sure the idol wasn't in a "submissive" state during most of this particular shoot.]
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Anyway, here he was tossing out some ideas while still giving Bakugo the final say, only to be told he's "already downloading the photos" and "the police shoot's over." He stares for a moment, looking a bit surprised to have his idea shut down so definitively, before he hops off the car again and turns his nose up in the air.]
Fine! Since Baku-kun's eager to move on and see me in a new cute outfit, so be it!
[That is not what Bakugo said... but either way, he's taking another swig of water and then he's disappearing behind the privacy screen. He sheds his clothes, and with them, his identity as Officer Booty Shorts, before skipping into the bath and rinsing himself off. He emerges wearing the skimpy resort-issued robe, one elbow propped on the edge of the privacy screen as he peers around the corner.]
I have returned! ♪ And since there's no time to waste, I'm keen to hear your next idea! You didn't say you had one, but I got the vibe like you had something in mind.
[His eyes wander from Bakugo, wherever he is (still hunched over the computer?) to the background, checking to see if he's done anything new with it.]
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Stop putting words in my mouth! [Ugh, Hiyori and his personal-themed worldview lens. Finally gets behind the screen and Bakugo's free to work on his next idea. He had been saving this for later, but considering what just happened, he changes the rotation.
A large semicircular rim carves a black half-moon from the floor as it raises, an outlining row of stage lights flare up and shin multi-colored streams of illumination into the air, city lights blink on in a sprawling skyline, dark buildings wink their windows in a twinkling backdrop amid a flow of mist carrying cross the stage. Above, a grand moon casts silver rays over what's apparently a rooftop model shoot with idol-themed accents surrounding the circular runway. Flanked on one side by a fan capable of casting "breeze" to "full-borne gusts" as desired.]
This is your stage; you pick the outfit that matches it.
[Giving full rein to Hiyori for his clothes on this one.]
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His eyes widen, face showing faint surprise. Given the previous theme was jungle animals and cheesy cops, he perhaps expected something more outlandish. Something less connected to him. If this is the backdrop, though, he hardly needs to invent a new character or role. This sort of environment, after all, suits "the idol called Hiyori Tomoe" perfectly well.
His expression changes to a thoughtful one, his eyes sparking as he starts to visualize ideas. Of course he's limited to whatever outfits are inside the wardrobe, but he's up to the task of picking one. When Bakugo tells him to, he nods.]
Will do!
[And then he disappears without any further commentary.
Some rustling sounds as he goes through the wardrobe, followed by him changing behind the screen. Getting ready takes a bit longer this time around, but he isn't dilly dallying. When he does emerge, he's all dressed up. On top, he's wearing a uniform-like shirt, cropped with fancy embroidery and gold epaulets—a common fixture of idol costumes. His pants are the same royal blue color, hugging his hips and then flaring out below the knee. He's got on a black belt and platform shoes, and he accessorizes with gold earrings. It looks a little like his Conquest get-up.
And then there's his face: while he was behind the screen he touched up his make-up, going for a more dramatic look. Dark eyeliner, some lip color, his eyebrows sharply defined.
When he catches Bakugo's eyes, he smiles cooly and walks up to the stage.]
Well? [He plants one foot on top of it.] What do you think of this "match"?
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Let the guy fish around in his closet; he props his back on the wall nearby and begins checking his camera. A finger swipes across its screen in regular intervals, passing through pictures he's no longer keeping after dumping them safely onto the computer. Space frees up, he checks his lens and camera strap, making sure everything is in order for his next shot. Instead of staring at the screen Hiyori's changing behind. Pretty damn sure the hotel's waiting for one exact moment to flash a light behind it and throw Hiyori's half-naked weird-posed silhouette all over. Red eyes flick towards his model when footsteps alert his presence.
Not surprised at the epaulets or embroidery. Looks like some kind of stage production for the theater. Do people actually wear that kind of crap out in the real world? Hopes not. But the ensemble works for Hiyori. Dramatic and alluring with sparkling standout for emphatic effect. Lights flood the stage as the man steps onto it, catching elements of his costume in multiple colors.]
You're gonna fight the moon for people's attention.
[That's a compliment.]
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He had a feeling Bakugo would approve his choice. They don't have the same taste in clothes, but the other boy clearly prefers "cool" looks over "cute" ones, and this outfit is plenty cool. He chose it specifically to match the background Bakugo chose, the vibe he clearly wants to give off. Given Bakugo's usual attitude, he half-expects some light ribbing. Maybe a jab about the epaulets or his exposed midriff. Instead, he receives a lovely, sincere compliment. Or what sounds unmistakably like one. It actually catches him by surprise, widening his eyes just a fraction, before those same eyes light right up, his grin spreading wider.]
Perfect! An all-out clash between the sun and the moon! I like it! ♪
[The "sun" being himself, of course.
He hops fully onstage, standing tall in his platforms. He watches the way the light catches on his outfit, considering the different angles. When his eyes meet Bakugo's again, they're positively sparkling.]
I know just where to start. With my grand entrance! Everyone braved the evening chill to come out here, and they've been waiting for so long. But then, who should emerge from midst but me? The one, the only Tomoe Hiyori! ♪ That's the kind of story you're aiming for, right?
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Picking the outfit he did matches well with the stage Bakugo set up. Figures he'd be able to keep his own preferences in line with something suitable for the blonde's likes and his moonlit background. Hmph, did Hiyori think that was a sincere compliment? Che, he compared him to a pale chunk of rock in the sky. Hardly a compliment at all. Maybe he'll turn the moon's light up brighter and drown the parrot out in its glow! Instead, he brings his camera up to bear and peers through the lens. Beams of illumination spire up from the stage lights, lunar rays bloom behind Hiyori, the idol's own shine adds in a mixture he has to capture without letting any overpower the other. Not the easiest shoot. Most other photographers would die trying.]
Yeah, yeah. Get on with it. [Once Hiyori's positioned within the setup, Bakugo moves to his initial X-marked spot, where he's started each of his shoots. Taking in light glimmering off the idol's costume and the moon's shine behind him, he can't fire off pictures so easily. Too much glare or brilliance. An ashen brow quirks up towards his choppy bangs, eyelids drooping slightly and lips setting in a wry line. That's the kind of story you're aiming for, right? Fuck, hardly. He was going for a rooftop modeling shoot. But if the guy wants to spin his own glamor...]
You gonna give me that story? Get to telling it then, Parrot! [And lifts the camera to his face.] We'll kill them with your shoot!
[Knock them dead, Hiyori!]
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But right now Bakugo's job is to be a photographer, not a hero. And it's Hiyori's job to strut his stuff, not yap, so he prepares to do just that! Though not before saying some more totally necessary stuff.]
Yep, that's what I'll do! [Vigorous nodding.] Except that sounds a bit violent! So instead we'll say, "let's dazzle them!" Also, we've been showing off my legs a lot, so this time we'll try emphasizing some other parts. The rest of me is cute too, so let's capture a~ll my angles. ♪
[And then he turns on the runway, strutting off towards the city backdrop. (The pants have glittery embellishments on the back and also hug his ass suspiciously tight, but it's the Golden Peacock, so that can't be helped.) He calls over his shoulder:]
Let's get some more mist, please!
[Bossy as ever.
Whatever the mist situation ends up being, Hiyori knows how he wants to proceed. He taps his foot a few times, and then turns on his heel dramatically, one dangly gold earring swinging behind his shoulder while he does so. He cuts a dark figure for just a second, but then he steps into the light, purposefully stopping where he knows one of them will hit his face. His eyes flash, focusing on Bakugo, on his camera. He can pay attention to the position of both things, the lights and the camera; that's what years of professionalism have taught him. And as he faces the camera and the audience...
He smiles. Cool and lofty, like the persona he takes in most Eden songs. When performing as half of Eve, he's a little more sweet, more feminine and "cute" seeming. But Eden was conceptualized as a dark and noble sort of unit, and that's more in line with the impression he's trying to give off here. He strikes "cool" pose after pose, holding his head up high, letting the lights play off his body.
And also posing to accentuate his bared midriff, since he wasn't kidding about trying to show off different parts of himself. If you've got it, flaunt it, and he figures that when the light hits his abdomen just right, it'll give his skin an enticing glow.]
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[If legs get more screentime, it's because the idol put them there! Taking his place on his X position, Bakugo lifts the machine to his face and snaps a few shots of Hiyori's back, kicking off the photoshoot even if the idol wasn't deliberately posing. What? It's a paparazzi shot! Jun's getting a few sparkly ass shots whether he wants them or not.]
Don't order me around! I'm the photographer! [Bossy right back! He'll add more mist if it helps the shot; right now, he wants to capture more of Hiyori's body and clothing without getting mist wisps crossing his figure too heavily. Two foot taps, muscles tense, and he instantly sends the shutter fluttering in rapid captures of the idol's pirouette. From his shirt hem flaring around his stomach to the outward swing of a gilded streaming earring, a perfect scene of motion study and fluidity. Before the backlights flare up and he snaps off a few silhouettes. Lights down, a walk starts, he moves from one side to the next in quick succession, taking an arching series of photographs as illumination captures Hiyori in one place after another. Sometimes letting him look directly at his viewer, other times lifting a hand and indicating with a few points or the idol to avert his head and gaze elsewhere for profile shots and back captures.
"Cool" poses are always going to be his preference rather than cutesy crap. Yet his professionalism never fails with each change. The next time Hiyori retreats and comes forward, mist floods in from the side, trailing the motion of his feet and the swing of his hands as his body passes through its wake. Bakugo makes a point of keeping the idol's legs out of main focus, save for low angle shots which capture his thighs or lower on purpose to make foreshortening impacts of his upper body beyond his legs' length. Including those stomach shots.]
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[He'll put an egotistical spin on Bakugo's vicious spin.
It may not be Bakugo's photography as much as Hiyori's costume choices that emphasized his legs (and ass). First the animal print shorts with the tail in the back, then Officer Booty Shorts' booty shorts. But now he's trying to tantalize with a different sort of outfit, one that emphasizes his stomach... a stomach his partner has called flabby before. Can you believe Jun has called his belly "puni puni" on multiple occasions? Lies and slander!
But he knows full well how much Jun likes his body, so. For Jun's sake, as well as the imagined audience's, he'll keep doing his best to show it off.
For Bakugo's sake, too, since it's his job to capture his good looks. "I'm the photographer," he says, all self-important. But being tasked with taking his photo is an important job, and Hiyori does trust his judgment, so fine: if he'd rather not add more mist or the tech doesn't allow for it, that's that! Hiyori will just have to make do with what he has.
And that's exactly what he does, strutting down the runway with a cool and confident smile. He strikes pose after pose meant to emphasize his exposed skin, straightening his spine and sucking in his breath, hips rocking slowly back and forth so the light hits at slightly different angles. Hand and arm placement are important too, so he tries a few variations: lifting both elbows up over his head (and causing his top to ride up even more), holding his hands aloft at his waist, even running them down his own front. There's something he does onstage all the time, a super sexy move his fans go wild for. Even better if he accompanies it with a body roll, which he does.
Through it all, he wears a cool and sultry smile, though he playfully sticks his tongue out for one of the shots where his top is riding up. The mood is fun and flirty. But then, because he loves variety and he wants to make the most of the dramatic backdrop, he gets the idea to take things in a new direction.
He turns on his heel again, sticking out his waist a bit so Bakugo can photograph the small of his back, before speaking up again.]
Want to take some close ups? I bet with this kind of lighting, my eyes could look like they're flashing with intensity! For example...
[He spins around abruptly. When he does, his face is serious, his sultry smile gone without a trace. He moves into just the right spot for the light to hit his face, illuminating his wavy hair, his gold accessories, and most of all, his piercing stare.
And then he changes expressions again, back to smiling cheerfully.]
Like that! That was a really cool vibe just now, no? And if we could get a lighting flash or some thunder, that'd be even more awe-inspiring!
[He may he expecting too much of the special effects now...]
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[This is the guy who only agreed to be part of his class concert so long as everyone was ready to murder the rest of the school with their sound! What Hiyori wants to accent with his costumes is his choice; Bakugo's focused on capturing the entire man in various poses and emphasis. He's not about to slap down a book full of boyfriend ass shots in front of Jun! Arms, legs, ass, stomach, head, face, profile, close up, far away, full body, side, top, rear, underneath, one click after another seals Hiyori's image in frame after frame. Each keeping the idol and the man he loves in mind.
This time around, Bakugo doesn't call directions and poses for the idol's command. He lets him do his own walk while he focuses on the captures and angles. Straight spine and deep inhale snapped from the side, accenting Hiyori's slender toned profile against the backlight of the moon. Arms lifted and stomach exposed, bathed in ever-changing light hues pulsating from below. Hands tracing the contours of his chest and sides while Bakugo swiftly circles around him taking shots in subsequent order to follow the same flow of Hiyori's tangible descent. Capping off with a sassy hip pop pushing puffs of mist away.
Yeah, he got the playful sultry one, tongue exposed and stomach bared beneath a half-hiked top. What should've been sexy is spliced with funny, and Bakugo's left looking at the camera screen for a few seconds. Meh, not sure he likes that one. Whatever. Hiyori's meshing different looks together with alternating moods. Tossing the concept over his proverbial shoulder, he narrows his attention on the idol's back-turned image.]
You're facing away- [A grumbled commentary quickly shuts up and his finger hits the button the second Hiyori begins turning around. What? He knows the guy well enough now to predict he's gonna try a fast one. Capturing momentary stills of his pivot and changed facial expression, bangs sweeping across his eyes and flicking off one side as he transitions into a frozen pose at the very end. Illuminated accents, glittering accessories, eyes snaring each audience member. He got all of that without missing a damn beat.] There's no lightning in his scene setting, Parrot.
[And cocks the camera to one side with a smirk of his own.] I caught all of that.
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[He puts his whole ass into his modeling shoots, thank you very much!]
Anyway, that's enough arguing! Just watch and be amazed~♪
[Bakugo's taunting only invigorates him. Makes him focus more intensely, switching between more expressions and isolating more poses, legs swinging before he plants his feet on the runway. More, he'll give him more. Not a half-assed shoot, but a professional-level one. He'll wow everyone in his imagined audience.
The sticking-his-tongue out thing is second nature at this point; he's posed like that so many times, after all. A quick cheat to look cheeky and cute. For that particular shot, anyway, before he decides to pivot. Given the dramatic backdrop and cool lighting, it'd be remiss not to snap any serious pictures. The backdrop Bakugo selected could be used for all sorts of scenarios, including sci-fi cyberpunk. Maybe models and idols are banned in this universe, reduced to doing guerrilla lives and hosting secret photoshoots on top of rooftops, under cover of darkness. His mind easily conjures such scenarios, as he always has plenty of imagination where his idol work is concerned. It's even easier to imagine along those lines after being trapped in what's essentially a gilded dystopian prison for the past year-plus...
Though there's something else he's using as reference, too. In any case, he shows Bakugo a fierce look of defiance. Cool, unflappable and determined! But he's back to looking carefree as they start to banter about the shoot. Bakugo turns down his idea about the lightning, but says he caught what he just did, and Hiyori smiles his approval.]
Knew you would.
[Not every photographer could keep up with him, but Bakugo hasn't missed a beat, following along with all of his whims (that don't involve handcuffs or lightning).]
A pity about the lightning. One of our song starts with the sound of crashing thunder! But I was also thinking about another song—this one time, the higher-ups needed some conflict, so they spread rumors about "a clash between Adam and Eve." Me and Nagisa-kun had to go toe-to-toe onstage and pretend like we were fighting. Which doesn't make any sense, since we've been close since childhood, and we love each other a lot!
[He shakes his head.]
But that was how things were, so I put on my very best glare. That's what I tried to emulate just now. In fact...
[He trails off for a second, and then his eyes light up, smile stretching wide as he makes his newest proposal.]
Why don't I try dancing to that song? I should have that one on my phone! The only question is whether Baku-kun can capture me in motion or not. What do you think? Up for a challenge? ♪
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Fierce and defiant. Good. He lifts the camera to his face, turns it on its end, and starts capturing profile shots. A different way of viewing Hiyori in full-length scenes. Zooming in when the idol tilts forward, framing his expression in a dramatic close up with the lights blazing all around. Shadows catch on the hollows of his brows and the lift of his cheekbones, making the shine on his tongue gleam in strobe colors. Retreating one more for a wide shot from his hands to his feet in a fierce pose.
If he was going to include lightning, he would've put a damn storm in! There's no lightning on a full moonlit night!]
Che. Simple. [As far as he's concerned, Hiyori's a photo opportunity at any given second in his room. A more perverted person would snap pictures while he was changing. That's Jun's venue if he ever wanted. Bakugo rests the camera on his shoulder as they take a quick pause, heading for the nearby desk to swipe a water bottle and toss it to Hiyori for a drink.] You want lightning, I'll set up a storm scene.
Haa? That's a stupid idea? Who the hell greenlit it? [Creating discord between the fans and forcing friends to act like enemies for some shitty 'views' they could've gotten otherwise? "Higher-ups" were braindead morons for concocting trash. Hiyori doesn't sound too shaken up about it, even if he's shaking his head in wry annoyance. Bakugo would've straight up refused such a ridiculous notion. He drops his hand to his hip, eyeing the idol when he proposes the next scene.]
This camera can capture 1080 fps. I won't have a damn problem catching you in action. [Might even take a few short clips while he's at it.]
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Or for dancing on top the stage, an idea which has him disregarding the lightning one. He explains the idea behind Conquest to Bakugo and is pleased to hear Bakugo agree with him about the project. At that, Hiyori nods vigorously.]
Right? Some higher-ups wanted it, but it was so not our style. I thought you might like the idea as a hero, since I figure you must like "clashes between good and evil." But in this case, it was totally inappropriate. Nagisa-kun isn't a villain, and neither am I! We may disagree occasionally, but for the most part, we're all lovey-dovey!
[He and Nagisa really are like that. They hold hands and even sleep in the same bed occasionally, even at the ripe old age of 19... and Hiyori also sulked about Conquest and tried to get out of participating it, but in the end, Nagisa really did pick a fight with him, and that spurred him into action.
There's a happy ending though, as he goes on to explain.]
Fortunately, our "fight" didn't last long. We made up with a hug, and all of our fans loved it!
[By the end of that little story, Hiyori's back to smiling. He wouldn't want to do another project like that, but Conquest isn't a bad memory for him now. And there's a song attached to the event which is just as good as their other songs. One he's happy to play for Bakugo! He smiles again when Bakugo seems to go along with his idea, then hops off the runway.]
In that case, give me just one minute!
[He's off to retrieve his smartphone. Despite not needing to carry it (since he has his watch and can't actually text anyone on it), he keeps it charged and tends to bring it with him places. Just in case a valuable opportunity presents itself to show people pictures of Mary, or other pictures from his home. Or show off his music, like he's about to do right now! It doesn't take long to find the right song, though then there's the question of how to play it. It'd be best if he could play it over speakers, but that might take a minute to figure out how to set up and they're booked for a limited time here. So...
He holds out his smartphone to Bakugo. The song is already pulled up; it's called Rakuen Tsukihou -FAITH CONQUEST-.]
Just hit Play whenever you're ready.
[And then he gets back on the runway. He poses at one age of the stage, waiting for the song to begin. Assuming Bakugo follows his instruction and lets his music fill the air, he'll begin the choreography for Faith Conquest.
The most striking thing is probably his attitude. To sell the idea of a "clash between subunits," he was coached to look angry and defiant through parts of the song. That's reflected in the frown on his lips, the steely expression in his eyes, and even the choreography himself, which incorporates kicks and martial arts stances. Hiyori remembers it well enough: he's a bit out of practice, but as soon as the music hits, the routine is all muscle memory.
There are some parts he has to adapt for a solo performance. Like the one where he mimes cupping Jun's face (while singing about burning desire, no less). Even in a song like Faith Conquest, they can't forget the fanservice! For his solo performance, that part gets changed so he's extended a hand to the audience instead, his expression shifting to a smile while he does so. He smiles during the chorus, too—though it's more of a smirk, really. He looks cool rather than cutesy, and his movements aren't too fast or hard to pick up on it.
Ah, but the dance break is coming up, and will Bakugo be able to capture all that? Soon, they'll find out!]
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Haa?! That's completely different, Parrot! [Heroes versus villains has nothing to do with friends going at each other's throats over something petty for a bunch of stupid views! He doesn't like something as serious as those battles being trivialized into what amounts to schoolyard brawls.] They didn't even cast your groups as heroes or villains.
[He would've grit his teeth and snorted at the attempted mimic, but those idiots didn't even try. Disgusting. Bakugo lowers the camera and begins cycling through the images, eyes noting different aspects of his shots while Hiyori talks. This one's going in the trash. This one's definitely going in the album.]
PR's gross. [One of the things he dreads going forward into his future career as a Pro. All those stupid PR appearances, business deals, advertisement offers, modeling chances, and other bullshit wanting to bank on his image like he's some kind of commodity to exploit. Bakugo looks up from the camera, lips together, one brow a bit higher than the other. Another song... But if this is the route they're going, he swipes the phone (carefully) from Hiyori's hand and waits for him to get his ass back on the stage. Only when the idol's ready for action does he bother tapping the Play button with a brief tap of his thumb.
Balancing the phone between his jaw and shoulder, Bakugo returns to his job. Camera shots click and snap as he grabs one shot after another, noting the way Hiyori's facial expression accents the physical actions he's going for. Martial arts? Heh, this guy had those kinds of choreographed moves and still bitched about it when Bakugo trained him in basic counter holds. Whiny bastard. He could've made use of this muscle memory! Anyone'd know within a few minutes the blonde's far more impressed with "cool" than "cute" so Hiyori gets to see his investment in the shot increase (even if all his actions are professional and skilled since the start).
Yeah, he'd alternating between photographs and video shots. Besides, unbeknownst to Hiyori, the lights around the stage also double as shielded cameras below their glowing shells.]
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Still not a job he liked, though.]
It would've made me even angrier if they had, since we most certainly aren't villains. Nor are we heroes, exactly. I'm fine with leaving the heroics to people like Baku-kun.
[Though as previously discussed, idols and heroes do share similarities. Both have to deal with "gross" PR, for instance, though Hiyori's generally not the slightest bit bothered by brand deals, advertisements, modeling and all that stuff. Especially not modeling, since that's what he's doing right now!
That, and dancing. It's a bit indulgent, taking this opportunity to perform a song he hasn't performed in a while. But he seizes it anyway, knowing it's something he may never get the chance to perform again: at least not in front of his fans or with the rest of Eden. He'd need to go home for that. But here, with his audience of one, he can relive those idol memories, and he can show off some cool moves. Perhaps his training sessions with Bakugo have even improved his choreography: made his martial arts poses a bit more striking, given his kicks some extra oomph.
There are no complaints from his photographer. Bakugo seems to be keeping up. Hiyori is unaware he's alternating between video and photography. If he did know, he might tell him to switch to video for this next part: the dance break. But it's up to Bakugo how he wants to handle that. He goes through a series of rapid movements, crossing his arms and dropping to a half-crouch before stepping out of it. Gesturing to the audience and then himself with a haughty look on his face, all cocky like he's looking for a fight. That's what the theme was, so that's how the song's choreography is! And it may just be a side of him Bakugo's never really seen before. ... though his behavior while holding the riding crop during the police shoot was probably a bit similar.
He does a spinning kick before the final chorus, then opens his mouth, miming along to the track's autotuned wail. That's his voice crying out! And that's him staring defiantly at who he imagines to be Nagisa, then smiling boldly out at the audience, gesturing along to each "Wake up, wake up." Mouthing the song's final words, he stands tall as the track comes to a close. Showing his back to the audience, he imagines their cheers, their excitement over having been given a private concert, a sea of penlights on a moonlit night. It's no substitute for being back home, but it's a nice fantasy.
Once the song is done:]
Well? You captured all that, right?
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Che! Dressing up and pretending to be heroes or villains is something kids do for Halloween. [There's also hero conventions and some creepy fanatic groups, shit he's not gonna bother referencing. Weirdos. Over his time spent with Hiyori, he's had to begrudgingly concede the idol was right about how heroes and idols had similarities. He made enough good points and nuances without stretching the facts. Does he think the world needs idols like it needs heroes? Hell no! But Hiyori's world is different. They do need idols.
His training better have worked in tandem with Hiyori's martial arts movements! No longer faking the strength or aim behind his strikes, but actually having some power behind his kicks and knowledge where to aim his punches. Bakugo notes a few motions he thought he taught the idol, even if he secretly had the basic body learning already down. Che. Luckily the blonde's quick on reaction and predicts when Hiyori's winding up for something impressive. A dance break has its own tell and he films the entire segment. Filming requires him to slow down far more than taking pictures, not wanting to blur or shake the film. From crossed arms to rolling crouches to rising gestures and cocky come hither's. He's not seen these looks or motions from Hiyori before. Jun's fucking lucky.
Gonna need to work on that spinning kick... It sucked compared to his earlier ones. Bakugo quickly snaps several shots of Hiyori's back-turned finish, from colored illumination to the flash of moonlight swallowing his body in a blackening silhouette until everything vanishes in a brilliant white glow. There's no place like home... but he's glad he was able to give Hiyori the semblance of such.
Bakugo leans back and rests the camera against his shoulder.] Che! Of course I did! Don't ask stupid questions.
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Though Hiyori once wasn't strong enough to break a single karate board, his kicks and chops have added power, and he delivers a convincing performance as a "fighter"—even though Adam, the group he's clashing with, isn't onstage with him. Though he wasn't a fan of Conquest, it makes him wish he could perform this song again. Put up a more convincing fake fight next time and wow his fans with his coolness. There's no telling if that day will ever come, but he'll hold that earnest wish inside his heart until the day he turns to stone here. "No place like home" indeed.
But if he has to be stuck in the resort, there are worse places than on a stage prepared by a friend who cares about him. Bakugo leans back, the shoot evidently over, and responds gruffly in affirmative, which just makes Hiyori smile even more.]
Yep, of course you did! ♪
[He speaks in his usual cheerful singsong, letting go of the cocky attitude he had during the shoot. It wasn't fake, exactly, since he is an ultra-confident type, but it was still a stage persona he affected for the cameras. This is him off the stage, dealing with a friend: cheerful, relaxed and in good spirits. He hops off the stage in his platforms, reaching for a water bottle and a hand towel to wipe the sweat from his brow.]
Jun-kun's going to be so appreciative. He always has to focus on his own performance when we're onstage, so I'm sure he'll love the chance to sit back, relax, and just watch me for a change. I'm awfully curious to see the results myself, of course. But that'd eat into our precious time, so for now I'll just trust Baku-kun!
[He takes a long gulp of water, then checks the time on his watch: they've used up more of it than not, but there's still some left over. He muses out loud to himself:]
So far I've been a cute-but-wild cheetah, a police officer, and "the idol called Hiyori Tomoe." Is there a fourth role that could tie all that together, I wonder?
[He's thinking. Not just about what's in the wardrobe, but about the sort of roles that suit him best and what Jun might want to see.]
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While this scrapbook is for Hiyori and Jun, Bakugo's going to keep a few shots for himself. If not a copy of the photos with the idol's permission just in case. And in the future... he'll be adding the scrapbook to his library, lingering a hand on the spine for longer than necessary. Memories within of a happy voice amid moonlight and photo flashes.]
Don't break your ankle. [Gruffly tossed his way as Bakugo begins swiping through the pictures. Save save, dismiss dismiss, save, dismiss, splitting them up with a scrutinizing eye. Of course Hiyori will get to go through them all once the hero's sorted them into his initial opinion. No need to grouch at the green-haired guy to get some water and wipe off. He pads cross the room and stations himself in front of the computer, a quick shove plugging the camera into the machine. Download commence.]
You've never watched your own performances before? [Bakugo glances at Hiyori over his shoulder, lips slightly warped in a confused sneer. He's done that plenty in his hero training. Sometimes it pisses him off, chuffing or snarling at a mistake. Sometimes it makes him laugh, crowing over a victorious shot or awesome move.]
Aa. Next one's downtime. [And hits the pre-recorded setup he had ready since the start. Always knew he wanted to wrap with this one. The stage quickly replaces itself with a sunlit living room, lights and ribbons decorating the ceiling, curtains brushing gentle in open window breezes, a large pillow-laden couch sprawling in the center for comfort and lounge. Cozy set up, bringing the idea of a relaxing retreat from work, with a hint of intimacy at seeing an idol in such a reclined and off-stage setting. Whether Hiyori wants to make this racy or casual is up to him; it can go either way. He wouldn't even look out of place going makeup-less in the building set scene.]
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like an exhibitionist,so what better legacy to leave behind than a bunch of slutty photos?He stops drinking long enough to answer the question.]
Of course we both have before. It's just that we're usually paying attention to the group formation or our own performance, so he isn't focusing 100% of his attention on me. But now he can do that, which I'm sure is what he wants to do! ♪
[Moving on, though... A few possible ideas had occurred to him based on what he saw in the wardrobe. There's no shortage of cute outfits he'd like to try wearing next, and he could take on any number of other roles. Jun isn't exactly picky when it comes to him; just about anything would probably be fine. But if he thinks about how he wants to follow up that last shoot, which showcased his cool, glamorous, professional idol self, one thing that comes to mind is...
His own thoughts trail off into ellipses. Bakugo gives an immediate response, transforming the stage with the press of a button. Goodbye moonlight and skyscrapers; hello cozy interior, all blankets and soft lighting. He blinks, spending a moment taking that in, and then he breaks into a warm, beaming, wholly sincere smile.]
Good instinct! ♪
[He's impressed, actually. It's just what he'd been thinking. After playing out silly scenarios and showcasing his idol persona, the right way to end things was with something stripped-down and intimate. No more persona, just himself, Hiyori Tomoe the human being, captured in a relaxing scene at home. Of course these aren't going to be candid shots at his real home, but that's not to say he won't put any of himself into them. Fans love catching glimpses of their life off the stage. And as for Jun, well—Hiyori knows his partner loves him even when he's not caked in a dramatic make-up or wearing cool costumes.]
I'll just change into some around-the-house clothes~♪
[He disappears behind the privacy screen.
First, he washes up and takes care of his make-up. He does still reapply some, but it's light and subtle; lighter even than what he wears on a daily basis. There was a time when Loki said he wanted to see him "au naturale," so he left off the fragrance, the hair product, and most of the make-up before visiting him, and that's exactly what he does now. Even his just-got-out-of-the-shower hair will be fitting for this shoot. Then it's just a question of what to wear.
He could go for a sexy look. The wardrobe has some cute lace-trimmed negligees. He could go a more masculine-but-still sexy route: shirtless with comfortable pants hanging from his hips and a towel draped around his neck. He could wear ultra-cute pajamas, complete with fuzzy pastel-colored knee-high socks; those are an option, too. He could even opt to wear nothing but the Mating Season robe, since people relax around the house in their bathrobes all the time.
A few moments' consideration, and then he gets changed, re-emerging from behind the screen.
He's wearing a simple silk pajama set. Its pastel color compliments the pillows and couch, a lavender purple some shades lighter than his eyes. The only skin showing is some chest and collarbone; he's left the first few buttons of the top undone, but the overall effect is still more cozy than sexy, especially since he's wearing a knitted cardigan over it. The cardigan sits low on his shoulders, making the sleeves look oversized, which everyone knows is an easy shortcut to make yourself look cuter. But the cardigan didn't come from the wardrobe—Bakugo will recognize it as part of the outfit Hiyori wore into Mating Season.
He smiles sweetly, seeming pleased with his selection.]
Well? What do you think? [He gestures with one long sleeve.] Nothing says "around the house" like wearing a piece of my own clothes.
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Hiyori doesn't get to call the shots on the next setting. He had this one planned out since the start. Comfortable and cozy, probably something you'd find in a magazine shilling perfume or lingerie. Bakugo flicks his eyes sideways, peering through his peripheral to capture Hiyori's reaction. One or two blinks. Surprised? Then melting into a sunset smile. Heh, thought so.
There was a large market for "downtime" heroes in his own world. Shitty idiots running around with hidden cameras or ladders trying to sneak in shots of favorite heroes when they're out of costume, off the clock, trying to live some fucking personal time without having a damn photographer shoving their camera into their faces for some snapshots. He's had people crowd him on the subway until his nose clenched from cologne. A lunch interrupted by some idiot jumping out of the bushes yelling for autographs. A fucking kid latched onto his shin refusing to let go because he had a brain problem! ("Brain problem" here meaning admiration of Dynamight.) So far no one's tried anything personally invasive, like bugging his home, but... Having this relaxing ending to a model shoot touches a little on such ideas. A model in his own relaxing home.]
Scram. [Dismissing Hiyori to go change. Bakugo tunes the camera while his model washes off behind the screen. They tried to put a sheer screen up around the shower when he rented the room; he raged at them immediately and they got an opaque screen. Bastards. Camera good to go, he begins arranging pillows and cushions around the couch, spreads a rug on the floor for lounging photos, tugs curtains into a free-flow breeze, and adjusts the lighting until perfect daylight streams through each charming window on either side... No, he tones the light down. The way it was, the thing looked like a fucking cathedral rather than a common living room. Maybe he should mess up the pillows? ... Nah, Hiyori will muss them as he wants.
Bakugo turns his head when his object of attention emerges to light once more. Silk pajamas and natural look with only scant makeup accents. Lavender and mint green matching with the sky blue and whites of the pillow and couch. Gonna look like a "sky-born" theme with those colors. He can easily see Hiyori climbing into bed with such an ensemble. Maybe with his bangs pinned up or his hair wrapped in a cap of sorts. Cozy. Perfect for a lounge shot. Minus the cardigan... Yeah, he recognizes it. Who wears a sweater over their pajamas? "Some" people might think it makes Hiyori look cuter. Bakugo think it makes him look cold and grabbed the first thing he could to make the trip to his bed. Where blankets are. Rendering sweater moot point. But it's Hiyori's, so it gets a pass.]
You look like you're getting ready for bed. [Which is completely on point.]
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[He replies, nose in the air. Goodness, all he did was point out Jun would appreciate the opportunity. This is what happens when two stubborn people are friends. But he's already made his point, so it's time to move on!
He steps out from behind the privacy screen and awaits Bakugo's reaction. It turns out to be neither complimentary not disapproving; the boy merely states facts, saying he looks ready for bed. But by this point, Hiyori's gotten good at reading between the lines where Bakugo is concerned, and he knows the lack of snide comments or criticism means approval.]
That's the idea! ♪ That or someone who's sleeping in late, since the set is still daytime. I thought about stepping out in one of those sheer nightgowns, but I figured I'm better off taking those photos in front of the bedroom mirror. And anything too fancy wouldn't have the right "downtime" vibe, so casual it was.
[It might have been funny to walk out in lingerie just for the reaction he would've gotten, but he thinks he prefers this. As for the sweater, that's there to add a personal touch and sell the idea of someone who wants to be comfortable in their pajamas without being too cold.
With his last words, Hiyori's eyes fall on the set. He immediately notices the changes Bakugo has made to the scene: pillows and cushions added to the couch, softer lighting. It looks less sterile and more homey now, as though Bakugo could predict he'd take with his outfit, and his smile is an approving one.
To kick things off, he pads over in slippers and sits on the couch. He muses out loud:]
It'd be nice if I had a mug of hot tea to pose with. [Then, his eyes lighting up:] So let's order one! You're an Ace, so I'm they'll obey your room service requests. Then while we're waiting for that to be delivered, we can take photos where I'm hugging the pillows all cutely. Sound good?
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Yes they are and he'll admit it in private but not to Hiyori's face.Bakugo switches to a different camera this time. A smaller one without as large a lens or as many options. In exchange, he retrieves multiples of them. As well as a few curious items. Tripods with extendable necks and T-shaped tops which look like they're fitted with small rails. To each one, he affixes a small square camera on the rail, before hauling the tripod power cord to the wall and shaving thedick-shapedprongs into the equally-lewd-shaped sockets. Disgusting. A white light blinks on instantly at the main joint, indicating power's active.Those charging, Bakugo returns to the computer and opens another program. One by one, he finds and syncs the tripod's wireless connection to the computer's. Didn't put in as much time as he could have to be a complete master of operating these things, but he learned enough to set their basic programs from the options available. He knocks a knuckle on the "Enter" key and sends the command. Each tripod begins raising and lowering their necks, shrinking almost to their three-legged base and extending to max height (about four feet), while the cameras on their T-shaped head rails slide back and forth from one side to the other. They can't capture as intricate an angle as Bakugo can while moving in and around the set, but they can snap plenty of variable shots in the meantime.]
Che, I would've chucked you back in the damn closet if you wore that crap. [So he says. It wasn't the ideal companion for the setup he had, save for agreeing with the sheer curtains. This one is better. It keeps a level of intimacy alongside a casual cozy without veering into sensual erotic like some crass horny greeting card. Bakugo never intended to shoot Hiyori in a perverse light since he came up with the idea. That sort of business is left between the idol and his boyfriend. Hence the comfortable pillows and throws tossed onto the couch, a change to natural atmospheric lighting, and eradication of anything too professional or clinical. Hiyori's even got slippers on.]
HAA?! YOU COULD'VE SAID THAT EARLIER, DAMMIT! [BOOM! Rage face and loud mouth roar. He just spent all this time waiting for Hiyori to clean up and get his ass changed! NOW he comes up with the idea of a damn hot tea mug?! Idols are so goddamn finicky!] You spill this shit and I'll drown you in your own stupid mug!
[Because he's grumblingly putting in the kneejerk order regardless.]
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Three different cameras, all mounted on top of tripods that move at the press of a button. When he sees them move, his eyes widen slightly. Not that there aren't bigger technological marvels at the resort, but it's still pretty impressive. And Bakugo knows how to operate all this? If he wasn't set on being a hero, he'd make a good photographer, film director, or behind-the-scenes technician.
Though his on-set behavior could definitely use some work, as usual.]
Volume control, please! [He singsongs.] I just came up with that, or I would've asked earlier! I'm almost tempted to ask for a book too, so we could take some "light reading at home" shots, but I think we both know what kind of cover the books here would have.
[Anyway, he'll get ready now. He plants both slippered feet on the rug, then picks up one of the pillows as promised. He hugs it loosely to his chest, sitting against one arm of the couch and smiling sweetly. By the time Bakugo finishes grumpily placing the order for tea, he looks picture perfect.]
All ready for my close-up~♪
[After "hugging the pillow," he'll cycle through other poses. Relaxing without the pillow, gazing out the window, yawning. The last one differs from the yawn he did during the cheetah photoshoot; an "I'm ready for a nap" yawn rather than a waking-up-from-one yawn. They're similar but distinct! This should take them until the steaming hot beverage arrives, delivered to the door by staff.
... guess who's not moving from the couch to get it.]
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