[ Jun's been made aware it's Leo's birthday soon! Yep, the day before, so he's sort of scrambling. ]
hey, ohii-san, it's tsukinaga-senpai's birthday tomorrow, and he wants a birthday cake. i said i'd do it no problem, but i was wondering if you had ideas for gifts? thinking about something he could use for composing, or, dunno, what else could he want?! we could all pitch in, if you want? but i'm gonna go ask rinne-senpai for ideas, just so he knows. i dunno if his ideas'll be helpful, though...?
[ So watch this space??? Leo's a 10, so he likely has everything he needs, but that doesn't mean he deserves to go without a present or have his fellow idols not know it's his birthday! ]
hey, ohii-san, it's tsukinaga-senpai's birthday tomorrow, and he wants a birthday cake. i said i'd do it no problem, but i was wondering if you had ideas for gifts? thinking about something he could use for composing, or, dunno, what else could he want?! we could all pitch in, if you want? but i'm gonna go ask rinne-senpai for ideas, just so he knows. i dunno if his ideas'll be helpful, though...?
[ So watch this space??? Leo's a 10, so he likely has everything he needs, but that doesn't mean he deserves to go without a present or have his fellow idols not know it's his birthday! ]
[Was Hiyori expecting a response to his text? A good one that tells him Rinne is all right, alive, and just messing with him? Too bad, he just gets this.]
Great Tit, 2pm. Be there.
[He's even using proper spelling. How serious. Well, Hiyori is free to ignore this command.]
Great Tit, 2pm. Be there.
[He's even using proper spelling. How serious. Well, Hiyori is free to ignore this command.]
Edited 2024-05-04 09:40 (UTC)
Is it? That's awfully sudden. He ought to give more notice next time!
[He didn't see this one coming. He's never given much thought to the issue of celebrating birthdays in this place. Surely he and Jun won't still be here when July and August come around... will they? It's a depressing thought.
But he pushes that aside for now. He'd much rather focus on gift-giving, celebrations, and other fun things like that! Those are his specialties.]
I'm not sure what he loves, other than composing and his little sister. I know he has a recording studio in his room, though, so perhaps we could find him some new equipment? There's always stationery and fountain pens and the like, as well, but my feeling is that he's happy to compose wherever and doesn't need to do it in a leather-bound journal.
When I'm stumped for what to get someone, I usually have our personal chef whip them something up. But he's not here right now, and instead we have you! I'm also not sure what food Leo-kun likes, since he doesn't seem to eat much. Maybe something coffee-related? A gift basket with different beans, perhaps? I'll figure something out!
Are we also throwing him a party? Or are we simply delivering the gifts up to his room?
[He didn't see this one coming. He's never given much thought to the issue of celebrating birthdays in this place. Surely he and Jun won't still be here when July and August come around... will they? It's a depressing thought.
But he pushes that aside for now. He'd much rather focus on gift-giving, celebrations, and other fun things like that! Those are his specialties.]
I'm not sure what he loves, other than composing and his little sister. I know he has a recording studio in his room, though, so perhaps we could find him some new equipment? There's always stationery and fountain pens and the like, as well, but my feeling is that he's happy to compose wherever and doesn't need to do it in a leather-bound journal.
When I'm stumped for what to get someone, I usually have our personal chef whip them something up. But he's not here right now, and instead we have you! I'm also not sure what food Leo-kun likes, since he doesn't seem to eat much. Maybe something coffee-related? A gift basket with different beans, perhaps? I'll figure something out!
Are we also throwing him a party? Or are we simply delivering the gifts up to his room?
[His eyes bulge when he sees who the notification is from.
And then his expression turns incredulous when he sees what it is.]
That's all you have to say??
[And why Great Tit? That's his least favorite food place here! But he gets up and goes, of course, since he really has no choice. He needs answers!!]
And then his expression turns incredulous when he sees what it is.]
That's all you have to say??
[And why Great Tit? That's his least favorite food place here! But he gets up and goes, of course, since he really has no choice. He needs answers!!]
yeah, wish he'd told me or one of you guys sooner, cuz then we'd have more time to plan.
[ And Jun agrees, it would've been more convenient if Leo had told them in advance! Unless Leo forgot his own birthday..? Hopefully, by the time their birthday's roll around, they'll be back home and can celebrate outside of this place.
Right, he recalls Leo talking about his sister! And what Hiyori's talking about makes sense. Leo does compose whenever he wants, not particularly caring for where his music ends up. Which is why Jun's stumped about gifts! At least he knows Ohii-san's good with figuring out that kind of thing. ]
that's why i'm having trouble coming up with something.. i figure no matter how much paper we get him, he'll run out of it sooner than later. maybe they've got some sorta pen here that never runs outta ink?
i'm already running around, figuring out the cake situation. but it'd be handy if your personal chefs were here. yeah, all he's been doing lately has been living on coffee and i keep telling him off for it, but tsukinaga-senpai's stubborn. do we really wanna feed into his coffee habit? but when all else fails, that's something he likes. i appreciate your help, ohii-san! i don't want tsukinaga-senpai to think we'd forget about a gift or anything ♪
we could throw him a party! it's just hard to get everything on short notice. so maybe just giving the gift and cake is better? that'd sorta be like a party.
[ And Jun agrees, it would've been more convenient if Leo had told them in advance! Unless Leo forgot his own birthday..? Hopefully, by the time their birthday's roll around, they'll be back home and can celebrate outside of this place.
Right, he recalls Leo talking about his sister! And what Hiyori's talking about makes sense. Leo does compose whenever he wants, not particularly caring for where his music ends up. Which is why Jun's stumped about gifts! At least he knows Ohii-san's good with figuring out that kind of thing. ]
that's why i'm having trouble coming up with something.. i figure no matter how much paper we get him, he'll run out of it sooner than later. maybe they've got some sorta pen here that never runs outta ink?
i'm already running around, figuring out the cake situation. but it'd be handy if your personal chefs were here. yeah, all he's been doing lately has been living on coffee and i keep telling him off for it, but tsukinaga-senpai's stubborn. do we really wanna feed into his coffee habit? but when all else fails, that's something he likes. i appreciate your help, ohii-san! i don't want tsukinaga-senpai to think we'd forget about a gift or anything ♪
we could throw him a party! it's just hard to get everything on short notice. so maybe just giving the gift and cake is better? that'd sorta be like a party.
I suppose he's not really a "plan things in advance" sort. He's more like a scatterbrain, so it wouldn't surprise me if he forgot his own birthday was coming up. Especially since the timeline is all mixed-up between this place and our world.
[New goal: find a way out of here before their birthdays. He doesn't want to celebrate a single one of his birthdays here! But they aren't getting out in time for Leo's; there's no getting around that, so they might as well make the most of it.]
You've gotten pretty good at thinking outside the box! This place seems to run on magic, so I guess it's possible they'd sell something like that. If not, though, there are still hundreds of shops to browse. So many that it seems like overkill, and this is coming from me, who loves to shop! But I'm sure we can find something he'll like.
My feeling with the coffee is that, if he's going to live off it, he might as well live off the good stuff! But maybe we can get him to eat if we got something coffee-flavored? Like a coffee rub for meat, or a sauce or marinade. Or perhaps a breakfast product, since those don't require cooking.
There must be places where you can reserve a room around here, but I assume that costs chips. And since this is all rather last-minute, it might be best if we brought the party up to him! I'll pick up some party poppers and hats for us to wear. That should set the mood just right 🥳🎉
[New goal: find a way out of here before their birthdays. He doesn't want to celebrate a single one of his birthdays here! But they aren't getting out in time for Leo's; there's no getting around that, so they might as well make the most of it.]
You've gotten pretty good at thinking outside the box! This place seems to run on magic, so I guess it's possible they'd sell something like that. If not, though, there are still hundreds of shops to browse. So many that it seems like overkill, and this is coming from me, who loves to shop! But I'm sure we can find something he'll like.
My feeling with the coffee is that, if he's going to live off it, he might as well live off the good stuff! But maybe we can get him to eat if we got something coffee-flavored? Like a coffee rub for meat, or a sauce or marinade. Or perhaps a breakfast product, since those don't require cooking.
There must be places where you can reserve a room around here, but I assume that costs chips. And since this is all rather last-minute, it might be best if we brought the party up to him! I'll pick up some party poppers and hats for us to wear. That should set the mood just right 🥳🎉
guess not? he forgets stuff all the time, not that it bothers me much. but that's not still a theory? or you've got more proof now?
[ That's not exactly the most important part of their conversation, but as he's reading the rest, Rinne does manage to message him back. As thought, nothing he added seemed very helpful. ]
well, yeah! you've got all those theories and talking about magic with people, so i thought i'd give it a shot! something like that'd be a pretty good gift, and tsukinaga-senpai'd never worry 'bout running outta ink! yeah, figured and rinne-senpai finally texted back:
"cake gel pen
blank white cake
i'll get us alcohol~"
i dunno why he'd type cake twice? or what he's tryna say. anyway, do coffee rubs for meat exist? guess if something like that does, it'd exist here. but half the time, i dunno if tsukinaga-senpai's awake for breakfast? though, it'd help cuz he forgets to eat.... and those're pretty good gift ideas! i knew you'd have really good ideas, ohii-san 😊
[ He DID text Jun at 3am, and said he had a cup of coffee. Multiple! But he sang Leo to sleep, so maybe there's nothing to worry about?! He never really got a clear answer about when Leo sleeps, anyway... ]
maybe if we're still here for someone's birthday, we can rent a room. i don't mind using my chips, but you're right, saying it's last minute and bringing the party to tsukinaga-senpai instead. hats and stuff'd work! it'll be like a real party ♪
[ There might be potentially several rooms, but it's still last minute! As long as they show up for Leo's birthday, it will be an enjoyable, and unforgettable party. ]
[ That's not exactly the most important part of their conversation, but as he's reading the rest, Rinne does manage to message him back. As thought, nothing he added seemed very helpful. ]
well, yeah! you've got all those theories and talking about magic with people, so i thought i'd give it a shot! something like that'd be a pretty good gift, and tsukinaga-senpai'd never worry 'bout running outta ink! yeah, figured and rinne-senpai finally texted back:
"cake gel pen
blank white cake
i'll get us alcohol~"
i dunno why he'd type cake twice? or what he's tryna say. anyway, do coffee rubs for meat exist? guess if something like that does, it'd exist here. but half the time, i dunno if tsukinaga-senpai's awake for breakfast? though, it'd help cuz he forgets to eat.... and those're pretty good gift ideas! i knew you'd have really good ideas, ohii-san 😊
[ He DID text Jun at 3am, and said he had a cup of coffee. Multiple! But he sang Leo to sleep, so maybe there's nothing to worry about?! He never really got a clear answer about when Leo sleeps, anyway... ]
maybe if we're still here for someone's birthday, we can rent a room. i don't mind using my chips, but you're right, saying it's last minute and bringing the party to tsukinaga-senpai instead. hats and stuff'd work! it'll be like a real party ♪
[ There might be potentially several rooms, but it's still last minute! As long as they show up for Leo's birthday, it will be an enjoyable, and unforgettable party. ]
Yep, just like he forgot Robin-kun's name! Actually, he'd forgotten Rinne-senpai's, too. When I first ran into him here, I asked who else from ES was around, and he said "Someone whose name is kinda like 'Ritsu', but not 'Ritsu!'"
By "timeline," I just meant that it was a different date when we arrived compared to what it should have been at home. It was two days before New Year's Eve when we got snatched, but when I arrived here, there was all this Valentine's decor they were taking down, and then that big welcome market happened at the beginning of March. All of January and most of February disappeared, in other words. Which sort of reminds me of Rinne-senpai's predicament.
[Yet another thing to ponder slash investigate. Though time is a wibbly-wobbly thing, and if he thinks about it too hard, he might just give himself a headache.]
I've talked to people who can do magic, but I'm not sure if any of them can enchant regular pens. Some people can't do magic here because of that "limiter" thing I mentioned, or because they're missing some tool they need, like a mage stone. Others say they can do it, but that it takes time to see results. And this is all rather last-minute, so there goes that option!
But oh well, that's fine. It doesn't need to be something magical. There surely must be other suitable gifts, even in this place.
[He's not buying Leo a sex toy! He's not!!]
Sounds borderline-incomprehensible as usual! And also like he forgot that none of us can legally drink except him. Though I guess Leo-kun can as of tomorrow? Although if he's missing some months, maybe he can't... Or can he?
[Yep. Very headache-inducing.]
Yep, there are coffee ones, along with all sorts of other rubs! Sweet ones, savory ones, spicy ones, herb rubs, you name it. The market did have a wide variety of spices and things, so I wonder if they might sell something like that here. I'm not sure how much it'd excite him, though. Or rather, I can see him mistaking it for instant coffee and dumping it into some hot water, so on second thought, never mind! Let's scratch that one out! If all else fails, we'll just get him some more permanent markers he can use to write all over the walls!
[Should he really be saying that over text? The resort might know it's him leaving musical graffiti everywhere!]
Real parties are less about the environment and more about the spirit, in my opinion. So if we act like it's a party, that'll make it so! 🥳🎉🥳🎉🥳🎉 I'm sure the presents and your cake will help, too.
By "timeline," I just meant that it was a different date when we arrived compared to what it should have been at home. It was two days before New Year's Eve when we got snatched, but when I arrived here, there was all this Valentine's decor they were taking down, and then that big welcome market happened at the beginning of March. All of January and most of February disappeared, in other words. Which sort of reminds me of Rinne-senpai's predicament.
[Yet another thing to ponder slash investigate. Though time is a wibbly-wobbly thing, and if he thinks about it too hard, he might just give himself a headache.]
I've talked to people who can do magic, but I'm not sure if any of them can enchant regular pens. Some people can't do magic here because of that "limiter" thing I mentioned, or because they're missing some tool they need, like a mage stone. Others say they can do it, but that it takes time to see results. And this is all rather last-minute, so there goes that option!
But oh well, that's fine. It doesn't need to be something magical. There surely must be other suitable gifts, even in this place.
[He's not buying Leo a sex toy! He's not!!]
Sounds borderline-incomprehensible as usual! And also like he forgot that none of us can legally drink except him. Though I guess Leo-kun can as of tomorrow? Although if he's missing some months, maybe he can't... Or can he?
[Yep. Very headache-inducing.]
Yep, there are coffee ones, along with all sorts of other rubs! Sweet ones, savory ones, spicy ones, herb rubs, you name it. The market did have a wide variety of spices and things, so I wonder if they might sell something like that here. I'm not sure how much it'd excite him, though. Or rather, I can see him mistaking it for instant coffee and dumping it into some hot water, so on second thought, never mind! Let's scratch that one out! If all else fails, we'll just get him some more permanent markers he can use to write all over the walls!
[Should he really be saying that over text? The resort might know it's him leaving musical graffiti everywhere!]
Real parties are less about the environment and more about the spirit, in my opinion. So if we act like it's a party, that'll make it so! 🥳🎉🥳🎉🥳🎉 I'm sure the presents and your cake will help, too.
action; backdated 6/5 (sorry) i promise this one can be quick 🫡
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blundering
2024-05-08 02:30 am (UTC)(link)
[ First things first, he's leaving Weiss on read. (Sorry, Weiss!) But the moment he's finished reading these words, "Bring a friend if you'd like," he's already known exactly who he'd like to bring along with him. (He's fine not knowing all the details yet. She did say, "more details in the coming days," which will lead towards Weiss' post on the Bulletin Board.
Secondly, he's running straight from the gym in search for Hiyori. Perhaps it would be better to text him, just so he's not looking all across the resort, but he'll end up at Hiyori's door anyway. A little out of breath from frantically running, he lightly raps his knuckles against the door. It's also to the tune of their hit single "Sunlit Smile," so hopefully Hiyori knows it's him.
And if Hiyori's not there, he'll be patient and even text him. But he wants to ask in person; therefore, this could not wait! Jun is a man on a mission! ]
Secondly, he's running straight from the gym in search for Hiyori. Perhaps it would be better to text him, just so he's not looking all across the resort, but he'll end up at Hiyori's door anyway. A little out of breath from frantically running, he lightly raps his knuckles against the door. It's also to the tune of their hit single "Sunlit Smile," so hopefully Hiyori knows it's him.
And if Hiyori's not there, he'll be patient and even text him. But he wants to ask in person; therefore, this could not wait! Jun is a man on a mission! ]
[Hiyori spends a fair amount of time outside his room, eating and exploring and browsing shops and meeting up with people who seem useful. Fortunately Jun chooses to show up at a time when he is there, sitting on the couch and tapping away at his smartwatch. No doubt he's composing an annoyingly long message to someone on the Network, punctuated with heart and sparkle emojis!
He is expecting someone to knock, actually. A staff member was supposed to come up to his room and install something at some point. But he can tell this particular knock doesn't belong to any one of the brainwashed staff, but to someone he knows intimately. He smiles, jumps up from the couch, and opens the door.]
Jun-kun! ♪
He is expecting someone to knock, actually. A staff member was supposed to come up to his room and install something at some point. But he can tell this particular knock doesn't belong to any one of the brainwashed staff, but to someone he knows intimately. He smiles, jumps up from the couch, and opens the door.]
Jun-kun! ♪
yeah, now you've said it, he did forget he'd even met that guy. and rinne and ritsu sound nothing alike, so i dunno where he'd get that comparison from!
oh, right. so if you're saying that, then it took, what? almost 2 months? maybe time moves in mysterious ways here, cuz something like that shouldn't make sense if we were taken at the end of december. i'd completely forgotten it was 'round valentine's day when we arrived.
[ Now that seems so long ago now, not that he's completely forgotten. Thinking about how much time has passed and maybe how they've missed a couple of months does make his head hurt. ]
yeah, so it probably can't be done? i figure now you're talking about the limiters again, that'll mean none of the shops here'll have anything close.. well, it *was* a good idea!
nah, it can be anything! uh, not anything, anything. just something tsukinaga-senpai'd enjoy.
[ He also doesn't want to buy anything close to that for Leo. Too bad they'll have to figure out the magic pen situation for next year. (If they're still here next year...) ]
part of me even wonders why i bothered asking, but hey! i think he did, and it's not like they'd check for id's here—not that i'm saying we're gonna drink! just feels as if the bars wouldn't care. i dunno the answer to that one, ohii-san. we'll find out when we get home, probably?
[ Will they ever know the answer? Tune in next time to ES idols stuck inside a sex casino. ]
wow, sounds pretty cool! i never woulda expected anything close to that. i know all about rubs, but coffee ones sound like the last sorta ones you'd wanna put on meat. you know what? you're actually right. yeah, if the rub ends up looking something like instant coffee, he probably would. but maybe if i hide it somewhere...? do we wanna take that chance? and i don't think we should be encouraging vandalism. won't tsukinaga-senpai end up arrested if someone catches him??
[ Probably not, but at least music notes over the casino brightens up the ugly decor! ]
yeah, even if we can't go all out, if we're all celebrating, it'll feel like a real party. and even if we can't find a proper gift right now, the cake could be a temp one!
oh, right. so if you're saying that, then it took, what? almost 2 months? maybe time moves in mysterious ways here, cuz something like that shouldn't make sense if we were taken at the end of december. i'd completely forgotten it was 'round valentine's day when we arrived.
[ Now that seems so long ago now, not that he's completely forgotten. Thinking about how much time has passed and maybe how they've missed a couple of months does make his head hurt. ]
yeah, so it probably can't be done? i figure now you're talking about the limiters again, that'll mean none of the shops here'll have anything close.. well, it *was* a good idea!
nah, it can be anything! uh, not anything, anything. just something tsukinaga-senpai'd enjoy.
[ He also doesn't want to buy anything close to that for Leo. Too bad they'll have to figure out the magic pen situation for next year. (If they're still here next year...) ]
part of me even wonders why i bothered asking, but hey! i think he did, and it's not like they'd check for id's here—not that i'm saying we're gonna drink! just feels as if the bars wouldn't care. i dunno the answer to that one, ohii-san. we'll find out when we get home, probably?
[ Will they ever know the answer? Tune in next time to ES idols stuck inside a sex casino. ]
wow, sounds pretty cool! i never woulda expected anything close to that. i know all about rubs, but coffee ones sound like the last sorta ones you'd wanna put on meat. you know what? you're actually right. yeah, if the rub ends up looking something like instant coffee, he probably would. but maybe if i hide it somewhere...? do we wanna take that chance? and i don't think we should be encouraging vandalism. won't tsukinaga-senpai end up arrested if someone catches him??
[ Probably not, but at least music notes over the casino brightens up the ugly decor! ]
yeah, even if we can't go all out, if we're all celebrating, it'll feel like a real party. and even if we can't find a proper gift right now, the cake could be a temp one!
[ Good, Hiyori is in his room. A smile creeps across his face as the door swings open. Although he tries to act casual, it is clear that he's out of breath, with half flushed cheeks from running all the way from the gym. (Just another one of his unsuccessful attempts at being cool.) ]
Hey, Ohii-san! You're not busy, right? I've gotta ask you something real quick ♪
Hey, Ohii-san! You're not busy, right? I've gotta ask you something real quick ♪
[Yep, he notices that! Which makes him wonder if something urgent is going on. But Jun is smiling, so... if he ran here and he's happy, he must have some exciting news to share, right?]
Nope! Not right at this moment, anyway. Come on in ♪ Unless it's so quick you'd rather stay out in the hall. But if you ran all the way here, it must be important, right?
Nope! Not right at this moment, anyway. Come on in ♪ Unless it's so quick you'd rather stay out in the hall. But if you ran all the way here, it must be important, right?
[ And it's incredibly important that he couldn't wait! He's glad he didn't need to run all over the resort, and he's been smiling while running here. ]
Alright, good! Well, it's something I didn't wanna tell you over text or phone, so that'd be considered important? But we can head in, and I'll tell you why I ran all the way here.
[ Not sure if his neighbours would overhear or if someone might walk past as he's telling Hiyori, he'd much rather it be for his partner's ears only! ]
Alright, good! Well, it's something I didn't wanna tell you over text or phone, so that'd be considered important? But we can head in, and I'll tell you why I ran all the way here.
[ Not sure if his neighbours would overhear or if someone might walk past as he's telling Hiyori, he'd much rather it be for his partner's ears only! ]
[His heart skips. Something important Jun couldn't wait to tell him? He can't guess what that is, but he's intrigued, and perhaps even a little hopeful.]
In that case, come on in.
[He holds open the door and steps aside.
His room still doesn't look (or feel) like "home," but with his chips account no longer verging on empty, it's starting to fill out a bit. He has more things than just a4-foot tall Mareep plushie or two from the arcade; there's a proper tea set sitting out on the coffee table, for starters, and a long unopened box propped up against the other arm of the couch.
He closes the door behind Jun and waits until Jun's gotten off his shoes before he asks.]
Well? What was it you couldn't wait to tell me?
In that case, come on in.
[He holds open the door and steps aside.
His room still doesn't look (or feel) like "home," but with his chips account no longer verging on empty, it's starting to fill out a bit. He has more things than just a
He closes the door behind Jun and waits until Jun's gotten off his shoes before he asks.]
Well? What was it you couldn't wait to tell me?
I'm not sure what went on. But it sounds awfully similar to Rinne-senpai's predicament, doesn't it? He said he went to bed one night and woke up someplace else in the morning, but a month had passed for the rest of us. We know "the House" is capable of stealing our precious time away.
I just wonder what might be going on at home. To Nagisa-kun and the others, does it feel like we've been gone for two months? Does it feel more like six months to a year? Or does it feel like no time has passed at all? That's what I'd most like to know. But since there's no way of contacting the outside world, I'm not sure how we'll figure that out. We'll just have to keep our eyes peeled for clues.
[He hopes it's the last one: that it feels like no time has passed. But how does any of this even work? There are all sorts of other issues too, like Rinne and Leo not remembering as much as them. And then he remembers talking to Senku, who claims to have spent thousands of years in cryptosleep.
What month will it be when they get out? What year will it be? What sort of world will they be walking into? He just doesn't know the answer to basic questions anymore, and that unsettles him.]
I wouldn't assume they don't sell anything with magic properties. Lots of people here can use magic, after all. But when you don't understand much about how that stuff works, it's probably fairly easy to get scammed. So if anyone tries to sell you something like "magic crystals," remember to take it with a grain of salt, alright? No need to waste chips!
[He says, like he isn't the one more likely to spend money on stuff he doesn't need.]
I'm sure you're right and they don't check. Everyone seems to be treated as an "adult" for all intents and purposes, even though I've met people as young as 16 here. But I'd rather not do anything that reflects poorly on myself, even if my fans aren't around to see it. Not to mention that the alcohol in this place might just be spiked with something.
If we have to hide it from him, it won't exactly work as a gift, will it? And if he got arrested, he could just spend a day or two in that "jail." I doubt he'd care much as long as he can compose. But a prison sentence wouldn't be the best birthday gift, so hopefully he'll hold off a day or two!
Anyway, I'm not set on the permanent markers. That's more of a back-up plan. First, we'll go shopping!
Or I will, anyway. I know you're busy with the cake. So you need me to, I could choose something for both of us and we'll call it a joint gift.
[Giving gifts together, how couple-like.]
I just wonder what might be going on at home. To Nagisa-kun and the others, does it feel like we've been gone for two months? Does it feel more like six months to a year? Or does it feel like no time has passed at all? That's what I'd most like to know. But since there's no way of contacting the outside world, I'm not sure how we'll figure that out. We'll just have to keep our eyes peeled for clues.
[He hopes it's the last one: that it feels like no time has passed. But how does any of this even work? There are all sorts of other issues too, like Rinne and Leo not remembering as much as them. And then he remembers talking to Senku, who claims to have spent thousands of years in cryptosleep.
What month will it be when they get out? What year will it be? What sort of world will they be walking into? He just doesn't know the answer to basic questions anymore, and that unsettles him.]
I wouldn't assume they don't sell anything with magic properties. Lots of people here can use magic, after all. But when you don't understand much about how that stuff works, it's probably fairly easy to get scammed. So if anyone tries to sell you something like "magic crystals," remember to take it with a grain of salt, alright? No need to waste chips!
[He says, like he isn't the one more likely to spend money on stuff he doesn't need.]
I'm sure you're right and they don't check. Everyone seems to be treated as an "adult" for all intents and purposes, even though I've met people as young as 16 here. But I'd rather not do anything that reflects poorly on myself, even if my fans aren't around to see it. Not to mention that the alcohol in this place might just be spiked with something.
If we have to hide it from him, it won't exactly work as a gift, will it? And if he got arrested, he could just spend a day or two in that "jail." I doubt he'd care much as long as he can compose. But a prison sentence wouldn't be the best birthday gift, so hopefully he'll hold off a day or two!
Anyway, I'm not set on the permanent markers. That's more of a back-up plan. First, we'll go shopping!
Or I will, anyway. I know you're busy with the cake. So you need me to, I could choose something for both of us and we'll call it a joint gift.
[Giving gifts together, how couple-like.]
[ He can't tell if the strange feeling in his chest is a) running all the way here or b) he's actually nervous. His breathing slows, nodding as he steps inside Hiyori's suite with a smile.
First things first, he removes his shoes, which he leaves by the door as he takes in the rest of the room. It might not be home, but it is seemingly the closest to feeling "homely." He's glad Hiyori got the better end of the deal.
He smiles again, looking up at Hiyori as he feels the familiar flutter as he responds. ]
So Weiss-san's performing on the 14th, I think she said at one of the theatre's? I didn't even know there were theatres here, but that's not the important part! I mean, it is, 'cause it ties into why I ran here. I dunno if you're free on the 14th, so it's pretty bold of me assumin' you already are..
[ He's rambling, but a point will be made! ]
I get if you are busy, but what I'm tryna ask is, Weiss-san said there's a soir-ee after? [ Soirée, he means soirée. ] You know those fancy parties you nobles go to? And she said I could bring a friend, but, uh, what I want to ask is, did you wanna come with me?
[ Enough of dragging this out, he's about to go right for it. ]
You know, sorta like a date?
First things first, he removes his shoes, which he leaves by the door as he takes in the rest of the room. It might not be home, but it is seemingly the closest to feeling "homely." He's glad Hiyori got the better end of the deal.
He smiles again, looking up at Hiyori as he feels the familiar flutter as he responds. ]
So Weiss-san's performing on the 14th, I think she said at one of the theatre's? I didn't even know there were theatres here, but that's not the important part! I mean, it is, 'cause it ties into why I ran here. I dunno if you're free on the 14th, so it's pretty bold of me assumin' you already are..
[ He's rambling, but a point will be made! ]
I get if you are busy, but what I'm tryna ask is, Weiss-san said there's a soir-ee after? [ Soirée, he means soirée. ] You know those fancy parties you nobles go to? And she said I could bring a friend, but, uh, what I want to ask is, did you wanna come with me?
[ Enough of dragging this out, he's about to go right for it. ]
You know, sorta like a date?
it does, and that's why i'm not gonna let "the House" or anyone else take away more of our time. good thing rinne-senpai's in one piece, and he wasn't stuck in some void.
wish i knew the answer, ohii-san. we'll just keep looking 'till we do.
[ Part of him doesn't want to think about how much time might've passed on the outside, not without knowing a clear answer. He's only made sure to read the words carefully, wanting and wishing he could give Hiyori an answer, but there isn't a clear one he could give.
What if, when they finally leave this place, ES no longer exists? And all the idols are either retired or moved on? Leaving Rinne, Leo, Hiyori and himself without careers or anything substantial to fall back on. ]
seriously, d'you think i'm an idiot? i'm not gonna go buy some magic crystal if someone's offering me one. i know we've gotta save our chips, even if you're not. i'm saving mine for our food, so don't worry, ohii-san.
[ Even if Hiyori has been spending regularly, being frivolous with his chips, there is nothing around him that he has been interested in buying. (Unless it's new workout clothes, he deserved the upgrade!) Jun knows they have to eat, and he doesn't mind paying the chips so they both can have decent meals whenever they'd like. ]
well, deuce-kun is 16, isn't he? so he'd probably not be asked. no one asked for his ID when we got some tea together one time. [ The tea, which was meant to help them sleep, instead made them feel as if they were floating away. ] just be careful, alright? long as we stick together, nothing bad's gonna happen.
[ Such as spiked drinks or otherwise, he hopes. ]
guess so. well, there goes that idea. he'll probably find it months later, when it's useless. it's not gonna be a punishment, just like it wasn't for us. so sure, we'll figure out something else.
or you'll figure out something, like you said, i'm a lil' busy. a joint gift sounds good! just tell me how many chips i'm gonna owe you when you're done. i appreciate you doing all that, ohii-san.
[ Wow, how domesticated! ]
wish i knew the answer, ohii-san. we'll just keep looking 'till we do.
[ Part of him doesn't want to think about how much time might've passed on the outside, not without knowing a clear answer. He's only made sure to read the words carefully, wanting and wishing he could give Hiyori an answer, but there isn't a clear one he could give.
What if, when they finally leave this place, ES no longer exists? And all the idols are either retired or moved on? Leaving Rinne, Leo, Hiyori and himself without careers or anything substantial to fall back on. ]
seriously, d'you think i'm an idiot? i'm not gonna go buy some magic crystal if someone's offering me one. i know we've gotta save our chips, even if you're not. i'm saving mine for our food, so don't worry, ohii-san.
[ Even if Hiyori has been spending regularly, being frivolous with his chips, there is nothing around him that he has been interested in buying. (Unless it's new workout clothes, he deserved the upgrade!) Jun knows they have to eat, and he doesn't mind paying the chips so they both can have decent meals whenever they'd like. ]
well, deuce-kun is 16, isn't he? so he'd probably not be asked. no one asked for his ID when we got some tea together one time. [ The tea, which was meant to help them sleep, instead made them feel as if they were floating away. ] just be careful, alright? long as we stick together, nothing bad's gonna happen.
[ Such as spiked drinks or otherwise, he hopes. ]
guess so. well, there goes that idea. he'll probably find it months later, when it's useless. it's not gonna be a punishment, just like it wasn't for us. so sure, we'll figure out something else.
or you'll figure out something, like you said, i'm a lil' busy. a joint gift sounds good! just tell me how many chips i'm gonna owe you when you're done. i appreciate you doing all that, ohii-san.
[ Wow, how domesticated! ]
[Hiyori doesn't bother to sit down, simply facing Jun and waiting to hear the good (?) news. "Weiss-san" sounds familiar; he hasn't heard the name spoken out loud before, but he's talked to someone on the network whose name sounds similar to that. He assumes it's the same girl. However—]
So there are theaters here?
[He can't help but interject. He's asked around about places to perform before but no one's been much help! Someone on the network suggested asking the staff to set up a stage for them somewhere, but that seemed like a lot of work, and he wasn't quite sure where. (The lobby, maybe, since that's the most central area?) Then he knows Rinne performs at House Finch, but it sounds like that's a sweaty nightclub, and one where audience members have "their hands down their pants" by Rinne's own admission. The news that there's a theater here is important to him.
But not as important as what Jun says next.
Hiyori almost misses what he's saying (sore-y? Sorry? ... oh, he meant soirée). Once it becomes clear Jun's inviting him to a party, and a fancy one at that, he feels somewhat surprised. Jun-kun, going to fancy parties! Why, that doesn't sound like him at all. But it also doesn't seem like a big deal. It's just "bringing a friend" to a get-together. It's great that Jun wants to invite him, but he's not quite sure why Jun felt the need to run all the way here when he could've just—
Ah.
Suddenly, it all sinks in. He blinks, his easy smile receding a bit while a pink color washes over his cheeks. That's why Jun ran here? To ask him out on a date? That's what he looked so adorably excited for?
He's a bit thrown. But not in a bad way. He's stunned into giddiness, rather, and after a beat his smile returns in full megawatt force.]
... so that's what you came here for!
[He hums happily. Confident again, but still a tad flushed. Just a little bit.]
That sounds just lovely! I never thought the day would come when you'd invite me to a fancy gathering. Guess this shows you've moved up in the world ♪ And who better to invite than your partner, which is to say, me! It wouldn't make sense to take anyone else as your date.
[Puffing out his chest, looking perfectly pleased with things, he nods to himself and then accepts.]
Very well. I, Hiyori Tomoe, accept your invitation!
So there are theaters here?
[He can't help but interject. He's asked around about places to perform before but no one's been much help! Someone on the network suggested asking the staff to set up a stage for them somewhere, but that seemed like a lot of work, and he wasn't quite sure where. (The lobby, maybe, since that's the most central area?) Then he knows Rinne performs at House Finch, but it sounds like that's a sweaty nightclub, and one where audience members have "their hands down their pants" by Rinne's own admission. The news that there's a theater here is important to him.
But not as important as what Jun says next.
Hiyori almost misses what he's saying (sore-y? Sorry? ... oh, he meant soirée). Once it becomes clear Jun's inviting him to a party, and a fancy one at that, he feels somewhat surprised. Jun-kun, going to fancy parties! Why, that doesn't sound like him at all. But it also doesn't seem like a big deal. It's just "bringing a friend" to a get-together. It's great that Jun wants to invite him, but he's not quite sure why Jun felt the need to run all the way here when he could've just—
Ah.
Suddenly, it all sinks in. He blinks, his easy smile receding a bit while a pink color washes over his cheeks. That's why Jun ran here? To ask him out on a date? That's what he looked so adorably excited for?
He's a bit thrown. But not in a bad way. He's stunned into giddiness, rather, and after a beat his smile returns in full megawatt force.]
... so that's what you came here for!
[He hums happily. Confident again, but still a tad flushed. Just a little bit.]
That sounds just lovely! I never thought the day would come when you'd invite me to a fancy gathering. Guess this shows you've moved up in the world ♪ And who better to invite than your partner, which is to say, me! It wouldn't make sense to take anyone else as your date.
[Puffing out his chest, looking perfectly pleased with things, he nods to himself and then accepts.]
Very well. I, Hiyori Tomoe, accept your invitation!
[It all feels very hopeless. He just has no clue how the whole time thing works or what might be going on outside. They've got no control over anything, as usual.
Maybe it was selfish of him to say all that stuff out loud. (Or put in text, rather.) He doesn't mean to worry Jun with thoughts about losing a year's worth of time back home. He knows Jun is just as frustrated and worried as he is. Still, he did promise to share his findings and his thoughts with him, without holding anything back or trying to shield him. They are partners, after all.
Either way, it looks like that discussion has resolved itself. He won't talk about that anymore for now. This was supposed to be about Leo's birthday, a much more pleasant topic!
And also about his spending habits, which he proceeds to defend.]
Not to worry! I don't spend like I do at home! I did have some extra expenditures last month, but those were more like business expenses. If you're trying to pry a high-class mage, a god, or a wealthy celebrity for info, you take them out to lunch first! And you make sure the cafe or wherever is upscale enough to please them! That's lesson 1 in the Hiyori Tomoe Book of Etiquette! ⭐
[Actually, that lesson really only applies to this place. If this was at home, he wouldn't be questioning mages!
... mostly because he doesn't know any. If he did meet a real one, he probably would talk their ear off with various questions.]
Yep. As long as we're together, we're unstoppable 💚💙
It's not just alcohol or food, by the way. Apparently some of the flowers also contain pollen that have the same effects as other stuff. I haven't encountered anything like that myself, though, and we were fine during the flower exhibition. Still, I know Leo-kun and Rinne-senpai have run into it, so we can't be too careful.
[He probably should've said this before the exhibit, but oh well. All's well that end's well! And now finally back to the topic at hand:]
I do like shopping and gift-giving, so that suits me fine. Alright, very well. I'll take care of the present, you take care of the cake! And I suppose you don't need to worry about paying me back, since I haven't exactly paid you back for every ingredient you've ever bought for my food. Unless it's something really pricy, we can consider it even.
Maybe it was selfish of him to say all that stuff out loud. (Or put in text, rather.) He doesn't mean to worry Jun with thoughts about losing a year's worth of time back home. He knows Jun is just as frustrated and worried as he is. Still, he did promise to share his findings and his thoughts with him, without holding anything back or trying to shield him. They are partners, after all.
Either way, it looks like that discussion has resolved itself. He won't talk about that anymore for now. This was supposed to be about Leo's birthday, a much more pleasant topic!
And also about his spending habits, which he proceeds to defend.]
Not to worry! I don't spend like I do at home! I did have some extra expenditures last month, but those were more like business expenses. If you're trying to pry a high-class mage, a god, or a wealthy celebrity for info, you take them out to lunch first! And you make sure the cafe or wherever is upscale enough to please them! That's lesson 1 in the Hiyori Tomoe Book of Etiquette! ⭐
[Actually, that lesson really only applies to this place. If this was at home, he wouldn't be questioning mages!
... mostly because he doesn't know any. If he did meet a real one, he probably would talk their ear off with various questions.]
Yep. As long as we're together, we're unstoppable 💚💙
It's not just alcohol or food, by the way. Apparently some of the flowers also contain pollen that have the same effects as other stuff. I haven't encountered anything like that myself, though, and we were fine during the flower exhibition. Still, I know Leo-kun and Rinne-senpai have run into it, so we can't be too careful.
[He probably should've said this before the exhibit, but oh well. All's well that end's well! And now finally back to the topic at hand:]
I do like shopping and gift-giving, so that suits me fine. Alright, very well. I'll take care of the present, you take care of the cake! And I suppose you don't need to worry about paying me back, since I haven't exactly paid you back for every ingredient you've ever bought for my food. Unless it's something really pricy, we can consider it even.
[ Despite being interrupted, there's no part of him which feels annoyed. With the adrenaline rush still running high, his lips thin out to a smile as he confirms the question with a nod. ]
Guess so!
[ Not as if he'd known that either; he expected their shuffle unit to perform in some smaller stage, even in the middle of the casino. (Really, wherever garnered the most attention.) Now they know there's real theatre here, booking a performance there will be much better.
Somewhere, Shu Itsuki is horrified by Jun butchering the French language, which, really would be mortifying to hear but can't be helped. He doesn't speak French and has no intention of ever speaking French! And the reason why he'd run here wasn't due to him wanting to invite Hiyori "as a friend," but as a date.
Perhaps it isn't the biggest deal in the world, or running here seemed over the top, but when asking someone on a date for the first time (and if he knew any better, he'd realise all those other times had been dates), you should ask them in person. As he's finished, another twinge of pink colours his cheeks, which he confirms with another nod.
Trying to play it cool, acting as if Hiyori hadn't just accepted his invitation, his smile brightens further, almost to the point where it begins to hurt his cheeks. He had heard that right, hadn't he? This wasn't some elaborate dream or prank? Doesn't seem to be. ]
Nah, don't think I'm moving up, 'cause in the real world, they'd invite you instead. I just got lucky this time, Ohii-san, but being really honest, there's no one else I'd wanna invite, not just as a friend but a date.
[ And yes, this has to be the first time he's thought of anything they've done together as a date. ]
So you'd wanna go together...? Okay, alright. I dunno if there's gonna be a theme or what, but I'm sure we'll figure it out ♪
Guess so!
[ Not as if he'd known that either; he expected their shuffle unit to perform in some smaller stage, even in the middle of the casino. (Really, wherever garnered the most attention.) Now they know there's real theatre here, booking a performance there will be much better.
Somewhere, Shu Itsuki is horrified by Jun butchering the French language, which, really would be mortifying to hear but can't be helped. He doesn't speak French and has no intention of ever speaking French! And the reason why he'd run here wasn't due to him wanting to invite Hiyori "as a friend," but as a date.
Perhaps it isn't the biggest deal in the world, or running here seemed over the top, but when asking someone on a date for the first time (and if he knew any better, he'd realise all those other times had been dates), you should ask them in person. As he's finished, another twinge of pink colours his cheeks, which he confirms with another nod.
Trying to play it cool, acting as if Hiyori hadn't just accepted his invitation, his smile brightens further, almost to the point where it begins to hurt his cheeks. He had heard that right, hadn't he? This wasn't some elaborate dream or prank? Doesn't seem to be. ]
Nah, don't think I'm moving up, 'cause in the real world, they'd invite you instead. I just got lucky this time, Ohii-san, but being really honest, there's no one else I'd wanna invite, not just as a friend but a date.
[ And yes, this has to be the first time he's thought of anything they've done together as a date. ]
So you'd wanna go together...? Okay, alright. I dunno if there's gonna be a theme or what, but I'm sure we'll figure it out ♪
[ There has to be a way to control what's going on outside this place, even if they're stuck in time here. For the sake of Ibara and Nagi-senpai, and their fans at the very least, there's only hope that everyone appears normal on the outside. But how can anyone know they have vanished if that is how it seems on the outside?
These are tumultuous thoughts that one's not sure they should be having. But he wouldn't say Hiyori's completely at fault for them, not while one of them is rather focused on anything but the time and space outside. Even though he fails to follow some of the theories, he'd not mind discussing them in person because they are supposed to be supporting one another here. It is just that thinking about the topic makes his head spin, wishing he could answer his partner's questions.
For now, those theories will take a pause as they return to the discussion of Hiyori's spending habits. ]
do i even wanna know why you've been doing all that? i'm pretty sure that's not how you get information outta someone. and you can't write off business expenses here, ohii-san!! but it's not really my business what you do with your chips.
[ Sadly, this isn't home, where his family boasts a slew of restaurant chains or where Ibara can write off business ventures where it's beneficial to them. ]
huh, what? we've gotta stay away from the flowers now? good thing nothing bad happened to us, it would've been seriously annoying if we had to deal with *that* ontop of everything.
[ He didn't know about the flowers, but nothing bad happened, so nothing to worry about! ]
got it! that i can do, ohii-san. i trust whatever you pick, and if you don't want that, then i'll just keep my chips. just let me know if it is, alright? i wanna help you out, no matter what you've said.
[ Also, he'd never charge for food when they both have to eat, though he's not sure if it might consider them even. ]
These are tumultuous thoughts that one's not sure they should be having. But he wouldn't say Hiyori's completely at fault for them, not while one of them is rather focused on anything but the time and space outside. Even though he fails to follow some of the theories, he'd not mind discussing them in person because they are supposed to be supporting one another here. It is just that thinking about the topic makes his head spin, wishing he could answer his partner's questions.
For now, those theories will take a pause as they return to the discussion of Hiyori's spending habits. ]
do i even wanna know why you've been doing all that? i'm pretty sure that's not how you get information outta someone. and you can't write off business expenses here, ohii-san!! but it's not really my business what you do with your chips.
[ Sadly, this isn't home, where his family boasts a slew of restaurant chains or where Ibara can write off business ventures where it's beneficial to them. ]
huh, what? we've gotta stay away from the flowers now? good thing nothing bad happened to us, it would've been seriously annoying if we had to deal with *that* ontop of everything.
[ He didn't know about the flowers, but nothing bad happened, so nothing to worry about! ]
got it! that i can do, ohii-san. i trust whatever you pick, and if you don't want that, then i'll just keep my chips. just let me know if it is, alright? i wanna help you out, no matter what you've said.
[ Also, he'd never charge for food when they both have to eat, though he's not sure if it might consider them even. ]
[It's okay. Shu Itsuki is just some idiot who moved abroad because "Paris is synonymous with art!" No need to worry about what he thinks.
As for what Hiyori thinks, well—there are only so many ways you can interpret "sorta like a date." He gets the message loud and clear, this time. But just in case he missed it, Jun makes himself even more wonderfully clear: saying there's no one else he'd rather take, not as a friend, but as a date. All while smiling giddily, mirroring how Hiyori feels.
His pulse thrums fast and loud in his ears. This is basically a confession. Right? Which, well—of course he's had bigger things to worry about. They're still in the midst of a hostage situation, after all! And Rinne-senpai finally reappeared, which took up some attention. But, well, he has been wondering if something like this was coming, since Jun had that one Network thread about maybe "taking a shot" at something! (Or someone, rather.) The one where he could tell Jun was talking about him!
And that's what this is. This is it, right? This is Jun-kun's "shot."
Hiyori tries not to look as giddy as he feels. On the inside, he's rejoicing, but on the outside, he, too, can "play it cool!" With a teasing look:]
And you were so excited you ran all the way here, hm~? ♪
[His smile transforms into more of a knowing grin. Okay, so maybe some giddiness is starting to show through.]
Well, as it so happens, you're in luck. Since there's no one else I'd rather have as my date, either.
[His heart beats fast. That bit of honesty took some effort. He can't hide behind teasing, behind "taking care of each other as partners" or anything else. But it's fine; he doesn't want to hide. He locks eyes with Jun and smiles.]
No matter the theme, I'm sure we'll both have a lovely time.
As for what Hiyori thinks, well—there are only so many ways you can interpret "sorta like a date." He gets the message loud and clear, this time. But just in case he missed it, Jun makes himself even more wonderfully clear: saying there's no one else he'd rather take, not as a friend, but as a date. All while smiling giddily, mirroring how Hiyori feels.
His pulse thrums fast and loud in his ears. This is basically a confession. Right? Which, well—of course he's had bigger things to worry about. They're still in the midst of a hostage situation, after all! And Rinne-senpai finally reappeared, which took up some attention. But, well, he has been wondering if something like this was coming, since Jun had that one Network thread about maybe "taking a shot" at something! (Or someone, rather.) The one where he could tell Jun was talking about him!
And that's what this is. This is it, right? This is Jun-kun's "shot."
Hiyori tries not to look as giddy as he feels. On the inside, he's rejoicing, but on the outside, he, too, can "play it cool!" With a teasing look:]
And you were so excited you ran all the way here, hm~? ♪
[His smile transforms into more of a knowing grin. Okay, so maybe some giddiness is starting to show through.]
Well, as it so happens, you're in luck. Since there's no one else I'd rather have as my date, either.
[His heart beats fast. That bit of honesty took some effort. He can't hide behind teasing, behind "taking care of each other as partners" or anything else. But it's fine; he doesn't want to hide. He locks eyes with Jun and smiles.]
No matter the theme, I'm sure we'll both have a lovely time.
[ Imagine being that loser, couldn't be him! And there's no need for Jun to ever practice French again.
And here it is: Jun's big shot! The one he seemed to be wanting to take but wasn't sure how. Who knew striking up a conversation with a stranger on the Network could motivate you enough to finally take the plunge? Little does he know that Hiyori stumbled upon his post, reading the words he had carefully crafted to prevent revealing too much information, but enough the person he was referring to may have noticed.
After a span of a few weeks, several events have unfolded, namely Rinne-senpai's return, presenting an ideal moment to seize. Now, it becomes imperative for him to reassert his intentions, mostly for this to be a date remains crystal clear. He may not be pouring out how he feels right away, but progress is being made. Slowly, one step at a time, maybe marking the initial stride towards the path of romance.
Even if Hiyori is giving him the teasing look, he can't help but smile, The happiness and seeing how happy his partner is have him realising—maybe he should've done this sooner. ]
Yeah, that's why I'm here, askin' ♪ Soon as Weiss-san told me 'bout it, actually... Which is pretty embarrassing to admit.
[ But perhaps it's not as bad as he initially thought! He senses this could be his opportunity to "take a shot," willingly admitting to embarrassing details. By doing so, he's subtly signalling to Hiyori that he's interested in him, which might mitigate any embarrassment he feels. ]
Really~? Well, I'm really glad you'd wanna with someone like me. It means a lot hearin' something like that from you, Ohii-san.
[ It seems they are on the same page, which is wonderfully brilliant. Asking took courage, and he's teasing a little, but he does mean that. Jun's heart continues its rapid beats, witnessing the giddiness from his partner fills him with an indescribable warmth. ]
Either way, we're gonna have fun! I'm really looking forward to going with you.
And here it is: Jun's big shot! The one he seemed to be wanting to take but wasn't sure how. Who knew striking up a conversation with a stranger on the Network could motivate you enough to finally take the plunge? Little does he know that Hiyori stumbled upon his post, reading the words he had carefully crafted to prevent revealing too much information, but enough the person he was referring to may have noticed.
After a span of a few weeks, several events have unfolded, namely Rinne-senpai's return, presenting an ideal moment to seize. Now, it becomes imperative for him to reassert his intentions, mostly for this to be a date remains crystal clear. He may not be pouring out how he feels right away, but progress is being made. Slowly, one step at a time, maybe marking the initial stride towards the path of romance.
Even if Hiyori is giving him the teasing look, he can't help but smile, The happiness and seeing how happy his partner is have him realising—maybe he should've done this sooner. ]
Yeah, that's why I'm here, askin' ♪ Soon as Weiss-san told me 'bout it, actually... Which is pretty embarrassing to admit.
[ But perhaps it's not as bad as he initially thought! He senses this could be his opportunity to "take a shot," willingly admitting to embarrassing details. By doing so, he's subtly signalling to Hiyori that he's interested in him, which might mitigate any embarrassment he feels. ]
Really~? Well, I'm really glad you'd wanna with someone like me. It means a lot hearin' something like that from you, Ohii-san.
[ It seems they are on the same page, which is wonderfully brilliant. Asking took courage, and he's teasing a little, but he does mean that. Jun's heart continues its rapid beats, witnessing the giddiness from his partner fills him with an indescribable warmth. ]
Either way, we're gonna have fun! I'm really looking forward to going with you.
Why do you think I'd do all that?
[He doesn't wait for an answer.]
First off, the more we know, the more prepared we'll be! And second, it helps to have strong allies. I may not have any magical abilities, but I'm excellent at chatting people up and forming connections. We all have skills, and those are my skills. Therefore, I'll use them!
[With or without his wealth, although it sure would be preferable if he did have access to his bank account and could really treat people. And himself. And Jun. Think of the lavish dates they could go on between investigations!]
I wouldn't plan to stay away entirely. I just wouldn't get within smelling distance unless you know it's safe. Though some flowers produce more pollen than others, and I assume those are most dangerous. Carnations, like the one I pinned to your shirt, tend to be allergy-safe by comparison. Though I guess there's no telling what's safe and what's not if they've been genetically modifying things.
But anyway, I wouldn't worry about it for now. I just wanted to give you a heads-up in case some shady salesperson goes up to you and says, "Here, sniff these flowers! They carry a lovely scent!" Now you know to say, "No thanks!"
[Perhaps we can add "bouquet" to the list of things they shouldn't buy Leo for his birthday. But that wasn't on the table anyway, really.]
Yep, no problem! I'm not sure what just yet, but I promise I'll find something we can proudly present him together. Something that says, "This is a lovely gift from Eve!"
[He doesn't wait for an answer.]
First off, the more we know, the more prepared we'll be! And second, it helps to have strong allies. I may not have any magical abilities, but I'm excellent at chatting people up and forming connections. We all have skills, and those are my skills. Therefore, I'll use them!
[With or without his wealth, although it sure would be preferable if he did have access to his bank account and could really treat people. And himself. And Jun. Think of the lavish dates they could go on between investigations!]
I wouldn't plan to stay away entirely. I just wouldn't get within smelling distance unless you know it's safe. Though some flowers produce more pollen than others, and I assume those are most dangerous. Carnations, like the one I pinned to your shirt, tend to be allergy-safe by comparison. Though I guess there's no telling what's safe and what's not if they've been genetically modifying things.
But anyway, I wouldn't worry about it for now. I just wanted to give you a heads-up in case some shady salesperson goes up to you and says, "Here, sniff these flowers! They carry a lovely scent!" Now you know to say, "No thanks!"
[Perhaps we can add "bouquet" to the list of things they shouldn't buy Leo for his birthday. But that wasn't on the table anyway, really.]
Yep, no problem! I'm not sure what just yet, but I promise I'll find something we can proudly present him together. Something that says, "This is a lovely gift from Eve!"
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