[Such blind faith ...such bright optimism... even just words like these are kind of hard to look at? The person on the other end must be so bright he will probably just turn to dust if he looks at them.]
Ah ...It's actually ...a weirdly complicated story, how we wound up in the same group.
[Perhaps if he diverts the conversation he will evade further compliments. He appreciates them!! But they are also very suffocating. This person is being nice, thought so he does not want to turn him away.]
[Considering that this guy keeps putting himself down, Naito's picking up the subtle hint that pressing on and reassuring him probably isn't the best idea. Still, it's hard to look at that picture and imagine that Mayoi isn't good enough to be up on that stage because...]
It looks like you're having fun, though! Isn't that the most important part?
[You know, that question gives him some pause. He doesn’t thoughtlessly blurt out self-reprimands this time.]
Yes …looking back on that photo now, I did have fun. I think, it was one of the happiest moments of my life. Standing on stage, as scary as it was, with all of them, I couldn’t hope for anything better.
We were called underachievers, and told to make a unit or face consequences. We didn’t know each other very well at the beginning but …they are like family to me now, if that makes sense.
Edited (Sorry tablet tagging autocorrect is a nightmare) 2022-09-13 11:00 (UTC)
[Yes, even though it has been very stressful and has had many ups and downs, he thinks its a very nice story, too. That is why he has to go back. To be able to stand with them on stage, in the light, it is what he wants most.]
Thank you. I can't say that any performance I manage alone will ever measure up to the four of us together, but...
I appreciate your support and should I manage even a meager performance here in the depths of hell, I will be sure to reach out to you.
[Miraculously he is capable of sounding like an idol when he is not in the thick of a flight or fight response.]
I was employed under an idol agency and was labeled an underachiever, so the director of my agency gathered four of us, myself and three others also deemed underachievers, and gave us an ultimatum: perform well at this large, well known event as a unit, or be fired.
When we agreed we did not realize that we would be saddled with the debt of forming an idol unit, and that the event we had to perform well in had a high entrance fee. So we had about ....a month to work up to about a million yen.
[Hell is scary but if Mayoi is perfectly honest, Eichi Tenshouin is much scarier.]
It’s why …I would like to get back to them as fast as possible. It’s one thing for me to be banished into the depths of hell under my own sins …but. If my absence somehow cost them their dreams, I would simply never forgive myself.
That is why, I think, I will be fine here in the end. I have a goal to reach, and not even King Enma himself is scarier to me then the thought of failing them.
I see. Ayase-san, you're really very kind. I can tell how important the others are to you. And I can understand that... so truly, if I can help, please let me know.
[Oh... Okumura-san is so sweet... He will simply perish.]
Eh? Ah i mean. I'm not. that is to say. i
[It is difficult to take compliments, but he will not rebuke the truth of how important ALKALOID is to him, so he swallows it down without too much of a fight.]
Okumura-san is the one who is very kind, to listen to someone like me! That ...goes both ways. If there should be something someone like me might help Okumura-san with, then she should reach out her hand to me, and I will surely take it.
[ Good boy, realizing it's not worth arguing about. ]
Thank you very much, Ayase-san! I'm sure there's something. For starters, I would like it very much if we could become official friends? I do think I'll need your help for that, of course.
Yes. Yes, I will take it. I'm touched beyond measure that you would find someone like me suitable of such a thing! But! It makes me very happy! May I call you Haru-san? Is that okay...?
It would depend a lot on the structural integrity of the building and what sort of space is put between each "wall". Some buildings make their walls too narrow ...even for me...
[Chief is someone he adores so much he almost cannot cope with it. He is simply too great and too cute and it haunts him daily that he has no way to see him right now.]
Chief is an extraordinary person who has taken pity on a pathetic creature like meeee, he is wonderful~ I am grateful to have him for a friend, fufufu~
[that u, buddy! that u. Rui taps it once more, before turning the screen off with a pleased little hum.]
I think that suspension of disbelief is required, at least for a little while; we are in Hell, after all. Coming here in the first place, regardless of belief, and purely to fulfil the terms of a contract we willingly signed, is quite something else.
...I know that you dislike compliments, but I think that it captures your likeness just fine, and you just have to come to terms with what that means. Fufu~
[Mayoi's cute, and that's just how it is. But-- that's neither here nor there with the inchresting little tidbit that's just been dropped. CURIOUS...Obvious, yeah. But curious!] And I also won't rat you out. My friend is also in another faction, and although I certainly don't plan on avoiding her, I wouldn't wish to make things difficult for anyone else in wishing to see her. And I don't want to make things difficult for you, either. But we're in the same faction, and we're simply looking for a gift for your friend, so there's no harm in that.
[He holds open the konbini door, bowing low. Onwards, Sir.]
[Ah…so small and cute. He is going to see if he can find a few little dudes like this on his own time. He could take care of them…]
[Anyway, Rui’s compliment gets a little nnnnnooo out of him much like before, and he quickly diverts the conversation.]
Yes, I have been thinking about that. T-Truthfully, I feel as thought …nn. This is not at all what I expected Hell to be like. Even now, we are walking about freely down a street, though populated with youkai, to shop for sweets.
[There is a certain freedom in just this that he doesn’t think he had back home! Being an idol was kind of. Restricting. Being an idol in like a million yen’s worth of debt even more so.]
Ah, so you understand. Thank you. I just want to be extra cautious and I do not think that app is very secure, personally… We know so little about this place, I couldn’t stand taking any chances.
[LKjsad Rui. Even a gesture like that flusters him so he will scamper inside a little red in the face.]
[oh no oh fuck Mayoi's just throwing up so many 'pls bully me' flags oh fuck how is Rui meant to resist this??? Especially when it's so easy. Just say nice things that you mean, and that's it, that's all. Done.
Restraint! Restraint. He slithers in with another chuckle, already closely poring over the nearest display stand. It is, of course, loaded with Kit-Kats. No Savoury Shit in his house thanks.] It's interesting, isn't it? I wonder if there's a heavenly counterpart where everyone's similarly just...Living their lives. Makes you wonder as to what the qualifications for landing in either realm might actually be.
[...Five bags of random Kit-Kats: in the little handbasket he's just snatched up. Now, onto the umaibo stand. Chocolate umaibo.......Sounds fucked. He's game.] Until we do actually learn more about this place, however, you're definitely being prudent to not trust the technology without abandon. Especially if the conversations on the technology in question default to public. That sort of thing should be opt-in, don--
Oh! What sort of sweets do you like, Mayoi? And what does your friend like? I've been buying for myself.
[He'll start to melt the more you pile on the nice things! He will simply ooze into a puddle and vanish down a drain grate.]
Mm, it does. And there are ...truthfully so many different depictions of a place like Hell it's hard to imagine just one type being the correct one. I certainly expected ...more hellfire and eternal torment... This place would certainly be a shock to Tatsumi-san, too...
[Ahem.]
Ah, I am ...just a worrywart, really. Though...I don't think it's wrong to be extra careful until we know a little more. [Hm... There are a lot of things to choose from here.]
I'm not especially picky, myself... though. I like light deserts. Anything with grapes, ah- [And then he trails off, looking a little startled. Oh, he does not know what Nito-san likes. Oh no...]
...I see. How about we get them an assortment of candies? Then they can choose what they like. Something with lots of fruit flavours, something with different textures, some chocolates.
[He already has an apple pie umaibo in hand, ready to offer to Mayoi just in case Nazuna Likes That Sort Of Thing.] Grape desserts are quite nice, though. You have good taste. But do you prefer kyoho or muscat? [He's genuinely interested. What does it mean, if Mayoi chooses kyoho? Is it a hair thing? Is that why he likes ramune? INCHRESTINGER...]
As for the question of Hell...Maybe this place isn't Hell at all. We haven't died, or been judged, have we? And I doubt that you and I would end up in the same place at all, if so. I've been quite an awful person, at times. So you shouldn't worry about that too much.
[Ah, Kamishiro-san has a good idea. Mayoi makes a thoughtful little Hum!! And he pulls out his phone and starts to make a list of different kinds of candies and chocolates to look for. If he can curate something nice and balanced then Nito-san is sure to like something he finds, right?]
[Anyway his question does not take much thought for Mayoi to answer. He grins and taps his fingers together.]
Ooh …I like them both. Fufu, the way you pierce the skin with your teeth, which causes them to burst in your mouth~ It’s deliiiiiiightful no matter which kind of graaaaape, don’t you think?
[His grin falls for a moment, before it just kind of shifts into something less …joyful and more melancholy. He tilts his head and looks sidelong at Rui and there is something darker in his expression.]
Yes… I do have doubts we would be in the same place if thaaat were the case. Kamishiro-saaaaan is so kind after all… and I have been damned from the moment of my birth. My very existence is blight on this earth.
That makes sense. They offer opposite ends of the grape flavour spectrum, don't they? And yet, so texturally satisfyi--
[????????????
for real, are you ok over there bro
When in doubt, Rui sidles closer and leans forward, just to tilt his head at Mayoi. Just two guys standing side by side, one bending forward and head turned like a bird. Normie stuff, as always.] I like you just as you are, you know. But I think I've been a burden since birth too, so maybe we really were destined to end up in the same place.
[You know, most people either get really unsettled or tend to brush past his words when he gets like this. He can’t help it, sometimes those things slip out of him before he can catch himself. Intrusive thoughts that just take hold of him and bleed out.]
[Kamishiro is really something else, unlike anyone he’s ever met before. He’s not really sure how to put it into words. He shrinks back just a little, enough to put a hand to his mouth and take a deep breath. Like those thoughts had swirled up in him after he gave them an outlet and now he has to banish them once again.]
R-Ramune… [He breathes out.] It’s not …something I’ve indulged in very often. I do recall liking the one I tried.
[Idols have to be a little touchy about their diets, and the vending machines around ES were probably more stocked with sports drinks and coffee more than soda.]
Good. I'm buying you some, then. I'm rather fond of original ramune, myself, so this way I can share something I love with you.
[Intrusive thoughts...Yeah.
Yeah, he knows that particular struggle well. Doesn't know how to fix it quite yet, bar powering onwards, but stalwart encouragement is always his best route, he figures. That, and diversion. So, even if Mayoi melts into a puddle and slips down a drain upon more compliments, Rui's set upon his course.
Sewer adventures sound pretty bomb anyway, in honesty.] We should get some for your friend, as well. Sugar keeps one's mind awake, I've found, and they're probably as hard-working as you are, so need the help to power through.
[--Rui what the fuck that's like 10 bottles. A whole fucking Ramuneinbow. Grape flavour goes into Mayoi's stash, and after some careful thought, so does melon. Mayoi Colours. No Other Reason, tbh.] ...And here I said I was going to get coffee with you. I'm sorry for lying, fufu~
[Oh. He flusters a little at that. He doesn't it have it in him to protest when Kamishiro says it in that way. That he wants to share something he loves with him. That's a very sweet thing to do, so instead, he nods. Acceptance.]
[Well, he does have one concern-]
Please ...do not put yourself into debt for my sake, though. N-Not like it's my business what you do with your money or anything, but I know we are both still terribly new...
[Fuss! Fuss!]
N-No, it's alright. I am ...I am having fun. Cafes can get crowded, too... so this is quite alright.
I promise to be mostly reasonable and sensible about my spending. To be honest...I've been craving sweets, so this was simply an excuse to get to spend time with you and get snacks.
...And if you're able to buy something for your friend, then we both win. Fufu~
[Then back up he straightens, the measly few centimetres between them reasserting themselves in order for Rui to better browse the topmost shelves once more.
Maybe he shouldn't be saying things like this with such ease, to someone new. But Rui has simply never cared about hiding any aspect of himself, of course; Mayoi is incredibly talented, and handsome besides, and it feels only natural to ply him with kindnesses in return for a little of that inexplicable charm to rub off on him.
I mean, come on. Hitting up the Poppo together shouldn't be any fun at all, on a base level, and yet here they are. ...As long as it's fun for both of them, then it's time well spent.]
I'll keep it in mind for the future, however; if I want to take you out, then it can't be at any truly crowded place. --Unless we're planning to captivate them together again, but that's a special occasion indeed.
...Are you going to perform here, as a profession? I've been meaning to ask.
Ah, I see. Kamishiro-san is quite sly, in that case.
[Alright, he will stop fussing, then. Spending makes him a little nervous on principle since uh. ALKALOID is in like a million yen's worth of debt right now, but that is not really the case here, is it? He has a very meager amount of funds himself, but there isn't the pressing debt on top of it so it's weirdly much easier to breathe now than it is back home.]
[He will begin to look around with some interest, too, picking up snacks here and there and reading the labels. You would think such a simple little outing would be pretty boring, but Mayoi has been such a shut in for so long, that even visiting a store with another person and getting to pick up things on shelves is a pretty big deal to him. Ah, to create memories with a friend in such a way, it's actually very thrilling!]
[He does almost get lost in browsing when Rui asks him that, so he blinks and looks up. Oh, that is a question.]
Eh? Ah ...hn. I'm ...unsure.
[That's something he's been turning over in his head for a while actually.]
I-It certainly seems like the most logical course of action, but ...something about it makes me uneasy. I've been trying to do some research on how the idol industry works here, and it's been very disappointing. Truthfully, I'm not sure where to start. I may have to put those activities on hold for now ...
I have other skills I may be able to sell better, but really it's sort of overwhelming to think about. What about you?
[Apparently the thought of Mayoi not performing at all is enough to jolt Rui completely, make him turn bodily and lean against the shelves instead.
Wait-- no, he's grabbing a pack of ramune nerunerunerune while he's at it. Okay, now he's good to be scandalised.] I understand, but...I suppose I'd just imagined it such a waste of your inherent talent to not use it. However, I support whatever you want to do, here. I just hope that you'll let me hear you sing, whenever you're in the mood.
[Okay, that was. That was good. He did well. A little flick of the hair, to get his bangs out of his eyes, before he Resumes Being Kind Of Normal, Probably.] As for me...I'll be street performing. I was used to working solo before, and so I'll do it again. ...I've never priced my work before, however. It feels strange, to ask for money when I do it for pleasure, but I don't have my parents to rely on, here...We're both a little adrift, so it seems.
[He did not think Rui would be so surprised. He falls a little quiet, thinking about his response. Is that really the case? Is his talent worth that much? Does he have the right to act like that's the case in a place like this? He feels like an ignorant upstart to come right out the gate saying he's an idol with talent.]
[He's been calling himself an amateur so far, because that is objectively what he is on paper. He's an underachiever just like the rest of ALKALOID, so what right had he to make a claim to his talents?]
[He doesn't like having to think about all of this. It was a lot easier when he had a clear cut path to take, when he had ALKALOID TO fall back on. He's become so pathetic and weak without them it seems.]
It certainly feels like we've been ...cast out into a storm and made to swim. I-I think ...for what it may be worth, that you'll do well street performing in a place like this. The streets are ...lively and vibrant, much like you.
[There is a hesitant pause, and Mayoi nervously taps his fingers together like he might be debating what he wants to say next.]
Should you n-need help ...you should reach your hand out to me. I ...I have no experience with street performances, they sound terrifying a-actually, but I would like to be of use and, I would like to see the kind of performances you make.
compliment..................compliment that isn't about how Different and Othered he is.............
Rui stares for a few seconds, lips parting for a moment in confusion on this always alarmingly unnerving sensation (embarrassment??? who is she??), before he taps a knuckle against his lip instead. Two Dudes With Physical Tics Yeah Boi]
...Thank you very much. It's no Tokyo, of course; I don't yet know this city like I know home. But I'll work that out.
You-- As much as I'd love to perform with you again, please don't feel obligated. I mean it, when I say that I'll support whatever you do. But if I can work hard enough that my shows are something you'll come and see, then I'll feel quite accomplished indeed.
Until then...Maybe we should do karaoke next time. Just a room for us, so that you don't have to feel nervous. [DID YOU KNOW, MAYOI, THAT RUI LOVES YOUR SINGING. DID YOU KNOW THIS? HE IS GOING TO KEEP SAYING IT.]
[He means it, too!! Not that he would ever comment on such a thing when he himself, is deeply strange. Mayoi probably doesn't know what normal means anyway.]
I am certain you will, after all, Kamishiro-san is very talented.
[It speaks a lot that Mayoi's voice doesn't waver all that much when he says this. It's because he has confidence in it's truth.]
[Of course ...Mayoi is a little relieved he does not need to recruit him right away. He was willing to do it to help someone he likes, but, well, there is something particularly oppressive about the thought of a street crowd looking at him, that is very different from standing above on a stage.]
Karaoke...?
[Hey, do you know what Mayoi has never done before? And didn't even realize was something you could do until this very moment? Yeah. That.]
Oh ...that would be. That would be a lot of fun, I think.... I've never been.
Rui Does Not Realise, because why would he when embarrassment truly is foreign to him these days, but man...man this sort of praise from someone he considers his better as far as talent goes...It's enough to bring a cold burn to the rims of his ears, a little clench somewhere in his torso that doesn't last long enough for him to excise and examine under a microscope.
Ah well.
Snacks! Fucking Snacks, Bro. Look At This Pack Of Nama Chocolate! Fuck Yeah, time to look at it very seriously.] I've never been either, to be completely honest with you. It could be a fun form of vocal training, however, and we wouldn't get too rowdy, which is one of the drawbacks to a larger group outing.
Not that I mind if you want to invite your friend, fufu~ As long as there aren't ten of us crammed into one room, all cheering, I think it would be of great benefit to us all. I don't want to grow rusty, but I'm not actually much of a singer either. Not typically, so it's more important to focus on that which gets less attention.
[Ah... did he say something wrong just now...? Kamishiro-san looked at him awfully strangely for a moment.]
[He doesn't have too long to dwell on that, either. That's probably for the best. He can spiral into anxiety over a missed social cue later. For now ...Kamishiro does not appear to be angry with him, at least, so, he will carry on.]
I see. In Ensemble Square ...ah, that is, the building I li- e-erm. Work in- there are a number of practice rooms you can rent that can be used for both vocal and dance training. It sounds similar.
[Probably. Though, he does wonder if there are many karaoke places near ES. He could see why idols wouldn't maybe frequent something like that when they're basically just always. Always singing. but there are quite few other businesses and housing complexes not very far away so it's possible.]
Ah, I will ...I will ask Nito-san, then. He may be interested. He has ...been here longer than I, so he may know a place already.
It sounds like quite the facility! ...And now you've had to deal with quite the downgrade. At least karaoke should fill the gap somewhat, however. Dance training, vocal training, all in the karaoke room with poor lighting and bad sound equipment.
[A beat. He stows the nama chocolate in his little basket with a nod.] And me accompanying you and Nito-san on the tambourine, until it's my turn. Fufufu~ It sounds like quite a party, as long as I don't scare him off.
...Do you think that there's a risk of that, by the way? If there is, then I don't have to attend karaoke. I'm happy to just supply you with a suggestion.
Yes ...it's a lovely building actually. Very state of the art, massive and intricate in it's design. I could talk about it until I died. It is a shame we can't visit it, but I'll make due with what we must.
[Mayoi has begun picking out a few things here and there. He has found some ...rabbit shaped candies that he thinks will be a nice gift.]
[That is such an odd question, though. Mayoi looks momentarily baffled.]
...Eh? What do you mean ...? Should Nito-san have a reason to be afraid of you...?
[He doesn't think he would, but maybe Kamishiro has something he'd like to share??? He is genuinely confused by this.]
He hasn't yet devolved to the point of flirting via torture (and, given the kind of person Mayoi is, likely won't). Rui's face contorts for a moment in response, before he laughs airily and leans over to examine the rabbit-shaped candies. Cute.........Emu would love those.]
No, I don't think so. It was a silly question; I'm much more accustomed to people finding me unnerving, but those people are...scared of plenty of things about others. Nito-san is your friend, and so I expect that he'll be better than that. I don't intend to give him reason to be afraid, at any rate.
...You can talk about the building all you want, if you'd like. Or the programs they have there, the experiences you've had with your unit...I want to hear about it all. [And not just because it'd be Mayoi telling him, either! Honest.]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
Ember overflow september
Naito
[Such blind faith ...such bright optimism... even just words like these are kind of hard to look at? The person on the other end must be so bright he will probably just turn to dust if he looks at them.]
Ah ...It's actually ...a weirdly complicated story, how we wound up in the same group.
[Perhaps if he diverts the conversation he will evade further compliments. He appreciates them!! But they are also very suffocating. This person is being nice, thought so he does not want to turn him away.]
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[Considering that this guy keeps putting himself down, Naito's picking up the subtle hint that pressing on and reassuring him probably isn't the best idea. Still, it's hard to look at that picture and imagine that Mayoi isn't good enough to be up on that stage because...]
It looks like you're having fun, though! Isn't that the most important part?
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Yes …looking back on that photo now, I did have fun. I think, it was one of the happiest moments of my life. Standing on stage, as scary as it was, with all of them, I couldn’t hope for anything better.
We were called underachievers, and told to make a unit or face consequences. We didn’t know each other very well at the beginning but …they are like family to me now, if that makes sense.
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Sorry, I probably shouldn't be talking like I know anything about your situation. But I'm really happy for you! I wish I could hear you perform.
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Thank you. I can't say that any performance I manage alone will ever measure up to the four of us together, but...
I appreciate your support and should I manage even a meager performance here in the depths of hell, I will be sure to reach out to you.
[Miraculously he is capable of sounding like an idol when he is not in the thick of a flight or fight response.]
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I'll be cheering you on, okay?
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I'll talk to you later!
Haru
It's a very long story, but, ah...
I was employed under an idol agency and was labeled an underachiever, so the director of my agency gathered four of us, myself and three others also deemed underachievers, and gave us an ultimatum: perform well at this large, well known event as a unit, or be fired.
When we agreed we did not realize that we would be saddled with the debt of forming an idol unit, and that the event we had to perform well in had a high entrance fee. So we had about ....a month to work up to about a million yen.
[Hell is scary but if Mayoi is perfectly honest, Eichi Tenshouin is much scarier.]
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That seems incredibly overwhelming, for anyone. I can only imagine how that must have felt.
Were you able to acquire the funds?
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It’s why …I would like to get back to them as fast as possible. It’s one thing for me to be banished into the depths of hell under my own sins …but. If my absence somehow cost them their dreams, I would simply never forgive myself.
That is why, I think, I will be fine here in the end. I have a goal to reach, and not even King Enma himself is scarier to me then the thought of failing them.
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Ayase-san, you're really very kind.
I can tell how important the others are to you.
And I can understand that... so truly, if I can help, please let me know.
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Eh? Ah i mean. I'm not. that is to say. i
[It is difficult to take compliments, but he will not rebuke the truth of how important ALKALOID is to him, so he swallows it down without too much of a fight.]
Okumura-san is the one who is very kind, to listen to someone like me! That ...goes both ways. If there should be something someone like me might help Okumura-san with, then she should reach out her hand to me, and I will surely take it.
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Thank you very much, Ayase-san! I'm sure there's something. For starters, I would like it very much if we could become official friends? I do think I'll need your help for that, of course.
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Oh ...a hand of friendship?
Yes. Yes, I will take it. I'm touched beyond measure that you would find someone like me suitable of such a thing! But! It makes me very happy! May I call you Haru-san? Is that okay...?
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Then in exchange, is "Mayoi-san" all right?
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Yes! You may call me whatever makes you happy, and I will respond no matter what!
Sasuke
It would depend a lot on the structural integrity of the building and what sort of space is put between each "wall". Some buildings make their walls too narrow ...even for me...
That is to say ...hypothetically ... of course.
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Have you ever thought of being a spy or something?
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But I was in the ninja association at school.
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Can you throw shuriken and do ninjutsu yet?
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Your Chief a friend or just your club member?
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Chief is an extraordinary person who has taken pity on a pathetic creature like meeee, he is wonderful~ I am grateful to have him for a friend, fufufu~
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I'm glad you have such a good friend though.
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[that u, buddy! that u. Rui taps it once more, before turning the screen off with a pleased little hum.]
I think that suspension of disbelief is required, at least for a little while; we are in Hell, after all. Coming here in the first place, regardless of belief, and purely to fulfil the terms of a contract we willingly signed, is quite something else.
...I know that you dislike compliments, but I think that it captures your likeness just fine, and you just have to come to terms with what that means. Fufu~
[Mayoi's cute, and that's just how it is. But-- that's neither here nor there with the inchresting little tidbit that's just been dropped. CURIOUS...Obvious, yeah. But curious!] And I also won't rat you out. My friend is also in another faction, and although I certainly don't plan on avoiding her, I wouldn't wish to make things difficult for anyone else in wishing to see her.
And I don't want to make things difficult for you, either. But we're in the same faction, and we're simply looking for a gift for your friend, so there's no harm in that.
[He holds open the konbini door, bowing low. Onwards, Sir.]
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[Anyway, Rui’s compliment gets a little nnnnnooo out of him much like before, and he quickly diverts the conversation.]
Yes, I have been thinking about that. T-Truthfully, I feel as thought …nn. This is not at all what I expected Hell to be like. Even now, we are walking about freely down a street, though populated with youkai, to shop for sweets.
[There is a certain freedom in just this that he doesn’t think he had back home! Being an idol was kind of. Restricting. Being an idol in like a million yen’s worth of debt even more so.]
Ah, so you understand. Thank you. I just want to be extra cautious and I do not think that app is very secure, personally… We know so little about this place, I couldn’t stand taking any chances.
[LKjsad Rui. Even a gesture like that flusters him so he will scamper inside a little red in the face.]
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Restraint! Restraint. He slithers in with another chuckle, already closely poring over the nearest display stand. It is, of course, loaded with Kit-Kats. No Savoury Shit in his house thanks.] It's interesting, isn't it? I wonder if there's a heavenly counterpart where everyone's similarly just...Living their lives. Makes you wonder as to what the qualifications for landing in either realm might actually be.
[...Five bags of random Kit-Kats: in the little handbasket he's just snatched up. Now, onto the umaibo stand. Chocolate umaibo.......Sounds fucked. He's game.] Until we do actually learn more about this place, however, you're definitely being prudent to not trust the technology without abandon. Especially if the conversations on the technology in question default to public. That sort of thing should be opt-in, don--
Oh! What sort of sweets do you like, Mayoi? And what does your friend like? I've been buying for myself.
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Mm, it does. And there are ...truthfully so many different depictions of a place like Hell it's hard to imagine just one type being the correct one. I certainly expected ...more hellfire and eternal torment... This place would certainly be a shock to Tatsumi-san, too...
[Ahem.]
Ah, I am ...just a worrywart, really. Though...I don't think it's wrong to be extra careful until we know a little more. [Hm... There are a lot of things to choose from here.]
I'm not especially picky, myself... though. I like light deserts. Anything with grapes, ah- [And then he trails off, looking a little startled. Oh, he does not know what Nito-san likes. Oh no...]
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[He already has an apple pie umaibo in hand, ready to offer to Mayoi just in case Nazuna Likes That Sort Of Thing.] Grape desserts are quite nice, though. You have good taste. But do you prefer kyoho or muscat? [He's genuinely interested. What does it mean, if Mayoi chooses kyoho? Is it a hair thing? Is that why he likes ramune? INCHRESTINGER...]
As for the question of Hell...Maybe this place isn't Hell at all. We haven't died, or been judged, have we? And I doubt that you and I would end up in the same place at all, if so. I've been quite an awful person, at times. So you shouldn't worry about that too much.
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[Anyway his question does not take much thought for Mayoi to answer. He grins and taps his fingers together.]
Ooh …I like them both. Fufu, the way you pierce the skin with your teeth, which causes them to burst in your mouth~ It’s deliiiiiiightful no matter which kind of graaaaape, don’t you think?
[His grin falls for a moment, before it just kind of shifts into something less …joyful and more melancholy. He tilts his head and looks sidelong at Rui and there is something darker in his expression.]
Yes… I do have doubts we would be in the same place if thaaat were the case. Kamishiro-saaaaan is so kind after all… and I have been damned from the moment of my birth. My very existence is blight on this earth.
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[????????????
for real, are you ok over there bro
When in doubt, Rui sidles closer and leans forward, just to tilt his head at Mayoi. Just two guys standing side by side, one bending forward and head turned like a bird. Normie stuff, as always.] I like you just as you are, you know. But I think I've been a burden since birth too, so maybe we really were destined to end up in the same place.
Do you like ramune, Mayoi?
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[Kamishiro is really something else, unlike anyone he’s ever met before. He’s not really sure how to put it into words. He shrinks back just a little, enough to put a hand to his mouth and take a deep breath. Like those thoughts had swirled up in him after he gave them an outlet and now he has to banish them once again.]
R-Ramune… [He breathes out.] It’s not …something I’ve indulged in very often. I do recall liking the one I tried.
[Idols have to be a little touchy about their diets, and the vending machines around ES were probably more stocked with sports drinks and coffee more than soda.]
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[Intrusive thoughts...Yeah.
Yeah, he knows that particular struggle well. Doesn't know how to fix it quite yet, bar powering onwards, but stalwart encouragement is always his best route, he figures. That, and diversion. So, even if Mayoi melts into a puddle and slips down a drain upon more compliments, Rui's set upon his course.
Sewer adventures sound pretty bomb anyway, in honesty.] We should get some for your friend, as well. Sugar keeps one's mind awake, I've found, and they're probably as hard-working as you are, so need the help to power through.
[--Rui what the fuck that's like 10 bottles. A whole fucking Ramuneinbow. Grape flavour goes into Mayoi's stash, and after some careful thought, so does melon. Mayoi Colours. No Other Reason, tbh.] ...And here I said I was going to get coffee with you. I'm sorry for lying, fufu~
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[Oh. He flusters a little at that. He doesn't it have it in him to protest when Kamishiro says it in that way. That he wants to share something he loves with him. That's a very sweet thing to do, so instead, he nods. Acceptance.]
[Well, he does have one concern-]
Please ...do not put yourself into debt for my sake, though. N-Not like it's my business what you do with your money or anything, but I know we are both still terribly new...
[Fuss! Fuss!]
N-No, it's alright. I am ...I am having fun. Cafes can get crowded, too... so this is quite alright.
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...And if you're able to buy something for your friend, then we both win. Fufu~
[Then back up he straightens, the measly few centimetres between them reasserting themselves in order for Rui to better browse the topmost shelves once more.
Maybe he shouldn't be saying things like this with such ease, to someone new. But Rui has simply never cared about hiding any aspect of himself, of course; Mayoi is incredibly talented, and handsome besides, and it feels only natural to ply him with kindnesses in return for a little of that inexplicable charm to rub off on him.
I mean, come on. Hitting up the Poppo together shouldn't be any fun at all, on a base level, and yet here they are. ...As long as it's fun for both of them, then it's time well spent.]
I'll keep it in mind for the future, however; if I want to take you out, then it can't be at any truly crowded place. --Unless we're planning to captivate them together again, but that's a special occasion indeed.
...Are you going to perform here, as a profession? I've been meaning to ask.
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[Alright, he will stop fussing, then. Spending makes him a little nervous on principle since uh. ALKALOID is in like a million yen's worth of debt right now, but that is not really the case here, is it? He has a very meager amount of funds himself, but there isn't the pressing debt on top of it so it's weirdly much easier to breathe now than it is back home.]
[He will begin to look around with some interest, too, picking up snacks here and there and reading the labels. You would think such a simple little outing would be pretty boring, but Mayoi has been such a shut in for so long, that even visiting a store with another person and getting to pick up things on shelves is a pretty big deal to him. Ah, to create memories with a friend in such a way, it's actually very thrilling!]
[He does almost get lost in browsing when Rui asks him that, so he blinks and looks up. Oh, that is a question.]
Eh? Ah ...hn. I'm ...unsure.
[That's something he's been turning over in his head for a while actually.]
I-It certainly seems like the most logical course of action, but ...something about it makes me uneasy. I've been trying to do some research on how the idol industry works here, and it's been very disappointing. Truthfully, I'm not sure where to start. I may have to put those activities on hold for now ...
I have other skills I may be able to sell better, but really it's sort of overwhelming to think about. What about you?
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[Apparently the thought of Mayoi not performing at all is enough to jolt Rui completely, make him turn bodily and lean against the shelves instead.
Wait-- no, he's grabbing a pack of ramune nerunerunerune while he's at it. Okay, now he's good to be scandalised.] I understand, but...I suppose I'd just imagined it such a waste of your inherent talent to not use it. However, I support whatever you want to do, here. I just hope that you'll let me hear you sing, whenever you're in the mood.
[Okay, that was. That was good. He did well. A little flick of the hair, to get his bangs out of his eyes, before he Resumes Being Kind Of Normal, Probably.] As for me...I'll be street performing. I was used to working solo before, and so I'll do it again. ...I've never priced my work before, however. It feels strange, to ask for money when I do it for pleasure, but I don't have my parents to rely on, here...We're both a little adrift, so it seems.
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[He's been calling himself an amateur so far, because that is objectively what he is on paper. He's an underachiever just like the rest of ALKALOID, so what right had he to make a claim to his talents?]
[He doesn't like having to think about all of this. It was a lot easier when he had a clear cut path to take, when he had ALKALOID TO fall back on. He's become so pathetic and weak without them it seems.]
It certainly feels like we've been ...cast out into a storm and made to swim. I-I think ...for what it may be worth, that you'll do well street performing in a place like this. The streets are ...lively and vibrant, much like you.
[There is a hesitant pause, and Mayoi nervously taps his fingers together like he might be debating what he wants to say next.]
Should you n-need help ...you should reach your hand out to me. I ...I have no experience with street performances, they sound terrifying a-actually, but I would like to be of use and, I would like to see the kind of performances you make.
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compliment..................compliment that isn't about how Different and Othered he is.............
Rui stares for a few seconds, lips parting for a moment in confusion on this always alarmingly unnerving sensation (embarrassment??? who is she??), before he taps a knuckle against his lip instead. Two Dudes With Physical Tics Yeah Boi]
...Thank you very much. It's no Tokyo, of course; I don't yet know this city like I know home. But I'll work that out.
You-- As much as I'd love to perform with you again, please don't feel obligated. I mean it, when I say that I'll support whatever you do. But if I can work hard enough that my shows are something you'll come and see, then I'll feel quite accomplished indeed.
Until then...Maybe we should do karaoke next time. Just a room for us, so that you don't have to feel nervous. [DID YOU KNOW, MAYOI, THAT RUI LOVES YOUR SINGING. DID YOU KNOW THIS? HE IS GOING TO KEEP SAYING IT.]
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I am certain you will, after all, Kamishiro-san is very talented.
[It speaks a lot that Mayoi's voice doesn't waver all that much when he says this. It's because he has confidence in it's truth.]
[Of course ...Mayoi is a little relieved he does not need to recruit him right away. He was willing to do it to help someone he likes, but, well, there is something particularly oppressive about the thought of a street crowd looking at him, that is very different from standing above on a stage.]
Karaoke...?
[Hey, do you know what Mayoi has never done before? And didn't even realize was something you could do until this very moment? Yeah. That.]
Oh ...that would be. That would be a lot of fun, I think.... I've never been.
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Rui Does Not Realise, because why would he when embarrassment truly is foreign to him these days, but man...man this sort of praise from someone he considers his better as far as talent goes...It's enough to bring a cold burn to the rims of his ears, a little clench somewhere in his torso that doesn't last long enough for him to excise and examine under a microscope.
Ah well.
Snacks! Fucking Snacks, Bro. Look At This Pack Of Nama Chocolate! Fuck Yeah, time to look at it very seriously.] I've never been either, to be completely honest with you. It could be a fun form of vocal training, however, and we wouldn't get too rowdy, which is one of the drawbacks to a larger group outing.
Not that I mind if you want to invite your friend, fufu~ As long as there aren't ten of us crammed into one room, all cheering, I think it would be of great benefit to us all. I don't want to grow rusty, but I'm not actually much of a singer either. Not typically, so it's more important to focus on that which gets less attention.
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[He doesn't have too long to dwell on that, either. That's probably for the best. He can spiral into anxiety over a missed social cue later. For now ...Kamishiro does not appear to be angry with him, at least, so, he will carry on.]
I see. In Ensemble Square ...ah, that is, the building I li- e-erm. Work in- there are a number of practice rooms you can rent that can be used for both vocal and dance training. It sounds similar.
[Probably. Though, he does wonder if there are many karaoke places near ES. He could see why idols wouldn't maybe frequent something like that when they're basically just always. Always singing. but there are quite few other businesses and housing complexes not very far away so it's possible.]
Ah, I will ...I will ask Nito-san, then. He may be interested. He has ...been here longer than I, so he may know a place already.
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[A beat. He stows the nama chocolate in his little basket with a nod.] And me accompanying you and Nito-san on the tambourine, until it's my turn. Fufufu~ It sounds like quite a party, as long as I don't scare him off.
...Do you think that there's a risk of that, by the way? If there is, then I don't have to attend karaoke. I'm happy to just supply you with a suggestion.
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[Mayoi has begun picking out a few things here and there. He has found some ...rabbit shaped candies that he thinks will be a nice gift.]
[That is such an odd question, though. Mayoi looks momentarily baffled.]
...Eh? What do you mean ...? Should Nito-san have a reason to be afraid of you...?
[He doesn't think he would, but maybe Kamishiro has something he'd like to share??? He is genuinely confused by this.]
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He hasn't yet devolved to the point of flirting via torture (and, given the kind of person Mayoi is, likely won't). Rui's face contorts for a moment in response, before he laughs airily and leans over to examine the rabbit-shaped candies. Cute.........Emu would love those.]
No, I don't think so. It was a silly question; I'm much more accustomed to people finding me unnerving, but those people are...scared of plenty of things about others. Nito-san is your friend, and so I expect that he'll be better than that. I don't intend to give him reason to be afraid, at any rate.
...You can talk about the building all you want, if you'd like. Or the programs they have there, the experiences you've had with your unit...I want to hear about it all. [And not just because it'd be Mayoi telling him, either! Honest.]