game over

just once more unto the breach, dear friend, once more .

[admortuis-blog]

(o1) levitation

[sleeplesseve]

She continued on her free activities, despite recent events that were out of the ordinary. As surprised as she was when it occurred, Mana found herself fascinated of her new trick, if it could be called that. It kept her guessing about what she could do with it and how long would it be there. It reached too far a point to just be called a one-time trick.

There were many things to wonder about it, and she was intrigued by all of it. But with all of the excitement over such a little thing, perhaps it was time to do a mundane thing. Something that Mana found relatively normal before… just for a slight change of pace. And so, Mana went to the library, something that she didn’t bother to do during her little adventure.

As she moved from aisle to aisle in search for a book that caught her eye, with a little impatient step to be honest, she had finally stopped in the middle of one. But it wasn’t a book that had caught her eye, no… it was the sight of a boy floating in the air, as if in flight. Scarlet eyes widened in awe of the sight, only broken by the sound of the boy talking to her. At the sound of his question, Mana only smiled.

"Well… there could be chance I did, if you are one," she answered. "If not, I would call you a bird, but… you don’t have feathers." A small giggle left her lips then as she shook her head. It was a small jest, but in actuality Mana found herself intrigued by what she just saw. And as such she leaned forward, as if eager to hear what he could be hiding. "So how’d you do that?" she asked.

[admortuis-blog]

How incredibly open-minded. Joshua is taken by a pleasant surprise, though it proved subtle enough not to show. In truth, he couldn't confirm even the most obvious of their suspicions, his memories having been vivid as far as past events but not so much in general understanding. It had been with clues of the most specific kind that he'd slowly pieced what he'd experienced twice now, much akin to putting together a puzzle with fractions of pieces and only intuition to assume the larger image.

In any case, she did not seem significantly phased regardless of how he managed levitation. Not that he had wanted to create a scene, but her composure was a curious thing, if not a reason to delve further into conversation.

Feathers... she had been jesting, that much he was certain, but there was an odd sense of agreeableness that lay behind the concept. What was he then, if not a bird or ghost? Composer, he'd recalled, but it was just a word. Then again, to investigate the gaps in his recollections was precisely why he'd come to the library at all. He can at least respond to the latter of her inquires, albeit vaguely

"I willed it." With a quiet chuckle-- as a result of how ridiculous he must have sounded-- he casually moved past her, placing his books atop a nearby table.

"Not much of an answer is it?" Separating one book from his pile, a single finger turned the first page of hundreds. "Of course, there's been quite a few inexplicable things happening as of late." Tone filled with intrigue, he finally turned towards her.

"Maybe you know what I'm talking about."

[admortuis-blog]

(o1) levitation

[necromuse-deactivated20140902]

ᴀs ᴄᴏɪɴᴄɪᴅᴇɴᴄᴇ (or perhaps some divine string-puller) would have it, the young man isn’t quite alone in his particular curiosities here. Suffice it to say, an interest in the metaphysical had never previously come natural to the conductor, the believer in any ‘other’ world that he isn’t ─ although to at least dabble in the subject could surely do him little harm, and so it was that a swift visit to the library wouldn’t have gone amiss.

Such had been his thinking, anyway.

When actually faced with no smaller spectacle than somebody leaving the ground, seemingly to simply pluck a few volumes from a higher shelf, the bemused witness - as he cannot help but stare gormlessly for the moment - finds himself thinking quite otherwise. And when the illusion passes and he finds his wits again, he shifts, mildly uncomfortable, in his place: in part because of the phenomenon itself, of course, but perhaps mostly because of the smug nonchalance which succeeds it.

Impolite though it is to keep one’s partner in conversation (no matter how spontaneously they had assumed the role), he has to allow himself a few seconds to compose an answer. To still his thoughts, to pinch the bridge of his nose in an attempt to dismiss some growing ache in the mind— Alas, for the best part, his efforts fail, and he’s ultimately left with no reply worthy of the weight of the situation. Having been pestered by what might as well actually be visions of the restless dead for the past few days now, he isn’t sure whether an answer in the negative here would be all that true…

But, at the very least, he supposes, he can answer at least one thing for definite.

"—Ah. Appreciated though your concern is, my complexion is this pale by nature." A pause. "Regardless as to any imagined presence of— ‘ghosts’."

[admortuis-blog]

Noted was the deliberation that lingered before the other's reluctant reply, a curious brow lifting at the silent struggle that came with the words he had thought very little of until this second. It was amusing to see such careful consideration being given towards a sentiment that was so clearly stated with indifference, yet there was also something quaint to be found. With a love for details-- however trivial they might have been in actuality-- Joshua decided to humor his paler companion, if only to peek behind the other's obscured world; they're strangers, afterall.

He could assume the other had come to this section of the library with purpose however, and that alone gave reason for this conversation's continuation. This man could surely see his own uncanny resemblance to a corpse without the need of his input, so this Composer was left wondering more of the connection between the strange phenomena occurring to the citizens of Paralia and Kairos and what previously dormant abilities were awakened in them.

"Oh, is that so?" One hand moved to rest against his waist. "Then perhaps you're the ghost." He conversed lightly, spilling casual statements that should not have perked any serious interest but would tactfully provoke the opposite effect. "Takes the dead to see the dead, doesn't it?"

A moment for the surreal atmosphere to settle is allowed before an ill-fitting giggle would shatter it just as swiftly.

"--Just kidding." Countering his aforementioned argument could be done with ease, but he wouldn't dream of providing enough time for it to happen between his tests of character. He'd offer an actual explanation to what had been seen, but there was no fun in giving all the answers.

"I won't say all ghosts are imaginary, but you'll be happy to know you're not hallucinating. Mind if I ask what brings you here?"

[admortuis-blog]

(o1) levitation

The discovery of his newfound ability had been serendipity at its purest. Upon attempting to learn of theories concerning multiple planes of existence, Joshua had found several needed books within the library to be out of reach. It was only after an impatiently stretched hand gently fell to his side in defeat that the sheer power of will lifted his body as if in compensation, successfully providing the required height to grab what untouched reports he wanted.

To gain the information he wished based on his memories, he had to use the power gifted to him through these memories; it was laughable, pleasantly so.

Almost, dare he say, as laughable as the expression painted in the palest shade of skin on the face of his unexpected witness.

"You alright?" Feigned care was delivered with civil confidence. "You look like you saw a ghost." Such a cliched line, and yet its truth couldn't be closer.

[seclusives]

riddles and rhythms ✏ joshua & naminé

[seclusives]

     It’s no surprise that she’s gone off on a bit of a tangent— no matter how small, the blonde nearly always finds herself amidst one of them. Certain topics of conversation merely sway her in several different directions and keeping track is occasionally harder than what one might expect.

     With that said, she’s not sure if luck or courtesy is what keeps the taller male from deterring her vocal train of thought. In her mind, at the very least, it would be no less than a favor if he warned her of any bothersome rambling before it continued. 

     Rhetorics make her dizzy, but they can be pleasant just the same. "I suppose that’s the question, isn’t it? Because specifics can be intrusive, but… With such a big scope, it’s even harder to guess." Perhaps they’re going somewhere with this— perhaps she’s making a total of no sense at all. Either way, it’s more than suitable conversation and her interest is piqued, if not more than that. 

     Here because he wants to be? "Well… Not everything has an answer." Nor does he owe her one, if there is something tightly sealed behind each lip. 

     Simplicity makes up the contents of her smile in return, head bobbing slowly as several attempts of an explanation make her head start to swim. They speak behind these eccentric masks with purposeful ambiguity, sure, but sharing this kind of minute knowledge feels justified. As far as she’s concerned, the facts that her skin isn’t crawling nor is her face burning with chagrin are perfectly acceptable signs attributing to comfort. 

     ”I’m just… here,” just so happens to be the meager divulgence of truth she provides him with. "But you’re right about learning quickly. I’m not sure I’ll be able to keep up if the pace changes a third time!" Preferences included, that is. 

     By the time their contact comes to an end, her hand immediately finds the elbow opposite to it. Really, it’s the connecting of a chain which simply lacks too much. The irony is that the closer she gets to herself, the stranger it feels. When he relieves himself of the mask tied over his features, the tiniest of sighs breaks the silence.

     The strings are beginning to give her a headache, anyways. Off it goes, exposing lids that have just barely been brushed over with glitter and neutral shades of blue. "Not yet, though I was hoping to see the view…" She falters near the end, not wanting to sound expectant in the slightest. If he’d like to get along with the evening, that’s perfectly fine and she won’t hold him accountable for a thing.

     Especially not wanting to find company that might keep him more amused. It’ll only take a moment to discover whether or not this is an offer, though her shoulders hike up a notch in response. Sparing a glance for the mask in gloved hands, Naminé tilts her head.

     ”I can’t tell if the question means that you have or you haven’t.”

[admortuis-blog]

Intrusive. She would hesitate to stray from vagueness because it might be deemed as prying. It's a surprisingly basic concept, and yet he's charmed. There's little need to attempt meddling in a world that won't ever be understood, particularly if complications arose from mistaken intentions. It's in this way that time is not wasted-- and loneliness is exercised.

There's a part of him that almost gives advice; advice he fails to follow himself. Whether it would be voiced would ultimately become a matter of whether he will allow himself a moment's sincerity by the end of the night. Lips sealed, he instead watched true honesty spill between pauses.

Her response was as equally ill-informing as his, thus hypocrisy was spared. One was just here, another was here because he wanted to be; there was nothing more simultaneously simple and senseless and yet, he found it agreeable. Nearly relatable, but not quite. She said herself that not everything has an answer, and he's satisfied in believing boundaries placed by fate and people alike made it so. 

"The view," he repeated, inadvertently aloud. Of dancers and elitists, he supposed. He hadn't yet been to the balcony as a fault of the emerald rose still peeking out from within his shirt pocket, but his extended invitation surely told of his want to rid himself of that obligation. "I haven't seen it myself, no."

With the turn of both heel and neck, eye contact was maintained momentarily. It's rare for him not to force people along a path he's set, but an inkling that she would follow it regardless may have played a part in his lessened use of persuasion. He'd like her to believe there's nothing pushing her but herself, even with him beginning to ascend the stairs without a shared plan.

"-- I'd like to, though." For reasons beyond even that of their aforementioned conversation. To explain an affinity, especially when they remained subconscious more often than not, was no capability of his as he stood now.

With these thoughts in mind, he added mirthfully, "Heaven knows why," spinning his mask about his finger carelessly. The heat from the bodies on the floor is fading with his every step, and he's thankful.

Should his partner choose to act predictably or not, he'd be honored.

[androididol]

►Where The Grass Is Greener◄ OPEN

A loud sigh escapes the blonde’s parted lips as she takes a step forward; the heel of her shoe almost immediately sinking down an inch or two into the wet grass stretched out beneath her. A pair of arms immediately cross over one another as the girl narrows her eyes and comes to a sudden halt. So, the rumors had been true after all; every exit and entrance she can think of has been closed off to keep people from getting out. Or in.

Rather than fret about her sudden entrapment in Paralia— a place she’s seldom paid visits to— other things occupy the teenager’s mind and she chooses to voice these worries aloud to any passerby that can hear her.

“What in the hell do you people do for fun around here? This place is about as exciting as a funeral." 

[admortuis-blog]

"A little harsh aren't we, Rin?"

A familiar tone of arrogance rang clear to reveal Joshua's casual appearance, a smile evident as he awaited the moment where she might turn with a scowl. Despite what light scorning played off his words, in actuality he agreed with her musing wholeheartedly. An angel playing devil's advocate, as it were.

"These people revel in their dull peace," he answered, oversimplifying the populace entirely. "--Or at least they would, if they were here."

A pause allowed to linger provided some seconds for their stares to meet so that he might determine whether or not she understood his cryptic reply. From her expression he would chuckle however, a brief explanation following equally as lightheartedly.

"It just so happens that the majority of Kairos was switched into this town, while the usual residents here were similarly moved." A thorough examination of the area told that much. "So there's little point in asking what these people do for fun, considering they're all in the same boat as you."

"Surely you noticed?"

[admortuis-blog]

7 x 2 + 7

                                                  ( have you ever thought such a day would come? )

Scarcely was there a moment where Joshua failed to handle a situation with confidence, flexibility coupled with the sharpest thinking his greatest of fortes. To significantly delay his agenda would need to include the near-inexplicable and a factor of unpredictability, both of which were usually challenges welcomed wholeheartedly. 

It was for the sake of livening a Game that the Composer had allowed the constant revival of the certain, tenacious menace before him, the other's Imagination ironically exceptional when considered alongside a fetishism for math and a bestial way of existence. With this entertainment he knew a remarkable share of risks were to be endured, and this day was by no means an exception.

Tapping rapidly into an ancient cellphone as the nonsensical shoutings of "Soooo zetta slow!" positively grated, a narrowed stare scanned the current plane with an ever lessening patience. Sho Minamimoto, arrogant as he was powerful, was a being who generally did himself in through his own miscalculations. However, Joshua's personal, purposeful handicap did nothing but strengthen the other's murderous vehemence, and it was with this disadvantage that had left the Composer in more need of his proxy's skill.

--Neku's skill. From another zone was the boy attempting to rid himself of Noise as Joshua handled the Reaper's irritating tries to fatigue them. Again and again did he levitate to better harness the summoning power of the heavens only to be knocked down by this teleporting tool, unable to increase his frequency knowing it would at best, imbue distrust in his partner and at worst, threaten his very state of mind.

Even having accepted these circumstances so that he might lead his pawn to where he needed, the annoyance in being tossed about did anything but cease. It's finally when their energy syncs that they're able to produce a fusion capable of ending this mission-- illegally issued by the Conductor, no less-- and gather a moment of breath atop the city's tower of stray thoughts.

"Aww, what's wrong? Weren't you going to erase us at the speed of light?" His own voice taunted as if there hadn't been a trace of struggle seconds prior-- as if his proxy wasn't battered and barely managing to grip at his pins. Unsettling laughs plus an additional one hundred and fifty-six recited digits of pi later, it's evident that the unstable other had more in store, the sight of a Level i flare speaking louder than obnoxious spewings of numerals. This location had been chosen precisely for its closeness to the imaginary plane he gathered, so it's no surprise a plan to utilize it had been fated by such an enthusiast of the unreal.

"Nowhere to run!" Neku's at an understandable loss, the roof of a building not much of an escape route. The time left in this day was numbered-- literally-- so it was with a soft smile that he turned towards his partner, fractions of a minute ticking off his palm. An abrupt shove is enough to leave the boy beyond where the incoming attack might have reached him and gave instead a front seat to an act of martyrdom. 

"But Neku, I thought you couldn't afford to lose."

It was he who had so fervently insisted that they completed their missions before Joshua's plans, changed so much that his entry fee had become someone of vital importance and the highest priority.

"Give up on yourself, and you give up on the world."

The truth served as his goodbye, his issuing of the proxy to his next Game a success, guided unwaveringly to play on his team. The elimination of Minamimoto was now a painless task, executed flawlessly before the blond fled to another world just before the fatal attack could connect.

--

In a surge of blinding light and sheer confusion, Joshua-- the powerless 15 year old teen who should have been comfortably nestled in his lonesome single dorm within Kairos-- awoke instead to a silence of another kind. Staring wearily at the overly feminine blankets that covered him, his stare moved to a note left on the bedstand; welcome back, stay as long as you like.

It had been years since his adopted mother had cared for him in this home, but this nostalgia was not welcomed nor given appropriate care. More prominent was the memory witnessed, recalled with such vivid detail unlike the similar sensation he'd experienced two months prior.

Leaving alone the matter of his unbelievable overnight move to Paralia for now, he instead grabbed for the nearest paper and pen, scribbling all that had intrigued him in a rush of fascination. The names, the people, the powers, his understanding and his deception, the role he'd owned-- the knowing of a Game despite not grasping what it was for-- he'd sooner allow his heart to stop than to let these clues slip by him.

[seclusives]

riddles and rhythms ✏ joshua & naminé

[seclusives]

     Self-taught? It must be nice, she thinks, to pick something up so quickly and without hesitation. Or faltering, though it’s not as if all of the details have been revealed to the shorter blonde. The more she drifts through the recesses of her mind, the easier it is to follow each note and passing beat of the music rather than stress over missing them. Of course, noticing that only leads her back to worrying over stumbling over the latter. 

     ”That must have been—” Not to her liking? Concerned that she’s given off something that led him to such a conclusion, weight topples onto her shoulders and keeping up feels like more of a chore. Soon enough, though, she catches the indications of a stifling smile and feels ridiculous for not having understood already. 

     A breath settles her stomach, mind finally ceasing the endless swirls that could make even a sailor nauseous. "No, you’re very proficient! But…" When she does get the chance to speak up, a minor pang of confidence trails toward a mimicking act. "As far as what I think goes, you knew that." She says it matter-of-factly, because this just doesn’t happen often. For a fraction of a second, Naminé comes to assume that it must be the atmosphere he exudes. 

     Though the presence of others is something she often surrounds herself with, conversations like this one are rarely dispersed for reasons unbeknownst to even her. 

     Genuinely, it’s never about keeping her interest— as everyone can, no doubt about it— there’s not a soul that she doesn’t think is worth paying attention to. "I like it as well. Though… just how many people are drawn in by the sounds instead of everyone here? And what they have to offer?" Tone quiet as she trails off, it only takes a moment before her own optics catch his.

     ”Thank you for asking,” comes the initial statement— before any actual confessions, as she’s somewhat taken aback. "Yes, I do! There are just so many answers to a question like that. Why start with such a wide range?"

     By now, it’s clear that she’s a better listener than speaker. "Surely there are things you like other than music— and there are less obvious things I like, too. Like… learning quickly. Maybe that’s a dead giveaway, but it’s just as nice." The extent to which she’ll worry about boring someone is impossible to fathom, so she’s back to easing into each and every step. "Did you only come for the music?"

[admortuis-blog]

For all expected hesitations, physical or otherwise, Joshua compensated in an aweless manner of taking responsibility. Whether it be through an easing of pace or a knowing smile, he began to make the most of their simple dance and conversation.

"I'm flattered," he hummed, having enjoyed the process of her eventual understanding. The confidence that ran through her tone for just a moment was more than welcomed, and he basked in her own capability with an inviting demeanor. 

A certain degree of trust was necessary for even casual confessions to progress however, and it's for this reason that he listened carefully to her honest response to gauge where their level might stand. Her questions, albeit rhetorical, strike him as interesting-- not unlike ones he would have returned to her. For all his pretension, he'd rather have her speak than explain himself, even in manageable chat.

Which was why he found her gratitude for such a painless inquiry peculiarly charming. It's his pleasure, of course, but the sentiment remained unvoiced, lest it came out mischievously.

"Oh? Where would you start?" His tone is considerably more tranquil, thoughtful as he remarked on her last few comments. Obvious likes and... not-so-obvious likes; what a choice of categories. Learning quickly was more of a skill as he saw it, but, once more, commenting such was refrained. There was joy to be had in it regardless, and it's not his place to skew interpretations-- at least, when he hadn't any particular need to.

"... No, I didn't." He skips over the implied matter of his other, assured interests, instead handling the last of her inquiries. Seconds of silence pass before the words to appropriately fill them are found. "I'm here because I want to be, really."

Crowds drew curious people and curiouser events-- and viceversa. For reasons he couldn't yet clarify, he felt the need to oversee them as part of an unsourced obligation. While playing the part of an instructor had been a chance to elongate a resume for his undefined future, he couldn't very well admit the former. 

In any case, his plan was to lead the subject back to her, always. If nothing else, Joshua was tenacious for examining others before himself. "You're here to learn quickly, I take it?" His teasings are less discernible now, but hints are still left in his expression. Her company had been far more satisfying than those of countless before her, so he wasn't exactly out to rid himself of it.

With the end of the song, his hands drop slowly out of hers, one fitted against his waist as the other removed the mask that now irritated. Usually, he'd have lead her for another round, perhaps with the attempt of more complicated steps, but first, a small adventure.

"Have you been to the balcony, by any chance?"

[seclusives]

riddles and rhythms ✏ joshua & naminé

[seclusives]

     Perhaps to the extent that Naminé appreciates all of that around her, she is loyal to a fault. Not much can distract the blonde when she’s begun to acknowledge the beauty of something. 

     For now, she drinks in the melancholia of four walls that house a multitude of events like this. She soaks in the talent of centerpieces arranged by someone that, no doubt, does so for a living. And at her to-be-partner’s words, she finds a noncommittal smile ghosting along curling, glossy lips. ‘Just yet’ doesn’t hold very much promise, now does it? Brows furrowing sheepishly behind the outline of her mask, she fights the urge to hold her breath as this is simply not her scene… no matter how much she wishes it were. 

     ”I really hope we won’t have to worry about that…” 

     Dark lashes temporarily veil her eyes - perhaps she should meet his. Avoiding that much would be rude, and he’s already so kindly providing a service that he isn’t required to. Lady Luck seems to reassure her as their hands twine and he states his name. 

     At least the comfort in familiarity is with good reason. "Oh—" fragmented, nervous laughter. "I did." Occasions where she finds herself at such a close proximity with another are sparse, and it has her mind wandering and heart thudding - a hammer against cloth. 

     Not quite in vain, though. 

     In spite of her efforts to keep their gazes aligned, her concentration is centering around their feet. This is for the best, of course, as he’s officially giving instructions and she has no urge whatsoever to miss a beat and wind up having even more of a reason to apologize. Forward left, back right - it’s simple enough. At least this is merely the waltz, something done commonly and not a fast-paced foxtrot. God knows how terribly that would wind up. 

     More than likely with a bowl of punch atop someone’s head and the hors d’oeuvres scattered along any carpet near the tables. It’s now, Naminé realizes, that she knows nothing about him despite their short encounters. It’s unfortunate, that much is for certain. Perhaps that will change momentarily. With luck, she’s following his lead and not quite tripping over her (nor his) feet. The pace is slow and allows her to ease into the moves, stepping cautiously and eyes darting with every move. 

     ”E-easy enough!” Hardly. "Could I ask where you learned how to waltz?"

[admortuis-blog]

Her laughter fell in pieces and he noted it, an amusement arising far more than any petty offense could. Their encounters had been, as he recalled them, fleeting as they were serene. He had no qualms should the truth be that he was but another stop on the other's path, having purposefully never instigated any situation that might have rendered him someone worth remembering. Where he could behave so that others remained predictable, he would.

Shyness was witnessed with nothing less than an unfaltering gaze, what couldn't be seen behind masks felt in both the obvious and subtle differences of movement. Initial stiffness gradually fading as patterns were established by memory, his smile placed for the sake of formalities easily lifted into a more humble state.

Minutes later, he's given the opportunity to sample her progress. An unveiling of crystal hues provides a medium so that he might understand where she intends to take this dance but falls short in the same fashion as her gaze. Prioritized was the concentration digging into her heels-- understandably so-- and while he was fortunate to have a partner so determined to succeed, he couldn't help but chuckle at how fitting her bashfulness blended into her neck turned downwards.

"Hmm." Easy, she agreed, but he wonders. "Where I learned?"

A harmless question. Whether it was an honest curiosity of hers or a simple conversation starter to follow between melodies, there was no reason not to humor it.

"I'm self-taught." The corner of his lips budges just a tad, a precursor to inevitable teasing. "Is it not to your liking?" Practically awaiting a stutter, he paused deliberately before resisting another chuckle.

"Well, either way, I'm afraid my interest isn't so much in the dance as much as it is in the music that accompanies it." Indeed, he cared more for the songs that moved spirits than the motions used to celebrate them-- even if both were admittedly fascinating in their own aspect. Even someone with poor aesthetic values could admire the skill of past geniuses. A fan of the classics, if you will.

"And what do you like, Naminé?" Appearing at popular parties was not truly the hobby of those who attended, but taking the opportunity to learn a dance in a place of extravagance surely implied something.

"Flowers, I assume?" It was a shame such basic passions were lost on him, instead believing she might give care only because she related to such a fragile existence.

[angelusism-deactivated20140711]

While Kosmos had been told to interact more with others, it had probably been more of a suggestion of sorts and not to be taken so much as an order… But of course, Kosmos has seen it as such, to an extent. She realizes that it had been offered since the other had concern for her, which she had thought to be unnecessary, but once again the female has taken it upon herself to attempt to go above and beyond the expectations of others.

The male before her, however, proves to be perplexing and perhaps, in a way, interesting to the blue-haired woman. He’s young, that\s for certain, but there’s a certain air about him that gives off a sense of… Perhaps not ‘maturity’ but that sort of deceptiveness that many adults have when they are forced into situations they would rather not be a part of.

"… Affirmative; I will accept the offer," she swiftly informs, wasting no time to seat herself across from the other, her seating position no less robotic than her posture when she stands. “These events can be fatiguing to many attendants. I trust you are not feeling tired yourself if you have been accepting many invitations to dance,”

[admortuis-blog]

It seemed he'd invited some wealthy partygoer's healthy investment to the table, a brow raising at her incredibly rigid posture that betrayed any resemblance to the natural movements of the still-enthusiastic dancers about them. Leaning forward so that he might relax his own position, a curious flash briefly glazed over his stare before he responded in kind.

"Oh, but I am. I've done more than my fair share for the night." That he was still present here was an achievement in itself.

"Although, it's less the dancing itself that tires," he began, a flicker of cynicism laced into his tone. Not that the movements throughout the night weren't physically tasking after a certain level of repetition (he'd undoubtedly feel this charity in the morning) but to speak of such an understood concept was not where his priorities lied exactly. 

"What do you make of the people here?" He supposed he'd have her speak first, a little more interested in what she'd be willing to share before he took the liberty of shattering the positive atmosphere with his mild misanthropy.  

[ohjareau]

♛ about me. ♕

[admortuis-blog]

BASICS:

name: naru age: turning 19 birthday: june 7th zodiac: gemini single or taken: single height: 5’4  eye color: blue/green middle name: antag favorite color: lavender lucky number: ??? 8

SPECIFICS/DETAILS:

hogwarts house: slytherin favorite fictional character: lord please don't make me pick  favorite television show: anything with chef ramsay favorite season: fall describe yourself in a few words: naru "corrupted religious characters" lastname meaning of your name: my actual name means lovable (shines gently)

ultimate otp: frick gimme a series first

what do you plan to/do for a living: journalism!

THIS OR THAT:

introvert or extrovert: introvert  dawn or dusk: dusk righty or lefty: righty coffee or tea: COFFEE LIKE HARDCORE don't even play rain or shine: shine with puffy clouds reading or writing: writing!

[angelusism-deactivated20140711]

Tilting her head ever so slightly as he speaks, Kosmos can’t help but wonder exactly why this boy seems to be in such a foul mood. There’s more than a handful of reasons she can currently think of, and only one of those is because of her. Though honestly, she’s not one to be bothered by such a fact, as many people are both intimidated and weirded out by her as it is… For this boy to feel the same would bring no surprise to the blue-haired woman’s features.

"Incorrect," she swiftly responds, her demeanor unchanging despite his definite lack of interest in the conversation at hand. “I am not forcing myself to ask anything, nor have I been forced to come over here. The decision to attempt conversation with you is purely due to my choice,” the boy, at first, seemed to be rather interesting to Kosmos but… Well, he’s sort of becoming more and more like every other person she has met for the briefest of moments.

"If conversation is harmful to your health, I will take my leave,"

[admortuis-blog]

The tiniest revealing of a personality made itself known from his minor attitude, but it's enough for Joshua to conclude there was hope for this conversation yet. A little provocation went a long way, and the results are just enough for his features to reveal a little personality of his own.

"You could've fooled me," he chuckled, gaze easing off her serious stare to the more picturesque scene not so far from their location. There were several dressed just like her who spoke to guests out of obligation and nothing more; people who, perhaps, didn't deserve harsh judgment for the fulfillment of their job but earned it regardless because of their utter falseness that so terribly clashed with his current lack of patience.

That the conversation could be harmful to his health however, was a thought far too amusing to dismiss. This woman held clear differences that admittedly fascinated, but it was a bit too soon to say just how unique they were.

"Hee hee, you're so generous." A pause, as if the moment was needed to deliberate his supposed compliment. "But if you'd like to take a seat, I certainly won't stop you." It must be tiring to genuinely care for teenagers like him, he mused, his smile distorting ever so slightly.

[ephemeralsmoke-deactivated20150]

TO: Litte Shit FROM: Badou

If they find me, I’ll be killed. If I don’t get out soon- well, I won’t give you the details, but it won’t be pretty.

If you are going to fucking mock me, stop replying. 

I need to get out.

[admortuis-blog]

To: Badou

you're conscious and have use of your hands. the rest is just a matter of being creative with what you have.

[thefloweramongswords]

trash out -- ; joshua and chizuru

How she had been dragged into this particular situation, she didn’t know. She’d long since acknowledged that being a frosh wasn’t expected to be easy, and all sorts of measures had been taken to secure a safe pathway to the end of this year. It was common to be knowledgeable about these things, as all sorts of different stories were tossed around about high school teasing and bullies. She hadn’t been all too worried, since nothing had ever happened to her before, and any sort of confrontation had been easily bypassed up until this point. But this…

This was a different kind of punishment altogether.

It had not been a physical punishment by a rowdy schoolboy, but rather a disciplinary action that had tarnished her clean record. The boy behind her had been wavering since the start of their impromptu shift, pushed upon the both of them when the the latter had decided to leave his mess behind during lunch hour. In a desperate attempt to save himself, it had seemed, the blame had been entirely placed on her by the other when she’d made the unfortunate decision of trying to walk past when a public morals committee member was on guard.

Now both of them had been punished, but only one of them had deserved the punishment.

And now he was whining endlessly. He hadn’t lifted a finger, and it’d been 15 minutes since the start of trash duty. She wasn’t typically one to backtalk, but even Chizuru had a limit to her incredible amount of patience, and this was beginning to grate on her nerves.

"Hey, you there. Stop complaining and get to work. You got us both into this mess, so the faster we work together the quicker we’ll get this done, I promise you."

[admortuis-blog]

This day marked the first and final time he would allow himself to eat among bothersome indoor crowds.

Instead of the lonesome spot atop the school's rooftop with which he'd become more than acquainted, Joshua had attempted an irregular change of pace. Needless to say, whatever possessed him to make a decision of such naivete was not even remotely worth the pesky bickering that arose as a result-- both from the self-righteous committee who'd radiated of arrogance and the girl who'd been swept into the situation much like his discarded garbage.

It had been laughably simple to pin the crime on the nearest unsuspecting person, but for pitiful punishment to befall the both of them proved even more entertaining a concept. Truthfully, without some means of amusement, he'd sooner die of boredom, so idle conversation had been selected as a natural method of passing the time. Unfortunately, he hadn't the slightest intention of doing the work of a janitor, and consequently, irritated his dear victim in the process. 

What she mentally defined as whining had just been an absentminded criticism of the school system mused aloud without much care. One that she didn't seem too keen on contributing to, might he add. It was no fault of his if their interests didn't coincide, but he supposed he'd much rather listen to the sound of his own voice than her grating pitch regardless.

"Oh, but we're already working fabulously together." A smile tugged at his lips as one leg delicately shifted atop his other, pretentiousness rich as he admired his view from his seat by the window. "I can tell what spots you've missed from here quite well; try leaning a little more to your left."

He had all the time in the world and more.

[angelusism-deactivated20140711]

Have fun, he says. Don’t take your job so seriously, he tells her.

Looking around at all the attendees of the ball, Kosmos can see what he would say that,… But even so, it’s difficult for the bodyguard to simply relax when there’s so many people around her employer. Though she’ll listen and do what she has been told, she doubts she’ll be able to truly let loose and have ‘fun’ in this particular social outing, especially since she’s dressed in… Well, business attire rather than a gown; she dons a simple black business suit with a pencil skirt, which perhaps makes her stick out more than other other attendee tonight.

So, picking out someone in the crowd that seems to be alone, Kosmos approaches them with her heels quickly clicking against the floor tiles, stopping mere inches away from them. Taking a moment to decide on how to approach ‘casual conversation’, she continues to stare them down (unintentionally) with her piercing crimson optics.

"… Good evening," she greets finally, her tone rather flat. "Are you enjoying yourself?"

[admortuis-blog]

The event had grown tiresome, particularly since he'd been spending most of his time teaching countless anonymous maidens how to step in the formation of a box. The facade had become so terribly repetitive that he'd managed to ditch his emerald rose altogether in abandonment of the responsibility he'd convinced others had been a voluntary act done out of altruism.

Seated now in a lonesome corner purposely chosen for its distance from the other dancers, Joshua leaned back in a mix of curious observance and sheer boredom. It's only when a peculiar woman approached his table with both clicking heels and a black suit that his attention was gained, his critical gaze shifting from the obnoxious crowd to the piercing red hues of his sudden guest.

Unfortunately, his impression falls as soon as she opens her mouth. Her greeting was standard, and her tone so flat he had half a mind to believe she was mocking him.

"I was," he admitted, humoring the question. There's some genuineness in her, at least, which is more than he can say for the majority of the people at this ball. "No need to force yourself to ask. Wouldn't want you to get hurt, dear."

[seclusives]

riddles and rhythms ✏ joshua & naminé

[admortuis-blog]

     For the most part, she’s a lingering concept amongst sailor knots tied to the mast - in other words, Naminé’s all too ready to turn on her heel and high-tail it out of there. After about a half an hour of indecision, for some odd reason she’s complied and standing in a line where someone has already agreed to teach her the steps of a waltz. Her knees threaten to buckle in wait, anxiousness crowding her head like eager birds pecking at a wire that’s already on edge. 

     She doesn’t want to bother anyone, even if it’s already clarified that this is a voluntary sort of thing. Despite that fact, the blonde is a mess of inquiries that hardly make sense— it’s a miracle that she isn’t stammering between every which-word. Fiddling her thumbs will just add onto the picture of disorientation, so she holds her breath and digs the toe of her flat into the linoleum. 

     Lower lip succumbing to her top row of teeth, she’s soon face to face with a pale boy with hair with a color akin to her own. He’s familiar - very much so, and it makes her skin itch in an oddly comfortable way, so she offers the tiniest of smiles. It would be rude to greet him any other way, and she’d never want to leave a lasting, bad impression. Tenting slender fingertips, the slight girl inclines her head before speaking up at last. 

     "I didn’t mean to keep you waiting— I’m sorry." Wasting time with apologetics and hypothetical scenarios where he might be angry might actually result in such, so she speaks up to the best of her ability. "My name is Naminé… I really appreciate you helping me!"

The precious emerald rose tucked within his dress pocket was not nearly as delicate as the petite blonde drawn by its symbol of opportunity.

Behind a mask that matched his little care for perfection, Joshua allowed a pleasant hum to escape through subtly curved lips. Docile digits interlocked with a demeanor that radiated soft regret was not how he pictured his partner to be, yet the familiarity of her figure allowed most judgment to fade as quickly as it had come. Her tender tone coupled with an introduction only confirmed his recollection, mood lifting at the chance to properly spend a song or two with someone who so kindly bestowed flowers to others.

"No need to apologize dear, you haven’t stepped on my toes just yet."

A more genuine smile appeared now with a lightheartedness intended to comfort. Taking her hand in his, he gently ushered them away from curious and critical stares alike, claiming a calm corner of the floor without delay.

“I’m Joshua,” he began, speaking in utmost casualness as he arranged their positions amidst words. Once her left hand is atop his shoulder, his grip curls around her right to lead, and a hold just above her waist slips around securely.

“—but you knew that.”

Admittedly, it had been with a feigned interest that he’d accepted the offer to teach the waltz. It was so pitiful a fact that there existed almost no one his age who knew how to dance formally that he really hadn’t much choice in the matter. Regardless, he supposed it was an experience worth strengthening his reputation for resumes to come, and so he attempted to make the most of the artificiality of the dancers as they basked in the material light.

“As I step forward with my left, you’ll move back with your right.” He planned to teach with as minimal spoken instruction as possible, believing actual practice to be more fruitful a learning experience. Following was truly as simple as it sounded, but it didn’t hurt to start with the basics. "The rest, you'll be happy to hear, is child's play."

[ephemeralsmoke-deactivated20150]

If he got out of this alive, he was going to find this dick and shoot him.

TO: ASSHOLE FROM: Badou

I can’t have any police be involved. And if you are not going to help me YOU SHOULD HAVE JUST FUCKING SAID THAT!

I DON’T GET PAID ENOUGH TO DEAL WITH THIS SHIT AND THEN FUCKER LIKE YOU.

[admortuis-blog]

Caps lock? Terrifying.

To: Boo hoo

now, now, it's not everyone who'll spell out common sense for you.

show a little gratitude.

[ephemeralsmoke-deactivated20150]

TO: Unhelpful Fuck From: Badou

That isn’t what I fucking asked.

How would you get out?

[admortuis-blog]

To: Bad boo

despite being taped, you have possession of a cellphone and the ability to text. if you cannot simply call the police at this point to let you out, then it's either one of two things.

1) there's someone you don't want arrested, either yourself or your kinky duo, or 2) you're entirely incompetent.