Braving the Concrete Jungle

Indie Hazuki Mikagi RP Blog Penned by ZanderMote

[angelicexorcist]

@the-composer​ asked:

"Tell me, dear friend..." Ah, an upgrade. "You don't remember much from being up there, right? I ask this because I am wondering if you, like other Angels, have that whole itch to worship thing, or if you, in being down here, have been rid of that urge. I assume you still have allegiance being a Composer, but I am curious how you feel about, I guess... faith... Enlighten me?" 

The question was a good one - good enough that Haz wasn’t able to answer it right away. They hadn’t considered how their time in Shibuya, their time away from the eyes of their superiors, had impacted their beliefs. They started with the easiest part.

“Well, I certainly still believe in... something.” The answer was vague, not out of obfuscation, but out of uncertainty. “The biggest lesson I’ve learned from your ward is that humans don’t need the ‘carrot and stick’ treatment I was told to enforce. And they will almost always make their own path, no matter how hard we work in service of a greater plan.”

Another pause hung in the air before they continued. “As for an itch to worship... I believe that may still be there, to an extent. More like an urge to admire.” The target of that admiration was left unsaid, although it almost certainly wasn’t unknown to either party. “What of your faith, dear?” They were already testing this new boundary. “What, if anything, do you... admire?”

[angelicexorcist]

the-composer​:

Joshua may have caused Haz’s heart to skip a beat before, but seeing him in his current state sent him straight into fight or flight mode. He clenched his hands white-knuckle tight to hide their shaking as he spoke up. “Something seems off, friend. How might I be able to help?" ༺  @angelicexorcist​​

“What ever do you mean, friend?” Hazuki’s correct in his speculation that’s something’s indeed off. Shadows of unknown source flicker like static against his silhouette, and there’s an aura of foreboding densifying around him, but otherwise he looked like himself.

Though not for much longer.

He made a beeline for his friend, drawn like a magnet to Hazuki’s unease. He’d managed to corner his fellow Composer with just the right amount of push and maneuver, using his body and force of will to coerce him to step back until he had him up against a wall – for no other purpose than to intimidate.

Going (literally) toe-to-toe put Joshua’s face within inches of the Angel’s, close enough to see every hue in Haz’s eyes, while his own were but an eerily flat plum.

“I feel just lovely… Don’t you? Here…” He leered. “…with me? Perhaps you like it so much you’d consider staying in Shibuya…”

Feeling Joshua’s energy at this range, it was clear that something was very wrong. As the Composer-shaped thing backed them into a corner, Haz found it difficult to meet the wild gaze baring down upon them. Their eyes instead darted back and forth, trying to locate the best escape route should things go any further south than they already have.

“I had been enjoying my time in your ward, yes,” they responded in a hushed tone. “Until something in the air changed. It seemed like the city itself wanted me to change who I was, to conform to some singular ideal rather than learning from its many experiences. It felt... unlike Shibuya.”

They could see the source of the changes right in front of them; Joshua was always possessive, but this is the first time Haz was ever worried about what would happen if they actually tried to leave. As much as they wanted to evacuate Shibuya, however, they couldn’t leave Joshua like this - it was as cruel as it was dangerous. “Perhaps we could go to Shinjuku together?” Haz might be able to do more to help Joshua there.

[angelicexorcist]

@the-composer​ // bounced

Haz wasn’t exactly surprised that Joshua had taken the opportunity to stake his claim, although the way he went about it was more gentle than they expected. It was soothing and foreboding all at once, the proverbial calm before the storm -- but braving this storm seemed well worth the risks.

“I think I’ve learned all I care to from my... previous superiors.” It was the first time Haz had said it out loud, and it showed in their delivery, almost as if they were finalizing the thought as they vocalized it. “I’m ready to follow whatever path you have in mind for me, friend.” They knew what they were in for... right?

[angelicexorcist]

// They finally have a second icon let’s gooooooo

[angelicexorcist]

the-composer​:

“I’ll admit you’re kind of growing on me.” The more time he spent in Haz’s company, learning about him, peeling back the layers of mystique, the less of a threat he seemed. “Maybe I’ll invite you into my secret garden sooner than later.” He doubted Shinjuku’s Composer would pick up the innuendo, but Joshua’s quite satisfied with himself, nonetheless. He commenced eating as he listened, furtively sneaking glances at his colleague sucking down noodles. (It’s a wonder he doesn’t get distracted, but he’s well versed in multitasking.)

His question’s indeed thought-provoking, and it’s a topic Joshua’s been secretly yearning to delve into with his fellow Composer.

“Well, I like to call it competitive collaboration. Collaboration’s ideal to the Realground. Human struggle enough to succeed. Competition is known to be destructive to self-esteem, interferes with learning, and can of course sabotage relationships. But the Underground doesn’t operate the same. Yes, Players have to win, but they are being judged on what they learn. That’s why entry fees exist to call into question one’s values and make them rethink their purpose. They can’t do that through your Game’s collaboration. They need the clash. They need to be challenged. Sure, collaboration is nurturing, but it doesn’t push you out of your comfort zone.” Joshua’s eyes didn’t waver once as he spoke. “Call it callous, but collaboration leaves too much room open to shirk responsibility as well as accountability.” It’s then he posed his own question: “But hey, different strokes. But since we’re on the subject, you still hold firm to your Game strategy?”

It was certainly no surprise that Joshua knew his stuff when it came to running Games, but Hazuki was enthralled by just how deeply he was able to speak on the human condition, and how thoughtful his Games’ construction really was. Another moment to add to the ever-expanding list of lessons they’ve learned during their stay in Shibuya.

“I’ll be honest, I’ve been considering some revisions.” The angel’s eyes went from admiring Joshua to staring at a far-off point as they thought through their next few sentences. “Competition certainly tests one’s limits, but with that comes a desperation that can make Players turn on one another. And we’re not testing for a Player’s ability to succeed by tearing down others.”

They finished off their last couple slurps of ramen, their eyes returning to once again lock onto Joshua’s, practically glowing with excitement. “I think I might experiment with a Game of extremes. Each Player could be tested in isolation for a few days; no teams, but no opportunity to sabotage others either. Then, the top players will have to work together towards a common objective at the end of the week as one big team.”

Hazuki leaned backwards into the booth, taking a deep breath after all that talking. “It’s still a work in progress, of course; I’d have to design an appropriate challenge for a whole Game’s worth of Players. But I think it allows us to really see what they’re made of – both apart and together.” Their eyes betrayed that they were desperate to hear what Joshua thought of the plan, almost as if they wanted approval from the fellow Composer.

[angelicexorcist]

the-composer​:

Unfortunately for someone like Hazuki who so seldom emoted, every aberration or fluctuation in their demeanor’s particularly notable. To Joshua, who’s been observing his colleague closely since their paths first converged in Shibuya, it’s glaringly obvious. Of course, the subject matter’s also appealing, so he’s naturally much more enthralled. Of all the discussions they’ve had so far, they’ve yet to really get personal with one another, and Joshua’s eager to get a look behind the curtain.

Joshua absorbed this vital information with growing satisfaction and a swell of triumph. Hazuki, whether or not they’re aware, was essentially outlining his composition. Every quality and attribute Joshua possessed in spades. Were they divulging this to be interpreted, or were they oblivious to the fact their fellow Composer fit the bill? Either way, it’s adorable, and he’s going to leverage this newfound knowledge, if only to test his theory.

“You really are open to growth… Perhaps I’d been judging you wrongly.”

He smoothed a palm from one side of the Composer’s back to the other and wrapped spidery digits around their shoulder in a show of camaraderie – or, at least it would be if Joshua weren’t pulling them in so close, close enough that Hazuki’s just about tucked up against him. He canted his head to angle his mouth toward Haz’s ear (as if he were telling a secret), breath a tickle with each word:

“I like the ones who can challenge me, too, both physically and mentally. I get bored very easily, you know. It’s rare I am faced with someone who isn’t afraid of me – someone who can play with my chaos. it’s never a dull moment with me, so I covet the ones who can keep up and be interesting enough to hold my attention.” He kept it purposely vague, curious to see what Hazuki would make of it all, if anything (and waiting to see how long it would take before they rejected his touch and proximity).

Hazuki’s eyes widened as Joshua pulled the two of them together, suddenly aware of their own vulnerability and unsure how to react. However, the sudden fear relaxed its grip as Joshua spoke, making Hazuki’s face redder with every word as a cocktail of other emotions wrapped their fingers around the angel’s heart.

“You certainly make an intimidating first impression.” Indeed, Haz couldn’t take the tremble out of their voice or the blush out of their cheeks as they tried to reign themselves in. “And you do keep yourself quite busy, even for someone with as many... obligations, as yourself. But, for what it’s worth... the more I’ve learned about you, the more you seem to be someone worth knowing.” Hazuki placed a hand over the one tightened around their shoulder, their thumb probing between the two. “Perhaps even learning from, if it wouldn’t be another obligation?”

[angelicexorcist]

kingsmedley​:

“Ah, of course! The pleasure’s all mine, hee hee.” The introduction didn’t exactly soothe his nerves, but at least now he knew who he was dealing with. He ignored the cold chill down his spine, because this person was his equal, and they were in his city, so he had the advantage. He was in control.

“You seem to already be aware of who I am, but the name’s Yoshiya Kiryu. You may call me Joshua.” He stood up and threw his arms out wide.

“Welcome to Shibuya! It’s really quite the lovely city, so I do hope you’ll enjoy your stay.”

Hazuki crossed their arms, but their expression remained neutral. “Thank you, Joshua. Always nice to have such a warm welcome – and of course, I’d be happy to return the favor should you ever wish to see Shinjuku.”

“I must agree, Shibuya seems quite a lovely place. Some of us were worried that it may not survive your... experiment.” It seems the Composer has a deeper knowledge of the Long Game than they may have let on. “It’s a relief to hear that you haven’t grown tired of your ward. Any plans for its future?” Hazuki took a step forward, almost leaning in to listen to what Joshua had to say next.

[angelicexorcist]

the-composer​:

“Ohh?” A hook at last. “It sounds like you’ve given it at least some thought to it that you acknowledge it… Sooo…” He’s practically beaming. “What–or who–attracts you?” His hot cappuccino has long since gone lukewarm from neglect. Fortunately espresso is just as delectable cool. “Any particular aesthetics or attributes?” Talk of Shibuya’s nightlife is shoved onto the back burner. Now that he’s got Hazuki on the hook, he’s not letting him wriggle off it until he’s satisfied. “What kind of composition strikes your fancy, Shinjuku?”

As soon as the conversation turns to their interests, Hazuki’s mannerisms begin to change – far less subtly than their usual slow gradients. “I may not have a satisfying answer for you, friend.” Their arms fold in around their chest, and they cross one leg over the other as they put together a response.

“I find it exciting when someone can... meet me at my level. I’m sure you can agree that I’m an inquisitive type, and seeing the same sharp mind in someone else makes me want to learn how they tick. Especially when their ideals are sharply different to my own.”

A finger tapped out Morse code against his arm, powered by excess nervous energy as he continued. “I suppose I just appreciate having someone I can learn from. Someone who isn’t afraid to challenge my worldview, and has the experience to back it up. That’s the best way to grow, isn’t it?” They didn’t even realize until they were finished talking that they had started to blush. They attempted to clear their throat nonchalantly. “I’m sure you have a much better idea of what you like. Perhaps your arrangement will be more enlightening?”

[angelicexorcist]

the-composer​:

“Our lawn pruning styles are unique unto themselves, I’ll give you that.” He can accept that sharing borders meant each side’s influence would inevitably seep through, hence the similarities. Still, Hazuki’s right in noting that despite the occasional blurring and blending, they remain widely different. It’s evident the cities are governed by two strong personalities (save for the 3 year long pitfall on a certain Purifier’s part). Joshua’s yet to identify what exactly makes up this Composer, and his worth as one, but he’s confident time will tell.

“Ha. Yes, that’s he nature of my dynamic city.” Which at this point of his own evolution runs like a well-oiled machine, with or without his influence as was proven by his lack of direct involvement during that period. But he wasn’t going to reveal that personal observation to Mikagi.

“Although it’s terribly cliche, I do subscribe to the belief that the only constant is change. That is how Shibuya operates, and the energy is always fresh. Stagnancy is a detriment to the collective Soul and creativity’s worst enemy. It can be extremely overstimulating, especially in our position, but when I need to catch my breath I seek out my safe havens here, or I tune down so I can’t hear everything at once.” He held back from further commentary, lest he reveal too much more on the first date. “So, friend, have you picked up anything here–figuratively or otherwise–that you’ll bring back to your city, and your Games?”

Hazuki certainly agreed that Shibuya’s hectic atmosphere could be overstimulating; even in their down-tuned state, they still found themselves getting a bit overwhelmed at times and needing to seek out the quieter parts of the ward. “You’ll have to show me around one of those safe havens sometime,” they remarked. “If I’ve earned enough trust to be allowed in, of course.”

They thought about Joshua’s last question for a good while, although the increasingly awkward silence was the only real indication that they were mulling it over. Their orders had been delivered in the time it took Hazuki to respond. “I’ve been thinking about how we run the Games.” They slurped up a mouthful of noodles, taking the time to finish calibrating their thoughts. “We are supposed to evaluate an individual’s Imagination, and yet we both allowed these individuals to form alliances – in your case, even mandated it.”

Their gaze becomes more puzzled as they looked between their violet-eyed lunch guest and the city outside the window. “You mentioned stagnation earlier. It seems like they only prevent their own stagnation when they interact with one another. Seeing fresh ideas, new angles of approach – it’s even why I’m here, now that I think about it.” Hazuki’s eyes rested on Joshua’s, the next line coming more quietly than the rest, as if they weren’t quite sure why they were saying it.

“So why do we pit them against each other? What does competition provide that collaboration doesn’t?”

[angelicexorcist]

“...I should call him–”

[angelicexorcist]

kingsmedley​:

Joshua nearly jumped at the sound of the unfamiliar voice. He looked up from his phone, eyes locking on his… unexpected guest. He had never seen this person before. He didn’t remember letting them in, either, but he kept the smile on his face like he was in control. Like his chest wasn’t tightening with fear.

“Oh, hello there,” he said cheerfully. “Who did you say you were, again?”

The stranger touched a hand to their head in a display of embarrassment that felt highly rehearsed. “Oh goodness, where are my manners? I forgot that we haven’t been introduced, being such close neighbors.”

“My name is Hazuki Mikagi. I’m the Composer for the Shinjuku ward. So nice to finally meet you, friend.” That last word wasn’t quite disingenuous, but it was laced with something that made it feel less like an olive branch and more like a dagger to the neck. “I just had to visit once you were finished with your game, if nothing more than to satisfy my curiosity.” Seems that they don’t intend on allowing their questions to go unanswered.

[angelicexorcist]

@kingsmedley​ wanted a starter!

“That was really something, I have to admit.” The Long Game had recently concluded, and whoever this newcomer was, they definitely weren’t supposed to be in the Pad. “You bet it all on that poor boy, and against all odds he came through.”

The intruder slowly scanned the room, taking in its many resplendent features as they continued. “We were all so fascinated by your methods that we couldn’t help but watch the whole thing play out. Forgive me for prying, but I have to ask: why pin the fate of your entire ward on one human? What is there to gain from a single person’s enlightenment when weighed against the Inversion of an entire city?”

[angelicexorcist]

the-composer​:

“Oh, you can get plenty attached to it once you try it.”Joshua giggled to himself at the word choice. It’s understandable, though; Angels by default are genderless and not built for reproduction, so interest in sex (and everything in between) wouldn’t be a natural interest. Joshua wouldn’t be surprised if the Angel’s not even had their first kiss. Precious.

“Do you think you’re capable of attraction?” He flicked his gaze to his colleague at his side while idly stirring his cappuccino. “I wonder if Angels develop that once they become… curious.” Curiosity was a deadly hook to get caught on. Joshua’s been a source of curiosity, so he’s all too familiar. “I am not so much into that scene, but there are some excellent shops there. I haven’t been to your city in a long time, though… Perhaps you could show me around for a change once it’s rebuilt, mm?”

“Attraction? Definitely.” The angel answers almost too quickly, their eyes darting away from Joshua’s as they realize their own eagerness. “When I’m not busy running a city, at least.” Hazuki had never been tuned down for this long, and it was producing some... interesting side effects. They hadn’t even considered relationships being an option for someone like themselves, until taking this little vacation.

“It’s only fair that you should get to see Shinjuku after all the time I’ve spent in your ward. I look forward to the day when I get to show you around, for a change.” They smiled, displaying a naivete that almost masked the implications of their last statement. “In the meantime, I suppose I’ll have to settle for Shibuya’s late night scene.”

[angelicexorcist]

Alright, time to roll this fella out. Starter call! Interact with this post for Haz to be set upon ye.

[angelicexorcist]

the-composer​:

“If only I could take all the credit, but Shibuya would thrive as the fashion district with or without me. I just…” He hooked his trademark curl and wound it tight to his cheek (a sign of him musing). “…tug a few strings every now and then.” That’s a gross under-exaggeration, but Joshua’s a silver-tongued liar without any remorse. If he wants a trend to take off, he’ll set it in motion. If he wanted to, he could (and has) get anything trending within the day. (Sometimes out of spite, but that’s a story for another day.) “Did you know 104 was founded in 1979? Shibuya was once home to the boom of gyaru fashion. Neat, right?”

Joshua suspended his history lesson when they arrived at the restaurant, and he thought nothing of Hazuki taking the lead until he realized –

“I do so love an assertive man.” Nevermind the fact he’s simmering. But really. he can’t be all that cross. Hazuki’s playing his game, just as he’d hoped. Ordering for him was quite the power move, and a risky call. He’s being challenged. It’s so cute. “Well. I guess this is an official date now.” He met his fellow Composer’s gaze with a hard-set smile before grabbing him by the sleeve of his jacket and pulling him toward a corner booth to settle into. “So, tell me what you’ve learned so far.”

The way Joshua talked about his city was always enthralling; his passionate and intricate knowledge was a deep well to drink from, and Haz was happy to take the opportunity every chance they got. It was almost a little disappointing when the lecture was interrupted, although the look on his face more than made up for it.

The angel was enjoying this little tug of war they found themselves in, both Composers making decisions for one another; Haz never considered themselves to be competitive, but Joshua brought something out of them that they still didn’t fully understand. One more thing to think about during their stay.

“It’s interesting, I can’t help but compare your district to Shinjuku. There’s a lot in common, of course; they’re neighboring wards, after all. But the things that are different are very different.” They look out the nearby window, at the busy streets, the people walking them, the shops vying for their attention. “Things change so quickly here. It’s been hard for me to pay attention the way I normally do; I don’t know how you keep up.”

Haz looks back at Joshua inquisitively. “Is there anything that anchors your focus? Some central tenet of Shibuya that you can always return to?”

[angelicexorcist]

@the-composer​ asked:

"So you haven't partaken in any of the activities you've seen in your red light district? I know you've undoubtedly gotten an eyeful of it... What do you think of all that?"

It was no surprise that Joshua was familiar with Kabukichō, given what Hazuki had heard about his hobbies outside of business hours. “I’ve seen what the humans get up to there, sure. It certainly seems like they enjoy themselves, but I suppose I’m just not as attached to it as they are.”

“Perhaps if I experienced it with someone I knew a little better, I’d find a reason to enjoy myself.” They pause for a moment, staring up at the tops of the city’s buildings as if deep in thought. “What about you, friend? Do any of my city’s nightlife attractions appeal to you?”

[angelicexorcist]

the-composer​:

There’s something so eccentrically charming about Hazuki buying (literally and figuratively) into brand representation, and looking so childishly enthused about it. If he weren’t who he was, Joshua might have found it wholesome. He regarded the massive bag with an arched brow.

“Impressive haul there.” He knew the little rat wasn’t strapped for cash. His gaze cut to the pin. “And quite the hard hitting pin, at that.” Joshua’s collecting details like bread crumbs as they progress. Every little tidbit, no matter how seemingly insignificant, can’t be overlooked. He scoffed at being so bluntly denied.

“Mmm… I have something much better than money to barter with to one day procure that jacket.” He dropped the ambiguous comment where he stood and swiftly pivoted on heel to distance himself from it and in turn string Hazuki along in tow. He knew he’d follow; he always does. Joshua was already walking them in the direction of Ken Doi’s. “Could it be Spicy Curry Don?” Joshua giggled to himself. Wouldn’t that be cute if he thought it was some niche place. Nonetheless, he’s not going to complain about being treated to lunch; Hazuki owed it to him for using his real name. “Either way, I’d be delighted to see what you like.”

Hazuki had seen pins in action before, of course, but never actually used one themselves. Hearing Joshua’s approval was oddly comforting – a comfort that was quickly replaced with irritation as he suddenly spun and walked away. Just as the Composer expected, Haz hurried to catch up, the busy streets of the city all but forcing them to walk behind Joshua rather than beside him.

“That’s the place,” they replied. “I’ve been trying to find spots that only the locals know about, to really immerse myself in your district’s culture.” They thought they might have had a leg up in this tête-à-tête by picking their destination, but clearly Joshua was already familiar. “So far all I’ve managed to glean is that Shibuya loves its shopping; I wonder if that’s your influence on the city, or vice versa?”

When they finally arrived at the “hidden gem” that was Spicy Curry Don, Haz made sure they made it to the counter before Joshua. It was time to test his boundaries yet again. “I’ll have the Triple Triad Plate, and...” They looked Joshua up and down once before turning back to the overhead menu. “He’ll have the Dal curry. Not too spicy.”