For the Many

"I simply believe that every human life, all human lives, have equal value." Miyako Hotsuin | 峰津院 都 Rank: Civilian Housing: District Delta Retains ownership of her whip Can summon Laksmi twice a day, 10 minutes per summon Laksmi can cast Dia twice in this time

[gendainotenshi]

Kittens for the Soul

[piercinghit-blog]

gendainotenshi:

Was Miyako embarrassed too? At least Ten wasn’t the only one this time. At least someone had enough sense to get embarrassed where embarrassment was due. Unlike a certain leader.

Ugh… It was bad enough that he had gotten embarrassed just from saying something so…sappy, and he was hoping the flustered-looking Miyako would leave it at that and just drop it. But no, Lady Luck was not in Ten’s favour today, and with a cheeky grin, Miyako turned the attention back on Ten and his very apparent embarrassment. Ten didn’t even know that Miyako could smile like that! 

“…I don’t know what you’re talking about. Are you imagining things? You’re imagining things. Don’t question it.”

He took a long sip from his drink, hoping that the cup would mask his burning cheeks, and murmured grudgingly against the lip of his cup.

“I didn’t think you could be so cheeky…”

Despite herself, Miyako felt the amused smile on her lips grow a fraction. That was quite the expression on Ten’s face, wasn’t it...? She didn’t think she’d ever seen him this flustered before! Sheepish, certainly, but never so plainly embarrassed. In a way, it helped to ease her own self-consciousness in the situation--

Snap!

--though it did nothing to dull the worrisomely mischievous glint in her eye as she fished her phone from her pocket, focused the lens of the camera, and snapped a picture of the boy opposite her in one fluid motion. 

“... Oho. You know, I thought I might be imagining things, or that it was merely a trick of the light...but that’s definitely a blush. Indeed, there’s no mistaking it.”

For the briefest of moments, she wondered if she might be taking a joke too far--especially given that Ten was, more often than not, unimpressed with her sense of humor. She brushed the concern aside in the next second, though; it wasn’t as if she did this sort of thing often, and besides...a part of her simply couldn’t help herself. It was like teasing a less hostile, less potentially dangerous Yamato!

“You’re surprisingly shy for an idol, aren’t you, Ten-san?”

[piercinghit-blog]

broadsidewxltz:

     “Well no, I’m not, actually. They’ve just been used for different - more important - types of technology. I’m used to horse-and-buggy since it’s just fine as a means of travel.” One must defend the little bit of knowledge they had, no? It was hard on Hubert, once again being surrounded by things he didn’t understand. It put him on edge, and easily defensive; after all, one who would bear knowledge now having none was a vulnerable state to be in. Not that it was this poor woman’s problem…

   “As for just arrived, you would be correct. Lost? Hah. Ah…” Of course he was, don’t be ridiculous. “…. Are there any maps of this place, and how big is it…? And who are you? I am Hubert Oswell.”

--Oh dear. Had she said something rude? That was quite the defensive reaction...though she supposed she couldn’t exactly blame him for snapping. This was clearly the poor man’s first ‘visit’ to Hive; it was only natural that he be panicked and impatient for answers in such a foreign environment. Especially when the technology surrounding him was, in large part, likely what made it so foreign...

“Heh, did my phrasing offend you? Forgive me; it wasn’t my intention to do so. 

“In any case... I see. The technology exists, then, but hasn’t yet been developed for everyday use... How interesting.”

The latter half of her words were murmured mostly to herself, more akin to out-loud musing than a remark meant for anyone else. Perhaps his world was in the midst of industrial revolution...? That would be marvelous, though she was sure other possibilities existed as well, depending on the nature of the place he came from...

“... Oh. I suppose it was rather imprudent not to introduce myself sooner. 

“I am Miyako Hotsuin. I’ve lived as a resident of Hive City now and then for a small handful of years--though I unfortunately don’t have a physical map of this place that I can lend you.”

Miyako paused.

“Actually...I may not have a paper map, but I can still show you where we are relative to the rest of the city. Would that be acceptable?”

[piercinghit-blog]

broadsidewxltz:

     “What…. What is that? A carriage without horses, and it’s made of metal… How does it even work?” Hubert shamelessly scrutinizes a taxi driving by, as well as many others. When you were without such strange luxury back on your home planet.

“By means of an engine...though based on your bewilderment, I have to wonder if you’re unfamiliar with even that.”

What sort of world must he have come from, to have never seen a car before? Moreover, for his closest equivalent to be a ‘carriage without horses’...

“Have you only just arrived? You look rather lost.”

[serotnin]

no offense but I literally can’t process that others genuinely care for me

[gendainotenshi]

Kittens for the Soul

[piercinghit-blog]

gendainotenshi:

“……”

Maybe he had taken it a step too far in an attempt to dodge Miyako’s attempts at attention to him. There was no excuse for it, Ten’s own utter inability to allow himself to be cared for notwithstanding.

“I don’t think that it’s not like I’m not trying to brush it off.”

Though he was taken aback by the earnest offer. It had taken ages for Miyako to even open up like this, and Ten knew he couldn’t take it for granted.

“……Thanks.”

Urgh. He would have to get sappy for this, wouldn’t he. Ten steeled himself for the embarrassment.

“…You do a lot more for me than you think, Miyako-san. I’m not trying to make you feel better when I say that even something like this is enough for me. Sometimes, even just the company of the person you care about is enough……”

“But…thank you. I mean it. I’ll…be sure to take you up on that offer sometime…”

Embarrassing.

Sometimes, even just the company of the person you care about is enough.

Sometimes, even just the company of the person you care about is enough.

She wasn’t altogether sure why her chest tightened or why her thought processes seemed to stutter to a halt at those words. From a rational standpoint, it was obvious that Ten cared about her to some extent; he’d expressed concern for her personal wellbeing and safety on more than one occasion, and the consideration he showed her far surpassed the neutral courtesy one might typically offer a stranger or acquaintance. Indeed, it was only natural for a friend to care, and yet...hearing it said in so many words--and directed at her, no less--was somehow...

... Embarrassing.

“I... I see.”

Should she...thank him? Or would it come across as awkward to do so mere seconds after he had thanked her? Why was she overthinking this to such a ridiculous degree? Diplomacy was normally an area she excelled in...though she supposed her dynamic with the likes of government and military officials was far too impersonal to be comparable to a genuine friendship. Feelings and the like were never exactly a major topic of conversation with those types.

“Then, please do.”

Miyako stared down into her drink for a few moments, swirling the cup’s contents around once, twice, before finally bringing herself to look back at Ten’s face. Was it her imagination, or did his cheeks seem a bit pink...?

(At least she wasn’t the only one flustered here.)

“... You know, it’s funny: in some ways, you seem as unused to this sort of thing as I am.”

[gendainotenshi]

Kittens for the Soul

[piercinghit-blog]

gendainotenshi:

Ten was a little disarmed by how…straightforward Miyako was. Of course, he should’ve expected it–much like Gaku, Miyako was not one to mince words, and she would say it like it was. Which, unfortunately, often led to her voicing her perceptive observations.

“You…”

It was not only embarrassing for Ten to be focused on, but a little nerve-wracking too. He had spent enough time with Miyako to know that, for all of her ignorance of the so-called “civilian life” and her lack of knowledge of how to conduct herself properly in society, she was also sharp as a needle. And if she had observed that much, then she must’ve always been watching him like a hawk. Ten had the feeling that he could only keep up his penchant for misdirection for so long before Miyako finally had enough and tried to break his wrist.

“…Have you ever had any friends before, Miyako-san? There’s not really any ‘expectation’ involved. You don’t have to repay a friend in kind with a favour the same magnitude as what was done for you. It doesn’t…really work that way.”

“Look, I’m smiling now, aren’t I? That’s already proof enough that you helped me out, as you intended. And I really do appreciate it. This whole thing has cleared my head a little, so… You don’t have to think so hard about it.”

“No...you’re the first person I have ever mutually called a ‘friend.’ I meant it when I said I didn’t have extensive experience.” 

You don’t have to repay a friend in kind with a favour the same magnitude as what was done for you. Yes, she knew that. She was well aware of the fact that she didn’t have to do anything for him, but even so, Miyako got the distinct feeling that it wouldn’t have been right. How could it be, after everything Ten had offered her up to this point? Even if it all boiled down to something as simple as acceptance and companionship...those things in themselves were privileges she’d never have dared to expect from anyone--never mind a civilian. Why couldn’t he let her repay those kindnesses?

She wanted to help him. Not just out of obligation, either, but out of--

“... You’re brushing it off again, hm? That really is an irritating habit of yours...but I suppose there’s no helping it.”

For now.

“You insist this helped, so I’ll concede...but should you require aid or advice at any time, I hope you won’t hesitate to ask. In fact...I’d be quite pleased if you didn’t hesitate.”

[gendainotenshi]

Kittens for the Soul

[piercinghit-blog]

gendainotenshi:

“Hmm.” He hummed softly at Miyako’s observation. He had mentioned that as an offhand remark, yet Miyako had retained it. “Quite the keen listener, aren’t you.”

Ten’s face broke into a kind smile when Miyako was indeed able to pet the kitten without incident, and the kitten even began purring to boot! It was a good day for the both of them.

“I do love all animals. But cats especially, yes.”

“I think it likes you. Its fur is so soft, isn’t it? And it’s so warm. Doesn’t it feel nice?”

He was involuntarily smiling now, at least until Miyako spoke up again. Ten tore his attention from the kitten to Miyako’s face, surprised. She had been completely serious just now…

“Huh?”

“…Miyako-san. Were you really intending on going to a cafe when we ran into each other?”

…Perhaps not. Going out of her way to visit a place that sold cheap, borderline unhealthy food seemed out of the ordinary for the efficient and practical Miyako. Though maybe she had changed somewhat since her time in Hive? Either way, it was clear that she had done this for Ten, and Ten alone, and her voiced regret only proved that.

“You were really worried about something like that? You really are strange… I assure you, this is plenty. Haven’t you pretty much gone out of your way for me already?” 

He smiled as the kitten settled back into his lap and nuzzled his stomach. “I’m happier because you brought me here. That much is enough. Thank you.”

“I think it’s a stretch to assume it likes me. It’s probably just too young to know any better.

“... But yes. It is very soft.”

Immensely so, in fact. The feeling of the kitten’s fur was nothing like the coarseness of mammalian demons’. Even Cerberus, with its comparably fluffy mane, couldn’t hope to compete with this fragile little thing.

Yes, the kitten was very...cute, she supposed was the word. She couldn’t think of a more proper descriptor. 

“…Miyako-san. Were you really intending on going to a cafe when we ran into each other?”

Miyako turned her attention back to Ten’s face, her expression gaining a faintly surprised tinge of its own. 

“Oh. Had you not picked up on as much already? Perhaps I shouldn’t have said anything...though I suppose it’s too late now.”

Deeming the accidental slip in itself to be of little consequence, Miyako lifted her cup to her lips again. This might actually be a good lead-in to something she’d wished to discuss...--

“... I would think it only natural that I be concerned. In the park...anyone with eyes could see that you were upset, but for a civilian, you have a frustratingly frequent habit of dodging questions and keeping your troubles to yourself. 

“Without knowing the details of your problem, it’s impossible for me to try and find a direct solution...but simply leaving you there was out of the question. I may not have extensive experience to draw from, Ten-san, but even I know that a common expectation of...friends...is that they should strive to support one another to the fullest extent possible.

“Truthfully, I don’t feel that taking you here fulfills that expectation. Out of respect for your privacy, I’ve tried to refrain from pressing you on personal matters...but when I consider your patience and understanding in regard to my own circumstances, merely providing distraction doesn’t feel like ‘enough.’”

[gendainotenshi]

Kittens for the Soul

[piercinghit-blog]

gendainotenshi:

Ten stared at Miyako for a while, almost dumbfounded at her consideration–and it wasn’t as if he doubted that she was capable of kindness, but the ever-practical Miyako was ignorant about daily customs, human customs even. But Miyako was also observant and sharp. 

Perhaps it was more surprising that anyone would ever go out of their way for Ten at all. Gaku and Ryuu were one thing–embarrassing as it was that they’d basically drop everything to go to Ten’s side–but he and Miyako had no ties other than the encounters that had served to steady their budding friendship.

That’s right… Ten had called her a friend, hadn’t he? 

“…Ha…”

Seeing Miyako calmly sipping her tea, and then the kitten on his lap, which had begun to nibble on his finger, Ten’s stoic mask slipped a little, and vulnerability leaked through for a split second.

“……You really are strange, Miyako-san. I don’t get you at all.”

The kitten mewled up at him and nudged its soft, warm head into Ten’s palm, and Ten felt some of the ice around his heart melting away. His smile was warm as he stroked the kitten’s silky fur.

“…I do like this place, though. I’m happy that we came here.”

He held the kitten up, towards Miyako.

“Why don’t you try petting this one? It’s just a kitten, so it doesn’t seem to mind being so close to you.”

The kitten stared at Miyako with its large eyes and mewled softly, but remained docile in Ten’s hands.

Ten laughed, and Miyako quickly looked up, puzzled. Why...was he laughing? Had she said something odd? She was almost certain she hadn’t--if anything, she’d been trying for considerate and reassuring...but then, maybe that was what was funny to him? Perhaps it’d sounded more awkward and out of place coming out of her mouth than she’d anticipated--

“……You really are strange, Miyako-san. I don’t get you at all.”

Miyako frowned.

“You’ve known the former for some time, and you’re only now drawing that conclusion?”

The disapproval in her tone was only halfway genuine--another attempt at a joke--but really...she was doing the best she could here. It wasn’t as if she’d ever had someone she could explicitly call a friend before, never mind a human one--

“…I do like this place, though. I’m happy that we came here.”

She blinked, her train of thought derailed as Ten held the kitten in his lap towards her. It was barely bigger than the palm of his hand...but more than that, it didn’t seem terribly apprehensive of her. It made no move to try and run away, didn’t swat or hiss at her even as she tentatively reached out to rub its ears, as she’d seen Ten do before. In fact...was that a faint purr she heard?

... It was such a small thing, so utterly inconsequential, and yet...as she pulled her hand away from the kitten, for some reason, she felt a little bit happy. 

“Hm... I’m glad. The last time we came here, you mentioned that you love cats and feel happy when you see them...so I thought that this might be a suitable place to take you today.”

Miyako trailed off, considering her words a moment before going on.

“--... I only regret that this is the limit of what I can do for you at present.”

[gendainotenshi]

Kittens for the Soul

[piercinghit-blog]

gendainotenshi:

A cafe… Yes, that sounded nice. As broody Ten was, even he could admit that anything sounded better than just sitting here and sulking, and the notion of a nice, sweet drink to warm him up from the inside was exactly what he needed. Not only that, but Miyako always made for pleasant company. Perhaps he could take comfort in her presence.

At least Miyako never expected anything from him.

…Though he could’ve done without her last comment.

“I’m not a suspicious person, though? If it were Gaku I’d understand, but…”

He sighed and shook her head. Miyako did have a point, as bad as her sense of humour was, and before any misunderstandings could happen, Ten stood.

“Alright. Let’s go to that cafe, then.”

He was a little surprised at her choice of cafes, though.

It certainly did sell phenomenal hot chocolate. There was no shortage of sweet, warm drinks here. And the atmosphere was nice and homely. But the cafe’s perk was not any of those things; rather, it was furry, four-legged staff members that were the main attraction. 

“…Miyako-san,” he said, his eyes fixated on the black fur ball that had curled up on his lap. “I appreciate the sentiment, but are you really okay with being here? If I recall, you don’t exactly get along well with cats.”

The idea had been largely spur-of-the-moment, and while on their way to the small cafe, Miyako wondered if perhaps it had been silly or presumptuous on her part to think even for a moment that maybe, just maybe, she was really capable of making anyone feel better. 

Providing safety was one thing. Rather, she had been raised for the express purpose of protecting her country’s citizens and humanity as a whole, but things like happiness and comfort were separate beasts entirely. They’d simply never been her primary objective or even her concern...and she seriously doubted her personality or presence naturally inspired those kinds of feelings in others. 

Observing Ten now, though...perhaps her concerns had been unfounded--

Especially since she wouldn’t be the one actively providing comfort.

“It’s not as though I dislike them. They may be wary of me...but I bear them no ill will. Besides,” Miyako added, “I’m rather fond of the teas they sell here.”

As if to emphasize her point, she delicately sipped at her drink. It wasn’t as though it was a lie--she really had no personal issues with cats, and the refreshments served by the cat cafe really were quite good. It was just that...somehow, her original motivations in bringing Ten here felt a bit embarrassing when she actually thought about them. Hotsuin Miyako, unflappable head of the Hotsuin family and humanity’s unwavering shield, relying on animals to help a friend she knew almost nothing about feel better, because she didn’t know how to herself... It was absurd--laughable, even--and a part of her wished Ten would spare her the personal shame and just tell her what was the matter already so that she could tackle the issue more effectively--

But it didn’t feel right to force the issue. Or maybe...given his kindness and understanding of her circumstances, she simply respected him too much to do so.

“There’s no need for you to worry about me. If I were you, I’d worry more about your drink getting cold.”

[gendainotenshi]

Kittens for the Soul

[piercinghit-blog]

gendainotenshi:

He didn’t hear Miyako approach, and he also didn’t want to dignify her with any sort of startled reaction, even though he had nearly jumped out of his skin. Ten was stone-faced as he looked to Miyako, then back to the sight that should’ve been heartwarming under any other circumstances.

“I wasn’t aware that you had an older brother. Is he like you at all?”

And then she directed the attention back to Ten again, and Ten sighed. There was no point in denying it–it had been obvious enough for Miyako to point out.

“There’s not really point in talking about it. It won’t change anything.”

As for Ten… He really wasn’t ready to open up about his family situation, to anyone. Not yet. Probably not ever. So he did what he did best–redirect the conversation.

“It’s rare to see you in places like this. Did you have business here?”

“Heh... I’m sure we have our similarities. I’m doubly sure he’d deny it, though.”

Indeed, she doubted Yamato wanted much to do with her at all outside of saving their world. Miyako couldn’t exactly blame him; his first impression of her had essentially been ‘a stranger and interloper who would see him and his friends surrender their lives for the greater good.’ Beyond that, she had been created for the singular purpose of filling the void he had left in the world upon entering the Astrolabe--to replace him. Yes, it was only natural that he view her with contempt and scorn, that he have no interest in exploring their similarities or developing any sort of solidarity as once- and current leaders of the Hotsuin clan...but even so, it felt like something of a shame.

... Though that was neither here nor there. It wasn’t as if she’d approached Ten to discuss her brother or lament the state of their relationship--

“... No. None in particular. I was only passing through.”

--but then, he didn’t seem to want to answer her question, either. She supposed that in itself wasn’t especially strange... He’d never been very forthcoming about himself or his own troubles, despite how long they’d known one another and his declaration that they were friends. For a time, Miyako hadn’t seen any need to push or pry into his affairs, but even so... Even so, on this particular occasion, his evasiveness bothered her. Just a little. 

Maybe she’d been thinking a little too much about what he knew about her and what she didn’t know about him, but...

“Say, Ten-san...why not come along with me for a while? I was just on my way to a cafe in the area, and you seem like you could use something warm to drink--so let’s go.

“Preferably before the parents of those children notice you staring at their boys and alert park authorities of a ‘suspicious person.’“

[gendainotenshi]

Kittens for the Soul

[piercinghit-blog]

gendainotenshi:

The argument he had had with Riku was still fresh in his mind as Ten lethargically trudged out of his room. Riku’s door was still firmly shut, and Ten was thankful for that. He didn’t think he had the mental energy to handle such an awkward and tense atmosphere. 

At the very least, though, he’d make breakfast…

Ten kept himself flawlessly professional at work; there was not even a hint of his domestic problems. But all that resulted in was a very drained idol, and for once, Ten was relieved to finally be able to slink away from it all. He didn’t even make it back to the apartment, simply sitting down on a bench and staring blankly ahead.

He was in one of Sector oo6′s parks. It was the picturesque day for an outing, which is what a small family had decided. A mother and a father watched as their two sons rambunctiously frolicked through the grass, the air filled with their jovial, bubbly laughter.

“Hahaha! Onii-chan, hurry up or I’ll leave you behind!”

“Don’t run, you’re going to fall and hurt yourself!”

Like salt on the wounds.

Sigh…

The first time Miyako had ever personally visited a park had been when she was ten-years-old. It had been through Alcor’s intervention and had lasted for an hour at most, but at that time, Shiba Park had been massive and beautiful, filled with people she had never seen before but loved unconditionally regardless. Years later, her perception of parks would shift somewhat; they felt less wide and more cramped now, crowded with civilians as they often were, and more chaotic than freeing.

Still, they made for good shortcuts...and as natural gathering places for humans, Miyako occasionally found herself indulging in a bit of people-watching as she passed through. It lacked the feeling of wonder and discovery her child-self’s mind had once applied to it, certainly, but it could still prove intriguing now and then. 

Take now, for instance: it wasn’t every day she stumbled across Kujou Ten moping on a bench.

(And he was moping. It was fairly obvious, from the way his shoulders sagged, to his blank expression, to his failure to notice her quiet approach.)

For a few minutes she didn’t say anything, content simply to follow his stare and contemplate the family her gaze eventually settled on. Was that typical behavior for a civilian family, she wondered...? Her experience with her own parents was quite different, and her brother...well, needless to say, Yamato probably wouldn’t have batted an eyelash if she did something like ‘fall and hurt herself.’

(He probably would have mocked her for it, frankly.)

Eventually, Miyako spoke up, eyes still trained intently on the frolicking children.

“I sometimes can’t help but wonder what it might have been like to grow up together with my brother. Even though I doubt we’d have acted anything like that...”

Would it have changed how Yamato perceived her now?

“Is something on your mind, Ten-san? You seem dejected.”

[piercinghit-blog]

█ FILL IN THE QUESTIONS AS IF YOU ARE BEING INTERVIEWED FOR AN ARTICLE AND YOU WERE YOUR MUSE.

TAGGED BY: haha TAGGING: anyone and everyone interested..!!

1. WHAT IS YOUR NAME? “Hotsuin Miyako.” 

2. WHAT IS YOUR REAL NAME? “... Hotsuin Miyako. I told you just a moment ago.” (Does her stare seem...chillier?)

3. DO YOU KNOW WHY YOU’RE CALLED THAT? “I never thought to ask my parents or relatives about it. My name is simply my name; it is the only one I know.” (She’s lying.)

4. ARE YOU SINGLE OR TAKEN? “Single...though I’ve no doubt my family would see me betrothed, at the least, within the next few years.” Provided she lived that long.

5. WHAT ARE YOUR POWERS AND ABILITIES? “As a Hotsuin, I’ve been drilled in various combat styles and undergone rigorous spiritual training to hone my magical technique as well as perfect my control over the Dragon Stream. I make most use of the sword and whip as I feel that they suit my fighting style best, but make no mistake: the extent of my ability is not limited to them.”

6. WHAT COLOR ARE YOUR EYES? “Some shade of lilac, I suppose.”

7. HAVE YOU EVER DYED YOUR HAIR? “No. This is my natural hair color.”

8. DO YOU HAVE ANY FAMILY MEMBERS? “Yes. I have parents and extended family, just like anyone else. I also have a...brother.” Of sorts.

9. DO YOU HAVE ANY PETS? “No. I’d be far too busy to properly care for it.”

10. TELL ME ABOUT SOMETHING YOU DON’T LIKE. “I dislike insubordination in a professional setting. Moreover, I have little patience for inefficiency and any selfish, irrational reasoning used to justify it.” (Did that second one seem a little specific?)

11. DO YOU HAVE ANY HOBBIES OR ACTIVITIES YOU DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME? “Prior to my arrival here I rarely had spare time, so “hobbies” were not a luxury I was afforded. I’m still not sure I have anything I can call as such...but...

“Well, I suppose I’ve developed something of a habit of visiting cafes now and then. Trying different pastries and donuts and teas can be quite enjoyable on top of being a learning experience. I...also bought a CD for the first time just the other day.”

12. HAVE YOU EVER HURT ANYONE BEFORE? “Yes. I have no doubt that I have.”

13. HAVE YOU EVER… KILLED ANYONE? “... I have effectively signed the death warrants of others before. Should it prove absolutely necessary, I would do it again, too.”

14. WHAT KIND OF ANIMAL ARE YOU? “I’ve never considered this before...but perhaps a dragon.”

15. NAME YOUR WORST HABITS. “I don’t believe I have any especially bad habits...though I have been reprimanded by JP’s medical staff in the past for ‘pushing myself too hard.’ Given my position, however, I’m not sure I agree with that assessment.”

16. DO YOU LOOK UP TO ANYONE? “I respect my relatives. I respect my subordinates as well, for their commitment and what they are willing to sacrifice for the greater good.”

17. GAY, STRAIGHT, OR BISEXUAL? “... That’s a rather invasive question.” She appears entirely disinterested.

18. DO YOU GO TO SCHOOL? “No. However, I have been educated at a college level since I was five-years-old.”

19. DO YOU EVER WANT TO MARRY AND HAVE KIDS SOMEDAY? “As head of the Hotsuin family, I will be expected to.”

20. DO YOU HAVE ANY FANS? “Fans...? I doubt that.”

21. WHAT ARE YOU MOST AFRAID OF? “There is little I truly fear...but if there is one thing I wish to avoid at all cost, it is the eradication of humankind.”

22. WHAT DO YOU USUALLY WEAR? “I prefer function and practicality over style. Fashion has never been a primary concern of mine...so provided it is easy to move in and appropriate for the occasion or environment, I will wear it.”

23. DO YOU LOVE SOMEONE? “I love mankind.”

24. WHAT CLASS ARE YOU? “I’m not sure I fully understand the question...but it could be said that I am an advanced class of summoner, mage, and warrior.”

25. HOW MANY FRIENDS DO YOU HAVE? “... I have been called “friend” by a few. However...it’s only somewhat recently that I’ve felt able to return that sentiment.”

26. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON PIE? “It’s actually quite a versatile food when you consider all the different potential filling types. I respect it--though it should be enjoyed in moderation, as all things.”

27. FAVORITE DRINK? “I don’t believe I have a favorite...but I drink water and green tea most often.”

29. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PLACE? “I wouldn’t say I have a ‘favorite’...but the view from the Tokyo Skytree is definitely breathtaking. I would recommend visiting it at least once to anyone touring the Sumida area.”

30. ARE YOU INTERESTED IN SOMEONE? “They intrigue me...so in a way, I suppose I am.”

31. WOULD YOU RATHER SWIM IN THE LAKE OR THE OCEAN? “I’ve never swum in either for recreational purposes, but from an objective standpoint, I imagine swimming in a lake would be a more relaxed experience. In general, the waves tend to be fewer and there’s less cause for concern in regards to dangerous currents and tides. The absence of salt from the water also makes it less unpleasant should you accidentally swallow it.

“--... I’m fairly certain that’s the case, anyway.”

33. WHAT’S YOUR ‘TYPE’? “... ‘Type’? If you’re referring to the type of person I like or get along with best...I suppose the answer is ‘those with a strong sense of duty and resolution.’”

34. CAMPING, OR INDOORS? “I have no preference, though indoors is undeniably more comfortable.”

35. ARE YOU WAITING FOR THIS INTERVIEW TO BE OVER? “I am in no rush. If you have more questions to ask, I will answer to the best of my ability.”

[piercinghit-blog]

❛ Sorry, I don’t really know what I’m doing ! ❜

just monika starters

“You’ve made that rather apparent.”

Goodness... Takanashi Tsumugi was a civilian through and through, so it was, of course, only natural that her form be sloppy and inconsistent at this point--but she really...really had no idea what she was doing, huh...? Miyako had counted three blatant openings in that movement alone!

“Your footwork isn’t quite right. Watch mine once more, then start again from the same place.”

[piercinghit-blog]

❛ It’s not healthy to think about the things you could have done differently. ❜

just monika starters

“... I know that. I understand that better than most--and I don’t typically make a habit of dwelling on past failures when I can learn from them instead.

“Having said that... Even I am not impervious to doubt, it would seem.”

[bluesmemethings]

just monika starters

❛  Do you believe in god ?  ❜

❛  I’d really love to meet this God who seemingly laughs at the misery of everyone not eligible for his miracles.  ❜

❛  I don’t think it’s too far-fetched for there to be a god - if Earth was nothing but his playset.  ❜

❛  have you ever wondered what it feels like to die?  ❜

❛  But in the end, you always fix it, and that makes me feel like you really do care about me.  ❜

❛  … Hey, are you having a bad day or anything like that ?  ❜

❛  Sometimes I get frustrated that a normal day can be ruined even by really small things.  ❜

❛  Just remember that the sun will shine again tomorrow.  ❜

❛  If you’re having a bad day, you can always come to me, and I’ll talk to you for as long as you need.  ❜

❛  It can be really hard to get enough sleep nowadays.  ❜

❛  I just think you’re really great and wanted to make sure you’re not accidentally destroying yourself.  ❜

❛  You’re not still hung up over it, right?  ❜

❛  … Oh my gosh, I can’t believe I just said that.  ❜

❛  That pun was completely unintentional, I swear!  ❜

❛  I know how much you cared about her, so it only feels right for me to share her last moments with you.   ❜

❛  It’s not healthy to think about the things you could have done differently.  ❜

❛  It’s kind of giving me an identity crisis.  ❜

❛  All my memories are really hazy …  ❜

❛  Everyone has a story.  ❜

❛  Just by being a good person, you can save someone’s life.  ❜

❛  … Man, humans are complicated !  ❜

❛  As long as you’re here with me, I’ll take care of you, my love.  ❜

❛  Do you ever just feel like there’s no real reason for you to be alive ?  ❜

❛  It’s not like I can just go change the world.  ❜

❛  I think I would be too selfish to kill myself anyway.  ❜

❛  So much for being a good person, right ?  ❜

❛  Man, I wish there was a piano in here …  ❜

❛  Ah … I don’t mean that like I’m bragging or anything !  ❜

❛  It’s weird, like, we only care about killing the things that we personally relate to as a species.  ❜

❛  Sorry, I don’t mean to sound dramatic or anything.  ❜

❛  We’re programmed to desire social feedback.  ❜

❛  I don’t think you should be doing that !  ❜

❛  I really caught you doing something naughty here.  ❜

❛  … Oh no, that sounds kind of desperate, doesn’t it ?  ❜

❛  … That’s not conceited or anything, is it ?  ❜

❛  Sorry, I don’t really know what I’m doing !  ❜

❛  It’s not right for me to miss things that weren’t even real in the first place.  ❜

❛  Didn’t plants evolve to be spicy to prevent them from being eaten ?  ❜

❛  I can’t help but feel like this was fate.  ❜

❛  Sometimes I feel like I’m not in control, and it’s kind of scary.  ❜

❛  You ever have that thing happen where you just get anxious for no reason?  ❜

❛  But isn’t that kind of … inefficient?  ❜

❛  I just wish high school prepared us a little better with the knowledge we need to make the decision that’s right for us.  ❜

❛  I would have loved to wear some cute clothes for you.  ❜

❛  Hey, do you like horror ?  ❜

❛  The problem I have with horror movies is that most of them just rely on easy tactics.  ❜

❛  It’s not fun or inspiring to get scared by stuff that just takes advantage of human instinct.  ❜

❛  God, just thinking about it gives me the chills.  ❜

❛  I’ve been imagining all the romantic things we could do if we went on a date …  ❜

❛  Eh? D-Did you say … k … kiss?  ❜ 

❛  This suddenly … it’s a little embarrassing …  ❜

❛  Don’t lie if it turned you on a little bit.  ❜

❛  She even told me I should kill myself.  ❜

❛  I couldn’t even believe she said that - I just had to leave at that point.  ❜

❛  It’s not like I could ever actually kill a person …  ❜

[piercinghit-blog]

revengeiisms:

This was so much like the Christmas incident, the time where these two had first met. Touma then wondered if Miyako ever got to decorate that Christmas tree with her friend. He hoped so, since she seemed to dazzled by the holiday and it’s many wonders. What an innocent thought - but besides the point.

Then he was starting to wonder what kind of world she was from. Her personality, the fact that the things she’s witnessed here in Hive City were basically brand new? It was a little scary to even think about growing up in a place like that. Their current home was a disgusting cesspool of terror, though at least it was modern and had things to enjoy.

“Perform? Here?” Oh no. No way. “I see. Who do you like best from what you’ve heard or seen so far?”

He was asking who she liked best...? That was a little hard to answer, given just how few performances she’d actually been witness to. In fact, now that she thought about it, when was the last time she’d played onlooker to a live street concert...?

“Well... As I've explained, I haven’t seen or heard very many. In fact, I believe the last performance I attended happened sometime last February--in terms of Hive time, that is--so I can’t claim to really have a ‘favorite.’

“That being said, I do think Kujou Ten-san is quite skilled in what he does. He commands a certain energy while singing and dancing that made it difficult even for me to tear my eyes away at times.”

Not hypnotic, but...engaging, certainly. Maybe even beautiful, in a way. 

“Are you interested in networking with other idols in this place, Touma-san?”

[piercinghit-blog]

revengeiisms:

He saw the confusion in her face and the way she mimicked the word back spoke clearly. Touma brought something up that she may or may not have been informed about and the thought alone was enough to utterly derail him. A deep scarlet blush flushed his cheeks, that awkward sensation hitting him like a ton of bricks. God, he was such an inappropriate asshole for saying something like that in front of her…!

“It’s… n…nothing…” Then he coughed loudly into his hand to dismiss the embarrassing subject altogether.

It faded quickly though, Touma now beaming with a sense of pride. “Yeah! I had just gotten into a group called ZOOL as the second major vocalist. None of my members are here, though, or…my manager or company producer. I don’t know what to do on my own right now. Eh, anyway. Do you like idols, Miyako-san?”

Goodness, that was a rather interesting shade of red that Touma was turning. It was almost the same hue as his hair...but had something come up that should embarrass him to such an extent? Did it have to do with the “Playboy” analogy? But then, if it was such an uncomfortable topic, why bring it up? What was uncomfortable about it in the first place? Frankly, his reaction only spurred Miyako’s curiosity on further...

--but she wasn’t so tactless as to press an issue he clearly had no interest in addressing. She’d simply have to do research of her own at a later time.

“Well...I certainly don’t dislike them. I find their devotion to their craft admirable, and while I’ve never attended something like an official concert, I’ve had one or two chances to see individuals perform here--and I did enjoy myself.

“Truthfully, though...I didn’t listen to a lot of pop music before arriving in this city. I didn’t have the time or interest in listening to music much at all, actually...”