You're staring, you know.

rap sheet / ♡ / dorm / track / aim / 48

[sbtrie]

`en garde » we do fight

task #2

If anyone had told Rie boomerang training would be a part of her schedules, she’d have laughed out loud. 

But that was precisely the case these past weeks, and for all of her initial eye rolling and claims it would be a breeze– she was finding herself competing against the wooden tool with a fervour she hadn’t accounted for. Admittedly, she knew little of it, and everything she thought she knew was born out of early morning cartoons. As the trainer made a point of letting her know; she had a lot to learn in a short amount of time. At first she’d expected it to return to her, because that’s what she’d seen all of her animated counterparts do. But that was far from the case, and the tool would clunk where it hit the floor, or narrowly missed a pillar as it stopped against a wall.

Her aim wasn’t all that impressive either, but she was complimented on her throwing arm. She could arc the boomerang and throw it at a distance even her trainer hadn’t expected; but her aim left a lot to be desired. The non-returning ones were a lot safer, in that she failed to run the risk of hitting herself in the head on the return back. By the end of each lesson, her fingers were calloused from the effort it had taken, elbow strained from all the throwing it consisted of. Rie was bummed out that she couldn’t share the news with her friends, and had to keep to vague explanations when anyone would ask– yet her fellow members knew, understood what training meant. The variety in weapons for their characters was amusing to say the least, and she couldn’t help but wonder if she’d been jipped. 

She supposed a boomerang suited Lucky, even it took more than just a little luck to straighten her aim, and knock down the targets in succession. The cameras were nerve wracking, and the older actor across her calm, but she aimed like she’d practiced, directing her returning boomerang for his head with an exaggerated holler. It was different under the limelight of expectancy, and their loose training clothes. She was aware of the staff following their every move, but she narrowed in her focus, and took to trusting Lucky. She would take her enemies down with an ease– doing as much as she could to disarm before causing deathly harm.

“Better!” The actor goaded, grinning as she returned his expression and made to reach for another that had been strapped behind her back. The character was equipped with the one, but they had her training with returning and non returning boomerangs, so as to get comfortable handling both. She liked the sizzle of adrenaline and couldn’t let herself be bothered by the refreshing sheen of sweat and pink that dotted her cheeks as she ducked and aimed for the actor’s padded knees.

[sbtrie]

`bts » we do fight

task #1

Rie was getting used to the cameras. 

At first it had been strange, not all too sure as to where she should look. All too used to maintaining eye contact, having to force herself to do the exact opposite; essentially pretend the lenses didn’t exist– it was a jump from what she’d engrained in herself several years before. But she was learning, and wasn’t that what all of this was about? They’d been told between what little space they could find in their packed schedules that the interviews would occur. Promised to be relatively short, it was nothing to be nervous about, and when she was eventually called into the room, her hair was askew, cheeks pink from the effort of their combat lessons. They were still in the midst of rehearsals, so her appearance was met with a staff member who clicked her teeth as she fussed over Rie’s hair. Laughing out loud at her concentrated expression, she shook her head, merely tying her dark hair up into two ponytails with a spare elastic. It always seemed to do the trick.

Settling into the offered seat, she appreciated the director’s reassurances, and swore inside her head to be herself. As the recording began, the hot glare of the lights made her skin warm, but she kept her eyes on the camera. She couldn’t say she was surprised by the first question. A sheepish smile touched the corner of her mouth as she began. “Well, I was surprised like everyone else! We didn’t know anything about it until the announcement, and that’s not the sort of thing you imagine will happen so soon, y’know? I got a little nervous too, but then I got really excited and I sort of haven’t stopped feeling that way since.” Chuckling at her admission, it was easy to be nonchalant, as the staff on the other end of the camera were familiar. She found the second question to be a little more difficult, and had to hum in hushed thought. Rubbing her chin, she eyed the camera suspiciously, teasing. “If you’re lookin’ to get some insider information, you’re not getting any from me. Without giving anything away, huh... a role like this means a lot of practice. Without getting into the specifics of course, she’s stronger than me in a lot of ways. Does things I don’t think I ever could– but I s’pose that’s what’s so great about acting, right? Y’get the chance to do things you might never do otherwise, be people you never would’ve thought.” Unsure as to how much she could in fact reveal, she kept to a vagueness that was perhaps less informational than she liked. Pursing her mouth in brief thought, realization dawned on her features as she tacked on enthusiastically. “She’s a lot cooler than me, I can tell you that! Look forward to it. I think you guys’ll be pleasantly surprised with what we’ve got up our sleeves.”

She waggled her eyebrows in as conspicuous a way possible. It felt like the right thing to do.

[sbtrie]

`four » handshake event

Despite the fact they’d eaten only hours before, Rie was hungry. Her lunch break had been restrained, weary of the fact they were scheduled to perform soon after. She couldn’t indulge in their catered meal as she’d hoped. Now on the last stretch of the event, she could feel the annoyance of hunger gnawing at the pit of her stomach. From time to time she could swear it groaned, but the sound of their chatter and introductions was loud enough to shield the sound. 

It wasn’t to say she was embarrassed. Not at all, as everyone required food to function properly. Even if her line had become progressively shorter throughout the day, the appearance of fans spread out in the last few blocs. She didn’t mind. She was grateful for any face that would appear, and was determined to keep her grin in place, energy at an all time high, even if her stomach pleaded differently. The end was drawing near, and she noticed the hint of exhaustion hiding behind some of the girls’ eyes. It was brief and one would only notice it if they took a good long look. She hadn’t gotten to know her group mates all that well yet, but she thought she’d spent enough time with them to catch the expressions from time to time. Waving with two hands in an excitement that wouldn’t look feigned, her attention piqued at the slow and sheepish approach of a woman who couldn’t be much older than her. 

It was hard to keep her eyes on the woman’s dainty features when the strawberry roll cake between her hands beckoned Rie’s attention. “It was your birthday yesterday, wasn’t it? I know this isn’t much but.. happy birthday, Pocchari.” There was no escaping the embarrassment overtaking the gentle looking woman’s eyes as she spoke Rie’s nickname. It softened her grin, and toned down what might’ve originally been a burst of enthusiasm. She didn’t want to scare her off. Grateful for the thought she’d put behind the gift, she accepted the wrapped cake, admiring the flower designs embedded in the roll before grasping her hands between her own. Even her fingers were slight, and Rie felt like the hulk stood before her. 

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart– from the bottom of my gut too.” Playful in her grin, she wondered of her age, and spotted the coordinator who suspiciously eyed the roll cake between them. She wasn’t giving it up no matter how hard they tried to take it away from her. “I’ll do my best to keep that precious smile on your face, so long as you promise to keep your kind heart.” Maybe it was a bit mushier than Rie’s usual remarks, but she couldn’t help herself. She was touched by the young woman’s gift, and the shy peek of teeth behind the other’s smile convinced her that what she’d said had been right. Squeezing her hands in her palms, she was near reluctant to let go, so in a quick show of defiance she wrapped her arms around her tiny frame in a spontaneous hug. “Y’really shouldn’t have, thank you!” Her smile threatened to burst her cheeks, but she waved excitedly at the woman’s departing back.

Soon after, their coordinator would try to inspect the roll cake, and Rie would hold onto it for dear life. By the time she’d make it back home, it would be a little squished, frosting having already begun to melt. But it would still be the best tasting thing she’d eaten all day.

[sbtrie]

`three » handshake event

“I’m your biggest fan!” 

“You’ve got my support.”

“I’ll be keeping an eye on you, Rie-chan!” 

These were all iterations of the same thing she’d heard. Most of the sentiments she was told were kind in their voice, encouraging in their phrasing. It didn’t matter if she’d heard the words only a few minutes before, every shared kindness felt new, and pulled her cheeks into a genuine smile. So when she was met with the words of a young man, he couldn’t have been any older than fifteen, her brows raised in quieted curiousity.

"Don’t you think you should lose some weight?” Rie had learnt a long time not to be offended. It didn’t do her any good, and the opinions of others mattered little in the face of what she thought of herself. He was young, and she knew with youth came a candidness that was often discouraged the older people became. So instead she accepted his outstretched hand, letting something like hushed amusement quirk the corner of her mouth. She wasn’t a fan of making a scene, so instead she asked, smiling curiously. “Why’s that?” She didn’t make any mention of the fact the young man hadn’t introduced himself. He clearly had something on his mind, and she was eager to get to the core of it before he was directed away. “You could probably make front row if you did.”

It was just as she expected. And her mouth widened into a grin despite herself, seemingly surprising the kid. It looked as if he’d expected a different reaction, and she squeezed his hand, as she whispered in hushed conspiracy. “How’s about this. You look like you’re in senior high.. so I bet I can make it the front without losing a single pound by the time you graduate. You owe me a meal if I do– shake on it?” She could see the gears whirring in his head as he considered her offer. Eventually he nodded, reaching for her hand in a shake that was more resolute than before. “Deal. And if I win, I get to spend a day with you and the other girls.” Rie had to give it to him. He’d countered her with a solid offer of his own. Entertained by the way things had gone, she nodded, matter of fact, and kept a determined expression until he was out of sight.

Then she let the laughing grin bloom across her lips. Their fans were certainly something. She had a lot of work ahead of herself if she was going to win.

[sbtrie]

`two » handshake event

In hindsight, she should’ve seen it coming.

She’d done everything in her power to deter them from coming over. She’d tried every excuse; tickets were sold out, they were wasting their time, they weren’t being reasonable. But of course all of her attempts were only met with a strengthened desire to see her all the same. On any other occasion maybe she wouldn’t mind it so much, encourage it even. But the moment they’d been shown their event outfits, she knew she’d never hear the end of it. Admittedly, Rie thought the skirt and blouse combination was cute. A little shorter than she’d expected, sure, but she’d worn worse. 

She felt irrevocably feminine in the clothes, and considering the heat that wavered above their heads where they stood– she was grateful for the exposed skin. Up until she spotted her coworkers’ heads bobbing in line before her. She knew they saw her long before she ever saw them, and they grinned from their place, waving in what she could only guess was amusement. Keeping herself from rolling her eyes, the second bloc had proven itself as busy as the last. Shaking the hand of a particularly shy man, she shot him a reassuring grin, calling out his name as she waved goodbye. The surprised look that glazed his features, what looked like a blush threatened to dust his cheeks made her laugh to herself. It was funny to think she could do that. 

“So this is what you left us for.” Her coworker’s expression was playful at best, and RIe was comfortable in rolling her eyes, shaking her head as she considered keeping her hands to her side. But people were around them, and it was only fair considering how long she’d stood in line to see her. “At least I’m still cute.” Grinning impishly, Rie relished in her laugh, and squeezed her hands between her own. “It doesn’t matter what I say, does it? You’re gonna’ still show up at these things.” She nodded like she knew exactly what the idol was thinking, and she resigned to a playful sigh, promising to mail and waving her off before her other coworkers’ took her place. They’d lined up in a seeming order, and just when she thought she’d had enough of their teasing remarks, another friend would appear to tease.

As much as she tried to complain, she was grateful. But not entirely willing to admit that. So she teased back, feigning sighs as they approached and bantered for as long they could. Rie was a bit miffed the time allotted for each handshake was so short, but she understood. The day was long enough as it was. Waving off the last of her friends, the inside of her belly had lightened, relieved by the sights and sounds of familiar faces. 

It hadn’t been all that bad.

[sbtrie]

`one » handshake event

All the preparation in the world couldn’t have prepared her for this.

The roped poles confining the lines of people before them was intimidating to say the least. She could hear the buzz of the waiting supporters behind the curtains above the din of her heartbeat. Rie wasn’t a normally nervous person. She’d gotten better at squelching the bundle of butterflies that threatened to hold her back as a child. That wasn’t to say she was never flushed by the rush of anxiety, as she took great care in maintaining the rush of exhilaration as often as she could. It kept her working harder, made her better at the things she did. She’d convinced herself that this was no different from meeting friends. They were all here for the same thing, weren’t they? To meet one another, field their mutual support and hopefully begin a long friendship.

She couldn’t quite wrap her head around the fact she was an idol. It didn’t seem to make all that much sense. Not that she didn’t believe in herself. No, she had a justifiable swell of confidence within her that wouldn’t lead her astray. It was hard to believe all of these people had shown up for them, that they had taken time out of their lives on a warm saturday to meet with them. The thought alone made her gush. Rie was all smiles and coos as they were lined up in their appropriate places, and the event begun. Her first handshake was a memorable occasion to say the least. More so as a young set of twins toddled up the steps with the help of their pretty mother.

“Ohhh, I could eat you two right up!” Rie couldn’t help herself, she was cooing, face pulled in a genuine expression of delight as she reached for the young children. They were toddlers, their heads barely reaching the top of the table, but that wouldn’t stop her. “May I?” Quietly sending the sheepish mother a curious look, she held back a squeal as they were loaded up into the mother’s arms, making them all the closer for her to squeeze their soft little hands. They were both chubby cheeked, rosy in their appearances with gummy smiles that bloomed as their eyes met with hers. Rie couldn’t believe her luck. “What’re your names, huh? No wait– lemme’ guess. You’re cutie number one, and you must be cutie number two.” Pinching their cheeks for good measure, their smiling mother chuckled, and quickly explained.

“They touch the screen every time you’re on the tv. They’re big fans, and couldn’t wait to meet you.. look, it’s Rie-chan. The funny one from the tv.” The moment the twins giggled, Rie knew she was a goner. She clenched the front of her blouse in feigned pain, smiling wide as she tickled the bottoms of their chins. “You guys’ll visit me again soon, won’t you?” Playfully nibbling on their fingertips, she reluctantly let go of their hands and thanked their mother profusely, encouraging her to bring them again. Just as quickly, she made to reach for her hand and shook it happily. Before she forgot. 

Rie got the feeling they’d be the cutest fans she’d meet all day.

[sbtrie]

[ man in his early 30s, obviously trying to look younger than he actually is ]

Terada called himself the handshake professional. He went to all the handshakes held in Tokyo, and not just the 48s or the 46s, he had even went to a Morning Musume and C-ute handshake. As the handshake professional, there was no way he was going to miss MNT48’s first handshake event! Just like he hadn’t missed NGT48’s! And the event was a Saturday; wasn’t this perfect? But he always ended up with the same issue; so little time, too many girls. With time, he had developed techniques to pick out the most interesting girls only. 8 tickets, 8 girls. His first pick had naturally gone to Rie. She looked like the type of girl who would be interesting during a handshake event.

And so, first bloc, somewhere in the beginning of the line, here he was. Seconds passed, even several minutes, before he could enter the booth. As soon as he got in he raised his hand. “Hello!!” He said energetically before coming closer to shake her hand. “Rie-san! You have 10 seconds left to fish me! What are you going to do?” He waited for her reply expectantly. 

Most of the handshakes generally went the same way. People of all shapes and sizes would approach, some with shy smiles, others with accepting grins. It was only their first bloc of handshakes, and yet a long stream of supporters were making themselves known. Though they’d been prepared, told of what they should expect, she was still a little caught off guard anyway. More so as a man approached, spritely in his gait, even if his hair gave away to bits and pieces of his real age. He was excited though, and she couldn’t help but return the same energy he gave off. It was an amazing experience, and to be met with so many kind people was a blessing in disguise. As she took to reaching forward, smile broad, her attention piqued at what sounded like a ultimatum. Years before she might have panicked, but now, she’d learnt to expect the unexpected.

“Playing hard to get, are we?” Mouth crooking into a little show of amusement, she released his hands if only to throw hers back behind her shoulder. Wordlessly she mimed a fishing rod, throwing the imaginary reel out before her as she pretended to hook the waiting male. Maybe it wasn’t what he’d been hoping for, but she liked this short show of fun, and she proceeded to “reel” him in, pulling her face into exaggerated expressions of effort. One second she was struggling to “reel” him in, and the next she was bending across the table with a hooded look. Her lips were slow to form a treacherous grin.

“Pocchari always gets her man.” If she was creepy, so be it. It was hard to keep from laughing out loud though, and before she could help herself, she exploded into a bubble of chuckles. Face melting back into a humble grin, she shook the older man’s hand in a final sturdy hold. “Consider yourself hooked!” Teasing even as the next supporter was led into place, she waved goodbye, waggling her brows as if to appeal.

Maybe she’d gone too literal. 

[sbtrie]

The male tapped his feet along the ground as he waited, almost anxiously. A male in his mid-twenties, with a large build, he was wearing a simple shirt and jeans, tummy bump lightly peeking from under the shirt as he fanned himself. The male bought several tickets in a row, hoping to check out a good bulk of MNT girls. Ever since he first laid eyes on the group via the press conference, he recalled how excited he was for the new group. His gut feeling told him that they were the next big thing, and he just knew he had to be part of it.

And among the girls, he had been excited to meet Rie. She looked like the kind with a loud personality, the kind to inject energy into his dull, 9 to 5 work day life. Besides, he was never one for conventional, perfect idols. Idols with a unique personality! That’s what he wanted to see - and he hoped he made a right choice with that.

“Good day, good day, ha ha ha!” he laughed, loud and boisterous, waving his hands before stepping close. She was smaller then he would have thought, seated by the other girls with petite frames, but not so much in front of his larger build. Reaching out one hand for the handshake, he grinned, “I have high hopes for you, Rie-chan! You look like you’re shining with so much personality already, ha ha ha!”

“It’s a great day now that you’re here!” 

Rie wasn’t above shameless flattery. Not with her patented grin and the genuine excitement that bubbled under her skin every time a supporter approached. It had been a long day, and all of the girls were feeling it as the day waned on. But she couldn’t begin to imagine how the fans must’ve felt. She knew smiling like she did, laughter threatening the edges of her wide mouth, was the least she could do. As a young woman who wasn’t all that tall herself, it was never a surprise to have to tilt her upwards to catch the eyes of those who came up for a handshake. There was no helping her grin at the male’s kind words, and she shook his large hand between two of her own. Hoping she could funnel all of her appreciation through the simple touch if nothing more. 

“Shining? That’s just some of the glitter and sweat–” Snickering under her breath, it was easy to tease in this atmosphere. Even though the people she met were essentially strangers, there was an ease strung between all of them that made it all the more fun for her to play along. Humour them as a show of thanks for the hours they’d spent waiting in lines. “I promise to not disappoint, so long as you promise to come and see me again.” She wasn’t above marketing herself a little either. Her work in retail had honed that ability, on top of the fact she’d always felt inclined to prove herself to others. Sending the husky man a mischievous grin, she shook his hand once more, before he was directed further along.

“Let’s meet again soon!” Rie thought it was a shame how short the meetings were sometimes.

[sbtsuzuran]

in other words: useless ft rie*suzuran

[sbtsuzuran]

Life was against her. Life hated her. Suzuran didn’t know in which ways she had sinned in her past life, but she was paying the hard price for it. Why this girl didn’t simply continued her shopping? Why did she even notice she was an employee? Why didn’t she know exactly what she was looking for when she came in? If this had been an anime, Suzuran would’ve fell on her knees and screamed “No~!” for ten seconds. But this was real life and she had to keep smiling as the girl explained her situation. A… fire lizard? Which on was that even? She knew a fire dragon but she had completely forgotten about a lizard. She nodded and hummed, glancing around in hopes to find one of her coworkers nearby to get her out of this tricky situation. But there was no one around to pull her out of her misery.

“Well…” She started. “Pikachu is always a good choice, I must say.” The teenage girl purposely ignored the lizard, to not let too much of her ignorance show. “Especially if it’s a gift. Girls and boys both like Pikachu usually” Even she knew about the yellow mouse. Or was it something else? It looked like a giant mouse to her, anyway. “We have Pikachu pillows, they are more useful than a simple plush in my opinion.” And at least, she knew where those pillows were in the stores. She smiled even more, hoping that the girl would fall in trap and be an easy case to deal with.

[sbtrie]

Rie liked to think she was a patient woman. For the most part anyway.

She couldn’t help but notice the young woman’s skittering gaze, as if she did her best to avoid Rie’s look at every corner. Or maybe she was just looking too deep into these sort of things. The store was as busy as one could expect at this time of day, brimming with young and old, girls and boys alike. With their brief collision at hand, she could only suppose the employee was looking out so as to keep from colliding with anyone else. She couldn’t blame her if that was the case. But her thoughts derailed as she proceeded to make suggestions she hadn’t entirely considered. To be fair, Rie wasn’t all that sure which pocket monster was her coworker’s favourite to begin with. Maybe she should have planned ahead, asked her as discreetly as possible– but the thought had flown right by her. Nodding along, she listened with pointed interest, realizing she wasn’t surprised by the amount of options made readily available.

“S’pose you got a point... can’t go wrong with the cute rodents, huh? All I know is that she loves ‘em, has for years. See, her birthday’s coming up.. and I wanted to get her something cute yet cool.” Eyeing the tower of pikachus behind the employee’s pretty head, she hummed in thought. “I think she’s already got the pillow actually.. wasn’t there a monster with a big tongue or something? I think it was pink. I don’t know– you’re the expert ‘ere.” Rie sent up a guileless grin, completely naive to the fact she and the other woman were pretty much set in the same boat. But she knew little to begin with anyway, and she reached for a shelf of keychains mindlessly. They were cute, she’d give it that.

[sbtrie]

[ Male, 30 years old, salaryman. Short receding hair, casually dressed with thick framed glasses, serious disposition

Special Req: Creepy Fan ]

This wouldn’t be his first handshake event. He had gone to a lot from ANGERME, AKB48, Nogizaka46, Kobushi – you name it, he’d probably had been to it. He’s an old soul and for him, getting CDs are always far better than downloading into a computer. He also got the bonus of touching his idol’s smooth soft skin. Supple with youthfulness that he’d love to just suck right out of their very pore.

And with Pocchari-chan – Ah, what a fitting name for her it was – the desire to actually come up and put his lips on her skin was undeniably huge. She was plump and he liked plump women. He liked them with a little meat on their bones. A certain firmness that jiggle everytime they moved. He’s into that. Like Fukuda Kanon – Maro-chan – who’s been getting a little chubby lately. Seeing her move in a skimpy outfit on the stage. He wanted to tie her up and see her flesh bulged out.

The same for Pocchari-chan.  And so, when he saw how short the skirt was, he was elated. The sight of the plump skin, so fresh so white under the poofy skirt that barely covered anything. He was breathing hard as he stood in front of her. Thrusting his hand out towards the bright-smiled girl before his time ran out, he squeezed her hands, feeling her fingers and palm and pressing into it. “I––I want to ti-” Before he could finish his sentence, he was dragged away by security officers yelling “Your time is up!”

Rie wasn’t a stranger to the men that had come in sporadically throughout the day. Although women, particularly those among their teens, made up a large part of the people who’d come to see her so far– the appearance of the new male wasn’t all that strange. At least, it wasn’t the strangest part about him. As he made his slow approach, she couldn’t help but notice the near stoic expression change his features. She was a normally happy going person, excited to meet new people, if not nervous to make the acquaintance of people who exclaimed to be her fans. Sure, it was somewhat embarrassing, but she’d gotten over most of the nerves a few hours ago. The new set of anxiety coiling inside her belly had little to do with that, and more to do with the intent look shielding the stranger’s gaze. His eyes never wavered from her own, even as he got closer and she could count the sweat dewed across his brow. It was a warm day, not nearly as hot as they’d hoped, but she could only imagine how strenuous an experience standing in the long lines could be. Waiting to meet the young women they’d bought tickets for. So she tried not to judge, even as their palms connected, and his grubby fingers tightened around hers. Letting an awkward smile crinkle the corner of her mouth, she did her best attempt at keeping her enthusiasm alight while discreetly working to tug her hand out of his. His skin was clammy.

“You’re a strong one aren’t ya’? Thank you for co–” Her words were immediately slowed as the older gentleman was pulled away by the quiet security who stood guard. To say Rie was relieved would be putting it lightly. Don’t be mistaken, she wouldn’t take the event for granted, but she could swear his gaze had lingered a little too long on her bared thighs. She felt like a piece of meat, but that could’ve just as well been her stomach talking. 

She was hungry after all.

[sbtrie]

[sbtsuzuran]

Event 4.1

Reblog this post to let citizens know they can send you prompts related to event 4.1!

[sbtrie]

`bento girls » erina & rie

[tsurishis]

Though it had been quite some time since they were established as a group, Erina still couldn’t find herself quite as close as she would have liked with the other girls. While they grouped together and shared a giggle during practice time, she would slink in into the plush old and worn sofa by the corner of the room, body sinking in as if being swallowed by the fabric. The only ones she was closest with were undoubtedly Suzuran and Rina – people she knew even before the audition. And more recently her relationship with her classmate Chiyo and her online friend An had also taken in a turn for the better. But other than them, she couldn’t exactly say she had built new relationships with any of the remaining seventeen girls. It’s not like she minded it. She had never been one to actively seeks out friends or relationships. She did thing better by herself anyway. She sometimes wondered if it’s a thought she convinced herself to believe or if it was the truth. But with her new position, everyone seemed to be more put off by her. It’s the coveted position after all, right? She hadn’t minded it that much but now that she got it, she wanted to prove that she deserved it. Wanted to keep it for herself. She took her bag, feeling slightly dejected at the thoughts that sounded less and less like herself and also from the clamor that she couldn’t join in. She wiped her sweat with a hand towel and pushed the door open, ready to escape the scene when someone called in on her. Ah–– Mizukawa, isn’t it? She stared at the girl with her lips slightly ajar.  Her fingers wrapped themselves around the bento box. It was wrapped in a pink clothe – a hue that seemed to match the other girl’s aura right now. Flushed pink in an feminine glow – something Erina could never attain as she never stripped herself of the cool blue she radiated. “For me?” She started as she started to unwrap it, her eyes slowly gathering stars. How long had it been since someone actually cook for her? “Ah–– This looks amazing, Mizukawa-san. I uh–” She started before finally looking up at the other female properly with a smile. “Thank you for this. If you’d like, we can eat it together?”

[sbtrie]

She blatantly stared. Expectant in her posture with the hope that she hadn’t ultimately failed. Admittedly, Rie wasn’t all that close with Erina, but she wanted to be. From what she had seen, all of the girls had something different to offer; and there weren’t enough hours in the day for her to get to know each one of them as thoroughly as she liked.

But they had plenty of time, she thought to herself repeatedly. Although that thought wavered from time to time, especially with the coming of the handshake event that had felt like weeks ago when it was first announced. Rie hadn’t realized she was holding her breath until it wheezed out of her in a long space of relief. She could see the surprise in the younger woman’s pretty features, and what she hoped was pleasure blooming across her lips. Unwittingly sheepish the moment the center’s eyes caught hers, Rie had the gall to wave off as much as she could. 

“S’no big deal, really.” But now she was the one surprised. She hadn’t quite expected the younger’s offer to eat together. In Rie’s mind she had assumed she would hand off the bento as quickly and non-creepily as possible, before sliding away in the hopes of never feeling this embarrassed again. Instead she touched the warmth colouring her cheeks– rehearsal never ceased to make her a mess of straggled hair and an unflappable flush. “If you’re free.. yeah, I could eat. The cafeteria’s probably open now.” Trailing off, she cleared her throat of the strange coil of nerves, and did her best to redirect the both of them down the hallway towards the aforementioned cafeteria. Rie had the foresight to bring a large water bottle, but nothing more. After the excitement of making the bento for the other, she hadn’t had the time to prepare anything for herself. 

Entirely aware of the echo of their shoes, she stole a glance to her side, still in awe of her feminine looks. If Rie was worried about anything, it was about finding herself distracted by the prettiness of the girls around her and falling right off the stage. That made practice all the more important, memorizing their moves and harmonies as well as she could until it was muscle memory. “You excited about the handshake event? Bet you’re gonna’ have a ton sold out. Can’t believe it’s almost here– have you tried the outfits yet?” Her comments were sincere, grin genuine as she thought briefly on the coming of their first event. 

[sbtrie]

`harmonious » chiyo & rie

[sbtchiyo-blog]

“Alright, just make sure you won’t let any of drops fall.” Chiyo was quick to play along, ending the sentence with a wink, so unusual of her everyday self. Under different circumstances she’d blush and chuckle nervously at remarks like that one but, luckily or not, everything seemed much simpler with older female by her side. Perhaps she was too tired or accomplished with the progress she’d made during singing lesson to care. Maybe it had no matter to begin with.As the explanation was progressing, the girl was could feel herself more and more engaged in the talk, glad that she could be somewhat helpful to someone older than her. “See! You can now hum all the way you like, train, shower, kitchen. Everywhere!” Nodding her head all the way as she spoke, Chiyo gently embraced Rie’s hand with her own before continuing earnestly, slightly frowning at the remark.

 “Come on, that’s not the right way of thinking. Do you think that Da Vinci-san didn’t have any doubts? That he didn’t look at the Galileo or other talented pals of his age, envious of their talents, descent or money while he was trying out different things? He just knew he didn’t have to be perfect and it worked, even if his flying machines can’t fly, people still admire them. Practice never makes perfect, that’s thing reserved for gods after all, but I believe we can at least make close to it if we try enough.” Chiyo was pretty sure that after outburst like that one she wouldn’t be able to talk at all on the next day but it didn’t matter. She dropped the other’s hand before shaking her head, lips curving upon apologetic smile. “Ah, I’m sorry, I talk too much.”

[sbtrie]

Rie was only human. Maybe a louder bigger human than most, but she was human all the same. It shouldn't have been any surprise that she was caught off guard by the younger's diatribe. Hearing the girl's voice as she had during their lesson, Rie knew she had a lot more to gain from sidling in close to the cute girl with the vocal ability that betrayed her youthful features. Despite herself, she could feel a grin pull at the corner of her mouth. Her gaze never faltered from the younger girl, instead she took in what she could, watching an enthusiasm cascade across her features. It was new, and sure, they’d only met a few hours before. But Rie was certain she’d have to keep Chiyo close. People like her would undoubtedly improve her days. She’d already made a genuine grin split her mouth apart.

"If you aren’t the cutest thing I’ve seen in days–” At this point, all she could do was flounder and make a grasp for the other girl’s hand once more, squeezing her tiny fingers in delight. In her excitement, Rie was less apt to be aware of personal boundaries. She saw no reason for Chiyo to apologise, and she made quick work of telling her as much, shielded happiness cresting her eyes. “I could eat you, y’know that? Tell me you don’t have any plans, ‘cause m’taking you out for lunch. My treat. Not taking no for an answer.” Any excuse to stay in the company of the younger girl was all Rie was looking for at this point. But she knew saying as much might come across creepy, so she twined her fingers with the younger girl instead, and began pulling her down the sidewalk. 

“So what d’you like, huh? I like all sorts of food, if you couldn’t already tell, so I’m open to most anything.” She chattered on with a fervour that betrayed her excitement at having encountered someone so cute. Rie had always been a sucker for the sweet ones.

[sbtrie]

`bento girls » erina & rie

The feeling churning the inside of her stomach was ridiculous to say the least.

Even after the long practice session where sweat had dampened her bangs, and made her muscles sore, there was no slowing the nerves fluttering like moths beneath her skin. She was twenty years old, and well past childish nerves– or so she thought. Despite herself, between leg extensions and hushed advice, her gaze would surreptitiously move for the corner of the room where their belongings were stacked. If nothing else, Rie hoped her things had been left undisturbed, she’d checked on the bento during a brief break.

Her skin was flushed, and her smile genuine as she and the rest of the girls lingered with half drunk water bottles in their hands. It was still hard to believe any of this was real, that this wasn’t just a figment of her wild imaginations. As she chortled with some of the girls, a mixture from all the rows– she couldn’t help but spot Erina as she made for the studio’s door. This would be her only opportunity, and Rie had to be quick to grab it. Rarely was the centre without friends around her. Politely excusing herself, Rie tried to do her best impression of someone who hadn’t been hoping to corner the younger with her surprise. She wished she was dressed for the occasion, or at least not plastered in sweat, but she rummaged through her things and discreetly retrieved the pink bento box before following Erina out the door. 

“Eri-chan, wait up!” Hoping the nickname would make the scenario less creepy, she sidled up to the centre with a twitching grin, sheepishly brandishing the bento box she was so quick to press into the other’s hands. “I had some time this morning, and I thought you might be hungry– I know I always am.. here. Tamago. And a few riceballs, nothing special.” Now she was rambling, and if she didn’t know better, it was as if she was funnelling through a confession. Annoyed with herself, she laughed, batting away the nerves that squeezed at her gut, as she wiped her brow with the back of her hand. “Wasn’t sure how you liked ‘em, so I tried not to make it as sweet as I usually do.”

+ @sbterina

[sbtrie]

755 : I'm so mad that girl took the center while every one knows Rie is the true jewel of MNT !

There’s no time to be mad when we’ve got a handshake event coming up soon! We’re all jewels you know.

It just means I’ve got to work harder to be noticed. Think of how much fun that’ll be! ( ᐛ )و

[sbtrie]

755: (ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)งcyborg army(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง(ง'̀-'́)ง

I’ll see your cyborg army and raise you one  (ﾟo´(┗┐ヽ(╰,╯ )ﾉ