[ Rinne might be a bum, but he's not a thief. These are the words he turns over and over as he stands in front of Takasugi's room, tugging on the silver pendant Niki gave him. Everyone has been giving him so many things lately. Rarely has he had the opportunity to return the favor. After doing one for the woman from Aparallaxia, he thinks he can do a few more. ]
>> RINNE_A transferred 10000 NUMIS
[ Oh yeah, he changed his username. Not that it's important. ]
( whether true or not, the gesture beats light in takasugi's chest—a flutter of happiness for being reached out to.
maybe it's a little juvenile, after the way he'd acted just days ago and with the memory of that red still staining his fingertips. but the corners of his mouth turn into a grin nonetheless.
amagi-kun wants him to treat him? with numis he claimed to have earned and then thrown his way?
he sits up immediately, discarding all of what he's been stewing on from his time spent out in the field— )
[Rinne expected Takasugi to open the door, but one would think that there would be steps to accepting an invitation. Now Rinne looks less thoughtful and more desperate and deer-in-headlights. It's terrible. He's supposed to be nonchalant and cool?]
Prez?! [He feels a surge of heat up to the tips of his ears. Was Takasugi going to barge into his room again? Oh, for the love of—] Reply first!
( maybe he was. he totally was. takasugi, at least, looks just as surprised to see rinne outside his room, eyebrows raising in response.
for once, he's not in his flashy and ornate-in-all-its-make attire, showing off his chest shamelessly for every disapproving karterian to see. today, he's in a snug, simple shirt and some faded jeans, a loose jacket that goes past his waist. takolegs circa c105, perhaps. half-shifting had loosened the threads of his favorite get-up, tearing the seams at his wrist and the straps of his thin undershirt. someone with more skill will need to touch it up for him, and so—
for now, these cheap threads will have to do.
he spreads his arms out lightly. )
No doing. After all, what if you'd gone and changed your mind while I was busy on my device? It isn't often you offer patronage to your very first fan. Or ask me to buy you something with money that's basically yours.
[Takasugi is way too happy about this visit. Is this what he looks like every time he decides to invade Rinne's privacy? Rinne finds that he's often kept the man waiting. He just thought that maybe Takasugi would appreciate him being prompt for once. Not that he's ever been late to practice... Only when Takasugi wants to surprise on a whim.
Can Rinne assume this was a whim, too? It's not like Takasugi to dress so casually. He recalls what he told Takasugi that one sleepless night, when the man had entered his room to ask for a favor. It was impulsive. Reflexive, even, when he thinks about the exposed skin and how shame swept across his face as he remained in Takasugi's proximity and thought about the things only family were allowed to see and meant to do. But Takasugi isn't family, so maybe this isn't about that.
Rinne keeps his tone light.]
I know you're the generous type who acts like he's got a trust fund, but you can't seriously mean all of what's yours is mine. Even you need to live, doncha?
[Don't you? Seriously.
But it's true that he almost changed his mind. He's in the usual: a tank top underneath a loose dress shirt open enough for everyone to see the simple necklace he's had since his birthday around his neck, with jeans as comfortable as they can get. Nothing that looks like he thought about too hard, but nothing egregiously thoughtless either. He just didn't think his invitation would be that effective.
Rinne grins.]
Call it fanservice. Just like what you're doing with that getup, yeah?
[He winks, just to tease. But really, there's something up with that... He hopes Takasugi will explain, but he knows he won't.]
Edited (SORRY i sent an earlier version...) 2025-06-11 00:40 (UTC)
he hasn't forgotten, the way rinne distracts from the situation at hand when things get awkward a tell takasugi is becoming increasingly used to. he was the one seeking praise, only to quickly pull back on it. he was the one who extended a hand first this time, only to immediately start criticizing him. amagi rinne stands in front of him, just a bit taller, and takasugi is filled with questions he wants to ask for a moment, as well as that familiar urge to flick him on the forehead with a finger.
for starters: what was his actual reason for wanting to spend time together?
but takasugi lets that die in this throat, more interested in studying the shape of rinne's grin than saying something so pathetic. )
Don't get ahead of yourself. I know better than anyone what it means to have fun, which is exactly why what ends up in my hand tends to run off. But also, wasn't that how we met? Me forwarding what little I had over to you. Since then, I've only been getting back on my gamble overtime. So. Name wherever you like, and we'll go. Within budget, I mean. Some quiet pub somewhere, maybe.
( somewhere away from the buzzing crowd, like that club he'd invited rinne to for his birthday.
that wink and whatnot, though? )
This? With time, we'll be so well-known that this sort of thing will help keep the crowds from noticing me, won't it? I wouldn't exactly call it fanservice compared to what I usually wear, especially when there's no skin. Unless this is more your style?
( he lifts the hem of the shirt slightly, amused, the indents of his hips barely visible. )
[Rinne's eyes quickly follow the hem of Takasugi's shirt, the divots of his hips—details he hadn't seen before. Rinne's sensibilities never caught up with the modern world, but he's always admired everything bigger and bolder, so his gaze lingers there as the words slip:]
[He clears his throat and shoves his hands in his pockets before he remembers something unnecessary, like the first smile that drew him in or the juice dripping down his fingertips. It's not like him to be distracted. He's gotten a step closer toward everything he wants, hasn't he?
Everything except the one thing he left behind. Everything except the one thing he came here for.]
I know this nice and quiet speakeasy by the old theater. Real hole-in-the-wall type shit. [He jerks his head toward the stairs and starts moving in that direction. It's better than sticking around and ogling his boss...] We can walk. I'll make it interesting. ...Don't worry, I ain't running off!
[Not that he has any plans whatsoever. He's just doing whatever feels right in the moment.]
Naturally. But which type are we referring to here? The news of the upcoming solstice, or the buzz about a rising musical act? There's a lot going on, to my knowledge.
( things that deserve his attention as much as their efforts, depending on how they go.
the way down and out of the valentia is familiar, and so are the faces of karterians that try to feign their surprise at two augmented with such prominent features passing them by in casualness. he gives them a friendly smile, the sort that's knife-sharp when the dimming sun hits it a certain way.
they look good, the two of them, but that doesn't mean their business is anyone else's concern. normally, he wouldn't even bother to entertain his annoyance.
he waves a hand lightly, as if remembering something else. )
[Rinne greets the Karterians with a different sort of smile, all roses and sunshine. He's not about to scare potential fans off when their fangs are doing half the work for them. It's not too much to ask of him. It is, however, more work than he asked for. He just wants to focus on Takasugi and their small victories now.
But even Takasugi doesn't want to focus on that...]
Oh, I heard about that. I don't think it's a bad idea to be prepared, but leaving everything in the hands of a literal god of war is kinda on the nose for me.
[Rinne slows down to match Takasugi's pace, leaning in as he tries to catch a glimpse of the man's face.]
only it's never been an issue before. and it isn't an issue now.
so why's his mind making it one? calm down. he needs to be watercolor, letting these conflicting feelings trying to surface wash off him. takasugi stalls slightly, swallowing for what he can't say but always comes easy to rinne—that you're too good-looking, so don't. don't do anything that might tempt him, while he's convinced himself that he's making things easier on the both of them.
and maybe it's a symptom of the imprinting, still, to be this excited about their closeness. or maybe he's just convincing himself of that too. )
... That it's going to cause trouble in the long-run, though whether for us, or the whole of Karteria, I haven't figured out yet. Gods like to think themselves above us, but they're just as fallible in their greatness, or so I discovered in the last timeline I was needed in. And I'd like to ignore it, but...
( he relaxes his fist in front of them as they walk, revealing an empty palm. )
Well. Regardless of what sort of hardships unfold in the future, 3kon will be there to give the performance of a lifetime, right? Ideally.
( to uplift them in their weariness, as rinne put it. he hasn't forgotten that. )
[Rinne tries to ignore it like he always does, but Takasugi pauses for a second too long, and Rinne is not immune to the sudden shift in his demeanor. He'd been so sure of himself that time with the strawberries, that time with the gun, that time on Rinne's bed, asking Rinne to chase his demons away. That wasn't too long ago. But when Takasugi followed him around like a lovesick puppy, Rinne scratched back like a cat, so he doesn't get to complain when Takasugi pulls back. After all, he started it. It just makes him feel like a spoiled brat, still wanting all this attention...
Well. Not that Takasugi has ever given him shit for that.
Shame quickly turns into shamelessness. Rinne knows he'll only regret this again, but when he remembers how clear Takasugi is about what he wants, he can't help himself.]
Naturally! [he says in a voice a notch too loud.] Doesn't matter who the fuck they are or what they're doing. People see a star in the sky, and they're gonna want to grab it. We'll just be saving 'em the trouble.
[As Takasugi's idol, Rinne's role isn't lost on him. What was it he said again? He sees him as someone lively, no, brimming with life...
Hiiro would always blindly give him the harsh reality. Niki's kind, yet painfully honest. Didn't Takasugi tell him to treat him gently? At times like these, Rinne should say something Takasugi wants to hear. Something stupidly unexpected, something innocent and carefree—
With an elbow, Rinne gives Takasugi a friendly jab at his side.]
You're thinking too hard again. You should just forget about that stuff and become a full-time idol like me!
( leave it all behind, and become an idol? how nice that might be for someone else, and who wouldn't think of abandoning a burden that wasn't placed on them in the first place? but he knows he can't skirt this second chance to take on his fate.
all the jab and assertion does is make him genuinely laugh, sharp canines showing for how wide his grin is.
it's fine. it's clear that rinne wants to have fun, and fun they shall have. they don't need to talk about the looming dangers, and whatever else. takasugi's good at living for the moment, but never at quelling what in him remains selfish, even if he's making his best attempt. which, he really did think it would easier before all this, and he can't promise he won't do it again. if only the stern comfort and frustration of being known hadn't made it obvious to him when he'd gotten a taste, though. )
Hahahah! Now there's an interesting proposal. You might say I'm already one of Choshu, at the very least. Those boring clansmen of mine couldn't compare in popularity, what with all the times they asked for my help instead of someone else's. But the stars in the sky are you two. I've already come crashing down in a blaze.
( as they get closer to the speakeasy, the entrance blends in pretty well, with empty kegs piled up outside, just waiting to be unloaded. the soft glow of the LED sign above gives it a nice touch, and as takasugi sticks a foot into the door—
he turns lightly before entering, lifting a hand to press two fingers together in a heart shape. )
But I'm looking forward to learning all those cute little hand signs you've mentioned. You will teach them to me, won't you? Of course you will. Since you brought them up, they've been on my mind.
[Crashing down? No, that's not— What's he trying to say? Rinne's smile falters when Takasugi turns away, and his eyes flicker as they search for the right words, if not the right feelings to show after hearing something so frightening. He can't imagine anything worth dying for, except—
The finger heart cuts into Rinne's view. It guides his focus back to Takasugi's face, completely in his element under the signage lights. Whenever he finds himself captivated by something beautiful like this, Rinne nearly forgets he's on Earth to begin with. The idol of Choshu, huh? Another strange cocktail of emotions swirls inside him as heat blooms across his cheeks.]
Sure, I'll teach ya. But don't worry about being cute right now. What matters is showing 'em something that'll stick. Kon kon♡
[He makes a fox sign with his hand, lets it hop once in the air, then with the tips of his thumb and fingers pressed together, makes the fox jump over the heart and kiss Takasugi's cheek.]
Kyaha! See? Now you'll think about me forever.
[Or maybe just for tonight. It's scary to think about, fully knowing the consequences, but if words are binding... could they bind Takasugi to this world? Rinne's smile tries not to waver this time as he pushes himself past the guilt and into the speakeasy.]
( he lets rinne go ahead, not making any move to follow at first, an uncharacteristically astonished expression stuck in that moment.
it's a powerful gesture, those fingertips pressing against his cheek.
because he almost stumbles, slapping a hand against the leftover warmth.
what? huh? what? he'll never wash this cheek again.
... actually. redact that. that's going a bit too far. but it isn't just the summer heat on his skin, is it? the fan-service a real idol doles out is trying to make him smile beyond his own will, and— )
( and, maybe that's fine. but didn't rinne want to be the spoiled one? when it's just the two of them.
when it's just the two of them...
takasugi's glad his device had been in his pocket. if his other self had seen it, he would have had to snap it in half, or at least delete him, and he needed him for reasons right now. phew.
he pushes inside, eyes adjusting quickly to the low light as he claims an adjacent seat. there's probably some leftover pink in his face, but it won't matter before long, as he slaps a palm lightly against the countertop for service. )
"Don't worry about being cute right now"? Funny, considering what that pantomimed movement means. But go ahead and order whatever you like, and don't hold back. I'll definitely be getting something strong. It's been a while since I indulged like this with someone.
[The truth is, Rinne can't hold his alcohol that well. If he had to pick his poison, it'd be something sweet. Takasugi was never the type to judge, so maybe he should indulge a little too, but someone needs to take Takasugi home when he inevitably knocks himself out, and Rinne has always been the careful type when it comes to the things that matter. He'll go along with Takasugi for now, then monitor the situation after. Rinne doesn't want Takasugi to feel like he should hold back. They're here to celebrate and have fun. Takasugi deserves that. Despite all appearances, Rinne is not here to get drunk. He's only ever been after the feeling.
He slides into the seat next to Takasugi easily.]
Then I'll have some bourbon on the rocks! It's the reward I deserve for being cute.
[Rinne would have said this either way, but saying so right after his boss admits to it is... a new feeling.]
Seriously though, I didn't think our act would go as well as it did. We got really lucky with that! Are you like, a god of fortune or something? When your schedule frees up, we should do that again!
Do something impromptu like that again? Anytime is good, really. All you have to do is call, and I'll come running, from...
( it's an old-fashioned glass of whiskey for takasugi, where admittedly he's always a bit miffed that sake doesn't seem popular or prevalent here at all. it was the ideal drink to enjoy after a tough evening and with dinner, but he'll make do with something harsh in lieu of its absence.
despite his graceful looks, takasugi throws back the drink and savors the taste, an orange peel slapping against the glass while the ice tinkles softly. )
Actually. What do you think I'm so busy with, anyhow? Aside from the expeditions and whatever "challenges" Patho-Gen likes to throw our way. I told you that you could ask me anything, right?
[ Oh, wow. Rinne didn't peg Takasugi for the type to throw back a drink without flinching. Then again, when Rinne doesn't count the times Takasugi's health got in the way, he's always made everything look so effortless. He really does look like someone Rinne could ask anything. All Rinne has to do is call.
Rinne's lips part, as if the thought had only occurred to him just now. Well, no. Rinne knew he could approach Takasugi anytime. But just because the offer's there doesn't mean he should be taking it so greedily. Doesn't Takasugi need to rest? If he's anything like Rinne, though, then... ]
Figured you were busy doin' research. On this place, the people.
[ His brows furrow as he watches the ice in his glass melt. Bourbon is meant to be savored slowly, so he does just that. ]
Like, when I first moved to the city, I had to learn how to read and write. Then dealing with people was a whole other thing... Shit like that. And you like tinkering with what they've got around here, right? When I was a kid, I used to... [ He shakes his head. It's too soon for that story. ] What I'm saying is I didn't wanna mess with your vibe. Sure, you got a world to save, but you're having a lot of fun with it, yeah?
( swirling about them in tiny pockets is quiet laughter, and hidden company.
takasugi turns his hand, lifts the glass slightly to signal the bartender to top him up, and then pays close attention to how rinne chooses his words.
always careful, this one, until takasugi tries to reach beneath the armor and rip it off. he sips a little more slowly at the refill this time, the sting in his throat more than he expected. still, they never held back during his time; the guys in his company always let loose without a second thought. he felt the same—getting together with drinks should be a fun time.
and so— )
Ahhh. And that's what I don't get—why you're always jumping to some conclusion without consulting me first. You think you're going to... what, ruin my vibe?
( sip. )
When I said we'd shake things up in this boring world together? I don't say that to just anyone, you know. If I thought you were less than what I saw originally, then true, I would've cut ties by now. But I'm still here. Anyhow, it's partly research into our fellow Augmented, and partly building the capital to secure us a small area for performing, among other things. Like a camera-man who's frankly a bit annoying, I'll admit, next to the fact that his work is solid.
( it's the truth, even if he doesn't mention all his methods. the pleasant thrum of alcohol is slowly working its way into his head. )
[ He rolls his eyes. ] You think everyone's annoying.
[ And that's the thing. Rinne doesn't want to be everyone. And he knows this isn't the first time Takasugi's said this. Time and again, he'd always tell Rinne he was good. That he was enough. But even Takasugi had expectations, and Rinne wasn't always confident he could meet them, and...
Why is Rinne so hung up over what Takasugi thinks, anyway?
He takes another sip. ]
But a cameraman, huh? [ Rinne smiles at the thought. Will the cameraman tell him how good he looks on stage? Niki only cares about food and Takasugi's stingy in that department, so he hasn't exactly gotten any feedback on that. ] And here I thought we were just gonna rawdog our marketing 'til we went viral. Heh! Maybe being under your agency ain't so bad♪
Yeah, that's it. I work under you, so you're taking care of me. That's a real boss for ya! Niki takes care of me too, but that's kinda different. Niki wouldn't give a fuck if I went home and threw up on him right now. But you...
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
text | early june, a few days after brunch
>> RINNE_A transferred 10000 NUMIS
[ Oh yeah, he changed his username. Not that it's important. ]
@MOSTHANDSOMEPREZ
What's the special occasion?
( because he's thinking about sending this back. now. )
no subject
yay me!!!!!!!
[ This is a lie. But with the way things have been lately? He could call himself lucky. ]
and coz i always share my blessings
your hot & hardworking vassal (me) is finally paying tribute
so praise me!
and buy me a drink!
[ ... It's okay if he doesn't want to. Rinne will just start walking away. ]
( 1 / 2 ) action already... sorry
maybe it's a little juvenile, after the way he'd acted just days ago and with the memory of that red still staining his fingertips. but the corners of his mouth turn into a grin nonetheless.
amagi-kun wants him to treat him? with numis he claimed to have earned and then thrown his way?
he sits up immediately, discarding all of what he's been stewing on from his time spent out in the field— )
( 2 / 2 )
no subject
Prez?! [He feels a surge of heat up to the tips of his ears. Was Takasugi going to barge into his room again? Oh, for the love of—] Reply first!
no subject
for once, he's not in his flashy and ornate-in-all-its-make attire, showing off his chest shamelessly for every disapproving karterian to see. today, he's in a snug, simple shirt and some faded jeans, a loose jacket that goes past his waist. takolegs circa c105, perhaps. half-shifting had loosened the threads of his favorite get-up, tearing the seams at his wrist and the straps of his thin undershirt. someone with more skill will need to touch it up for him, and so—
for now, these cheap threads will have to do.
he spreads his arms out lightly. )
No doing. After all, what if you'd gone and changed your mind while I was busy on my device? It isn't often you offer patronage to your very first fan. Or ask me to buy you something with money that's basically yours.
( he's all for it, though. )
no subject
Can Rinne assume this was a whim, too? It's not like Takasugi to dress so casually. He recalls what he told Takasugi that one sleepless night, when the man had entered his room to ask for a favor. It was impulsive. Reflexive, even, when he thinks about the exposed skin and how shame swept across his face as he remained in Takasugi's proximity and thought about the things only family were allowed to see and meant to do. But Takasugi isn't family, so maybe this isn't about that.
Rinne keeps his tone light.]
I know you're the generous type who acts like he's got a trust fund, but you can't seriously mean all of what's yours is mine. Even you need to live, doncha?
[Don't you? Seriously.
But it's true that he almost changed his mind. He's in the usual: a tank top underneath a loose dress shirt open enough for everyone to see the simple necklace he's had since his birthday around his neck, with jeans as comfortable as they can get. Nothing that looks like he thought about too hard, but nothing egregiously thoughtless either. He just didn't think his invitation would be that effective.
Rinne grins.]
Call it fanservice. Just like what you're doing with that getup, yeah?
[He winks, just to tease. But really, there's something up with that... He hopes Takasugi will explain, but he knows he won't.]
no subject
he hasn't forgotten, the way rinne distracts from the situation at hand when things get awkward a tell takasugi is becoming increasingly used to. he was the one seeking praise, only to quickly pull back on it. he was the one who extended a hand first this time, only to immediately start criticizing him. amagi rinne stands in front of him, just a bit taller, and takasugi is filled with questions he wants to ask for a moment, as well as that familiar urge to flick him on the forehead with a finger.
for starters: what was his actual reason for wanting to spend time together?
but takasugi lets that die in this throat, more interested in studying the shape of rinne's grin than saying something so pathetic. )
Don't get ahead of yourself. I know better than anyone what it means to have fun, which is exactly why what ends up in my hand tends to run off. But also, wasn't that how we met? Me forwarding what little I had over to you. Since then, I've only been getting back on my gamble overtime. So. Name wherever you like, and we'll go. Within budget, I mean. Some quiet pub somewhere, maybe.
( somewhere away from the buzzing crowd, like that club he'd invited rinne to for his birthday.
that wink and whatnot, though? )
This? With time, we'll be so well-known that this sort of thing will help keep the crowds from noticing me, won't it? I wouldn't exactly call it fanservice compared to what I usually wear, especially when there's no skin. Unless this is more your style?
( he lifts the hem of the shirt slightly, amused, the indents of his hips barely visible. )
1/2
Nah, I liked your usual...
2/2
Everything except the one thing he left behind. Everything except the one thing he came here for.]
I know this nice and quiet speakeasy by the old theater. Real hole-in-the-wall type shit. [He jerks his head toward the stairs and starts moving in that direction. It's better than sticking around and ogling his boss...] We can walk. I'll make it interesting. ...Don't worry, I ain't running off!
[Not that he has any plans whatsoever. He's just doing whatever feels right in the moment.]
You've seen the news, yeah?
no subject
( things that deserve his attention as much as their efforts, depending on how they go.
the way down and out of the valentia is familiar, and so are the faces of karterians that try to feign their surprise at two augmented with such prominent features passing them by in casualness. he gives them a friendly smile, the sort that's knife-sharp when the dimming sun hits it a certain way.
they look good, the two of them, but that doesn't mean their business is anyone else's concern. normally, he wouldn't even bother to entertain his annoyance.
he waves a hand lightly, as if remembering something else. )
There's also the dull makings of some militia.
no subject
But even Takasugi doesn't want to focus on that...]
Oh, I heard about that. I don't think it's a bad idea to be prepared, but leaving everything in the hands of a literal god of war is kinda on the nose for me.
[Rinne slows down to match Takasugi's pace, leaning in as he tries to catch a glimpse of the man's face.]
What are you thinking?
no subject
only it's never been an issue before. and it isn't an issue now.
so why's his mind making it one? calm down. he needs to be watercolor, letting these conflicting feelings trying to surface wash off him. takasugi stalls slightly, swallowing for what he can't say but always comes easy to rinne—that you're too good-looking, so don't. don't do anything that might tempt him, while he's convinced himself that he's making things easier on the both of them.
and maybe it's a symptom of the imprinting, still, to be this excited about their closeness. or maybe he's just convincing himself of that too. )
... That it's going to cause trouble in the long-run, though whether for us, or the whole of Karteria, I haven't figured out yet. Gods like to think themselves above us, but they're just as fallible in their greatness, or so I discovered in the last timeline I was needed in. And I'd like to ignore it, but...
( he relaxes his fist in front of them as they walk, revealing an empty palm. )
Well. Regardless of what sort of hardships unfold in the future, 3kon will be there to give the performance of a lifetime, right? Ideally.
( to uplift them in their weariness, as rinne put it. he hasn't forgotten that. )
no subject
Well. Not that Takasugi has ever given him shit for that.
Shame quickly turns into shamelessness. Rinne knows he'll only regret this again, but when he remembers how clear Takasugi is about what he wants, he can't help himself.]
Naturally! [he says in a voice a notch too loud.] Doesn't matter who the fuck they are or what they're doing. People see a star in the sky, and they're gonna want to grab it. We'll just be saving 'em the trouble.
[As Takasugi's idol, Rinne's role isn't lost on him. What was it he said again? He sees him as someone lively, no, brimming with life...
Hiiro would always blindly give him the harsh reality. Niki's kind, yet painfully honest. Didn't Takasugi tell him to treat him gently? At times like these, Rinne should say something Takasugi wants to hear. Something stupidly unexpected, something innocent and carefree—
With an elbow, Rinne gives Takasugi a friendly jab at his side.]
You're thinking too hard again. You should just forget about that stuff and become a full-time idol like me!
[Not with him. That's a totally different thing.]
no subject
all the jab and assertion does is make him genuinely laugh, sharp canines showing for how wide his grin is.
it's fine. it's clear that rinne wants to have fun, and fun they shall have. they don't need to talk about the looming dangers, and whatever else. takasugi's good at living for the moment, but never at quelling what in him remains selfish, even if he's making his best attempt. which, he really did think it would easier before all this, and he can't promise he won't do it again. if only the stern comfort and frustration of being known hadn't made it obvious to him when he'd gotten a taste, though. )
Hahahah! Now there's an interesting proposal. You might say I'm already one of Choshu, at the very least. Those boring clansmen of mine couldn't compare in popularity, what with all the times they asked for my help instead of someone else's. But the stars in the sky are you two. I've already come crashing down in a blaze.
( as they get closer to the speakeasy, the entrance blends in pretty well, with empty kegs piled up outside, just waiting to be unloaded. the soft glow of the LED sign above gives it a nice touch, and as takasugi sticks a foot into the door—
he turns lightly before entering, lifting a hand to press two fingers together in a heart shape. )
But I'm looking forward to learning all those cute little hand signs you've mentioned. You will teach them to me, won't you? Of course you will. Since you brought them up, they've been on my mind.
no subject
The finger heart cuts into Rinne's view. It guides his focus back to Takasugi's face, completely in his element under the signage lights. Whenever he finds himself captivated by something beautiful like this, Rinne nearly forgets he's on Earth to begin with. The idol of Choshu, huh? Another strange cocktail of emotions swirls inside him as heat blooms across his cheeks.]
Sure, I'll teach ya. But don't worry about being cute right now. What matters is showing 'em something that'll stick. Kon kon♡
[He makes a fox sign with his hand, lets it hop once in the air, then with the tips of his thumb and fingers pressed together, makes the fox jump over the heart and kiss Takasugi's cheek.]
Kyaha! See? Now you'll think about me forever.
[Or maybe just for tonight. It's scary to think about, fully knowing the consequences, but if words are binding... could they bind Takasugi to this world? Rinne's smile tries not to waver this time as he pushes himself past the guilt and into the speakeasy.]
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it's a powerful gesture, those fingertips pressing against his cheek.
because he almost stumbles, slapping a hand against the leftover warmth.
what? huh? what? he'll never wash this cheek again.
... actually. redact that. that's going a bit too far. but it isn't just the summer heat on his skin, is it? the fan-service a real idol doles out is trying to make him smile beyond his own will, and— )
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when it's just the two of them...
takasugi's glad his device had been in his pocket. if his other self had seen it, he would have had to snap it in half, or at least delete him, and he needed him for reasons right now. phew.
he pushes inside, eyes adjusting quickly to the low light as he claims an adjacent seat. there's probably some leftover pink in his face, but it won't matter before long, as he slaps a palm lightly against the countertop for service. )
"Don't worry about being cute right now"? Funny, considering what that pantomimed movement means. But go ahead and order whatever you like, and don't hold back. I'll definitely be getting something strong. It's been a while since I indulged like this with someone.
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He slides into the seat next to Takasugi easily.]
Then I'll have some bourbon on the rocks! It's the reward I deserve for being cute.
[Rinne would have said this either way, but saying so right after his boss admits to it is... a new feeling.]
Seriously though, I didn't think our act would go as well as it did. We got really lucky with that! Are you like, a god of fortune or something? When your schedule frees up, we should do that again!
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( it's an old-fashioned glass of whiskey for takasugi, where admittedly he's always a bit miffed that sake doesn't seem popular or prevalent here at all. it was the ideal drink to enjoy after a tough evening and with dinner, but he'll make do with something harsh in lieu of its absence.
despite his graceful looks, takasugi throws back the drink and savors the taste, an orange peel slapping against the glass while the ice tinkles softly. )
Actually. What do you think I'm so busy with, anyhow? Aside from the expeditions and whatever "challenges" Patho-Gen likes to throw our way. I told you that you could ask me anything, right?
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Rinne's lips part, as if the thought had only occurred to him just now. Well, no. Rinne knew he could approach Takasugi anytime. But just because the offer's there doesn't mean he should be taking it so greedily. Doesn't Takasugi need to rest? If he's anything like Rinne, though, then... ]
Figured you were busy doin' research. On this place, the people.
[ His brows furrow as he watches the ice in his glass melt. Bourbon is meant to be savored slowly, so he does just that. ]
Like, when I first moved to the city, I had to learn how to read and write. Then dealing with people was a whole other thing... Shit like that. And you like tinkering with what they've got around here, right? When I was a kid, I used to... [ He shakes his head. It's too soon for that story. ] What I'm saying is I didn't wanna mess with your vibe. Sure, you got a world to save, but you're having a lot of fun with it, yeah?
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takasugi turns his hand, lifts the glass slightly to signal the bartender to top him up, and then pays close attention to how rinne chooses his words.
always careful, this one, until takasugi tries to reach beneath the armor and rip it off. he sips a little more slowly at the refill this time, the sting in his throat more than he expected. still, they never held back during his time; the guys in his company always let loose without a second thought. he felt the same—getting together with drinks should be a fun time.
and so— )
Ahhh. And that's what I don't get—why you're always jumping to some conclusion without consulting me first. You think you're going to... what, ruin my vibe?
( sip. )
When I said we'd shake things up in this boring world together? I don't say that to just anyone, you know. If I thought you were less than what I saw originally, then true, I would've cut ties by now. But I'm still here. Anyhow, it's partly research into our fellow Augmented, and partly building the capital to secure us a small area for performing, among other things. Like a camera-man who's frankly a bit annoying, I'll admit, next to the fact that his work is solid.
( it's the truth, even if he doesn't mention all his methods. the pleasant thrum of alcohol is slowly working its way into his head. )
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[ And that's the thing. Rinne doesn't want to be everyone. And he knows this isn't the first time Takasugi's said this. Time and again, he'd always tell Rinne he was good. That he was enough. But even Takasugi had expectations, and Rinne wasn't always confident he could meet them, and...
Why is Rinne so hung up over what Takasugi thinks, anyway?
He takes another sip. ]
But a cameraman, huh? [ Rinne smiles at the thought. Will the cameraman tell him how good he looks on stage? Niki only cares about food and Takasugi's stingy in that department, so he hasn't exactly gotten any feedback on that. ] And here I thought we were just gonna rawdog our marketing 'til we went viral. Heh! Maybe being under your agency ain't so bad♪
Yeah, that's it. I work under you, so you're taking care of me. That's a real boss for ya! Niki takes care of me too, but that's kinda different. Niki wouldn't give a fuck if I went home and threw up on him right now. But you...
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[ For some reason, his chest hurts. ]
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