[Someday he'll have an inbox thread with Jun that wasn't triggered by Monika, but today isn't that day.]
Jun-kun, Jun-kun! Guess what I heard! Some girl told me you were scheduled to give her idol lessons!
Assuming that's true, why didn't you tell me? There are 4 of us here, or at least there will be once Rinne-senpai crawls out of whatever hole he fell into, so we ought to make it a group lesson! That should help impart even more wisdom!
I guess I won't message Rinne-senpai since he still isn't responding, so for now, I'll just tell Leo-kun!
[And he's off to go do that. He's so speedy about it that even if Jun replies right away and tells him not too, he'll have already sent the message. RIP.]
[ It's ok, it's fine when Hiyori's living rent-free in Jun's head, anyway. ]
hey, ohii-san, what're you talking about? how'd you hear about that?
and well, i did already!! if you're talking about monika-san, i said, "if you wanna have private lessons, you should ask him instead." the him i'm talking about is tsukinaga-senpai, cuz she went on about playing the piano? but i've *already* told her about the four of us, ohii-san....
she just really wants me to teach her for whatever reason?
[ No, Jun knows the reason after she went a little unhinged, confessing she "likes" him and whatever else. But he's apparently let her down gently, so it's fine. ]
i'd say don't, but you're not gonna listen and you've probably? already? done it?
Why, because she told me, of course! It was on my network post! I've gotten lots of replies, though no one seems to know for sure where Rinne-senpai is. A pity about that.
[But, well, now onto other matters.
He's already run off to Leo's inbox by the time he reads the rest of Jun's message. The text has him squinting his eyes in disbelief. She rejected being taught by Leo in favor of Jun? And Jun seems to have absolutely no clue about why that would be? Goodness, how troublesome.
But oh well. After what happened during that week while they were holed up together, he's extra convinced she stands no chance now!]
Yep, already have! Your typing just wasn't fast enough to catch up to me, I'm afraid. I used to hate typing on these smartwatch screens, but I've gotten used to it! Though of course it'd be much better if they'd just give us our phones back. And our lives, while we're at it.
Anyway, did she say she *doesn't* want Leo-kun to teach her? It's funny that she asked you when you're the one who knows the least piano out of the three of us! Even I know how to play basic things. But I guess that might be a sign she feels most comfortable with you, or that she thinks you have a teacherly demeanor. Just like that teacher Arashi-chan likes. Or your old nemesis, Jin Sagami!
i dunno why she'd tell you when she's not given me a date. and right, i saw your post. i didn't bother saying anything cuz we saw each other that night, so i knew nothing had happened to you.
[ And not reveal the extent of his concern about Hiyori holding something in a gym. ]
but maybe i should read it and see what else she said??
[ He likely won't, only because that's none of his business and reading things about himself is no good. And Jun figures that's the case, not when he hasn't received a message back right away. He's sighing to himself, rubbing at his temple. Even though he doesn't know Monika well, it feels strange to have someone confess to him. He hasn't figured out if it's flattering or what just yet!
Those muscles might be better off being stored away—they've been attracting attention from all directions! Fortunately, only Hiyori will experience what it's like to be properly held in them. So, very clearly, Hiyori has nothing to worry about. ]
i guessed so and you didn't give me a chance??? don't tell me you've gotten used to it now. the screens still suck. and they're not gona do that, since we could call whoever's on them, check the internet and whatever else.
and yeah, that's what she said. could you lessen the blow any less, ohii-san? i know i'm no good at piano. i even told her that!!! could be that... i'm not much of a teacher, even if you said that stuff about sakura-kun the other day. [ Or she may want to sleep with him, then rub it in Hiyori's face. ] don't say those words to me, ohii-san. we're *not* talking about sagami jin.
[ He's already been living it rough without the poster, even if sleeping next to Hiyori is far more comforting. All he is angry about something that typically makes him feel at ease, was taken from him! He feels a little on edge just reading that name. (And Narukami-san can do way better, too.)
Nope, not bringing it up, he refuses to allow it to bother him— ]
[Whoops. He totally brought that one on himself, but he probably shouldn't encourage Jun to read his network thread with Monika. It quickly devolved into them sniping at each other, for one thing! And for another, she typed all sorts of lies about him, like that he has a "muscle kink," and that he moans while reading porn in public! Neither one is true!
At least that interaction reminded him he needs to do something about those books, though. They've just been sitting in his bedside drawer underneath some other stuff. He's lucky Jun didn't find them during their week together. So, off to have them burned!]
We didn't talk too much about you. It was mainly about Rinne-senpai's disappearance and such. Telling me about those idol lessons was just something she threw in at the end! But if you want her exact words...
[A pause while he digs those up.]
"i can't wait to see you again once jun jun gives me some idol lessons ❤️❤️❤️❤️"
[............ wait.]
Based on how she phrased herself, I assume she's inviting me along! Since she said she "can't wait" to see me again, and she went to the trouble of telling me in the first place.
[No, that can't be it. Unless that really is true? He hadn't considered that she might really want him to come, but now that he re-reads the message, that sure sounds like a possibility! Just what is her game here? Is she operating on a higher level than either one of them can comprehend??]
But if there's no date yet, then that's that! Just keep me posted. Or she can keep me posted, or Leo-kun can! ~Whichever~
And I actually heard from someone that our phones and other possessions are being stored in a safe somewhere. She got that information from someone on the Network, she said. She was working out how to get her phone back she could look at her pet pictures. I've been meaning to investigate that, though I doubt we'd be able to contact the outside wrold with them. I assume they've shut off any function that would allow us to do that.
[It would be nice to have access to his camera roll, though. He misses seeing Mary's face. And Nagisa's. (No comment on whether or not he misses seeing Ibara's!)
But okay, okay, no Jin talk! ... until Jun brings him up at the end, anyway, which makes him smile.]
Yep, I can see that! Put the two of you side-by-side, and you look like the more responsible one, even though you're still just a student! *And* you had me to teach you, which should leave you better-equipped to teach others. When you consider all that, it's no mystery why she asked you.
[ It's fine; he knows about them thanks to Monika, even if he's not going to ask about them. Thankfully, they were pretty occupied during that week, and Jun's not the type to rumage through someone's belongings!
If you told Jun that he doesn't have a muscle kink, he'd only raise his brow and say, "Really?" But he'll never know about Monika's nonsense and whatever else she said to Hiyori, mostly because, again, that's none of his business. And secondly, it's far too tiring to read people fighting over you!
Goodbye, Eve doujins, we hardly knew you. ]
alright, i'm glad she's worried about rinne-senpai, but i'm sure he's gonna show up, laugh at all of us worrying so much, and then end up drunk somewhere else. why'd she say that, i wonder???? after all that, it *does* sound like she's inviting you.
[ Even though Jun knows she hadn't wanted to invite anyone else, the way she worded the text to his partner does make it seem as if it were an invitation. He's pretty confused now! Now Jun's not sure what the exact truth is. Maybe Monika-san's playing them both, and they don't even know it. ]
maybe when she tells me when, i'll let you know? i'm just worried she's expecting more when i've already told her i don't play piano.
wait, are you talking about topaz-san? she's the only person i know who has a bunch of pets. [ And Jun knows she's smart. ] yeah, i dunno where that safe would be. but i wanna look at photos of mary, nagi-senpai, and ibara. probably, but who's to even say we came here with our phones?
[ For starters, Jun's usually lays at his bedside table, on charge. Would they really be bothered to find everyone's phones in their rooms, then bring them here? Jun wants to believe what Hiyori's saying, he really does, but it's a little frustrating.
Unfortunately, he can't let the Jin talk go without mentioning him first. He's hanging his head low, staring back at his watch. A little miffed, but not something talking about it won't fix. ]
yeah, of course i would be! i wouldn't trust him as a teacher, not for a second. he's the saddest excuse of a human being i've ever seen. i'm gonna graduate soon, so i'm not gonna be a student much longer, you know? anyway, that's why i'm gonna be a better teacher, cuz you taught me more than his shitty videos ever did.
[ Jun, those idol videos quite literally raised you.... ]
i guess so? but she doesn't know *you* were my teacher back then, ohii-san. i never told her about that.
I like how I went back and edited that tag yet I still spy multiple typos...
[At least they were properly eulogized before they were burnt.]
I'm not giving him the chance to laugh. He'll be too busy being scolded! Worrying is bad for one's health after all, so he has a lot of nerve making *us* worry! Especially when we're Eve, and he's just some sloppy drunk who loves gambling!
And perhaps she was inviting me! That's the point I'm trying to make. It wouldn't be strange for someone to want to spend time with me, no? Or for someone to want to spend time with Eve!
[It would be strange if Monika wanted that, though. So again, what's her game here? But oh well. He doesn't have time to play mind games with someone who isn't even Eichi-kun, so for now, he'll just assume she was careless!]
If she's expecting more, that's her own problem. You were honest and upfront with her, so if she wants more than you can give, that isn't your fault. But perhaps she wanted a duet? She plays the piano, you sing, or something like that?
[That's as close as he'll come to being critical of Monika in Jun's presence. Little does he know his words apply to more than just music lessons, though he'd mean it in either scenario.]
Yep, that's the one! You know her too, huh? She seems to have a whole menagerie. It'd be nice to be able to share pictures of Mary with her and others. Though I'd much rather they skip the whole phone business and just send us home to Mary.
And I wonder the same thing, really. She said she remembered having her phone in her possession before she got snatched, so that would explain why she thinks it's in there. In my case, they would've had to pluck it from where it was charging on my bedside table, so I guess the only question is whether or not they bothered to do that. The thought of them stealing our possessions in addition to kidnapping us only makes me feel angrier, though, honestly.
[Speaking of anger... he skims through the Jin-related text with a wry smile on his lips; someone's still holding a grudge, hmm? But he's happy to hear Jun call him a good teacher, anyway, even if it's merely in comparison to that man.]
Oh? You mean you don't talk about me when you're together? Then whatever do you talk about?
[He's teasing...... kind of.]
i honestly never noticed! just pretend like you didn't make typos
someone's gotta care about him here, especially when he's gone off and disappeared. either way, it's gonna be fine since we're eve. it's not bad to be concerned, y'know? i'd be if you went missing, ohii-san.
reading what she said back, it sounds like she's inviting you. but monika-san knows nothing about idols, so i don't think she wants to spend time with you or even as eve.
[ Though he's trying to be considerate, Jun's already guessed from the way she was acting each time he mentioned Hiyori, it's clear that Monika didn't think much of him. ]
yeah? maybe she's expecting more, like a duet. i think she said something close to that, saying she learns better with one person. i can go back and check if you want, but everything with her has been confusing.
[ He just knows Monika wants to see him alone, without anyone else, since she said something about learning better with one person. She used the word "friend" a lot, which Jun doesn't see as a red flag. ... which he should! ]
yep, i know her! topaz-san met me on the app thing, and then she showed me her fire powers. i agreed to play games with her sometime, too. hopefully, we can get our phones back soon. i met a guy who's got a shikigami! he invited me over and asked about mary! so i promised whenever we get them back, i'll show her off. but otherwise, i wish they'd send us back home to her, too. that's what i want most, ohii-san. i'm positive she's missing us.
she had her phone? ok, i understand how or why it'd be in there. that's where mine is usually, too, so that's why i'm wondering if they would've done that for everyone. you know i don't own much, so it doesn't bother me. well, not like it's gonna bother you.
[ Besides Mary and the idols back home, he's only missing his poster, and besides that? Well, clothes are clothes.
But the feeling of talking about Jin has passed, he feels better now that's out of his system. He wouldn't be halfway decent without Hiyori's training, anyway. His voice didn't blossom fully until he was taken under his wing! He might act cheeky most of the time, but he appreciates Hiyori more than he could ever say. ]
huh, what makes you think that? course i've been talking about you. i've told monika-san *other* things, just not about that.
[ So much so, it's completely ticked Monika off, but Jun's blissfully unaware. It's not his fault! ]
Just "concerned"? But that doesn't sound serious enough! As my partner who can't bear to live without me, I'm sure you wouldn't handle it well at all if I disappeared. You ought to have said "I'll stop at nothing to bring you back!" or something else along those lines. I'd do the same for you, of course. Or at least I would do that, but you aren't ever allowed to disappear on my watch, so that simply won't be happening!
[No, there's nothing "simple" about it. Much as he'd like to tell himself it's Rinne's own fault he disappeared, Hiyori knows that probably isn't true. Rinne's an occasional drunk, but he's not stupid or careless, and he seemed fine when they last saw each other. If Rinne can fall into a void or what-have-you, then surely he or Jun can, and that's a disturbing thought.
And it's also one more reason to cling suffocatingly tight to his partner. Like a barnacle, an octopus, or a spider monkey!
But speaking of annoying clingy types, now it's back to discussing Monika!]
Why wouldn't she want to spend time with me? I'm me! Someone doesn't need to be a fan of Eve or idols to be drawn to me. It happens naturally!
[But it didn't happen with Monika. Monika doesn't want him at the lesson after all, it seems, since she apparently told Jun she "learns better with one person." Hiyori's eyes narrow into snakelike slits as he reads that line. Uh-huh, sure she does!
But how does that factor into things? She wanted a one-on-one lesson with Jun, but she also told him about it? And she said she can't wait to see him again? Is she just careless, or is there something else going on?? As the gears in his head slowly start to turn, his overactive imagination starts to conjure a crazy possibility! And the crazy possibility goes like this:
1. The sly Monika puts on her cutest smile and asks Jun to give her a one-on-one idol lesson! 2. The clueless Jun-kun can't understand why she asked him in particular, but he accepts because he's a nice boy! 3. Monika also tells Hiyori about the lesson, and (sort of) invites him along! 4. Hiyori invites Leo too, and they all make plans to attend! 5. However, on the day of the lesson, Monika decides to reschedule! She says something else came up that day, so she needs Jun give her the lesson an hour or two early! Then she says she already told Hiyori (and Leo??) about the time swap, so Jun doesn't think to go tell them himself. 6. Because he's an agreeable boy, Jun shows up early! However, Hiyori (and Leo???) weren't told about the time swap, so they assume the lesson is still being held at the later time! Thus, when Jun arrives at the practice room (which is really just a Mating Season room repurposed as a practiced room), Monika is there alone! Jun doesn't suspect subterfuge, so he just assumes Hiyori and Leo are running late. 7. While alone together inside the practice room, Monika seduces Jun, or tries to! (She'll probably want to invite Jun two hours earlier, not just one, because Jun is rather clueless, so it will take at least an hour to seduce him! It may even more than two hours!) 8. They do stuff together! (Or at least that's what Monika-chan is hoping for!) 9. Hiyori (and maybe Leo??) arrive at the "lesson" just in time to see Jun and Monika in a post-sex haze! 10. Monika looks directly at Hiyori and smirks, as though to say "I won!"
That's right, that's why she invited him! It all makes sense now!]
[Or does it...? She called herself a video game character in their conversation, so there's no telling what goes on inside her head. But even if that crazy theory was right on the money, it should be easy to counter that line of "attack," so he's still not worried. Anyway! Change of topic!]
Yep, that's the one! The girl named after a jewel ✨ It sounds like you've been making friends, so that's good. Though what's this about a shikigami? I've been talking to all sorts of people who can do magic, but I haven't met anyone calling themselves that yet!
[He has no problem with Topaz. Nice girl. Seems to have her head on straight. Just agreed to burn some books for him. Doesn't call him "not-Iori" and isn't trying to steal his things when he's not looking! The "shikigami," though, he hasn't met, and given his newfound interest in gods (since he's theorized that they're the ones running this place), he'd be happy to hear more there!]
I suppose I've been bothered about so much other stuff that I haven't been focused on my missing possessions. I know this might come as a surprise to you, since I do love shopping, but it's people who mean the most to me, not things. Or I guess you could say it's family who means the most to me. That includes Mary, of course.
I do wish I had the same hair oil I'd been using at home, though. The one that makes my hair fall just the way I like it! And I miss all my fragrances, and the hand cream I'd been using. But on my list of complaints about this experience, the fact I'm missing my beauty products is something like #45 or #46 on my list!
[He'll get to hear more of Hiyori's list during Rin's upcoming Network post. Also, his hair really doesn't look any different now than it did at home, but whatever...]
Ah, so you have been telling her about me. I should have guessed! 😊 Nothing but good things, I'm sure.
[ Jun glances down at his watch, watching as text after text floods in. It's a relief he can't read Ohii-san's thoughts! With everything he's dealing with, maybe he won't be fooled by someone hoping to seduce him. Even though he's a little dense, those tricks won't deceive him easily! Right!? ... or will they?
Watching Hiyori take off his shirt, though? That's an entirely different story! ]
yeah, yeah, alright, you've got me. i'm gonna be more than concerned if you go missing. sure, whatever you say. i'll be lost without you! i won't know what to do! and it'll be as if part of me is missing!! in case you can't tell, ohii-san, i'm being sarcastic. it's just gonna be annoying if you aren't here, so, of course, i'd go looking for you and "stop at nothing" to bring you back. it's good to know you'd do the same.
[ And it'd be pretty lonely without Ohii-san, not that he's going to say so. Jun's still trying to keep himself guarded; he's still got feelings to unpack and his partner isn't helping the flutter in his chest lessen some. ]
well, that i can't tell you. my best bet would be that you're just not her type.
[ He means idol, but perhaps a part of Jun also means something else. And if Jun were asked, he'd likely assume that the two of them are similar or that their personalities would clash. If he were more aware, he'd realise Monika acts needy, clingy, and possessive in exactly the same ways as his partner. But for now, he remains blissfully unaware.
Even if Hiyori can't see it, he's raising his brow towards his watch and further sighing. "They don't need to be fans of idols or Eve," he types. "It happens naturally," he continues to type. If Jun could smash open his watch, he would. ]
yeah, i forgot but she said something about you telling her i know how to cook. she's really nice. and yeah, he's *not* a shikigami, but owns one? it's a dog, and pretty big. if you see him around the app, his name's fushiguro megumi. he's also from japan, like we are, but i can tell you more if you'd like.
[ Another reason why Jun hardly minded meeting him was that Megumi's fairly nice and chill. His voice reminds Jun of his own, only a little calmer and relaxed. (Helps they're both voiced by Yuuma Uchida!) And Jun also has no problem with Topaz. She's been nothing but friendly and kind. ]
well, i'm not gonna say that's a surprise. gathering by that "important person" list you keep, it's pretty obvious people are important to you. anyway, she'd be offended if you didn't include her on your family list.
and what're you talking about? your hair doesn't look any different. i'm gonna say hair oil is a myth, and you've been wasting your money back home. and your hands are fine, y'know? i'm being honest; they're still pretty smooth, so whatever moisturiser you've been using here is working just fine.
[ No comment about the fragrances, mostly because Jun's glad not to be dealing with those as much as he used to. Maybe he'll buy Hiyori something sometime, just so he feels better about it. But do they have the same products here as he does back home? Probably not! ]
who else am i gonna talk about? and yeah, they've been good things. you're my partner, so you don't have to worry about what i've been telling her. it's really nothing to worry about.
[Next time he needs to deceive Jun, then, he'll just slowly take off his shirt in front of him! Brilliant plan.
His lips purse a little at the sarcasm. Was that really necessary?? (Given how obnoxious he was just being, yes, it probably was!)]
You could've started with "I'll go looking for you," you know. Those first three lines weren't needed!
[Says the king of unnecessary texting blabber.
In response to the bit about Monika:]
But you *are* her type?
[An accusatory question... or so it might sound, but he eases up with his next line:]
Well, if that's how it is, that's fine. Among Eve's fans and Eden's fans, some of them prefer me, while others might like you! Or they might favor Nagisa-kun, or perhaps even Ibara! That's how it goes with units, so if she happens to like you best, that's perfectly alright.
[Yep. He'll just talk about her like she's a fan, even though he knows she isn't one. The clueless Jun-kun probably thinks that's all this is. (He thinks, unaware that Monika actually already confessed to him, and that she kissed him originally, too!
Now onto the next part. About the shikigami:]
Ah, is that right? I must have misread. I blame the small font on these tiny smartwatch screens! But that makes a bit more sense, I suppose. Not that I know what having a shikigami entails, but if it's anything like summoning, there are a few people who can do that here. They said they can summon demons and monsters who attack people on command for them! Which sounds sort of frightening, really. But this place seems to put "limiters" on people's magic, so I know at least one of them said he couldn't do it here. Have you seen the dog thing this person can summon, or did you just see a picture or some such?
[Speaking of dogs:]
I'd be cruel to keep her off my family list when she got abandoned by her last family. Fortunately, I'd never dream of leaving her off. I'm sure you wouldn't, either.
Perhaps it looks similar, but it *feels* different. The texture just isn't the same, and it takes more time to arrange in the morning! But I suppose hand cream isn't as big a necessity here, since the environment is temperature-controlled. And it's not winter anymore here, either, although if we'd been following the timeline at home, we'd still be in February. Which is yet another mystery to untangle at some point.
[He replies casually, though he does fluster a little bit at Jun calling his hands smooth. It's not the compliment itself that flusters him, but rather, the knowledge that Jun knows exactly what his hands feel like. Why? Well, because they've been touching each other more intimately than usual, that's why!
But, you know, they don't talk about it. Or at least right now they're not. He'll just try to keep those hands soft and smooth, so Jun can appreciate them even more going forward.
... After all, they have their whole lives ahead of them. Not just their time in the resort, but also afterwards. He doesn't need to worry about something or someone coming in between them; not when Jun's here reassuring him there's nothing to be concerned over. Not with Monika, not with anyone. Jun said he didn't want anyone but him.
So, perhaps this attempted lesson-crashing was overkill on his part. He ought to trust his partner more. And he smiles as he types his response at the end.]
Who says I was worried? I've been saying good things about you, and you've been saying good things about me: that's just what you'd expect of us partners.
[Actually, he's called Jun a musclebrain and stuff a couple of times... but most of what he's said about his partner has been positive! And even the musclebrain thing is sort of meant as a weird term of endearment.]
[ Someone strike him down! It'd be easier at this point, or clear to the same feeling as watching Hiyori undress. Whatever works!
And, of course, it was necessary! For the guy who runs his mouth, or in this case, texts. ]
well, i've gotta disagree! they were needed, ohii-san. i'm keeping you on your toes, that's all! and if not me, who else would?
but i dunno, i guess so. it's not like i know that for sure, but i figure since she asked, that's gotta be the reason? or one of the reasons? it's like i said, she doesn't know anything about idols, so maybe she's going off of vibes.
[ .. or could be how they know one another, more than Jun's admitted. He's not arguing with her on a public network; they've kissed, and yep, Monika's already confessed by this point. But mostly due to Jun not thinking about those reasons, he's going with the other reasons! ]
it's fine! i probably read it wrong anyway. it's like you said, it's hard to read on here sometimes and the light around is not great. i'd say something close outta one of the mangas i've read back home. of course, i didn't say anything close to that, but he summoned it from his hands? it's sorta hard to explain without showing you. oh yeah, i saw him! it's not easy to describe, and i even have a pic! just a sec.
[ Even hand signals straight out of N*r*to, except there's no ninjas involved, but real-life teenagers. And when Jun sends the pictures through, they might seem a touch blurry, but nearing the end there's a picture of Megumi and his Shikigami. It's not easy angling your watch when it's attached to your wrist without some blur happening. ]
he might look scary, but he's pretty playful! i'd say it's sort of how mary gets when she gets a bunch of rubs from us. i dunno about limiters or demons, but i guess megumi-kun doesn't have that? the dog seemed sorta docile, so he'd probably not attack people for fun like a demon would. so you never saw one cuz of the limiter? wow, sounds as if some people just got luckier with their powers.
[ Which would bomb if you had powers, but thankfully Jun and Hiyori are simple idols without powers! They don't have to worry about "limiters" or whatever else! ]
i'd never do that to mary, either. she's already been through enough, and i know we'd never abandon her, even if we're not there right now.
alright, so what does it feel like? lighter? heavier? however you wear it, looks the same to me and i'm almost sure other people haven't noticed. yeah, if we're following real time, it's not gonna be winter anymore. maybe if we saw some real sunlight, we'd figure out just what season we're in.
[ It sounds like trouble to Jun, who always allows his hair to air dry and move on. The only time his hair receives any love is whenever they're on a job, which is only for the best. And if it's no longer winter, that means no cold Ohii-san hands on the back of his neck! So for Jun, that's already a win if they are past the colder months.
And that's the kind of compliment Jun hasn't realised he's given, as he's only typing the words without really thinking about them. Of course, he'd know just how soft Hiyori's hands are! He sort of thinks about them sometimes, which is completely normal! Since they'll be out of here before they know it, Jun can appreciate them for the rest of his life! That's also why there's no need to worry, because those people here will not be following them back home.
Meaning, Jun is appreciative of them, just as they are and Hiyori's overall smoothness. Maybe he should work on his own, even though his hands are not as smooth and calloused? Well, weight training is strenuous and challenging! And he's not completely certain if they're rough to the point where it's uncomfortable...? Surely Hiyori would complain if they were! ]
well, it sounded as if you were, ohii-san. and that's what i'm saying! it only makes sense we'd say nice things about one another, even if *sometimes* stuff you tell other people gets on my nerves.
[ Even if Hiyori has, Jun sure hasn't! But complaining about his muscles? Sounds as if someone's obsessed with them! When it comes to Hiyori, at least, Jun has been nothing but kind—well, aside from when he learns his partner has told others about his cooking! At this point, perhaps Jun ought to start charging for his cooking services. ]
Well in that case, we'll just have to introduce her to the wonderful world of idols ourselves! ✨🎶✨😊✨🎶✨ Spreading love for idols is one of my greatest joys in life, so I look forward to it! I just wish we had access to our CDs and music videos, so we could share some of those with her too, but oh well.
[Live Monika reaction to Trap for You would be something.]
And I suppose this means that "vibe" of yours has improved. You used to give off a somewhat intimidating aura back in the day, but now you come across as friendly and approachable. Guess you have me to thank for that 😊
[And now for that photo. When he sees it, he can't help but recoil; seriously, someone here can summon that?]
Goodness, that thing looks huge! And what sharp teeth it has! But it has a friendly personality, you say? That's good, I suppose. You can't always judge based on looks. Sort of like we just talked about - even if someone gives off an aura of intimidation, they might still be a good boy 💕
But that does get me wondering about all sorts of things. I wonder if it's really true that he doesn't have a limiter. And if so, I wonder who else might have gotten "lucky."
[He's very keenly interested now. Granted, no one that he spoke to on his network post believed they were powerful enough to break out of here; everyone, even the boastful types, said the resort was run by a strong force they weren't sure how to deal with. But what might happen if everyone worked together? Regular humans are stronger together than alone, so he can only assume the same holds true for magic users. Plus he hasn't talked to everyone in the resort yet by any means, so there might be some powerful mages out there just waiting to be discovered!
Anyway, he doubts this person's dog-shikigami thing can bite a hole in the forcefield or whatever, but you never know. Now that he knows his name and what he looks like, he might try to get in contact with him anyway.]
Lighter without the hair oil, but harder to manage as a result! Perhaps *you* haven't noticed since you're not very observant, but I'm sure my adoring fans could tell the difference. Or some of them could, anyway. There are types out there who analyze every pixel that gets posted to social media. But I guess our official account won't have been updated too recently...
[Or has it? Now that he's been told about the "time flunctuations" and had a cracktastic conversation with Leo about the diverging timelines, he's not so sure what to make of the situation at home. The thought of them being missing for so long is depressing, as is the realization that neither one of them has seen real sunlight in over a month.
But there's no sense in rehashing all that unpleasantness. He'd rather focus on the future, so:]
Once we're home again, let's spend a full day out in the sun. We can go to a beach, walk around a garden, hike a mountain, have a picnic - anything we want. Just so long as we're able to bask in the warm sunlight.
And while we're basking, we can say more nice things to each other. You can tell me all the wonderful things you like best about me, and perhaps I'll tell you what it is I like best about you. Alright? That sounds like a lovely time to me.
[One day, they'll be home again. This experience will have changed things between them, but not in a bad way. Neither one of them has let this place rot their souls, so they'll still be the same idols everyone admires. That's what he truly believes, and what he'll continue to hold out hope for.]
yeah, sure i'd be interested in guiding her with you, cuz that's what we already do as idols. and it's our thing as eve, so it'll be a piece of cake ♪ so if we did, it'd be easy ~ but i'm pretty sure we can perform for her live, anyway. we'll just have to make do with the music.
[ They could improv the music, but a live reaction to Trap For You lasts forever. ]
uh, what? 🤨 i dunno why you're suddenly bringing up how i used to be, or what my "vibes" gotta do with it? i'm different now, just like you're different too.
[ And that doesn't need to be said, but Jun knows the reason why he's no longer deemed "intimidating" and "scary" is due to Hiyori's influence. For someone who never used to smile, to someone who now can and someone who's been shown love! Yep, has all been Ohii-san's doing.
Whatever this has to do with Monika's interest, Jun has no clue. ]
yeah, really friendly! i think you'd be surprised. you've gotta treat him the way you treat mary, and nothing bad'll happen ♪ that's what i did and nothing happened.
i guess we could always find out. i don't mind asking, but i dunno about it... beats me! only figure megumi-kun doesn't, cuz he's able to summon his shikigami. do you think people are gonna tell you if you ask? you had that post and everything, but i figure some people wanna keep their powers secret.
[ Tfw you can't tell if your partner is referring to you as a dog again, or it's something else.....
Besides Megumi and Topaz, Jun's only really spoken to one other person with "powers" who has delved into the details. Not knowing a few others aren't normie idols, so if it were up to him, he likely wouldn't tell a stranger what his powers could or couldn't do. But it begs the question, nearing words he's read from Hiyori: why are they limiting some guests' powers and not the others? A confusing question they may never know the answer to.
The shikigami could have his powers nerfed; for all Jun knows, he just remembers Megumi saying something about not knowing if he'll need him here, only due to there being no threats here compared to back home. Jun hasn't unlocked all the friendship points there, though the more they talk, the more he'll learn. ]
lighter, hmmm~? well, it still looks and feels the same to me. and, hey! what's *that* supposed to mean? i'm pretty observant when i want to be. your fans probably wouldn't give a damn, either. they'd like you no matter what your hair looks like. besides, our socials aren't gonna get updated with new photos of us if we're stuck here, so they're not even gonna see what your hair looks like.
[ Really, Jun does think his hair looks as normal as it ever does, no different from how it looks from home. And if it doesn't? He's not sure what the big deal is!
Well, Leo brings out the worst in everyone! Two Ohii-san's? Jun would lose his mind. Either in a good or bad way, there's going to be twice as much demand and shopping trips. But on the other hand... hmmm. ]
whatever we do, i don't care. long as we're in the sunlight together, doing something, alright? it can be all those things, whatever we want! a picnic on a damned mountain, one in a garden, or even at the beach—! i just wanna see sunlight again, ohii-san. real sunlight!! not the artificial thing from your suite.
how's that any fair? if you wanna hear good things, then you've gotta tell me good things back! that's how it works!! but if that's what you want, i'll think about it.
[ Not as if it's too difficult to say wonderful things about Ohii-san, it's typically he says them without being prompted to! He still has a lot to say, though, so perhaps he needs to start compiling a list of each characteristic he finds endearing about Ohii-san. But is it a date??? Does this sound like a date???? Even if those words seem to suggest that it is, can Jun assume that it is one? Is he just misreading the signs?? Who knows! Only time will tell when they return home. ]
something i *already* like about you, ohii-san..? well you're always lighting up the room with your smile ~ ♪
Then let's do our best to put on a wonderful performance 😊✨🎶💕🎤🕺💃 One she won't ever forget!
[He isn't actually thinking of fake-kissing Jun just to stick it to Monika. That would simply be tacky. Their performance as Eve is separate from their real relationship, anyway! ... But that move is a part of their choreography, so he won't not do it if it comes up. You know, just to show her how the routine goes.
And of course his influence on Jun are relevant. He's saying Monika's interest in Jun is partially because of him! He's the one who helped make Jun so appealing! (Little does he know this is actually true, just not in the way he thinks it to be true. He's actually been making Jun seem more appealing by being possessive of him! Talk about shooting yourself in the foot!!) Also, Hiyori always thinks he himself is relevant, because he's a narcissist!]
I'm just saying you've gained more appeal with my help, that's all. Or, I guess in game terms, you could say you've "unlocked new levels" of appeal!
[Please praise him for his knowledge of video game terminology.
But now onto other topics.]
You actually pet it? My, you're brave. But I'm glad he's a friendly boy who didn't bite you. If he's like a pet, does that mean he has a name? I'm not too sure what I'd name him. You could go with "Roku," after those six dots on his forehead, but that wouldn't be very exciting.
I assume some people will tell me, some people won't. Most of the users who replied were fairly forthcoming, even if they didn't want to participate in the show. But I'm sure some might not want to advertise their gifts, especially since it sounds like magic users are persecuted through "witch hunts" and the like in some worlds.
I'll keep reaching out, though. A, I want more performers, and B, I want to learn more! And knowing some powerful people could come in handy, don't you think? At the very least, it certainly couldn't hurt.
[Handy for what, he opts not to say over text. But the implication is obvious: handy for protecting them, and handy for getting out of here! Even if there ends up being two of them once they travel back to the original timeline. Good luck with your two Hiyoris, Jun.
He was definitely comparing Jun to the shikigami for a minute there, yes... but if it's any consolation, he thinks Jun is much cuter!]
True, my fans *would* love me no matter what. I'm mainly just annoyed because my morning routine takes longer now, that's all. And even if they won't be uploaded, I wouldn't mind taking some nice pictures. This place does offer some interesting backdrops, despite everything else that's horribly wrong with it.
But I'd much rather be out in the sunlight, so as soon as we're released, we can take photos outdoors instead! And I never said I WON'T say good things back
[But then he gets that last message.
He blinks at the screen. He didn't expect Jun to start right now! But even over text, those nice words fill him with warmth. Jun's said similar things to him before, and they made him happy then, too, but the feeling when he reads them now is a bit different. Perhaps this is a result of acknowledging his love and having it returned... Or probably returned. He still doesn't know for sure.
But he has hope. And he has his partner, who's cheeky but still kind, and increasingly rather sweet. that's enough to keep him going in this place.]
Yes, you're right about that! That's something I like about me, too 😘
It sounds like Jun-kun wants to be praised badly, so I guess I'll give it a shot and say one thing I like about you, too. For starters: I like your voice! That's what drew me to you in the first place, and it's why I asked you to start a unit with me.
[Actually, that wasn't the only thing that drew him to Jun, but shhh.]
yeah, let's do it, ohii-san ♪ then she's gotta become our fan!
[ There are countless songs they could perform, but that's not why he'd recommend it! That song was their debut, so it holds special meaning for him, and there's been a big improvement since then. No comment on how their relationship differs from how they act on stage; that's pretty much a given.
But all of this makes his head hurt; having someone interested in you and being upfront about it hasn't been easy to deal with! Hiyori has played a significant role in introducing outside influences to him, being his "mentor" and guide. However, could Monika also find herself attracted to him? Really, high time to put an end to these thoughts!
Anyway, it is cute Hiyori's using video game terms! Now those are terms he understands clearly. ]
heh, i bet you've wanted to say that for sometime, huh~? i'm proud of you, ohii-san, knowing all about those sorta gaming terms!
but yeah, i did! his furs real soft, not that you'd expect it. megumi-kun reassured me he wouldn't bite, so that helped! not that i know of? i wasn't told if he's got a name, but i'm sure he might? megumi-kun seems to care 'bout him! roku's a pretty good name, though? it's not that different from "bloody Mary!"! temember, we decided that 'cuz she was covered in her own blood.
[ And for Mary, it's a perfectly fine name! Even if she's no longer covered in said blood. ]
well, i'm wishing you luck, ohii-san! i'm sure you'll get bounds of people talking ♪ like, online? or the one where you stick a witch to the stake and do *that*? cuz there's two different kinds! yeah, it'd be handy! and sounds as if you've found something that's gonna entertain you for a bit. too bad natsume-kun's not here! maybe he'd be able to out-magic everyone...?
[ Yes, Jun does believe Natsume's magic is real and can do that. No one tell him! And he doesn't know what Hiyori means by handy, but he supposes it might be if you wanted a way out of this place. Though it's not the implication he might think it means, not "blowing a hole in this place."
As for two Hiyori's? Well, that would send his mind elsewhere, along of having to put up with two of him. Just how would he have the attention for both Hiyori's? A Hiyori a day? One Hiyori half a day, the other the rest?
Least that's some consolation! ]
see! they would so you've got nothing to worry about. i also doubt they'd forget about you just cuz some pics aren't uploaded onto your account. i'm thinking maybe there's a camera around here you could take some on?
i dunno why, even when we go "outside," it's not real. just some dumb barrier keeping us thinking we're outside when we're not. i don't care where the photos are, long as we're outside ♪
[ And maybe that's something Jun can look into on his own! A camera, that is! And hope they aren't for nefarious purposes. Also, it's not as if no one said he wasn't able to say something nice here. He might as well, right?
... but the meaning has changed since then, hasn't it? Or are they the same as ever? There are many confusing feelings running around his head, he doesn't know where to begin! ]
... sorta ruins the compliment if you say that, y'know? and it's not the first time i've said that, but it was the first thing that came to mind...
and where'd you get that from? i never asked to be praised? it's just, well, i wanted to say something nice, alright~? cuz who said we've gotta wait 'til we get home? but thanks, i really like when you say that. i know we had a bit of trouble to begin with, but you really helped me with my voice. so i'm glad you asked me, even if i thought you were outta your mind.
[ Really, who asks someone to join their unit after a day of knowing them? ]
It's not that I was waiting around to say it. I just thought now would be an excellent opportunity!
[He was definitely waiting around.]
I'd say it's fairly different. Bloody Mary is a legend, for starters. And I'm not sure what legends there are about people with mysterious dots on their forehead. Perhaps there's some mythological creature who fits that description? Nagisa-kun might know. And if not in our world, perhaps in other worlds, so if that friend of yours is ever looking for a name, he could always poll the network and see what they say!
Tsumugi-kun's unit would meet their match in a place like this, I'm fairly sure.
[POV your Ohii-san has cloned himself so he can be twice as annoying. Both of them expect to get laid tonight but neither is in the mood to do anything but pillow queen. If you try to focus your attention on one, the other will loudly start to complain that he is being neglected. However do you resolve this serious dilemma?
Speaking of serious dilemmas:]
Well, if I really did disappear, I wouldn't want my fans to mourn forever. I'd want them laugh and smile still, so that good fortune would come to their homes. But I would hope they'd carry their memories of me forever in their hearts. That they won't ever forget an idol called Hiyori Tomoe existed.
[How cheerful. In game terms, this is probably what you call a "death flag," so let's move on!
Move onto more pleasant things, such as complimenting each other. He's still smiling as he types:]
First you said it wouldn't be fair to hear good things without saying them back, then you praised me, so I assumed you must want praise! Not that there's anything wrong with that. The adorable Jun-kun who yearns to be praised by his kind-hearted senior (<-- that's me!) is one of my absolute favorites 😊
And I'd say it worked out for the best, didn't it? The fact I had so little to go on when I chose you just goes to show my judgment is impeccable. It's true that I picked you up on a whim, but it *was* still a choice. Your voice was good, and you seemed motivated. If you were a bit rough around the edges, then I suppose that just made things more fun. Training someone who already knows everything they'd need to know can't be too exciting.
[He doesn't share the big thing. That Jun was someone he'd already been looking for, based on seeing him from a distance that one time. But everything he just said is true, and he has no regrets about that "stray" he picked up. Jun-kun was unquestionably worth raising. ]
sure, ohii-san. sounds as if you were waiting 'round to say it ♪
and yeah, but saying mary's name three times in a mirror is seriously scary? i'd never wanna do anything like that! shikigami are from folklore, so that's pretty important! even if there's nothing close to a dog with dots on their forehead in reality. if anyone'd know, it'd be nagi-senpai! too bad we can't ask him. that's an idea, but i wonder if megumi-kun would even wanna know. i can't imagine they're gonna be appropriate names, if you know what i mean.
[ He can only imagine! And Megumi's pretty young—well, younger than Jun! If he remembers correctly, he thinks Megumi's around sixteen, so yep!
Given the mental image, one Ohii-san would complain about not receiving attention, while the other might still complain about something else. The correct answer would be finding ways to clone himself so he can satisfy two Ohii-san's! ]
i'm sure that's what your fans're doing right now, even if they know you're missing. i bet they're just waiting for your return.
[ What in the eulogy? ]
well, yeah! when i say those good things about you, i never really expect to hear anything back. you usually tease me anyway! and if you wanna praise me, i'm not gonna beg for it, y'know? stuff like that should happen naturally. you'll get a big head if i do it all the time ♪ but why'd you explain that? i already know you're my senior, my senpai ~ ♪
[ If he were feeling extra cheeky, he'd call him 'Tomoe-senpai' again instead of 'Ohii-san' but after all this time, it feels weird, so he won't. ]
and even i can say it worked out pretty well. sometimes i wonder if you seriously hit your head that day, cuz i really thought you were playing some sorta prank on me. it would've been too bad if "picking me up on a whim" ended poorly in your favour, huh, ohii-san~? good thing it worked out.
[ He's teasing, but it does feel nice to read all these things. Now he's the one smiling, pleased that even if he were a little "rough around the edges," back then, everything turned out fine. ]
thanks for picking me up, ohii-san. i wouldn't be here without you and i can't really put it into words how much it means to me.
[ And he means so! The extra training he received helped, especially to help him grow out of knowing Jin's every single dance move. That wasn't healthy, but the way Hiyori trained him had been the most comforting experience he's ever been through. ]
Oh, no, *me* waiting around for *you* would just be absurd! I don't like waiting, as I always have more important things to do with my time!
You think they'd name a pet something crude here? Now that's just horrible. You might be right, though, given that whole "Springtime" thing. I don't know why anyone finds animal mating habits appealing, and I don't want to know! Animals are animals, people are people, and that's that!
Though I guess Jun-kun has some things in common with hyenas.
[Is that the closest he's come to actually discussing the Springtime event since it ended? You bet it is! With him talking about it so negatively, does that mean he regrets what happened?
No. He feels comfortably talking about it negatively because what he and Jun-kun did together wasn't a part of that "game" anyway. If he'd actually been playing it properly, he would've gone looking for rabbits first of all. But he didn't want rabbits or anyone else, he just wanted Jun-kun! Who's a fellow person, not an animal, and that's the tea on that.
Though he did look rather cute having his ears petted... No, but that doesn't matter! Anyway, back to the topic at hand!!]
I've never said anything good about you, hmm? It sounds like Jun-kun is suffering from memory issues. As your senior, I've always praised you when you did well. I just also can't help but tease you, since your reactions are so funny at times!
[Is now really the time for teasing, though?
His heartbeat quickens as he hovers his fingers over the tiny, tiny watch keyboard. Jun is being so earnest, honest and cute, professing his heartfelt gratitude. Though his words carry a reminder of the past, and that's somewhat sad. "Wouldn't be here" if not for him, hmm? Surely he doesn't mean that literally. But it's true that Jun-kun's rise to stardom was owed to him.
No one else could see the potential. They turned their eyes away, seeing only a "Non-Special Student" who bore the name Sazanami. Hiyori discovered that diamond in the rough all on his own. Of course Jun is grateful. Still, having Jun say it to him outright like that almost shakes him to the core, even if it's just over text.
He could just tease Jun as usual. "Jun-kun's surprisingly passionate" or "Awww, you love me so much." Perhaps that teasing wouldn't even be a tease. Perhaps Jun really does love him. Isn't that why Jun took him to bed, saying all those sweet things to him? Isn't that why they're making plans together now, and exchanging even more sweet words?
Or is that all just "gratitude" on Jun's part...?
There's still a lingering doubt on his part. It's why he still hasn't put all his cards on the table, so to speak. But it feels as though he gets closer each day. Perhaps one day, even the oblivious Jun-kun will understand his whole heart.
For now he just says this:]
All teasing aside, however, I'm glad I chose you. You were well worth raising.
Let's work hard to find a way home together, alright?
yeah, like what? shopping's not an answer, ohii-san.
have you *seen* how some people talk here? wouldn't put it past them! i dunno, but i'm hoping the next one's got nothing to do with animals. and i don't wanna know about people's "mating habits," ohii-san.
what are you on about, seriously? i don't have anything in common with a hyena!! you're just saying stuff to say it, cuz you know, it annoys me. too bad our roles were reversed. you usually act like a spoiled cat, like a really annoying one.
[ Uh, wait—why did Jun say that? Not as if he's going to participate in the next game, anyway! And they haven't mentioned anything about the game since it happened, even if said words are negative. However, Jun does not seem uncomfortable bringing up the incident; perhaps this has to do because they are texting each other about it, or perhaps the topic is moving in a less positive direction.
And everything that transpired between them turned out to be something good! ]
i'm not suffering from anything, you know??? just forget i said anything, alright? i don't wanna be teased when i'm saying nice stuff about you.
[ And he can't get his words right to describe what he means! He's clearly aware the times when Hiyori does praise him, enjoying the praise whenever he receives it. Besides feeling flustered whenever Hiyori counterattacks with talking about love, at first he'd thought the stupid noble lost his damn mind. Perhaps the feeling still rings true, or he's the one who's lost his damn mind for caring about someone who drives him up the wall.
Sure he wouldn't have a career without his partner, he'd still be stuck in the hellish environment of Reimei if no one had picked him up. There are many words to be said about the environment, and he's not sure how those words are meant to be taken. Surely not completely literally, only kneenly well aware if Hiyori hadn't seen his potential, or if he knew about the name Sazanami, they wouldn't be here together.
There is more than just genuine gratitude to be expressed, but how can he when he's not sure what "love" feels like? Is this what it feels like when you think about someone whose chest constricts so much that it's almost impossible to breathe? This isn't one of Jun's cheesy Shoujo mangas, where the person confesses and the ending has them together forever, where nothing can possibly come in their way. But they have been making plans, haven't they? And currently saying nice words to one another.
He'd never forgive himself for messing up whatever relationship they have now. (Which really, they don't, do they?) But then why does his chest constrict again? Reading these words? Goddamn...
How do you even realise you love someone, anyway? And can you be in love with someone and not realise it? With these confusing feelings, he needs to quit shoujo manga for good. ]
thanks ohii-san..
yeah, we'll work hard and not give up for a second! i wanna get out of here and go home with you. and home to greet mary, nagi-senpai and ibara ♪
[ And to hopefully sort out these confusing feelings, which he can't admit to yet. He's not sure of his own heart, nor is he sure of Hiyori's, not wanting to ruin what they currently have. Especially while remaing uncertain about what prompted him to confess everything except feelings of love. ]
Like rehearsing, gathering info, talking to people who might be useful, and all sorts of other things! 😤 It's lucky for you that you have such a hard-working partner.
Though shopping isn't unimportant. We do need food and clothes! And even though I'm naturally beautiful, I need at least some beauty products, or I just won't feel comfortable!
Huh? Huh? What does that mean???
[This in response to the "spoiled cat" comment. They really are talking about their roles now, something they've avoided doing until now! But if Jun wants to play that game, well.]
I'd say Jun-kun acted plenty spoiled when he was a "cat"! He was all too eager to receive love and attention from me ❤️ Like having his ears touched, and also other parts! It was simply the cutest thing 💕
[Of course that's as explicit as he gets. He won't specify what those other parts are. He's not crude like that! Unlike some people who might prefer to talk about the waterfall between their legs.]
But as for Jun-kun being hyena-like, I'm pretty sure we already discussed this! How you clawed your way up from the bottom of the ravine, and out into the sunlight. That's what you did in Reimei *and* in life. Though there isn't any need for you to do that here, since whenever you want to sleep in a higher-ranked room, you can always just go to my room and sleep comfortably with me.
[... that last line was actually not intended to be innuendo. Though he doesn't not mean it that way, either!
And, uh, so much for Jun not wanting to be teased. This doesn't exactly make a fine lead-up to Jun's heartfelt words at the end there. But he meant his own words, just as much as he meant (or more than he meant) the teasing.
This place sees "love" as a transaction. One you're supposed to make with over fifty people. But it's not like that for them. How fortunate he is that Jun is here, so he didn't end up going back to his old patterns. He hasn't needed to; when that "problem" struck, and he was seized with a strong urge to hold someone, he could just hold the person he already loved. And Jun-kun got to have his first time with someone who loves him, rather than someone who's just using him to earn a "card" or what-have-you. They really are blessed by this place's standards.
But they'll be happier at home, once they're united with the others and they don't have to worry all the time. When they can pursue their shared dream again. That's what he knows to be true, and that's what he'll continue to work towards.]
Yep. Not even God can separate Adam and Eve. We'll all be back together soon. And then we can accomplish even more wonderful things together.
[He sends the message, though it doesn't quite feel like enough. How does he say that he wants to go home so they can be with the others and continue their career, but he also wants what they have now to continue? He's not just sleeping with Jun because this place is forcing him to; he wants Jun to hold him tight at home, too.
But first they have to get home, so that's not really a high priority. Hopefully he can make Jun understand later, if he doesn't already. For now, this ought to be enough. They'll escape, and then all that other stuff will fall into place.]
hardworking partner and you don't really go in the same sentence, ohii-san.
do you really need those products or are you being annoying about them again? cuz like i said about your hair, you look no different to me.
[ Meaning, personally, Jun doesn't care for what his partner looks like, with or without them. But it's Hiyori, so he's going to be annoying about wanting all the products in the world. ]
you're always attention-seeking and demanding to start off with. want me to continue? i'll easily name all the ways you're always acting like a spoiled cat.
and i'm not gonna act like a cat ever again, so get used to it. you're the one who asked about scratching my ears in the first place??? and i said, yeah!! so what about it now????
[ Given that he enjoyed having his partner touch other parts of him, he isn't even sure how to address the second point. Besides understanding exactly what they were, Hiyori's typing causes his cheeks blush, given they had yet to discuss the Springtime game in any detail. Instead, the idea of Hiyori touching him again is there, stuck in his mind from a simple mention. ]
plenty of times, but you keep going on about me being a hyena after i tell you to quit it. how does that mean the same thing? i don't wanna sleep in a high-ranking room and i dunno if you forget half the stuff i tell you, but you know that. yeah, well, it's not like you're difficult to sleep with, ohii-san.
[ In more ways than one! ... not that Jun intended to say so outright; he clearly meant in the same bed. Yes, exactly the same way Hiyori's last sentence went.
Despite his complaints, one thing is certain: he has no problem sharing a space with Hiyori again. It is already so familiar, with no way of concealing how at ease he has been, even if this situation was supposed to be awkward. Besides, he promised he would never regret anything between them, and he hasn't.
But here's the problem: although his sincere words during the game were driven by the suit's activation, he seems to be at a loss for how to convince Hiyori those words were real. Unless his partner already does, and Jun's overthinking again. And his affectionate kiss on Hiyori's forehead prior to bringing him to bed reflected his own feelings. Despite his worries, Ohii-san managed to make him feel loved—a feeling he hadn't experienced before from anyone else.
And being idols, are these feelings acceptable? Will their fans be disappointed when they go home, having to face the reality that they are two people who love one another dearly? Worrying about it now might be premature, but he will forever have this memory with him. ]
good thing nagi-senpai's God, huh~? ♪ and yeah, we're gonna accomplish greater heights and when we're back home, where we were will just be a distant memory not worth remembering.
[ Except Jun wants to remember this, at least the parts that involve his partner. All the wonderful words they spoke to one another and then some. New memories can be rebuilt, remade and repurposed.
And maybe, with each passing day, he's slowly realising his feelings. ]
How rude! I've always worked plenty hard at jobs and other things that count. Jun-kun's just refusing to acknowledge my good points!
And as I said, I do need them, in order to feel comfortable and most like "myself!" Which is especially important in this place, since the House wants us to feel **un**comfortable and not at all like ourselves. But as I also said, you need not worry! I don't spend as much on beauty products as I do at home. I've just been spraying on free perfume samples instead of buying fragrances, for example.
Though I might cave and buy one if I see a good enough deal. But only then, alright?
[He's not making the best case for himself.
Though Jun isn't making the best case for himself, either. If this was happening in-person, his face would be full of disbelief. Nope, Jun is not allowed to pin this all on him! He remembers how needy and clingy Jun was!
Vividly. He remembers vividly. Sometimes in his dreams at night and sometimes in his memory throughout the day. At this rate, he won't ever forget, even though the cat ears are gone permanently. (Unless they buy Jun a headband at some point...!)]
Nope, I don't need you to go on, since that just sounds like a silly list! Unless it's all stuff like "You're cute" or "Everyone wants to spoil you." But as for Jun-kun, I distinctly recall that when I brought up scratching your ears, you said scratching them would feel "really nice." In other words, you encouraged me! Plus you had the most adorably eager look on your face. Why, I even remember seeing those ears of yours twitch with anticipation. Jun-kun sure looked cute like that 🩷😻💕
[Does he really want to play this game?? Jun could easily bring up all sorts of embarrassing things about how he behaved during that week. He's just asking for trouble at this point. But as they say in one of their songs, isn't love more fun when it's dangerous?
Still, he tones it down a bit.]
That's just me reminiscing, though. Obviously I know you're not a cat. And you're not a hyena either, you're Jun-kun! So if you want me to stop making those comparisons, that's fine, I suppose. We can simply be ourselves.
And of course I'm easy to sleep with. I always do everything elegantly, and that includes sleeping! I'm sure I must look just like sleeping beauty in the mornings 😊
[Actually, he has a massive case of bedhair in the mornings, and he occasionally hogs the covers at night. But at least he doesn't snore, kick, or thrash around.
As for the rest, well. He doesn't see Nagisa as God really, but he keeps that thought to himself. It is a part of his persona, after all. But as far as the resort being a "distant memory" goes, and one "not worth remembering," that gives him more pause. Would he like to put this place behind him? You bet! He just... doesn't want Jun to forget the things they shared together, that's all.
But he knows what Jun really meant, or he thinks he does. There's no sense in reading too much into things. He'll just gently affirm,]
I'm not sure I'll be able to forget anytime too soon. A lot has happened here. And this place is pretty memorable, for better and worse. But I absolutely agree with you: we've got much to do at home, so we'll put all this behind us and move onto better things!
[Like making their dreams come true. ... and holding Jun-kun without some "game" going on, hopefully.]
nah, i already know your good points! i'm just refusing to fuel your ego any further 😉
and it's like i said, i don't really care what you do with your chips. if you wanna use them on products or whatever, cuz it makes *you* feel comfortable, do that.
but the perfume here's safe, are you sure?
[ Actually, it seems he's starting to feel some concern about Hiyori's spending habits. Is he becoming more attentive to his partner's actions, or because he knows Hiyori can't buy all the things he might like to? Really, he can't quite figure out why he cares so much.
First things first, Hiyori mentions how this went down, and he's sure he remembers otherwise. Or rather, how wolf-like he acted! Still, there's no rest for the wicked, or, in this case, no rest for those who stay deep in denial! (And it's Jun, the one in denial.) No one will ever be able to coax out from him the extent of his clingy and needy behaviour during the time he was a cat. (Maybe they'll have to buy him that headband after all! And buy one for Hiyori, considering Jun wasn't able to touch his ears :( ) ]
now you're just deflecting, ohii-san. i'm not about to say stuff that's gonna make you even more annoying. and you did but how's what i said encouraging you? anyway, you're the one who wanted to lick me like some damn animal! what sorta wolf wants to do that~? 🐺🐺🐺
[ Just to be extra annoying, he's leaving those emojis because a) he's pretending as if he didn't read the last point about his ears; b) what the hell is the cat with heart eyes anyway? and c) he can throw back some of how Hiyori acted during the week, too! (And he also remembers vividly and in great detail of not only his own behaviour but also his partner's behaviour as if it were yesterday.)
Actually, more as if Hiyori's playing with fire, which he's not about to let him get away with. ]
i'm not a damn animal, really glad you finally realised the truth! but they're gonna come up again cuz you're always saying whatever you want.
nah, you look nothing like sleeping beauty, ohii-san. you steal the blankets most of the time, and the only good thing about how you sleep is that you don't snore. so i guess you've gotta revalue what "sleeping beauty" means. and you wake up with real bad bedhead, but you look kinda cute ♪
[ Oops, he'd forgotten that he was supposed to highlight the negative points of Hiyori's sleeping habits. However, towards the end, he couldn't help but admit that he does look incredibly cute in the mornings with bedhead. In contrast, Jun's hair tends to stick up in random directions, and he rarely bothers to fix it.
But not all the memories here have been ones worth erasing and he wants to emphasise this. Jun could never forget what transpired between him and his partner, and he has no intention of doing so. In fact, he earnestly hopes that Hiyori also cherishes and remembers the memories they share together. Which he'll also try to affirm, so they'll be on the same page. ]
well, there are things from here i'm not gonna forget! but they involve you, ohii-san, so that'll be why i'll want to remember the good things. yep, and we're gonna be real busy when we get home, but we gotta remember to make time for ourselves.
[ Meaning he does very much want to hold Hiyori back home, away from the game, with nothing to worry about. ]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
@eve, backdated to the day after he makes his network post
Jun-kun, Jun-kun! Guess what I heard! Some girl told me you were scheduled to give her idol lessons!
Assuming that's true, why didn't you tell me? There are 4 of us here, or at least there will be once Rinne-senpai crawls out of whatever hole he fell into, so we ought to make it a group lesson! That should help impart even more wisdom!
I guess I won't message Rinne-senpai since he still isn't responding, so for now, I'll just tell Leo-kun!
[And he's off to go do that. He's so speedy about it that even if Jun replies right away and tells him not too, he'll have already sent the message. RIP.]
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hey, ohii-san, what're you talking about? how'd you hear about that?
and well, i did already!! if you're talking about monika-san, i said, "if you wanna have private lessons, you should ask him instead." the him i'm talking about is tsukinaga-senpai, cuz she went on about playing the piano? but i've *already* told her about the four of us, ohii-san....
she just
really wants me to teach her for whatever reason?
[ No, Jun knows the reason after she went a little unhinged, confessing she "likes" him and whatever else. But he's apparently let her down gently, so it's fine. ]
i'd say don't, but you're not gonna listen and you've probably? already? done it?
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[But, well, now onto other matters.
He's already run off to Leo's inbox by the time he reads the rest of Jun's message. The text has him squinting his eyes in disbelief. She rejected being taught by Leo in favor of Jun? And Jun seems to have absolutely no clue about why that would be? Goodness, how troublesome.
But oh well. After what happened during that week while they were holed up together, he's extra convinced she stands no chance now!]
Yep, already have! Your typing just wasn't fast enough to catch up to me, I'm afraid. I used to hate typing on these smartwatch screens, but I've gotten used to it! Though of course it'd be much better if they'd just give us our phones back. And our lives, while we're at it.
Anyway, did she say she *doesn't* want Leo-kun to teach her? It's funny that she asked you when you're the one who knows the least piano out of the three of us! Even I know how to play basic things. But I guess that might be a sign she feels most comfortable with you, or that she thinks you have a teacherly demeanor. Just like that teacher Arashi-chan likes. Or your old nemesis, Jin Sagami!
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[ And not reveal the extent of his concern about Hiyori holding something in a gym. ]
but maybe i should read it and see what else she said??
[ He likely won't, only because that's none of his business and reading things about himself is no good. And Jun figures that's the case, not when he hasn't received a message back right away. He's sighing to himself, rubbing at his temple. Even though he doesn't know Monika well, it feels strange to have someone confess to him. He hasn't figured out if it's flattering or what just yet!
Those muscles might be better off being stored away—they've been attracting attention from all directions! Fortunately, only Hiyori will experience what it's like to be properly held in them. So, very clearly, Hiyori has nothing to worry about. ]
i guessed so and you didn't give me a chance??? don't tell me you've gotten used to it now. the screens still suck. and they're not gona do that, since we could call whoever's on them, check the internet and whatever else.
and yeah, that's what she said. could you lessen the blow any less, ohii-san? i know i'm no good at piano. i even told her that!!! could be that... i'm not much of a teacher, even if you said that stuff about sakura-kun the other day. [ Or she may want to sleep with him, then rub it in Hiyori's face. ] don't say those words to me, ohii-san. we're *not* talking about sagami jin.
[ He's already been living it rough without the poster, even if sleeping next to Hiyori is far more comforting. All he is angry about something that typically makes him feel at ease, was taken from him! He feels a little on edge just reading that name. (And Narukami-san can do way better, too.)
Nope, not bringing it up, he refuses to allow it to bother him— ]
i'd be a better damn teacher, anyway.
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At least that interaction reminded him he needs to do something about those books, though. They've just been sitting in his bedside drawer underneath some other stuff. He's lucky Jun didn't find them during their week together. So, off to have them burned!]
We didn't talk too much about you. It was mainly about Rinne-senpai's disappearance and such. Telling me about those idol lessons was just something she threw in at the end! But if you want her exact words...
[A pause while he digs those up.]
"i can't wait to see you again once jun jun gives me some idol lessons ❤️❤️❤️❤️"
[............ wait.]
Based on how she phrased herself, I assume she's inviting me along! Since she said she "can't wait" to see me again, and she went to the trouble of telling me in the first place.
[No, that can't be it. Unless that really is true? He hadn't considered that she might really want him to come, but now that he re-reads the message, that sure sounds like a possibility! Just what is her game here? Is she operating on a higher level than either one of them can comprehend??]
But if there's no date yet, then that's that! Just keep me posted. Or she can keep me posted, or Leo-kun can! ~Whichever~
And I actually heard from someone that our phones and other possessions are being stored in a safe somewhere. She got that information from someone on the Network, she said. She was working out how to get her phone back she could look at her pet pictures. I've been meaning to investigate that, though I doubt we'd be able to contact the outside wrold with them. I assume they've shut off any function that would allow us to do that.
[It would be nice to have access to his camera roll, though. He misses seeing Mary's face. And Nagisa's. (No comment on whether or not he misses seeing Ibara's!)
But okay, okay, no Jin talk! ... until Jun brings him up at the end, anyway, which makes him smile.]
Yep, I can see that! Put the two of you side-by-side, and you look like the more responsible one, even though you're still just a student! *And* you had me to teach you, which should leave you better-equipped to teach others. When you consider all that, it's no mystery why she asked you.
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If you told Jun that he doesn't have a muscle kink, he'd only raise his brow and say, "Really?" But he'll never know about Monika's nonsense and whatever else she said to Hiyori, mostly because, again, that's none of his business. And secondly, it's far too tiring to read people fighting over you!
Goodbye, Eve doujins, we hardly knew you. ]
alright, i'm glad she's worried about rinne-senpai, but i'm sure he's gonna show up, laugh at all of us worrying so much, and then end up drunk somewhere else. why'd she say that, i wonder???? after all that, it *does* sound like she's inviting you.
[ Even though Jun knows she hadn't wanted to invite anyone else, the way she worded the text to his partner does make it seem as if it were an invitation. He's pretty confused now! Now Jun's not sure what the exact truth is. Maybe Monika-san's playing them both, and they don't even know it. ]
maybe when she tells me when, i'll let you know? i'm just worried she's expecting more when i've already told her i don't play piano.
wait, are you talking about topaz-san? she's the only person i know who has a bunch of pets. [ And Jun knows she's smart. ] yeah, i dunno where that safe would be. but i wanna look at photos of mary, nagi-senpai, and ibara. probably, but who's to even say we came here with our phones?
[ For starters, Jun's usually lays at his bedside table, on charge. Would they really be bothered to find everyone's phones in their rooms, then bring them here? Jun wants to believe what Hiyori's saying, he really does, but it's a little frustrating.
Unfortunately, he can't let the Jin talk go without mentioning him first. He's hanging his head low, staring back at his watch. A little miffed, but not something talking about it won't fix. ]
yeah, of course i would be! i wouldn't trust him as a teacher, not for a second. he's the saddest excuse of a human being i've ever seen. i'm gonna graduate soon, so i'm not gonna be a student much longer, you know? anyway, that's why i'm gonna be a better teacher, cuz you taught me more than his shitty videos ever did.
[ Jun, those idol videos quite literally raised you.... ]
i guess so? but she doesn't know *you* were my teacher back then, ohii-san. i never told her about that.
I like how I went back and edited that tag yet I still spy multiple typos...
I'm not giving him the chance to laugh. He'll be too busy being scolded! Worrying is bad for one's health after all, so he has a lot of nerve making *us* worry! Especially when we're Eve, and he's just some sloppy drunk who loves gambling!
And perhaps she was inviting me! That's the point I'm trying to make. It wouldn't be strange for someone to want to spend time with me, no? Or for someone to want to spend time with Eve!
[It would be strange if Monika wanted that, though. So again, what's her game here? But oh well. He doesn't have time to play mind games with someone who isn't even Eichi-kun, so for now, he'll just assume she was careless!]
If she's expecting more, that's her own problem. You were honest and upfront with her, so if she wants more than you can give, that isn't your fault. But perhaps she wanted a duet? She plays the piano, you sing, or something like that?
[That's as close as he'll come to being critical of Monika in Jun's presence. Little does he know his words apply to more than just music lessons, though he'd mean it in either scenario.]
Yep, that's the one! You know her too, huh? She seems to have a whole menagerie. It'd be nice to be able to share pictures of Mary with her and others. Though I'd much rather they skip the whole phone business and just send us home to Mary.
And I wonder the same thing, really. She said she remembered having her phone in her possession before she got snatched, so that would explain why she thinks it's in there. In my case, they would've had to pluck it from where it was charging on my bedside table, so I guess the only question is whether or not they bothered to do that. The thought of them stealing our possessions in addition to kidnapping us only makes me feel angrier, though, honestly.
[Speaking of anger... he skims through the Jin-related text with a wry smile on his lips; someone's still holding a grudge, hmm? But he's happy to hear Jun call him a good teacher, anyway, even if it's merely in comparison to that man.]
Oh? You mean you don't talk about me when you're together? Then whatever do you talk about?
[He's teasing...... kind of.]
i honestly never noticed! just pretend like you didn't make typos
reading what she said back, it sounds like she's inviting you. but monika-san knows nothing about idols, so i don't think she wants to spend time with you or even as eve.
[ Though he's trying to be considerate, Jun's already guessed from the way she was acting each time he mentioned Hiyori, it's clear that Monika didn't think much of him. ]
yeah? maybe she's expecting more, like a duet. i think she said something close to that, saying she learns better with one person. i can go back and check if you want, but everything with her has been confusing.
[ He just knows Monika wants to see him alone, without anyone else, since she said something about learning better with one person. She used the word "friend" a lot, which Jun doesn't see as a red flag. ... which he should! ]
yep, i know her! topaz-san met me on the app thing, and then she showed me her fire powers. i agreed to play games with her sometime, too. hopefully, we can get our phones back soon. i met a guy who's got a shikigami! he invited me over and asked about mary! so i promised whenever we get them back, i'll show her off. but otherwise, i wish they'd send us back home to her, too. that's what i want most, ohii-san. i'm positive she's missing us.
she had her phone? ok, i understand how or why it'd be in there. that's where mine is usually, too, so that's why i'm wondering if they would've done that for everyone. you know i don't own much, so it doesn't bother me. well, not like it's gonna bother you.
[ Besides Mary and the idols back home, he's only missing his poster, and besides that? Well, clothes are clothes.
But the feeling of talking about Jin has passed, he feels better now that's out of his system. He wouldn't be halfway decent without Hiyori's training, anyway. His voice didn't blossom fully until he was taken under his wing! He might act cheeky most of the time, but he appreciates Hiyori more than he could ever say. ]
huh, what makes you think that? course i've been talking about you. i've told monika-san *other* things, just not about that.
[ So much so, it's completely ticked Monika off, but Jun's blissfully unaware. It's not his fault! ]
will try (1/2)
[No, there's nothing "simple" about it. Much as he'd like to tell himself it's Rinne's own fault he disappeared, Hiyori knows that probably isn't true. Rinne's an occasional drunk, but he's not stupid or careless, and he seemed fine when they last saw each other. If Rinne can fall into a void or what-have-you, then surely he or Jun can, and that's a disturbing thought.
And it's also one more reason to cling suffocatingly tight to his partner. Like a barnacle, an octopus, or a spider monkey!
But speaking of annoying clingy types, now it's back to discussing Monika!]
Why wouldn't she want to spend time with me? I'm me! Someone doesn't need to be a fan of Eve or idols to be drawn to me. It happens naturally!
[But it didn't happen with Monika. Monika doesn't want him at the lesson after all, it seems, since she apparently told Jun she "learns better with one person." Hiyori's eyes narrow into snakelike slits as he reads that line. Uh-huh, sure she does!
But how does that factor into things? She wanted a one-on-one lesson with Jun, but she also told him about it? And she said she can't wait to see him again? Is she just careless, or is there something else going on?? As the gears in his head slowly start to turn, his overactive imagination starts to conjure a crazy possibility! And the crazy possibility goes like this:
1. The sly Monika puts on her cutest smile and asks Jun to give her a one-on-one idol lesson!
2. The clueless Jun-kun can't understand why she asked him in particular, but he accepts because he's a nice boy!
3. Monika also tells Hiyori about the lesson, and (sort of) invites him along!
4. Hiyori invites Leo too, and they all make plans to attend!
5. However, on the day of the lesson, Monika decides to reschedule! She says something else came up that day, so she needs Jun give her the lesson an hour or two early! Then she says she already told Hiyori (and Leo??) about the time swap, so Jun doesn't think to go tell them himself.
6. Because he's an agreeable boy, Jun shows up early! However, Hiyori (and Leo???) weren't told about the time swap, so they assume the lesson is still being held at the later time! Thus, when Jun arrives at the practice room (which is really just a Mating Season room repurposed as a practiced room), Monika is there alone! Jun doesn't suspect subterfuge, so he just assumes Hiyori and Leo are running late.
7. While alone together inside the practice room, Monika seduces Jun, or tries to! (She'll probably want to invite Jun two hours earlier, not just one, because Jun is rather clueless, so it will take at least an hour to seduce him! It may even more than two hours!)
8. They do stuff together! (Or at least that's what Monika-chan is hoping for!)
9. Hiyori (and maybe Leo??) arrive at the "lesson" just in time to see Jun and Monika in a post-sex haze!
10. Monika looks directly at Hiyori and smirks, as though to say "I won!"
That's right, that's why she invited him! It all makes sense now!]
2/2
Yep, that's the one! The girl named after a jewel ✨ It sounds like you've been making friends, so that's good. Though what's this about a shikigami? I've been talking to all sorts of people who can do magic, but I haven't met anyone calling themselves that yet!
[He has no problem with Topaz. Nice girl. Seems to have her head on straight. Just agreed to burn some books for him. Doesn't call him "not-Iori" and isn't trying to steal his things when he's not looking! The "shikigami," though, he hasn't met, and given his newfound interest in gods (since he's theorized that they're the ones running this place), he'd be happy to hear more there!]
I suppose I've been bothered about so much other stuff that I haven't been focused on my missing possessions. I know this might come as a surprise to you, since I do love shopping, but it's people who mean the most to me, not things. Or I guess you could say it's family who means the most to me. That includes Mary, of course.
I do wish I had the same hair oil I'd been using at home, though. The one that makes my hair fall just the way I like it! And I miss all my fragrances, and the hand cream I'd been using. But on my list of complaints about this experience, the fact I'm missing my beauty products is something like #45 or #46 on my list!
[He'll get to hear more of Hiyori's list during Rin's upcoming Network post. Also, his hair really doesn't look any different now than it did at home, but whatever...]
Ah, so you have been telling her about me. I should have guessed! 😊 Nothing but good things, I'm sure.
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Watching Hiyori take off his shirt, though? That's an entirely different story! ]
yeah, yeah, alright, you've got me. i'm gonna be more than concerned if you go missing. sure, whatever you say. i'll be lost without you! i won't know what to do! and it'll be as if part of me is missing!! in case you can't tell, ohii-san, i'm being sarcastic. it's just gonna be annoying if you aren't here, so, of course, i'd go looking for you and "stop at nothing" to bring you back. it's good to know you'd do the same.
[ And it'd be pretty lonely without Ohii-san, not that he's going to say so. Jun's still trying to keep himself guarded; he's still got feelings to unpack and his partner isn't helping the flutter in his chest lessen some. ]
well, that i can't tell you. my best bet would be that you're just not her type.
[ He means idol, but perhaps a part of Jun also means something else. And if Jun were asked, he'd likely assume that the two of them are similar or that their personalities would clash. If he were more aware, he'd realise Monika acts needy, clingy, and possessive in exactly the same ways as his partner. But for now, he remains blissfully unaware.
Even if Hiyori can't see it, he's raising his brow towards his watch and further sighing. "They don't need to be fans of idols or Eve," he types. "It happens naturally," he continues to type. If Jun could smash open his watch, he would. ]
yeah, i forgot but she said something about you telling her i know how to cook. she's really nice. and yeah, he's *not* a shikigami, but owns one? it's a dog, and pretty big. if you see him around the app, his name's fushiguro megumi. he's also from japan, like we are, but i can tell you more if you'd like.
[ Another reason why Jun hardly minded meeting him was that Megumi's fairly nice and chill. His voice reminds Jun of his own, only a little calmer and relaxed. (Helps they're both voiced by Yuuma Uchida!) And Jun also has no problem with Topaz. She's been nothing but friendly and kind. ]
well, i'm not gonna say that's a surprise. gathering by that "important person" list you keep, it's pretty obvious people are important to you. anyway, she'd be offended if you didn't include her on your family list.
and what're you talking about? your hair doesn't look any different. i'm gonna say hair oil is a myth, and you've been wasting your money back home. and your hands are fine, y'know? i'm being honest; they're still pretty smooth, so whatever moisturiser you've been using here is working just fine.
[ No comment about the fragrances, mostly because Jun's glad not to be dealing with those as much as he used to. Maybe he'll buy Hiyori something sometime, just so he feels better about it. But do they have the same products here as he does back home? Probably not! ]
who else am i gonna talk about? and yeah, they've been good things. you're my partner, so you don't have to worry about what i've been telling her. it's really nothing to worry about.
no subject
His lips purse a little at the sarcasm. Was that really necessary?? (Given how obnoxious he was just being, yes, it probably was!)]
You could've started with "I'll go looking for you," you know. Those first three lines weren't needed!
[Says the king of unnecessary texting blabber.
In response to the bit about Monika:]
But you *are* her type?
[An accusatory question... or so it might sound, but he eases up with his next line:]
Well, if that's how it is, that's fine. Among Eve's fans and Eden's fans, some of them prefer me, while others might like you! Or they might favor Nagisa-kun, or perhaps even Ibara! That's how it goes with units, so if she happens to like you best, that's perfectly alright.
[Yep. He'll just talk about her like she's a fan, even though he knows she isn't one. The clueless Jun-kun probably thinks that's all this is. (He thinks, unaware that Monika actually already confessed to him, and that she kissed him originally, too!
Now onto the next part. About the shikigami:]
Ah, is that right? I must have misread. I blame the small font on these tiny smartwatch screens! But that makes a bit more sense, I suppose. Not that I know what having a shikigami entails, but if it's anything like summoning, there are a few people who can do that here. They said they can summon demons and monsters who attack people on command for them! Which sounds sort of frightening, really. But this place seems to put "limiters" on people's magic, so I know at least one of them said he couldn't do it here. Have you seen the dog thing this person can summon, or did you just see a picture or some such?
[Speaking of dogs:]
I'd be cruel to keep her off my family list when she got abandoned by her last family. Fortunately, I'd never dream of leaving her off. I'm sure you wouldn't, either.
Perhaps it looks similar, but it *feels* different. The texture just isn't the same, and it takes more time to arrange in the morning! But I suppose hand cream isn't as big a necessity here, since the environment is temperature-controlled. And it's not winter anymore here, either, although if we'd been following the timeline at home, we'd still be in February. Which is yet another mystery to untangle at some point.
[He replies casually, though he does fluster a little bit at Jun calling his hands smooth. It's not the compliment itself that flusters him, but rather, the knowledge that Jun knows exactly what his hands feel like. Why? Well, because they've been touching each other more intimately than usual, that's why!
But, you know, they don't talk about it. Or at least right now they're not. He'll just try to keep those hands soft and smooth, so Jun can appreciate them even more going forward.
... After all, they have their whole lives ahead of them. Not just their time in the resort, but also afterwards. He doesn't need to worry about something or someone coming in between them; not when Jun's here reassuring him there's nothing to be concerned over. Not with Monika, not with anyone. Jun said he didn't want anyone but him.
So, perhaps this attempted lesson-crashing was overkill on his part. He ought to trust his partner more. And he smiles as he types his response at the end.]
Who says I was worried? I've been saying good things about you, and you've been saying good things about me: that's just what you'd expect of us partners.
[Actually, he's called Jun a musclebrain and stuff a couple of times... but most of what he's said about his partner has been positive! And even the musclebrain thing is sort of meant as a weird term of endearment.]
no subject
And, of course, it was necessary! For the guy who runs his mouth, or in this case, texts. ]
well, i've gotta disagree! they were needed, ohii-san. i'm keeping you on your toes, that's all! and if not me, who else would?
but i dunno, i guess so. it's not like i know that for sure, but i figure since she asked, that's gotta be the reason? or one of the reasons? it's like i said, she doesn't know anything about idols, so maybe she's going off of vibes.
[ .. or could be how they know one another, more than Jun's admitted. He's not arguing with her on a public network; they've kissed, and yep, Monika's already confessed by this point. But mostly due to Jun not thinking about those reasons, he's going with the other reasons! ]
it's fine! i probably read it wrong anyway. it's like you said, it's hard to read on here sometimes and the light around is not great. i'd say something close outta one of the mangas i've read back home. of course, i didn't say anything close to that, but he summoned it from his hands? it's sorta hard to explain without showing you. oh yeah, i saw him! it's not easy to describe, and i even have a pic! just a sec.
[ Even hand signals straight out of N*r*to, except there's no ninjas involved, but real-life teenagers. And when Jun sends the pictures through, they might seem a touch blurry, but nearing the end there's a picture of Megumi and his Shikigami. It's not easy angling your watch when it's attached to your wrist without some blur happening. ]
he might look scary, but he's pretty playful! i'd say it's sort of how mary gets when she gets a bunch of rubs from us. i dunno about limiters or demons, but i guess megumi-kun doesn't have that? the dog seemed sorta docile, so he'd probably not attack people for fun like a demon would. so you never saw one cuz of the limiter? wow, sounds as if some people just got luckier with their powers.
[ Which would bomb if you had powers, but thankfully Jun and Hiyori are simple idols without powers! They don't have to worry about "limiters" or whatever else! ]
i'd never do that to mary, either. she's already been through enough, and i know we'd never abandon her, even if we're not there right now.
alright, so what does it feel like? lighter? heavier? however you wear it, looks the same to me and i'm almost sure other people haven't noticed. yeah, if we're following real time, it's not gonna be winter anymore. maybe if we saw some real sunlight, we'd figure out just what season we're in.
[ It sounds like trouble to Jun, who always allows his hair to air dry and move on. The only time his hair receives any love is whenever they're on a job, which is only for the best. And if it's no longer winter, that means no cold Ohii-san hands on the back of his neck! So for Jun, that's already a win if they are past the colder months.
And that's the kind of compliment Jun hasn't realised he's given, as he's only typing the words without really thinking about them. Of course, he'd know just how soft Hiyori's hands are! He sort of thinks about them sometimes, which is completely normal! Since they'll be out of here before they know it, Jun can appreciate them for the rest of his life! That's also why there's no need to worry, because those people here will not be following them back home.
Meaning, Jun is appreciative of them, just as they are and Hiyori's overall smoothness. Maybe he should work on his own, even though his hands are not as smooth and calloused? Well, weight training is strenuous and challenging! And he's not completely certain if they're rough to the point where it's uncomfortable...? Surely Hiyori would complain if they were! ]
well, it sounded as if you were, ohii-san. and that's what i'm saying! it only makes sense we'd say nice things about one another, even if *sometimes* stuff you tell other people gets on my nerves.
[ Even if Hiyori has, Jun sure hasn't! But complaining about his muscles? Sounds as if someone's obsessed with them! When it comes to Hiyori, at least, Jun has been nothing but kind—well, aside from when he learns his partner has told others about his cooking! At this point, perhaps Jun ought to start charging for his cooking services. ]
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[Live Monika reaction to Trap for You would be something.]
And I suppose this means that "vibe" of yours has improved. You used to give off a somewhat intimidating aura back in the day, but now you come across as friendly and approachable. Guess you have me to thank for that 😊
[And now for that photo. When he sees it, he can't help but recoil; seriously, someone here can summon that?]
Goodness, that thing looks huge! And what sharp teeth it has! But it has a friendly personality, you say? That's good, I suppose. You can't always judge based on looks. Sort of like we just talked about - even if someone gives off an aura of intimidation, they might still be a good boy 💕
But that does get me wondering about all sorts of things. I wonder if it's really true that he doesn't have a limiter. And if so, I wonder who else might have gotten "lucky."
[He's very keenly interested now. Granted, no one that he spoke to on his network post believed they were powerful enough to break out of here; everyone, even the boastful types, said the resort was run by a strong force they weren't sure how to deal with. But what might happen if everyone worked together? Regular humans are stronger together than alone, so he can only assume the same holds true for magic users. Plus he hasn't talked to everyone in the resort yet by any means, so there might be some powerful mages out there just waiting to be discovered!
Anyway, he doubts this person's dog-shikigami thing can bite a hole in the forcefield or whatever, but you never know. Now that he knows his name and what he looks like, he might try to get in contact with him anyway.]
Lighter without the hair oil, but harder to manage as a result! Perhaps *you* haven't noticed since you're not very observant, but I'm sure my adoring fans could tell the difference. Or some of them could, anyway. There are types out there who analyze every pixel that gets posted to social media. But I guess our official account won't have been updated too recently...
[Or has it? Now that he's been told about the "time flunctuations" and had a cracktastic conversation with Leo about the diverging timelines, he's not so sure what to make of the situation at home. The thought of them being missing for so long is depressing, as is the realization that neither one of them has seen real sunlight in over a month.
But there's no sense in rehashing all that unpleasantness. He'd rather focus on the future, so:]
Once we're home again, let's spend a full day out in the sun. We can go to a beach, walk around a garden, hike a mountain, have a picnic - anything we want. Just so long as we're able to bask in the warm sunlight.
And while we're basking, we can say more nice things to each other. You can tell me all the wonderful things you like best about me, and perhaps I'll tell you what it is I like best about you. Alright? That sounds like a lovely time to me.
[One day, they'll be home again. This experience will have changed things between them, but not in a bad way. Neither one of them has let this place rot their souls, so they'll still be the same idols everyone admires. That's what he truly believes, and what he'll continue to hold out hope for.]
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[ They could improv the music, but a live reaction to Trap For You lasts forever. ]
uh, what? 🤨 i dunno why you're suddenly bringing up how i used to be, or what my "vibes" gotta do with it? i'm different now, just like you're different too.
[ And that doesn't need to be said, but Jun knows the reason why he's no longer deemed "intimidating" and "scary" is due to Hiyori's influence. For someone who never used to smile, to someone who now can and someone who's been shown love! Yep, has all been Ohii-san's doing.
Whatever this has to do with Monika's interest, Jun has no clue. ]
yeah, really friendly! i think you'd be surprised. you've gotta treat him the way you treat mary, and nothing bad'll happen ♪ that's what i did and nothing happened.
i guess we could always find out. i don't mind asking, but i dunno about it... beats me! only figure megumi-kun doesn't, cuz he's able to summon his shikigami. do you think people are gonna tell you if you ask? you had that post and everything, but i figure some people wanna keep their powers secret.
[ Tfw you can't tell if your partner is referring to you as a dog again, or it's something else.....
Besides Megumi and Topaz, Jun's only really spoken to one other person with "powers" who has delved into the details. Not knowing a few others aren't normie idols, so if it were up to him, he likely wouldn't tell a stranger what his powers could or couldn't do. But it begs the question, nearing words he's read from Hiyori: why are they limiting some guests' powers and not the others? A confusing question they may never know the answer to.
The shikigami could have his powers nerfed; for all Jun knows, he just remembers Megumi saying something about not knowing if he'll need him here, only due to there being no threats here compared to back home. Jun hasn't unlocked all the friendship points there, though the more they talk, the more he'll learn. ]
lighter, hmmm~? well, it still looks and feels the same to me. and, hey! what's *that* supposed to mean? i'm pretty observant when i want to be. your fans probably wouldn't give a damn, either. they'd like you no matter what your hair looks like. besides, our socials aren't gonna get updated with new photos of us if we're stuck here, so they're not even gonna see what your hair looks like.
[ Really, Jun does think his hair looks as normal as it ever does, no different from how it looks from home. And if it doesn't? He's not sure what the big deal is!
Well, Leo brings out the worst in everyone! Two Ohii-san's? Jun would lose his mind. Either in a good or bad way, there's going to be twice as much demand and shopping trips. But on the other hand... hmmm. ]
whatever we do, i don't care. long as we're in the sunlight together, doing something, alright? it can be all those things, whatever we want! a picnic on a damned mountain, one in a garden, or even at the beach—! i just wanna see sunlight again, ohii-san. real sunlight!! not the artificial thing from your suite.
how's that any fair? if you wanna hear good things, then you've gotta tell me good things back! that's how it works!! but if that's what you want, i'll think about it.
[ Not as if it's too difficult to say wonderful things about Ohii-san, it's typically he says them without being prompted to! He still has a lot to say, though, so perhaps he needs to start compiling a list of each characteristic he finds endearing about Ohii-san. But is it a date??? Does this sound like a date???? Even if those words seem to suggest that it is, can Jun assume that it is one? Is he just misreading the signs?? Who knows! Only time will tell when they return home. ]
something i *already* like about you, ohii-san..? well you're always lighting up the room with your smile ~ ♪
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[He isn't actually thinking of fake-kissing Jun just to stick it to Monika. That would simply be tacky. Their performance as Eve is separate from their real relationship, anyway! ... But that move is a part of their choreography, so he won't not do it if it comes up. You know, just to show her how the routine goes.
And of course his influence on Jun are relevant. He's saying Monika's interest in Jun is partially because of him! He's the one who helped make Jun so appealing! (Little does he know this is actually true, just not in the way he thinks it to be true. He's actually been making Jun seem more appealing by being possessive of him! Talk about shooting yourself in the foot!!) Also, Hiyori always thinks he himself is relevant, because he's a narcissist!]
I'm just saying you've gained more appeal with my help, that's all. Or, I guess in game terms, you could say you've "unlocked new levels" of appeal!
[Please praise him for his knowledge of video game terminology.
But now onto other topics.]
You actually pet it? My, you're brave. But I'm glad he's a friendly boy who didn't bite you. If he's like a pet, does that mean he has a name? I'm not too sure what I'd name him. You could go with "Roku," after those six dots on his forehead, but that wouldn't be very exciting.
I assume some people will tell me, some people won't. Most of the users who replied were fairly forthcoming, even if they didn't want to participate in the show. But I'm sure some might not want to advertise their gifts, especially since it sounds like magic users are persecuted through "witch hunts" and the like in some worlds.
I'll keep reaching out, though. A, I want more performers, and B, I want to learn more! And knowing some powerful people could come in handy, don't you think? At the very least, it certainly couldn't hurt.
[Handy for what, he opts not to say over text. But the implication is obvious: handy for protecting them, and handy for getting out of here! Even if there ends up being two of them once they travel back to the original timeline. Good luck with your two Hiyoris, Jun.
He was definitely comparing Jun to the shikigami for a minute there, yes... but if it's any consolation, he thinks Jun is much cuter!]
True, my fans *would* love me no matter what. I'm mainly just annoyed because my morning routine takes longer now, that's all. And even if they won't be uploaded, I wouldn't mind taking some nice pictures. This place does offer some interesting backdrops, despite everything else that's horribly wrong with it.
But I'd much rather be out in the sunlight, so as soon as we're released, we can take photos outdoors instead! And I never said I WON'T say good things back
[But then he gets that last message.
He blinks at the screen. He didn't expect Jun to start right now! But even over text, those nice words fill him with warmth. Jun's said similar things to him before, and they made him happy then, too, but the feeling when he reads them now is a bit different. Perhaps this is a result of acknowledging his love and having it returned... Or probably returned. He still doesn't know for sure.
But he has hope. And he has his partner, who's cheeky but still kind, and increasingly rather sweet. that's enough to keep him going in this place.]
Yes, you're right about that! That's something I like about me, too 😘
It sounds like Jun-kun wants to be praised badly, so I guess I'll give it a shot and say one thing I like about you, too. For starters: I like your voice! That's what drew me to you in the first place, and it's why I asked you to start a unit with me.
[Actually, that wasn't the only thing that drew him to Jun, but shhh.]
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[ There are countless songs they could perform, but that's not why he'd recommend it! That song was their debut, so it holds special meaning for him, and there's been a big improvement since then. No comment on how their relationship differs from how they act on stage; that's pretty much a given.
But all of this makes his head hurt; having someone interested in you and being upfront about it hasn't been easy to deal with! Hiyori has played a significant role in introducing outside influences to him, being his "mentor" and guide. However, could Monika also find herself attracted to him? Really, high time to put an end to these thoughts!
Anyway, it is cute Hiyori's using video game terms! Now those are terms he understands clearly. ]
heh, i bet you've wanted to say that for sometime, huh~? i'm proud of you, ohii-san, knowing all about those sorta gaming terms!
but yeah, i did! his furs real soft, not that you'd expect it. megumi-kun reassured me he wouldn't bite, so that helped! not that i know of? i wasn't told if he's got a name, but i'm sure he might? megumi-kun seems to care 'bout him! roku's a pretty good name, though? it's not that different from "bloody Mary!"! temember, we decided that 'cuz she was covered in her own blood.
[ And for Mary, it's a perfectly fine name! Even if she's no longer covered in said blood. ]
well, i'm wishing you luck, ohii-san! i'm sure you'll get bounds of people talking ♪ like, online? or the one where you stick a witch to the stake and do *that*? cuz there's two different kinds! yeah, it'd be handy! and sounds as if you've found something that's gonna entertain you for a bit. too bad natsume-kun's not here! maybe he'd be able to out-magic everyone...?
[ Yes, Jun does believe Natsume's magic is real and can do that. No one tell him! And he doesn't know what Hiyori means by handy, but he supposes it might be if you wanted a way out of this place. Though it's not the implication he might think it means, not "blowing a hole in this place."
As for two Hiyori's? Well, that would send his mind elsewhere, along of having to put up with two of him. Just how would he have the attention for both Hiyori's? A Hiyori a day? One Hiyori half a day, the other the rest?
Least that's some consolation! ]
see! they would so you've got nothing to worry about. i also doubt they'd forget about you just cuz some pics aren't uploaded onto your account. i'm thinking maybe there's a camera around here you could take some on?
i dunno why, even when we go "outside," it's not real. just some dumb barrier keeping us thinking we're outside when we're not. i don't care where the photos are, long as we're outside ♪
[ And maybe that's something Jun can look into on his own! A camera, that is! And hope they aren't for nefarious purposes. Also, it's not as if no one said he wasn't able to say something nice here. He might as well, right?
... but the meaning has changed since then, hasn't it? Or are they the same as ever? There are many confusing feelings running around his head, he doesn't know where to begin! ]
... sorta ruins the compliment if you say that, y'know? and it's not the first time i've said that, but it was the first thing that came to mind...
and where'd you get that from? i never asked to be praised? it's just, well, i wanted to say something nice, alright~? cuz who said we've gotta wait 'til we get home? but thanks, i really like when you say that. i know we had a bit of trouble to begin with, but you really helped me with my voice. so i'm glad you asked me, even if i thought you were outta your mind.
[ Really, who asks someone to join their unit after a day of knowing them? ]
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It's not that I was waiting around to say it. I just thought now would be an excellent opportunity!
[He was definitely waiting around.]
I'd say it's fairly different. Bloody Mary is a legend, for starters. And I'm not sure what legends there are about people with mysterious dots on their forehead. Perhaps there's some mythological creature who fits that description? Nagisa-kun might know. And if not in our world, perhaps in other worlds, so if that friend of yours is ever looking for a name, he could always poll the network and see what they say!
Tsumugi-kun's unit would meet their match in a place like this, I'm fairly sure.
[POV your Ohii-san has cloned himself so he can be twice as annoying. Both of them expect to get laid tonight but neither is in the mood to do anything but pillow queen. If you try to focus your attention on one, the other will loudly start to complain that he is being neglected. However do you resolve this serious dilemma?
Speaking of serious dilemmas:]
Well, if I really did disappear, I wouldn't want my fans to mourn forever. I'd want them laugh and smile still, so that good fortune would come to their homes. But I would hope they'd carry their memories of me forever in their hearts. That they won't ever forget an idol called Hiyori Tomoe existed.
[How cheerful. In game terms, this is probably what you call a "death flag," so let's move on!
Move onto more pleasant things, such as complimenting each other. He's still smiling as he types:]
First you said it wouldn't be fair to hear good things without saying them back, then you praised me, so I assumed you must want praise! Not that there's anything wrong with that. The adorable Jun-kun who yearns to be praised by his kind-hearted senior (<-- that's me!) is one of my absolute favorites 😊
And I'd say it worked out for the best, didn't it? The fact I had so little to go on when I chose you just goes to show my judgment is impeccable. It's true that I picked you up on a whim, but it *was* still a choice. Your voice was good, and you seemed motivated. If you were a bit rough around the edges, then I suppose that just made things more fun. Training someone who already knows everything they'd need to know can't be too exciting.
[He doesn't share the big thing. That Jun was someone he'd already been looking for, based on seeing him from a distance that one time. But everything he just said is true, and he has no regrets about that "stray" he picked up. Jun-kun was unquestionably worth raising. ]
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sure, ohii-san. sounds as if you were waiting 'round to say it ♪
and yeah, but saying mary's name three times in a mirror is seriously scary? i'd never wanna do anything like that! shikigami are from folklore, so that's pretty important! even if there's nothing close to a dog with dots on their forehead in reality. if anyone'd know, it'd be nagi-senpai! too bad we can't ask him. that's an idea, but i wonder if megumi-kun would even wanna know. i can't imagine they're gonna be appropriate names, if you know what i mean.
[ He can only imagine! And Megumi's pretty young—well, younger than Jun! If he remembers correctly, he thinks Megumi's around sixteen, so yep!
Given the mental image, one Ohii-san would complain about not receiving attention, while the other might still complain about something else. The correct answer would be finding ways to clone himself so he can satisfy two Ohii-san's! ]
i'm sure that's what your fans're doing right now, even if they know you're missing. i bet they're just waiting for your return.
[ What in the eulogy? ]
well, yeah! when i say those good things about you, i never really expect to hear anything back. you usually tease me anyway! and if you wanna praise me, i'm not gonna beg for it, y'know? stuff like that should happen naturally. you'll get a big head if i do it all the time ♪ but why'd you explain that? i already know you're my senior, my senpai ~ ♪
[ If he were feeling extra cheeky, he'd call him 'Tomoe-senpai' again instead of 'Ohii-san' but after all this time, it feels weird, so he won't. ]
and even i can say it worked out pretty well. sometimes i wonder if you seriously hit your head that day, cuz i really thought you were playing some sorta prank on me. it would've been too bad if "picking me up on a whim" ended poorly in your favour, huh, ohii-san~? good thing it worked out.
[ He's teasing, but it does feel nice to read all these things. Now he's the one smiling, pleased that even if he were a little "rough around the edges," back then, everything turned out fine. ]
thanks for picking me up, ohii-san. i wouldn't be here without you and i can't really put it into words how much it means to me.
[ And he means so! The extra training he received helped, especially to help him grow out of knowing Jin's every single dance move. That wasn't healthy, but the way Hiyori trained him had been the most comforting experience he's ever been through. ]
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You think they'd name a pet something crude here? Now that's just horrible. You might be right, though, given that whole "Springtime" thing. I don't know why anyone finds animal mating habits appealing, and I don't want to know! Animals are animals, people are people, and that's that!
Though I guess Jun-kun has some things in common with hyenas.
[Is that the closest he's come to actually discussing the Springtime event since it ended? You bet it is! With him talking about it so negatively, does that mean he regrets what happened?
No. He feels comfortably talking about it negatively because what he and Jun-kun did together wasn't a part of that "game" anyway. If he'd actually been playing it properly, he would've gone looking for rabbits first of all. But he didn't want rabbits or anyone else, he just wanted Jun-kun! Who's a fellow person, not an animal, and that's the tea on that.
Though he did look rather cute having his ears petted... No, but that doesn't matter! Anyway, back to the topic at hand!!]
I've never said anything good about you, hmm? It sounds like Jun-kun is suffering from memory issues. As your senior, I've always praised you when you did well. I just also can't help but tease you, since your reactions are so funny at times!
[Is now really the time for teasing, though?
His heartbeat quickens as he hovers his fingers over the tiny, tiny watch keyboard. Jun is being so earnest, honest and cute, professing his heartfelt gratitude. Though his words carry a reminder of the past, and that's somewhat sad. "Wouldn't be here" if not for him, hmm? Surely he doesn't mean that literally. But it's true that Jun-kun's rise to stardom was owed to him.
No one else could see the potential. They turned their eyes away, seeing only a "Non-Special Student" who bore the name Sazanami. Hiyori discovered that diamond in the rough all on his own. Of course Jun is grateful. Still, having Jun say it to him outright like that almost shakes him to the core, even if it's just over text.
He could just tease Jun as usual. "Jun-kun's surprisingly passionate" or "Awww, you love me so much." Perhaps that teasing wouldn't even be a tease. Perhaps Jun really does love him. Isn't that why Jun took him to bed, saying all those sweet things to him? Isn't that why they're making plans together now, and exchanging even more sweet words?
Or is that all just "gratitude" on Jun's part...?
There's still a lingering doubt on his part. It's why he still hasn't put all his cards on the table, so to speak. But it feels as though he gets closer each day. Perhaps one day, even the oblivious Jun-kun will understand his whole heart.
For now he just says this:]
All teasing aside, however, I'm glad I chose you. You were well worth raising.
Let's work hard to find a way home together, alright?
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have you *seen* how some people talk here? wouldn't put it past them! i dunno, but i'm hoping the next one's got nothing to do with animals. and i don't wanna know about people's "mating habits," ohii-san.
what are you on about, seriously? i don't have anything in common with a hyena!! you're just saying stuff to say it, cuz you know, it annoys me. too bad our roles were reversed. you usually act like a spoiled cat, like a really annoying one.
[ Uh, wait—why did Jun say that? Not as if he's going to participate in the next game, anyway! And they haven't mentioned anything about the game since it happened, even if said words are negative. However, Jun does not seem uncomfortable bringing up the incident; perhaps this has to do because they are texting each other about it, or perhaps the topic is moving in a less positive direction.
And everything that transpired between them turned out to be something good! ]
i'm not suffering from anything, you know??? just forget i said anything, alright? i don't wanna be teased when i'm saying nice stuff about you.
[ And he can't get his words right to describe what he means! He's clearly aware the times when Hiyori does praise him, enjoying the praise whenever he receives it. Besides feeling flustered whenever Hiyori counterattacks with talking about love, at first he'd thought the stupid noble lost his damn mind. Perhaps the feeling still rings true, or he's the one who's lost his damn mind for caring about someone who drives him up the wall.
Sure he wouldn't have a career without his partner, he'd still be stuck in the hellish environment of Reimei if no one had picked him up. There are many words to be said about the environment, and he's not sure how those words are meant to be taken. Surely not completely literally, only kneenly well aware if Hiyori hadn't seen his potential, or if he knew about the name Sazanami, they wouldn't be here together.
There is more than just genuine gratitude to be expressed, but how can he when he's not sure what "love" feels like? Is this what it feels like when you think about someone whose chest constricts so much that it's almost impossible to breathe? This isn't one of Jun's cheesy Shoujo mangas, where the person confesses and the ending has them together forever, where nothing can possibly come in their way. But they have been making plans, haven't they? And currently saying nice words to one another.
He'd never forgive himself for messing up whatever relationship they have now. (Which really, they don't, do they?) But then why does his chest constrict again? Reading these words? Goddamn...
How do you even realise you love someone, anyway? And can you be in love with someone and not realise it? With these confusing feelings, he needs to quit shoujo manga for good. ]
thanks ohii-san..
yeah, we'll work hard and not give up for a second! i wanna get out of here and go home with you. and home to greet mary, nagi-senpai and ibara ♪
[ And to hopefully sort out these confusing feelings, which he can't admit to yet. He's not sure of his own heart, nor is he sure of Hiyori's, not wanting to ruin what they currently have. Especially while remaing uncertain about what prompted him to confess everything except feelings of love. ]
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Though shopping isn't unimportant. We do need food and clothes! And even though I'm naturally beautiful, I need at least some beauty products, or I just won't feel comfortable!
Huh? Huh? What does that mean???
[This in response to the "spoiled cat" comment. They really are talking about their roles now, something they've avoided doing until now! But if Jun wants to play that game, well.]
I'd say Jun-kun acted plenty spoiled when he was a "cat"! He was all too eager to receive love and attention from me ❤️ Like having his ears touched, and also other parts! It was simply the cutest thing 💕
[Of course that's as explicit as he gets. He won't specify what those other parts are. He's not crude like that!
Unlike some people who might prefer to talk about the waterfall between their legs.]But as for Jun-kun being hyena-like, I'm pretty sure we already discussed this! How you clawed your way up from the bottom of the ravine, and out into the sunlight. That's what you did in Reimei *and* in life. Though there isn't any need for you to do that here, since whenever you want to sleep in a higher-ranked room, you can always just go to my room and sleep comfortably with me.
[... that last line was actually not intended to be innuendo. Though he doesn't not mean it that way, either!
And, uh, so much for Jun not wanting to be teased. This doesn't exactly make a fine lead-up to Jun's heartfelt words at the end there. But he meant his own words, just as much as he meant (or more than he meant) the teasing.
This place sees "love" as a transaction. One you're supposed to make with over fifty people. But it's not like that for them. How fortunate he is that Jun is here, so he didn't end up going back to his old patterns. He hasn't needed to; when that "problem" struck, and he was seized with a strong urge to hold someone, he could just hold the person he already loved. And Jun-kun got to have his first time with someone who loves him, rather than someone who's just using him to earn a "card" or what-have-you. They really are blessed by this place's standards.
But they'll be happier at home, once they're united with the others and they don't have to worry all the time. When they can pursue their shared dream again. That's what he knows to be true, and that's what he'll continue to work towards.]
Yep. Not even God can separate Adam and Eve. We'll all be back together soon. And then we can accomplish even more wonderful things together.
[He sends the message, though it doesn't quite feel like enough. How does he say that he wants to go home so they can be with the others and continue their career, but he also wants what they have now to continue? He's not just sleeping with Jun because this place is forcing him to; he wants Jun to hold him tight at home, too.
But first they have to get home, so that's not really a high priority. Hopefully he can make Jun understand later, if he doesn't already. For now, this ought to be enough. They'll escape, and then all that other stuff will fall into place.]
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do you really need those products or are you being annoying about them again? cuz like i said about your hair, you look no different to me.
[ Meaning, personally, Jun doesn't care for what his partner looks like, with or without them. But it's Hiyori, so he's going to be annoying about wanting all the products in the world. ]
you're always attention-seeking and demanding to start off with. want me to continue? i'll easily name all the ways you're always acting like a spoiled cat.
and i'm not gonna act like a cat ever again, so get used to it. you're the one who asked about scratching my ears in the first place??? and i said, yeah!! so what about it now????
[ Given that he enjoyed having his partner touch other parts of him, he isn't even sure how to address the second point. Besides understanding exactly what they were, Hiyori's typing causes his cheeks blush, given they had yet to discuss the Springtime game in any detail. Instead, the idea of Hiyori touching him again is there, stuck in his mind from a simple mention. ]
plenty of times, but you keep going on about me being a hyena after i tell you to quit it. how does that mean the same thing? i don't wanna sleep in a high-ranking room and i dunno if you forget half the stuff i tell you, but you know that. yeah, well, it's not like you're difficult to sleep with, ohii-san.
[ In more ways than one! ... not that Jun intended to say so outright; he clearly meant in the same bed. Yes, exactly the same way Hiyori's last sentence went.
Despite his complaints, one thing is certain: he has no problem sharing a space with Hiyori again. It is already so familiar, with no way of concealing how at ease he has been, even if this situation was supposed to be awkward. Besides, he promised he would never regret anything between them, and he hasn't.
But here's the problem: although his sincere words during the game were driven by the suit's activation, he seems to be at a loss for how to convince Hiyori those words were real. Unless his partner already does, and Jun's overthinking again. And his affectionate kiss on Hiyori's forehead prior to bringing him to bed reflected his own feelings. Despite his worries, Ohii-san managed to make him feel loved—a feeling he hadn't experienced before from anyone else.
And being idols, are these feelings acceptable? Will their fans be disappointed when they go home, having to face the reality that they are two people who love one another dearly? Worrying about it now might be premature, but he will forever have this memory with him. ]
good thing nagi-senpai's God, huh~? ♪ and yeah, we're gonna accomplish greater heights and when we're back home, where we were will just be a distant memory not worth remembering.
[ Except Jun wants to remember this, at least the parts that involve his partner. All the wonderful words they spoke to one another and then some. New memories can be rebuilt, remade and repurposed.
And maybe, with each passing day, he's slowly realising his feelings. ]
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And as I said, I do need them, in order to feel comfortable and most like "myself!" Which is especially important in this place, since the House wants us to feel **un**comfortable and not at all like ourselves. But as I also said, you need not worry! I don't spend as much on beauty products as I do at home. I've just been spraying on free perfume samples instead of buying fragrances, for example.
Though I might cave and buy one if I see a good enough deal. But only then, alright?
[He's not making the best case for himself.
Though Jun isn't making the best case for himself, either. If this was happening in-person, his face would be full of disbelief. Nope, Jun is not allowed to pin this all on him! He remembers how needy and clingy Jun was!
Vividly. He remembers vividly. Sometimes in his dreams at night and sometimes in his memory throughout the day. At this rate, he won't ever forget, even though the cat ears are gone permanently. (Unless they buy Jun a headband at some point...!)]
Nope, I don't need you to go on, since that just sounds like a silly list! Unless it's all stuff like "You're cute" or "Everyone wants to spoil you." But as for Jun-kun, I distinctly recall that when I brought up scratching your ears, you said scratching them would feel "really nice." In other words, you encouraged me! Plus you had the most adorably eager look on your face. Why, I even remember seeing those ears of yours twitch with anticipation. Jun-kun sure looked cute like that 🩷😻💕
[Does he really want to play this game?? Jun could easily bring up all sorts of embarrassing things about how he behaved during that week. He's just asking for trouble at this point. But as they say in one of their songs, isn't love more fun when it's dangerous?
Still, he tones it down a bit.]
That's just me reminiscing, though. Obviously I know you're not a cat. And you're not a hyena either, you're Jun-kun! So if you want me to stop making those comparisons, that's fine, I suppose. We can simply be ourselves.
And of course I'm easy to sleep with. I always do everything elegantly, and that includes sleeping! I'm sure I must look just like sleeping beauty in the mornings 😊
[Actually, he has a massive case of bedhair in the mornings, and he occasionally hogs the covers at night. But at least he doesn't snore, kick, or thrash around.
As for the rest, well. He doesn't see Nagisa as God really, but he keeps that thought to himself. It is a part of his persona, after all. But as far as the resort being a "distant memory" goes, and one "not worth remembering," that gives him more pause. Would he like to put this place behind him? You bet! He just... doesn't want Jun to forget the things they shared together, that's all.
But he knows what Jun really meant, or he thinks he does. There's no sense in reading too much into things. He'll just gently affirm,]
I'm not sure I'll be able to forget anytime too soon. A lot has happened here. And this place is pretty memorable, for better and worse. But I absolutely agree with you: we've got much to do at home, so we'll put all this behind us and move onto better things!
[Like making their dreams come true. ... and holding Jun-kun without some "game" going on, hopefully.]
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and it's like i said, i don't really care what you do with your chips. if you wanna use them on products or whatever, cuz it makes *you* feel comfortable, do that.
but the perfume here's safe, are you sure?
[ Actually, it seems he's starting to feel some concern about Hiyori's spending habits. Is he becoming more attentive to his partner's actions, or because he knows Hiyori can't buy all the things he might like to? Really, he can't quite figure out why he cares so much.
First things first, Hiyori mentions how this went down, and he's sure he remembers otherwise. Or rather, how wolf-like he acted! Still, there's no rest for the wicked, or, in this case, no rest for those who stay deep in denial! (And it's Jun, the one in denial.) No one will ever be able to coax out from him the extent of his clingy and needy behaviour during the time he was a cat. (Maybe they'll have to buy him that headband after all! And buy one for Hiyori, considering Jun wasn't able to touch his ears :( ) ]
now you're just deflecting, ohii-san. i'm not about to say stuff that's gonna make you even more annoying. and you did but how's what i said encouraging you? anyway, you're the one who wanted to lick me like some damn animal! what sorta wolf wants to do that~? 🐺🐺🐺
[ Just to be extra annoying, he's leaving those emojis because a) he's pretending as if he didn't read the last point about his ears; b) what the hell is the cat with heart eyes anyway? and c) he can throw back some of how Hiyori acted during the week, too! (And he also remembers vividly and in great detail of not only his own behaviour but also his partner's behaviour as if it were yesterday.)
Actually, more as if Hiyori's playing with fire, which he's not about to let him get away with. ]
i'm not a damn animal, really glad you finally realised the truth! but they're gonna come up again cuz you're always saying whatever you want.
nah, you look nothing like sleeping beauty, ohii-san. you steal the blankets most of the time, and the only good thing about how you sleep is that you don't snore. so i guess you've gotta revalue what "sleeping beauty" means. and you wake up with real bad bedhead, but you look kinda cute ♪
[ Oops, he'd forgotten that he was supposed to highlight the negative points of Hiyori's sleeping habits. However, towards the end, he couldn't help but admit that he does look incredibly cute in the mornings with bedhead. In contrast, Jun's hair tends to stick up in random directions, and he rarely bothers to fix it.
But not all the memories here have been ones worth erasing and he wants to emphasise this. Jun could never forget what transpired between him and his partner, and he has no intention of doing so. In fact, he earnestly hopes that Hiyori also cherishes and remembers the memories they share together. Which he'll also try to affirm, so they'll be on the same page. ]
well, there are things from here i'm not gonna forget! but they involve you, ohii-san, so that'll be why i'll want to remember the good things. yep, and we're gonna be real busy when we get home, but we gotta remember to make time for ourselves.
[ Meaning he does very much want to hold Hiyori back home, away from the game, with nothing to worry about. ]
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