Re: The Bells of Life-Kirino Kage (OC)
Posted: Fri Apr 03, 2015 4:52 pm
Act 1: Rising Son
Scene 8: In Desperate Need of Skyfish
[When you see #, play 'lullaby of open eyes' from the Katawa Shoujo album. I listened to it while writing and found it suited it perfectly]
The sounds of the growing crowd soon become too much to bear, I can barely hear myself think amongst the various voices. Why do people have to be so loud? I can’t even make out what anyone is saying, all of it just blending together into an annoying and incomprehensible hum. See,this is why I enjoy the comfort of solitude. I think an American president once said that ‘It’s not what you can do for America, but what America can do for you’. Considering that America is their home, that applies to my room as well,after all, I’m officially a citizen of Kirino’s room; where you get free anime and a great import of incoming cash from our greatest trading partner…Dad. I’m not sure whether that’s good, or just plain pathetic.
My stomach lets out an unflattering rumble as I emerge from the outskirts of the crowd,announcing my hunger to the world. Who ever knew it would get this busy huh? Well, whatever..I got what I wanted. A nice serving of takoyaki, a bundle of cotton candy, and a can of iced tea; all perfect festival food.
Since it is a festival, I can relax and enjoy myself a little more; I won’t let my diabetes get in the way of my enjoyment of my very first school festival! What’s the worst that can happen? I mean, I already took my injection before heading off, I just have to make sure not to over do it.
I look down at my food, which presents a more significant and immediate problem—where to sit.
I peer around the school grounds looking for the optimum place to sit, where I can be both unnoticed and comfortable. Nori should be meeting me in about ten minutes. Then again, I can always text him and tell him where I am. I need to keep that in mind, so I can’t exactly be off the beaten path. I need to weigh the pros and cons of the various places I can sit.
There’s Rin’s freshly painted mural by the school dorms, although the artists herself is there. It's not that I don’t like Rin, it's just…she’s well… Rin. Now, I’m already scatterbrained, she’s on a whole ‘nother level. I can barely understand my own thoughts, trying to understand her riddled metaphorical guff, would be that much harder.
“Hmmm.” I mumble to myself, biting my lip as I move my gaze from seat to improvised seat.
“Looking for something?” a voice asks from behind me. I let out a small shriek in surprise and jumping. I turn hesitantly, ready to face whoever remains standing behind me. Half expecting a man in a trench coat, seedy moustache, and more than sinister motives. The actual individual is much more... pleasing to the eye, and far less scary.
A mop of shaggy brown hair, that characteristic cowlick that refuses to bow. Thick, rich brown eyes, and a sweater vest..a sweater vest. Way to just ruin, every attractive attribute. Bravo.
I look up at Hisao curiously and frightened, my eyes as wide as saucers and my heart still beating ferociously from the recent scare he just gave me.
“Kirino?” Hisao asks, raising one eyebrow concerned “Are you okay?” he asks, reaching out his hand, but quickly retracting it. Almost as if his heart wants to do something, but his brain is telling him otherwise. A girl can hope, can’t she?
“Ugh…y-ya, I’m fine. J-Just a little startled.” I stutter, letting myself calm down while trying to play it off casually “You caught me off guard there.” I giggle, still trying to keep what little pride I have intact. God, seriously he needs to stop sneaking up on me.
Unfortunately, it comes off more awkward and weird than I liked, smooth Kirino.
“Sorry, I shouldn’t have snuck up on you like that. My bad.” he says frowning “So what brings you out here?” he asks, nervously pawing at his chest, while trying to steer the conversation in a better direction.
I relax a bit, resting my arms as I cling to the food still carried in my arms. ”I-I’m supposed to hang out with Nori…I’m waiting for him now.” I shift nervously from foot to foot, an old nervous habit of mine. “What… what about you?” I ask, my eyes quickly shifting from my dramatic foot action back to Hisao.
“Me? I just came to get some food.” He looks at his small wooden bowl of noodles, still steaming in the warm spring air. “After I eat this I said I’d help my hallmate, not like I have any plans anyway...” he says, trailing off into an awkward silence, almost pathetically. Put into stark contrast by the sounds of the festival and the constant chatter emerging from the various groups.
Maybe I should invite him to hang out with Nori and me? But…but…he said he was going to help out his hallmate, he’d obviously say no. Besides, I don’t even know him that well...wouldn’t that be weird? He probably doesn’t even like me... but he is talking to me.Should I invite him, or should I let him go? An internal debate rages within my head, ending on the same premise it began; all while Hisao looks on. Ugh, stop rambling Kirino you don’t want to lose your chance!
“…” I open my mouth to speak, but I can’t form the words I want to say. I feel a blush creep onto my cheeks, spreading across my face when he looks at me it only deepens the blush. I’m quickly forced to look away embarrassed.
I want to say something, but I don’t know what to say. I want him to say, I’m kind of cute. He probably doesn’t see anything in a girl like me anyway, shy, introverted, and dumb. Come on Hisao! Give me something, anything! Even a straw to grasp, give a girl a hint. Can’t you see my dilemma? If only sky fish were a real thing, that way I could tell if he was enjoying himself.I turn my attention from the paved path underfoot to look at him once again. He seems nervous, as nervous as me I wonder? He continues to paw at his chest and look away at some unfixed horizon. It wouldn’t be bad to hang out with him, I would like to get to know him better. After all he did make an effort to talk to me, that must mean something . He turns and glances at me again, which causes my blush to only deepen, but unlike last time, he says something instead of turning away.
“Well...It..was nice seeing you, I should probably get back to my dorm.” He says, almost forcefully; as if he doesn’t want to say it, but has nothing else left to say. He gives a short awkward wave before turning to leave, albeit, somewhat hesitantly.
I can’t let him leave. I can’t just let him go. Do something anything Kirino. You said you’d be more social, you said you’d be more noticeable. Now, now’s your chance. Don’t let it slip through your fingers this time.Take matters into your own hands.
I reach out, grasping the back of his sleeve. I can quite literally feel my heart increase pace, like a fevered sprinter trying to make that last, desperate stretch. I catch him somewhat off guard, causing him to give a slight jump before turning to look at me. An expression of confusion, surprise, and maybe a little bit of relaxation, maybe—I hope. He looks at me as I try to form the words to my sudden, and rather unexpected, outburst. That’s me, Kirino, the girl just full of odd outbursts. It'd be a funny joke, if I didn’t feel like my heart was getting ready for a boxing match.
“Kirino?” Hisao asks, taking on a tone of confusion, which is...understandable.
I let go of his sleeve and feel my cheeks burst into liquid fire, as my tongue tries effortlessly to moisten itself; desperately trying to form the exact words I need. What should I say? That I want him to stay? That I want to be able to get to know him better? Should I even bother to explain it to him? Curse the human tongue! Why can’t we just have the power of telepathy? Or is it telekinesis? Ugh, I always get the two confused; I think it’s telepathy. Telekinesis is like kinetic energy or something. Blah, words! I guess I might as well start somewhere if I hope this conversation to be a least worth some of the trouble.
“Stay.” I manage to usher out, not bothering with a lengthy explanation. My voice little more than a raspy whisper in a commanding tone.
He gives a short, but sweet smile. It puts me at ease, making me loosen up some of the stiff muscles in my shoulders and back, that I often tense up in fear. I feel my blush wash away somewhat as I turn to look up at him. He still looks confused, but, more laid back... if that’s even possible. His brown eyes are focused on me, as if he was thinking of something to say, but doesn’t quite know exactly what to say.
Boy, do I know that feeling!
“I….ughh...want to have a seat?” He offers, motioning towards the bench, abandoning his train of thought. I give a small nod, shuffling along next to him, as we make our way towards the wooden bench that clings to the edges of our academy’s park.
We both sit there awkwardly nibbling on our selected food and kicking our legs idly like school children. When I say we, I mainly mean me. Besides the fact that I’m surrounded by an unflattering amount of crap food, I have the paranoid fear Nori will pop up and scare me. Hisao looks like he wants to say something, but is having trouble forming them into words. He takes a slurp of noodles as he looks out at the cherry blossom trees; opening his mouth to speak, before closing it and repeating the process a few times. I guess that’s my cue to make some sort of conversation, keep it light and make it count!
“So…” Hisao starts off before I get a chance,”your hair looks really nice.” His voice is strained almost, as if he’s desperately trying to think of any sort of conversation.
I give a slight smile “Thanks, I grew it myself.” Before the last three words leave my mouth I feel my eyes widen in horror at what I had just said. My face turns into a shade of red that could easily match a fire truck if need be. I let out a short, awkward giggle before trying to implode my body out of embarrassment. He gives an equally awkward laugh before giving me a confused “oh”
I feel my skin practically boil itself with a flustered embarrassment and my brain begs me for a segway into a topic I can’t screw up verbally.
“Who’s your hallmate?” I ask, doing my best to sound naturally friendly while hiding my soul dying inside.
“My Hallmate? He’s…well... he’s different.” He says, returning to that face he was making when trying to figure out what exactly to say. “I guess I might as well start with a name right?” giving a short, awkward chuckle. “Kenji Setou. Large glasses reminiscent of Coke bottles, striped scarf, and odd habit of looking like he tries to start a fire when he rubs it between his fingers.” Hisao finishes, rubbing his fingers together as if demonstrating the action in an attempt to give me a better idea.
I let out a very audible and noticeable groan as he mentions the name of one of the most notorious recluses this school has to offer. Ah Kenji, how I’ve heard a great deal about you. From stealing Nori’s pizza to his very interesting habit of complaining and preaching about the ‘Vast Feminist Conspiracy’. Which, I didn’t even know was a thing, let alone something to conspire about. Now to think about it, I don’t think I’ve ever seen Kenji in the flesh; or scarf...
Hisao chuckles, this time, more earnestly “I take it you know him?”
I only roll my eyes and give a small grin. I’m gonna relish telling him this story! “Have you ever heard about what we call ‘the ID incident’?” I ask, introducing a dramatic pause while remembering all too well of the proposed issue; although I think the class president meant it more as a joke than an actual proposal. Hisao gives a shake of his head as he quietly slurps some noodles from his wooden bowl. “ Well, our lovely class president, more like school president, but whatever. She proposed, that all students were to wear IDs so they could be easily identified, and if they got hurt it would make the nurses, teachers, paramedics, etcetera have an easier job of solving the incident.” I stop to make sure he’s following along, taking a sip from my canned tea as I wait to hear an acknowledging ‘mhm’ from him.
“So what does Kenji do?” I ask.” He charges into the student council room, shouting and making a large fuss; as well as various hand signals to passing students. He goes up to Shizune and starts yelling at her. Calling her all sorts of names from ‘Feminist dictator’ to a ‘Fascist totalitarian’. Then he blatantly quoted the foreign film Braveheart and walked out singing the national anthem. Misha had to translate the entire thing afterwards because she was too stunned to do it at the time. I guess Kenji got pretty heated when he figured Shizune was ignoring him!” I giggle, watching as Hisao’s face changes from confusion to amusement as he imagines the scene in his head. He soon lets out a snort of laughter as he runs his free hand through his hair.
The snort soon turns to full-blown laughter, which only helps fuel my laughter. Soon enough the two of us are practically howling on the bench, laughing ourselves to tears. Eventually, our jubilant chorus ends, with me wiping tears from my eyes and Hisao struggling to regain his breath as he rubs his sternum. When he finally does calm down he turns and looks at me once again taking up that famed expression of thinking. Did my story not break the ice? I thought it was pretty funny too. I let a small frown escape me, but only for a moment. Maybe he’s thinking about ditching Kenji while he goes and hangs out with me. “Thinking about how you left Kenji behind?” I ask, curious as to why he looks like he’s trying to come up with some answer to a complicated formula.
“No,” he says blatantly, causing me to become skeptical as to what he’s actually thinking about.
“It’s just... funny really.” He continues, setting down his finished bowl of noodles onto his lap; turning to face me as he sits on the bench. The boards of the old wooden bench creak under the strain of his position, causing my face to morph into one of confusion. Now it’s my turn to think.“Wh-What is?”
“You are.” He says, giving a calming and reassuring smile. I raise an eyebrow curiously, what does he mean by that? What is exactly funny about me anyway? It better not be about my height...
He shakes his hand “No, that’s not what I meant.” He says, trying to dissuade any concerns I could have had after that very vague and open-ended statement. Guess that rules out anything bad, thankfully. “Do you know what a chemical catalyst in a solution is?” he asks, this time it’s his turn to take on an expression of curiosity. I give a small shrug, and reply “Roughly, why?” I know the very rough basics, that’s pretty much it though, although I feel like this isn’t the best time to say so.
“It just reminds me of this situation really. Catalysts are meant to speed up the reaction of a solution. In a sense, the festival is a catalyst for you.” He explains, his hands jumping around as he tries to explain what he means both in words and in actions. As he goes on to explain it further in depth, an expression crosses his face. It’s different from what I’ve seen before, not curiosity, not joy, something more. The way his eyes shine as he explains how a solution and a catalyst work together. He grows increasingly more enthusiastic and his typical blank, somewhat sad expression fades into genuine happiness. It's an expression that I’ve seen whenever the passion of a person’s life, takes sway. Damn, I could be a freaking psychologist!
“I guess what I’m trying to say... is that because of the festival, it’s made it easier for you to be able to talk with me. When we met by the vending machine, you were... really shy. You stuttered... spoke quietly. Yet just now, you managed to talk freely, without stuttering at all.”
I furrow my brow and sit back on the bench looking up towards the sky in thought. I guess he is right. I know I’m shy, hell, half the school ‘knows’ I’m shy. Yet, here I am. Able to speak with a guy I barely know, able to hold a conversation; not even stuttering or trailing off. To be fair, I didn’t understand much of what he said, but it makes some sense. If it wasn’t for the festival, I probably wouldn’t have this chance to talk to him. It’s more than that though, it’s not just the festival; it’s a whole string of things. Its Nori, Miki, Okazaki, and, of course, Hisao and the festival. Everyone has helped me, pushed me forward when I tried to dig in my heels, drew me out of my shell when all I wanted to do was draw myself back in.
“I...I guess you're right.” I say, taking a piece off of my cotton candy plume and popping it into my mouth. It reminds me of the clouds, almost like I’m eating the clouds themselves. I hold it out to Hisao, offering him a piece. He gives a resigned shrug, plucking and popping the pink cloud of sugar into his mouth, which is, remarkably cute. This is nice, this…catalyst, or whatever he called it. I guess it did speed up the reaction between us. Sure we don’t know each other well, but were better off than we were before, right?
I look up at the pale blue sky, streaked with fluffy white clouds.The humidity in the air makes it somewhat harder to breathe than normally, but the cool spring air that nips at my fingers makes sure that's not a problem. It’s a nice day, especially for a festival; I wonder if they planned it like this? Well, if the rumours are true about our lady president, I’m sure more hours than necessary were put into planning a good day. That, and maybe a few offerings to the local shrines around the town, can’t be too careful after all! If the rumours are true, Shizune is more than careful.
Wasn’t I waiting for someone?
Oh ya! Nori. When is he supposed to get here anyway? I look down at my watch, glancing down at the two small hands. It’s a little past noon, he should be here anytime. Well, he should have been here a little while ago.
“Waiting for someone?” Hisao asks from my side, no doubt noticing that I’ve been staring at my watch intently. I give him a small nod and open my mouth to begin speaking when a familiar voice yells from the outskirts of my hearing. Nearly drowning in a sea of various voices, Nori’s voice can still be made out.
Hisao and I both turn to stare down the path towards the festival booths. Nori stands there, dressed in his school uniform, waving his arms like he’s trying to help a plane land; or rather, he’s trying to fly up and meet it. Sometimes, too much enthusiasm is a bad thing.
“Kirino-chan!~” he yells, walking forward quickly. His legs moving in exaggerated motions as he takes steps that would rival even a praying mantis. I give him a big wave, jumping up to my feet and stand to wait for him. “I take it you know him?” Hisao asks, beginning to stand up.
I give him a curt nod and a small ”mhm”, before turning to watch as Nori…walks? Limbos? Skips? Moves towards us would be a better explanation, at least, in Nori’s case. It doesn’t take him too long to make his way towards us, especially considering his…err…walk.
“Hello! Hello!~” he chimes, smiling brightly as he fixes the glasses placed atop his nose. I give him a casual wave and a brief “Hello.”, it doesn’t take long for him to notice our third compatriot. “Ouuu!~ Who’s this?” he grins so widely it's almost unsettling “A lascivious boyfriend you haven’t told me about?” he asks, turning to face Hisao, looking like a hungry cat. It’s disturbing almost, and it’s even freaked Hisao out if his desperate expression is showing how he is truly feeling.
“Akiyama Nori~, but everyone just calls me Nori!” he smiles, pointing to himself. Hisao gives an acknowledging nod, before introducing himself “Nakai Hisao, Hisao is fine though.”
“This was who you were waiting for?” Hisao asks, directing his question at me.
“Yes sir, she and I were going to see the festival together!” Nori says excitedly before dropping off into a more sarcastic tone “Unless…. you want to hang out with your new boyfriend Kirino.~” Nori smiles leaning in closer to me, causing me to blush slightly as Hisao rubs his chest nervously.
“It….It’s not like that.” I mumble, letting myself trail off into an awkward silence, praying that he’ll stop his line of questioning. Fortunately, the awkward silence doesn’t have much time to brew as Nori quickly breaks it. “Ahhhh.~” he pouts, looking a little sad at this new prospect. It couldn’t be that he actually did want us to be dating, could it? Who knows, Nori’s mind is like a sloth on caffeine.
“He...he was just wandering around and...and we ran into each other as we were getting food.” I say, kicking my foot at the ground as I hold my hands behind my back timidly. “Well,” Nori begins, taking in a sharp breath of air “If that’s the case, then why don’t we all go together? The more people who see my epic hosting, the better right?!” He smiles, helping break down the ice that was starting to form, since his arrival.
I give a nod and smile, picking up my garbage and can that was left on the wooden bench and Hisao does the same. “Should you be eating all that sugar?” Nori asks, pointing down at the cotton candy still held in my hand. Looking down, I wonder that myself, was it really a good idea to eat all of that? Yea, yea I’m sure I’ll be fine, after all, splurging a little once in a while wouldn’t hurt right? “Yea.” I say “Yea, I’ll be fine, a little bit won’t cause any problems.” I feel like I’m more trying to justify my actions to myself as opposed to Nori. He gives me an unsure look. If he has anything else to say, he doesn’t, choosing to drop the topic altogether; which Is probably a good move considering he wants to enjoy the festival just as much as I do.
“It looks like the two of you need to return some wooden bowls, well, run along now. Wouldn’t be good for the booths to run out of bowls now would it?” he says, giving a reassuring smile. “I’ll wait here, and Kirino, I’ll take that.” A chuckle accompanies his voice as he snatches a large handful of cotton candy from me as he throws himself onto the wooden bench lazily. I shake my head, turning and beginning to walk towards the booths. The faster I return the bowls, the more festival time I can enjoy!
************************************************************************************************
“That, ladies and gentleman, is how you take sweater vest over here to the cleaners!” Nori laughs, cracking his fingers and throwing them behind his head, emphasizing his third victory in a row.
“Ya, ya. Why not brag a little more, I’m pretty sure the people in town didn’t hear you.” Hisao laughs, poking fun at Nori’s booming voice. His grin has quickly covered over his normal morose demeanor.
The two boys have just finished playing a booth game involving throwing rings onto pegs, I can’t remember what it’s called. Ring toss? Peg ring? Nevermind, the game doesn’t matter, merely the score. Hisao did his best to keep up with Nori, but it seems fate had other plans. Which, probably wasn’t great for Hisao’s ego, especially considering that this was now the third time he lost to Nori. Despite Hisao’s humiliation at the hands of Nori, he seems to be enjoying himself. The two have become good acquaintances, it seems Nori has an odd knack for befriending people; and an even odder knack for winning.
Nori wraps one arm around Hisao’s shoulder and gives another one of his characteristic laughs, accepting the small teddy bear from across the wooden booth with as much humility as a strutting peacock. It looks like a typical teddy bear, ruffled brown felt fur, soft plush underbelly, black beady eyes; it wasn’t noteworthy at all. Well, that’s not entirely true, it was different than most typical teddy bear’s, each teddy bear offered at the game shop had a unique feature. Some had thick sunglasses, others had a fancy moustache, and this one had a small monocle; It even shared Nori’s coy, ego-inflated smile.
By now, the sun has slowly travelled to the east, in about two or three hours it wouldn’t surprise me if it began to set. The clouds trail lazily in the sky, like thin white ribbons on a blue canvas, creating an almost artistic backdrop for the festival. The weather remains nice, which is always another plus, not too cold, not too hot. The only shame is that we have class tomorrow, really, it would have been nice to have the day off, but that’s not too likely to happen. I’m sure Okazaki has another of her pop quizzes lined up; with that I can hear the class echo the same groan as we always do.
“Now, what game should we play next?” Nori asks enthusiastically. No doubt eager to show off his game prowess further.
“Mind if we get a drink first? I’m feeling a little thirsty.” I say, both trying to save Hisao from further embarrassment and myself from growing any thirstier than I already am. Seriously, it’s like a desert right now! I’m already having trouble moistening my tongue, I don’t wanna risk anything further.
Nori gives a thoughtful hum before returning to his chipper behaviour “I suppose…that is…if Sweater Vest over here has no problem with it~!”
Hisao gives a shrug and chuckles about how he doesn’t mind, then goes to dig around for a few coins in his wallet.
“What do you want?” Nori asks me, trying to shove his newest prize into his already stuffed backpack. Well somebody came prepared for victory, I think to myself. “I’ll take a juice I guess.” I respond, dropping a few coins into Nori’s awaiting palm, quickly counting it in my head before he closes it and accepts Hisao’s order.
Nori gives a quick nod before bouncing away to the nearest vending machine eager to embark upon his quest. His happy whistling can still be heard even when he disappears through the crowds, wiggling his way through fellow students and parents alike. How that man stays so happy all the time I’ll never know. I let a sigh escape from my lips.
“Something wrong?” Hisao asks, a tinge of concern evident in his voice.
I look up at him confused, “You…you mean my sigh?” I raise an eyebrow in confusion. It was just a sigh, nothing big really, although, now to think about it…I do sigh a lot. I wonder if that qualifies as a bad habit?
“Well…that too, but you’ve been drinking an awful lot since we started visiting the booths. Do you wanna maybe, sit down?”
Have I been drinking a lot? I guess I have been thirstier than I usually am, but that’s no real surprise is it? I mean we’ve been walking around for a little over two hours now. Of course I’m going to be thirsty. “No, no. I’m fine, thanks. It’s just one of those days. Besides…it’s a festival right, who wouldn’t want to splurge a little?” I giggle softly, but the newfound doubt still lingers in my mind like a bad odour. I didn’t think much of it, but it seems Hisao has taken notice.
Hisao, still unsure and skeptical just gives a slight nod and quickly changes the subject. “Nori is a pretty cool guy, if a little…”
“Happy? Go-lucky? Enthusiastic?” I rhyme off. Trying to finish Hisao’s sentence before he does.
“Pretty much yeah,” He chuckles “Has anyone ever told you that he’s a lot like a girl in my class?”
“Maybe. Let me guess though, Misha?”
“Ya! How’d ya guess?”
I giggle softly to myself and tuck a strand of hair behind my ear as it dances around between my fingers trying to get it out of my field of vision. “You wouldn’t be the first to make that assumption,” I tease.” Would it surprise you if I said they get along better than most students here?”
“Not in the slightest.” He grins turning his head from me and looking around as he scans the various crowds as if looking for the man himself. “Speak of the devil.”
I glance up, watching as Nori moves through the crowds,holding our drinks between his folded arms like an obsessive pack rat and still carrying that overstuffed backpack of his. A smile still widely carved into his face, I wonder if he has any connection to a super villain by chance. Honestly, it wouldn’t surprise me, would explain his joy in beating Hisao in every single game we played. I’ll have to keep my eyes open, I’m not in the mood for a deadly game of tricks.
Nori sighs, letting out a groan as he hands us our drinks. I shiver as the cold can of juice is passed into my waiting hands. I feel the chill resonate from within the can, like some haunted object. Wow Kirino, great comparison. Now, I don’t even want to drink it, way to go, messing things up as usual I see. I look down at the can ominously, somewhat skeptical as to whether I should drink from it. “Thanks…” I say somewhat uncertain, mentally skeptical as I pop open the tab of the can. It emits a loud pop, which could either mean the seal has been popped, or spirits have escaped; I can only hope it’s the former.
“Ugh oh….that’s not good.”our server complains, causing me to look up from my exorcised can. His typical bright smile has been flipped into a frown, his eyes narrowed at his watch. “What’s wrong?” Hisao asks before taking a long sip from his canned coffee. “It appears I’m five minutes late to take over my shift for our class booth.” he sighs, disappointment leaking into his voice as his frown deepens.
“Sorry you two. I’m gonna have to leave and attend to my class rep duties!~” He says, turning his frown once again into his characteristic smile. The rhythmic chime to his voice has once again returned, no doubt all ears are screaming in fright.
“Oh...alright.” I mumble, disappointed with his sudden leave, but I guess it can’t be helped. Wouldn’t be good for him to get fired on my account, can student representatives even get fired? Whatever, the decision remains. Still, it would have been nice to hang out a little longer. I give Nori a small smile before waving him off, Hisao does the same and we watch as Nori once again navigates the various crowds as he makes his way to our classes’ booth. I take a small sip from my juice, turning to face Hisao.
I guess I should ask him what he wants to do. Wouldn’t exactly be hospitable for me to invite him to hang out with me for the festival then have nothing to do halfway through. Although, to my surprise he’s already looking at me, his brown eyes glancing me over like a porcelain doll.
Ummm…can I help you?
He opens his mouth slowly, hesitantly almost, before any response even comes through.“Hey, Kirino? Can I... ask you a question?” he asks, soon beginning to rub his chest intently. I’m guessing that’s a bad habit of his? That or he just has a very repetitive itch in the same place, every time… Still, what’s with that phrasing? Is he going to confess or something.Oh…my god...is he confessing. I feel an unwanted blush creep to my cheeks and blossoming like a rash, as I begin to stumble and stutter, looking for just the right words. “I…I…um…y-ya sure.”
“ Sorry if this is too personal, but…” he starts, “But how...how come you’re not helping out with your class booth?”
Wa…what? That’s it? You phrased it that way, for a stupid question like that! You could have just asked outright! Ugghhh...idiot.
“I’m not...exactly... good, with people. How about you?” I say, remembering the various awkward and anxious conversations. Taking advantage of the situation I decide to turn this line of questioning against him; doing my best to probe the former inquisitor for info.
“Oh. Well, since I’m new...the stall was already finished basically. Besides, I kind of avoided the student council whenever they tried to rope me into helping…” he trails off, stopping his tedious pawing at his chest. Changing his face into an expression of sadness? Disappointment? Or is he just upset with himself for not helping out when he had the chance? He seems like a good guy, so it wouldn’t be too far off to assume that’s how he feels, like he’s not carrying his weight, like he himself is dead weight.
Ah deadweight, a term I call myself more times than I care to count. I think most people do though, it must be human nature. To be upset with themselves for what they haven’t or can’t do, simply because we like to think we can do whatever we want. We’re so used to being the top dog, it's like a blow to suddenly become ‘disabled’ .Sometimes what we want, doesn’t quite live up to reality, whether it’s due to problems either physical or any other, or even just that we never had the chance to do what we thought we could. When you finally do get out of that rut, finally get to see you can still do the same things. Whether at a slower pace or another way of doing the same thing. It looks like Hisao isn’t used to that, isn’t used to not being able to do things, hasn’t been able to adapt. He might blame it on the fact that he was new and didn’t have much time to help out, but it could just as well be because of whatever has brought him here.
“Hey,” I say, opening up a very clichéd support statement “Don’t sweat it, if you want, you can always help out next time right? Unless you’re bad with people... like me...being shy isn’t all roses and rainbows ya know!” I jeer, finishing off with a smile as I do my best to cheer him up. I’m usually not the one trying to cheer people up, but hey, first time for everything right? Who knows, maybe I can even be able to hug a stranger or do a speech in front of a class without hyperventilating and passing out.
“That’s true.”
“Now, before you get all sad and melodramatic, how about we visit a booth? I think I saw an anime themed game near the gates.” I tease, pointing towards the direction of the school gates.
I start to walk ahead, throwing a glance back, giving a small smile Hisao’s way as I look to see if he’ll follow me.
Hisao stands there, a small shadow of what looks like…loneliness? Flashes across his face, just for a moment. In fact, even I wouldn’t notice it myself if I hadn’t been looking to see if he was following me. It doesn’t last for long, quickly replaced by a smile as he moves to join up with me. His hands in his pockets and his shoulders slouching forward, in a posture almost comparably to that of an urban hoodlum. Oh god…Kirino, you’re turning into your Dad! Only old people say that!
I pick up the small pink ball, locking onto my target—a thin yellow pylon. The only thing standing between me and an anime poster of my choosing stands before me, like a villain ready to halt the heroine in her advance towards victory. Unfortunately for it, I’m ready. I can do this, one little lob and the last of the pesky pylons go down and I can claim victory. The bards will sing of my glory for generations.
“You got this Kirino!” Hisao cheers from behind me, the sound of him cracking open another can of coffee can be heard shortly after. I roll my eyes and chuckle to myself, this is his fourth can; would it be fair to say he’s addicted?
I take a deep breath, steadying my aim, ready to throw the ball claiming victory. I fling my arm forward, sending the ball flying towards the pylon, at a speed it that would make even a baseball pitcher balk. The ball collides with the pylon, with an impact so strong it sends ripples through the air and bounces off…..what!? It bounced off! What the hell is this crap? I feel my mouth open in shock, and I stand there like a statue, stuck in surprise.
“Well then.” Hisao laughs behind me, I can mentally see him. Laughing, raising one eyebrow and shaking his head.
I narrow my eyes, choosing to shoot an irritated glance at both the booth operator and Hisao, the former just gives me a shrug and a toothy grin, revealing his gold tooth. Friggin swindler…
“Hey, at least you have one more ball to throw?” Hisao says, more as a questioned optimistic statement as opposed to anything else. But still...
“Ya.Ya.” I say, waving him away. “Okay Kirino, let’s try this again.” I mutter to myself, rolling up my sleeves as I prepare myself for business.
Da-ling…Da-ling. My phone chimes. Announcing that one of the minuscule contacts I possess has sent me a text.
Da-ling…Da-ling. It chimes again. Can I look at the first one before you send me another? Besides, I’m kinda busy, they can wait. They’ve waited this long to text me, they can wait a little longer. I shake my head, and go back to pick up the ball when the chime goes off yet again…and again...and again. I let out a loud, irritated sigh.
Da-ling, Da-ling. Once, twice, three times, four times.
Whoever is texting me…stop.
“You, ugh… gonna get that?” Hisao asks pointing at my pocket that holds my phone, clearly he’s as curious as I am.
“I suppose I should, considering they’re more relentless than a loan shark.”
I visibly roll my eyes as I retract my hand from the ball, reaching into my pocket to take my phone out, flipping it open only to reveal the absurd amount of text messages I have just received. Twenty…no, make that twenty-two messages received in the span of a minute. Man, this person’s fingers must be equivalent to lightning when it concerns speed! It would be impressive if they weren’t sending them to me. Oh, and it looks like they’re all from the same person.
Miki.
I let out an audible sigh, letting the entire world know my frustration as I channel my frustration and irritation. I pass the ball to Hisao, motioning for him to throw it as I begin to scan through the various texts.
[Hey!]
[Where are you?]
[I see you!]
[Behind you]
[Behind you]
[Don’t fuck up]
[Hey]
[Hey]
[Boo]
“Boo?” I ask, questioning to what the last text is referring to.
“Ya. Boo!” a voice hisses from behind me, causing me to quite literally jump five feet into the air in terror.
I emit a startled scream, spinning around just in time to see Hisao flinch, missing the intended target with the booth ball. God Damn it! I turn around to face Miki, my heart beating so quickly it could probably match the beat of rave music. If I wasn’t so terrified, I’d be pretty steamed.
Miki stands there laughing, her eyes shut tight as she more or less keels over at my very near panic attack. Her tie wobbles back and forth as her body shakes with laughter; her voice alone is enough to draw a few very questionable glances at us. A woman even ushers her son along as she directs a fevered frown at Miki and myself.
“Your….your…face” she laughs, trying to speak through her chaotic laughter, only managing to emit a few muffled words.
I feel my face burst into a ferocious blush, not only at the sheer amount of embarrassment I face but the drove of glances I’m receiving for my banshee like scream. I hate you Miki, I hate you so very much. Great, and I’m thirsty again! Perfect, this is probably the fiftieth drink I’ve had today! I narrow my eyes in irritation at Miki, hopefully it accurately displays my displeasure.
“What happened!?” Hisao asks, somewhat panicked, clutching at his chest. He looks almost as if he was more scared than I was. His face is red and beaded with sweat, and he’s clutching his heart almost like it’s about to pop open with the alien from that movie. “Are you okay?” I ask Hisao, turning his own question against him. It’s a bit concerning at how scared he actually got.
Miki ends her cascade of violent laughter, wiping away tears from her eyes and desperately trying to catch her breath. When she finally gets a look at Hisao’s face, a small case of the chuckles takes over her once again. “Dude, relax. You look like you just suffered a heart attack! You might wanna check your pants!”
Hisao just shakes his head “No, but almost. What was with that scream anyway?” he says, looking at the two of us in hopes the noise will reveal itself.
Oh, crap. That…that was my fault. Maybe I shouldn’t have screamed so loudly, it looked like I really did frighten him. Still, it was mostly Miki’s fault for scaring me like that. “Sorry, that was me. Miki snuck up behind me and scared me.” I apologise, motioning towards Miki who stands next to me proudly. I give Hisao an apologetic look, but Miki seems more happy with herself than perhaps is appropriate.
“The new kid!” she yells, clapping him on the shoulder “Good to see you’re making friends. Here I thought you were too busy getting dragged around by the colour squad!”
“Colour squad?” Hisao asks, confused. I share the brunt of confusion, what exactly is the ‘colour squad’?
“Our class president, and her very vibrant...counterpart. Misha with her… pink hair and Shizune with her blackish-blue hair.”
Hisao chuckles a bit at Miki’s nickname of everybody’s favourite dynamic duo. “I never thought about it like that…It’s pretty accurate though.”
Miki just grins in response, holding her left arm behind her back obscuring her bandaged wrist, letting her right arm trail down next to her. “Aw well, enough about those two. If I remember correctly, we had a challenge. Isn’t that right Kirino?” she says, turning to face me. I guess she really was serious about the challenge between ‘my’ group and hers. Wait, where is her partner? Didn’t she say she was hanging out with him today? Did he slink off before we noticed him? I nod my head tentatively in agreement “Where’s your partner anyway?” I look around for her partner, expecting him to just emerge from the crowd.
“I could ask you the same thing.” She teases “Wasn’t Nori supposed to be your partner? Ah well, I guess Nakai over here will have to suffice.” She laughs, jabbing at Hisao playfully with her elbow. “As for me, well I’m sure he’s off getting food or something. Lazy ass, isn’t very good at throwing or tossing games for that matter. Worse than me believe it or not!”
“Who is your partner anyway?”
“That’s a good question.” she grins “I could tell you…or I could just let him remain anonymous and let it bug you.” She winks, implying that she has no intention of telling me. Typical Miki move if there ever was one.
I sigh in frustration, crossing my arms in an un-amused manner. I give a small shake of my head, turning to look at Hisao instead. “You alright with having a bit of a challenge with Miki here?” I ask, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear once again. Hisao shrugs and gently shakes his head “No, I don’t mind.” I give a small smile before turning to face Miki. “Guess we’ll wait for your partner to get here.” I finish, pointing at her for emphasis. The challenge has been accepted.
“ I guess I’ll get the idiot to come over quicker.” She says, taking out her phone and slowly, but methodically typing out the words with her thumb. How did she text so quickly? It looks like it’s taking her forever to even type one word! Mysteries of the world I suppose. She hits the send button before sliding it back into her skirt pocket, proceeding to whistle a small tune before announcing to us. “Shouldn’t be long now.”
It’s true, he didn’t take long. Sure enough his yelling and half-hearted excuses could be made out even before he revealed himself from the crowd. “Sorry! The line was taking so long!” his deep, baritone voice can be heard, almost distinctively from many others. It travels over the already loud chorus of hundreds of voices, almost seamlessly, as if he was used to speaking over large crowds of people. “Just….a….few….more…..people.” he yells, his voice straining as he wiggles his way through the crowd so full it's already close to overflowing with festival go-ers.
Out from the bustling crowd emerges a tall boy, his dishevelled brown hair, almost as messy as the boy standing to my right. His typical cocky grin and laid-back face, show no emotion of how bothered he may be from wiggling his way through a busy, festive crowd. He strides over, his hand in his pocket and the other clutching a plastic bag that seems almost filled to the brim with confectionary items. Ranging from chocolate bars to cans of soda; it must have easily cost a small fortune.
“You have no idea how much my wallet is aching!” he groans, rolling his eyes around in his head before focusing his jade green eyes on the three of us. “Kirino?” he asks taken aback, confused no doubt as to why I’m suddenly here. Well, I guess we found Miki’s mysterious partner, although to be fair, I was kind of expecting him already; we have a habit of running into each other. “Why is it that we always run into each other? I’m not saying its bad…just a little weird.” He laughs, which only causes me to grin in the process. Guess I’m not the only one who’s noticed
“You know each other?” Miki asks, now it’s her turn to be confused.
“That we do. Honestly, we basically run into each other every time we turn around. Our schedules seem to be intertwined almost!”
The two of us chuckle softly, amused by the rather sudden surprise. Hisao however, just stands there awkwardly, shuffling from foot to foot. He looks as if he is the third wheel to a bicycle, uncomfortable and as if he has no real place. “Yuuto, this is Hisao. I guess, he’ll be Kirino’s partner for today.” Miki says, extending a hand towards Hisao in introduction.
“Nakai Hisao. Most just call me Hisao.” He replies, somewhat stiffly, holding out his right hand.
Yuuto chuckles and shakes his head “Mind shaking with the other? This one seems too comfortable.” He motions towards his right hand obscured within his pocket. He gives a short laugh before handing the plastic bag over to Miki, who takes it and begins to search around like a magpie. The two boys introduce themselves, shaking hands in an odd, but professional manner.
“If you two are done molesting each other’s hands, I have a floor I need to mop with Kirino.” Miki laughs, drawing a few odd stares from the two boys. I raise one eyebrow In worry, she doesn’t actually want to wipe the floors with me right? “Aw Miki, we’ve played games all of today. Isn’t beating me enough to feed your ego?” Yuuto pouts, half frowning. “Besides, why don’t we talk? I bet Hisao wouldn’t mind getting to know a few extra people?” he says, turning to look at Hisao. “No objections here.” He says, chiming in.
Miki sighs, running a hand through her hair, a stick of pocky hanging from between her lips. She seems a little more content with nicking things from Yuuto’s plastic bag than any games anyway. She just shrugs, which Yuuto takes as a ‘go ahead’. “Alright then, how does a nice walk in the woods to a hill sound?” he asks, curious as to our opinions. “Sure.” Hisao responds, eager to make way. I don’t have any real objections, other than the fact that we might not have a good view for the fireworks. Yet, they aren’t really founded on anything, so we walk through the woods anyway, heading for this hill Yuuto spoke of.
***********************************************************************************
Prev/Next
Scene 8: In Desperate Need of Skyfish
[When you see #, play 'lullaby of open eyes' from the Katawa Shoujo album. I listened to it while writing and found it suited it perfectly]
The sounds of the growing crowd soon become too much to bear, I can barely hear myself think amongst the various voices. Why do people have to be so loud? I can’t even make out what anyone is saying, all of it just blending together into an annoying and incomprehensible hum. See,this is why I enjoy the comfort of solitude. I think an American president once said that ‘It’s not what you can do for America, but what America can do for you’. Considering that America is their home, that applies to my room as well,after all, I’m officially a citizen of Kirino’s room; where you get free anime and a great import of incoming cash from our greatest trading partner…Dad. I’m not sure whether that’s good, or just plain pathetic.
My stomach lets out an unflattering rumble as I emerge from the outskirts of the crowd,announcing my hunger to the world. Who ever knew it would get this busy huh? Well, whatever..I got what I wanted. A nice serving of takoyaki, a bundle of cotton candy, and a can of iced tea; all perfect festival food.
Since it is a festival, I can relax and enjoy myself a little more; I won’t let my diabetes get in the way of my enjoyment of my very first school festival! What’s the worst that can happen? I mean, I already took my injection before heading off, I just have to make sure not to over do it.
I look down at my food, which presents a more significant and immediate problem—where to sit.
I peer around the school grounds looking for the optimum place to sit, where I can be both unnoticed and comfortable. Nori should be meeting me in about ten minutes. Then again, I can always text him and tell him where I am. I need to keep that in mind, so I can’t exactly be off the beaten path. I need to weigh the pros and cons of the various places I can sit.
There’s Rin’s freshly painted mural by the school dorms, although the artists herself is there. It's not that I don’t like Rin, it's just…she’s well… Rin. Now, I’m already scatterbrained, she’s on a whole ‘nother level. I can barely understand my own thoughts, trying to understand her riddled metaphorical guff, would be that much harder.
“Hmmm.” I mumble to myself, biting my lip as I move my gaze from seat to improvised seat.
“Looking for something?” a voice asks from behind me. I let out a small shriek in surprise and jumping. I turn hesitantly, ready to face whoever remains standing behind me. Half expecting a man in a trench coat, seedy moustache, and more than sinister motives. The actual individual is much more... pleasing to the eye, and far less scary.
A mop of shaggy brown hair, that characteristic cowlick that refuses to bow. Thick, rich brown eyes, and a sweater vest..a sweater vest. Way to just ruin, every attractive attribute. Bravo.
I look up at Hisao curiously and frightened, my eyes as wide as saucers and my heart still beating ferociously from the recent scare he just gave me.
“Kirino?” Hisao asks, raising one eyebrow concerned “Are you okay?” he asks, reaching out his hand, but quickly retracting it. Almost as if his heart wants to do something, but his brain is telling him otherwise. A girl can hope, can’t she?
“Ugh…y-ya, I’m fine. J-Just a little startled.” I stutter, letting myself calm down while trying to play it off casually “You caught me off guard there.” I giggle, still trying to keep what little pride I have intact. God, seriously he needs to stop sneaking up on me.
Unfortunately, it comes off more awkward and weird than I liked, smooth Kirino.
“Sorry, I shouldn’t have snuck up on you like that. My bad.” he says frowning “So what brings you out here?” he asks, nervously pawing at his chest, while trying to steer the conversation in a better direction.
I relax a bit, resting my arms as I cling to the food still carried in my arms. ”I-I’m supposed to hang out with Nori…I’m waiting for him now.” I shift nervously from foot to foot, an old nervous habit of mine. “What… what about you?” I ask, my eyes quickly shifting from my dramatic foot action back to Hisao.
“Me? I just came to get some food.” He looks at his small wooden bowl of noodles, still steaming in the warm spring air. “After I eat this I said I’d help my hallmate, not like I have any plans anyway...” he says, trailing off into an awkward silence, almost pathetically. Put into stark contrast by the sounds of the festival and the constant chatter emerging from the various groups.
Maybe I should invite him to hang out with Nori and me? But…but…he said he was going to help out his hallmate, he’d obviously say no. Besides, I don’t even know him that well...wouldn’t that be weird? He probably doesn’t even like me... but he is talking to me.Should I invite him, or should I let him go? An internal debate rages within my head, ending on the same premise it began; all while Hisao looks on. Ugh, stop rambling Kirino you don’t want to lose your chance!
“…” I open my mouth to speak, but I can’t form the words I want to say. I feel a blush creep onto my cheeks, spreading across my face when he looks at me it only deepens the blush. I’m quickly forced to look away embarrassed.
I want to say something, but I don’t know what to say. I want him to say, I’m kind of cute. He probably doesn’t see anything in a girl like me anyway, shy, introverted, and dumb. Come on Hisao! Give me something, anything! Even a straw to grasp, give a girl a hint. Can’t you see my dilemma? If only sky fish were a real thing, that way I could tell if he was enjoying himself.I turn my attention from the paved path underfoot to look at him once again. He seems nervous, as nervous as me I wonder? He continues to paw at his chest and look away at some unfixed horizon. It wouldn’t be bad to hang out with him, I would like to get to know him better. After all he did make an effort to talk to me, that must mean something . He turns and glances at me again, which causes my blush to only deepen, but unlike last time, he says something instead of turning away.
“Well...It..was nice seeing you, I should probably get back to my dorm.” He says, almost forcefully; as if he doesn’t want to say it, but has nothing else left to say. He gives a short awkward wave before turning to leave, albeit, somewhat hesitantly.
I can’t let him leave. I can’t just let him go. Do something anything Kirino. You said you’d be more social, you said you’d be more noticeable. Now, now’s your chance. Don’t let it slip through your fingers this time.Take matters into your own hands.
I reach out, grasping the back of his sleeve. I can quite literally feel my heart increase pace, like a fevered sprinter trying to make that last, desperate stretch. I catch him somewhat off guard, causing him to give a slight jump before turning to look at me. An expression of confusion, surprise, and maybe a little bit of relaxation, maybe—I hope. He looks at me as I try to form the words to my sudden, and rather unexpected, outburst. That’s me, Kirino, the girl just full of odd outbursts. It'd be a funny joke, if I didn’t feel like my heart was getting ready for a boxing match.
“Kirino?” Hisao asks, taking on a tone of confusion, which is...understandable.
I let go of his sleeve and feel my cheeks burst into liquid fire, as my tongue tries effortlessly to moisten itself; desperately trying to form the exact words I need. What should I say? That I want him to stay? That I want to be able to get to know him better? Should I even bother to explain it to him? Curse the human tongue! Why can’t we just have the power of telepathy? Or is it telekinesis? Ugh, I always get the two confused; I think it’s telepathy. Telekinesis is like kinetic energy or something. Blah, words! I guess I might as well start somewhere if I hope this conversation to be a least worth some of the trouble.
“Stay.” I manage to usher out, not bothering with a lengthy explanation. My voice little more than a raspy whisper in a commanding tone.
He gives a short, but sweet smile. It puts me at ease, making me loosen up some of the stiff muscles in my shoulders and back, that I often tense up in fear. I feel my blush wash away somewhat as I turn to look up at him. He still looks confused, but, more laid back... if that’s even possible. His brown eyes are focused on me, as if he was thinking of something to say, but doesn’t quite know exactly what to say.
Boy, do I know that feeling!
“I….ughh...want to have a seat?” He offers, motioning towards the bench, abandoning his train of thought. I give a small nod, shuffling along next to him, as we make our way towards the wooden bench that clings to the edges of our academy’s park.
We both sit there awkwardly nibbling on our selected food and kicking our legs idly like school children. When I say we, I mainly mean me. Besides the fact that I’m surrounded by an unflattering amount of crap food, I have the paranoid fear Nori will pop up and scare me. Hisao looks like he wants to say something, but is having trouble forming them into words. He takes a slurp of noodles as he looks out at the cherry blossom trees; opening his mouth to speak, before closing it and repeating the process a few times. I guess that’s my cue to make some sort of conversation, keep it light and make it count!
“So…” Hisao starts off before I get a chance,”your hair looks really nice.” His voice is strained almost, as if he’s desperately trying to think of any sort of conversation.
I give a slight smile “Thanks, I grew it myself.” Before the last three words leave my mouth I feel my eyes widen in horror at what I had just said. My face turns into a shade of red that could easily match a fire truck if need be. I let out a short, awkward giggle before trying to implode my body out of embarrassment. He gives an equally awkward laugh before giving me a confused “oh”
I feel my skin practically boil itself with a flustered embarrassment and my brain begs me for a segway into a topic I can’t screw up verbally.
“Who’s your hallmate?” I ask, doing my best to sound naturally friendly while hiding my soul dying inside.
“My Hallmate? He’s…well... he’s different.” He says, returning to that face he was making when trying to figure out what exactly to say. “I guess I might as well start with a name right?” giving a short, awkward chuckle. “Kenji Setou. Large glasses reminiscent of Coke bottles, striped scarf, and odd habit of looking like he tries to start a fire when he rubs it between his fingers.” Hisao finishes, rubbing his fingers together as if demonstrating the action in an attempt to give me a better idea.
I let out a very audible and noticeable groan as he mentions the name of one of the most notorious recluses this school has to offer. Ah Kenji, how I’ve heard a great deal about you. From stealing Nori’s pizza to his very interesting habit of complaining and preaching about the ‘Vast Feminist Conspiracy’. Which, I didn’t even know was a thing, let alone something to conspire about. Now to think about it, I don’t think I’ve ever seen Kenji in the flesh; or scarf...
Hisao chuckles, this time, more earnestly “I take it you know him?”
I only roll my eyes and give a small grin. I’m gonna relish telling him this story! “Have you ever heard about what we call ‘the ID incident’?” I ask, introducing a dramatic pause while remembering all too well of the proposed issue; although I think the class president meant it more as a joke than an actual proposal. Hisao gives a shake of his head as he quietly slurps some noodles from his wooden bowl. “ Well, our lovely class president, more like school president, but whatever. She proposed, that all students were to wear IDs so they could be easily identified, and if they got hurt it would make the nurses, teachers, paramedics, etcetera have an easier job of solving the incident.” I stop to make sure he’s following along, taking a sip from my canned tea as I wait to hear an acknowledging ‘mhm’ from him.
“So what does Kenji do?” I ask.” He charges into the student council room, shouting and making a large fuss; as well as various hand signals to passing students. He goes up to Shizune and starts yelling at her. Calling her all sorts of names from ‘Feminist dictator’ to a ‘Fascist totalitarian’. Then he blatantly quoted the foreign film Braveheart and walked out singing the national anthem. Misha had to translate the entire thing afterwards because she was too stunned to do it at the time. I guess Kenji got pretty heated when he figured Shizune was ignoring him!” I giggle, watching as Hisao’s face changes from confusion to amusement as he imagines the scene in his head. He soon lets out a snort of laughter as he runs his free hand through his hair.
The snort soon turns to full-blown laughter, which only helps fuel my laughter. Soon enough the two of us are practically howling on the bench, laughing ourselves to tears. Eventually, our jubilant chorus ends, with me wiping tears from my eyes and Hisao struggling to regain his breath as he rubs his sternum. When he finally does calm down he turns and looks at me once again taking up that famed expression of thinking. Did my story not break the ice? I thought it was pretty funny too. I let a small frown escape me, but only for a moment. Maybe he’s thinking about ditching Kenji while he goes and hangs out with me. “Thinking about how you left Kenji behind?” I ask, curious as to why he looks like he’s trying to come up with some answer to a complicated formula.
“No,” he says blatantly, causing me to become skeptical as to what he’s actually thinking about.
“It’s just... funny really.” He continues, setting down his finished bowl of noodles onto his lap; turning to face me as he sits on the bench. The boards of the old wooden bench creak under the strain of his position, causing my face to morph into one of confusion. Now it’s my turn to think.“Wh-What is?”
“You are.” He says, giving a calming and reassuring smile. I raise an eyebrow curiously, what does he mean by that? What is exactly funny about me anyway? It better not be about my height...
He shakes his hand “No, that’s not what I meant.” He says, trying to dissuade any concerns I could have had after that very vague and open-ended statement. Guess that rules out anything bad, thankfully. “Do you know what a chemical catalyst in a solution is?” he asks, this time it’s his turn to take on an expression of curiosity. I give a small shrug, and reply “Roughly, why?” I know the very rough basics, that’s pretty much it though, although I feel like this isn’t the best time to say so.
“It just reminds me of this situation really. Catalysts are meant to speed up the reaction of a solution. In a sense, the festival is a catalyst for you.” He explains, his hands jumping around as he tries to explain what he means both in words and in actions. As he goes on to explain it further in depth, an expression crosses his face. It’s different from what I’ve seen before, not curiosity, not joy, something more. The way his eyes shine as he explains how a solution and a catalyst work together. He grows increasingly more enthusiastic and his typical blank, somewhat sad expression fades into genuine happiness. It's an expression that I’ve seen whenever the passion of a person’s life, takes sway. Damn, I could be a freaking psychologist!
“I guess what I’m trying to say... is that because of the festival, it’s made it easier for you to be able to talk with me. When we met by the vending machine, you were... really shy. You stuttered... spoke quietly. Yet just now, you managed to talk freely, without stuttering at all.”
I furrow my brow and sit back on the bench looking up towards the sky in thought. I guess he is right. I know I’m shy, hell, half the school ‘knows’ I’m shy. Yet, here I am. Able to speak with a guy I barely know, able to hold a conversation; not even stuttering or trailing off. To be fair, I didn’t understand much of what he said, but it makes some sense. If it wasn’t for the festival, I probably wouldn’t have this chance to talk to him. It’s more than that though, it’s not just the festival; it’s a whole string of things. Its Nori, Miki, Okazaki, and, of course, Hisao and the festival. Everyone has helped me, pushed me forward when I tried to dig in my heels, drew me out of my shell when all I wanted to do was draw myself back in.
“I...I guess you're right.” I say, taking a piece off of my cotton candy plume and popping it into my mouth. It reminds me of the clouds, almost like I’m eating the clouds themselves. I hold it out to Hisao, offering him a piece. He gives a resigned shrug, plucking and popping the pink cloud of sugar into his mouth, which is, remarkably cute. This is nice, this…catalyst, or whatever he called it. I guess it did speed up the reaction between us. Sure we don’t know each other well, but were better off than we were before, right?
I look up at the pale blue sky, streaked with fluffy white clouds.The humidity in the air makes it somewhat harder to breathe than normally, but the cool spring air that nips at my fingers makes sure that's not a problem. It’s a nice day, especially for a festival; I wonder if they planned it like this? Well, if the rumours are true about our lady president, I’m sure more hours than necessary were put into planning a good day. That, and maybe a few offerings to the local shrines around the town, can’t be too careful after all! If the rumours are true, Shizune is more than careful.
Wasn’t I waiting for someone?
Oh ya! Nori. When is he supposed to get here anyway? I look down at my watch, glancing down at the two small hands. It’s a little past noon, he should be here anytime. Well, he should have been here a little while ago.
“Waiting for someone?” Hisao asks from my side, no doubt noticing that I’ve been staring at my watch intently. I give him a small nod and open my mouth to begin speaking when a familiar voice yells from the outskirts of my hearing. Nearly drowning in a sea of various voices, Nori’s voice can still be made out.
Hisao and I both turn to stare down the path towards the festival booths. Nori stands there, dressed in his school uniform, waving his arms like he’s trying to help a plane land; or rather, he’s trying to fly up and meet it. Sometimes, too much enthusiasm is a bad thing.
“Kirino-chan!~” he yells, walking forward quickly. His legs moving in exaggerated motions as he takes steps that would rival even a praying mantis. I give him a big wave, jumping up to my feet and stand to wait for him. “I take it you know him?” Hisao asks, beginning to stand up.
I give him a curt nod and a small ”mhm”, before turning to watch as Nori…walks? Limbos? Skips? Moves towards us would be a better explanation, at least, in Nori’s case. It doesn’t take him too long to make his way towards us, especially considering his…err…walk.
“Hello! Hello!~” he chimes, smiling brightly as he fixes the glasses placed atop his nose. I give him a casual wave and a brief “Hello.”, it doesn’t take long for him to notice our third compatriot. “Ouuu!~ Who’s this?” he grins so widely it's almost unsettling “A lascivious boyfriend you haven’t told me about?” he asks, turning to face Hisao, looking like a hungry cat. It’s disturbing almost, and it’s even freaked Hisao out if his desperate expression is showing how he is truly feeling.
“Akiyama Nori~, but everyone just calls me Nori!” he smiles, pointing to himself. Hisao gives an acknowledging nod, before introducing himself “Nakai Hisao, Hisao is fine though.”
“This was who you were waiting for?” Hisao asks, directing his question at me.
“Yes sir, she and I were going to see the festival together!” Nori says excitedly before dropping off into a more sarcastic tone “Unless…. you want to hang out with your new boyfriend Kirino.~” Nori smiles leaning in closer to me, causing me to blush slightly as Hisao rubs his chest nervously.
“It….It’s not like that.” I mumble, letting myself trail off into an awkward silence, praying that he’ll stop his line of questioning. Fortunately, the awkward silence doesn’t have much time to brew as Nori quickly breaks it. “Ahhhh.~” he pouts, looking a little sad at this new prospect. It couldn’t be that he actually did want us to be dating, could it? Who knows, Nori’s mind is like a sloth on caffeine.
“He...he was just wandering around and...and we ran into each other as we were getting food.” I say, kicking my foot at the ground as I hold my hands behind my back timidly. “Well,” Nori begins, taking in a sharp breath of air “If that’s the case, then why don’t we all go together? The more people who see my epic hosting, the better right?!” He smiles, helping break down the ice that was starting to form, since his arrival.
I give a nod and smile, picking up my garbage and can that was left on the wooden bench and Hisao does the same. “Should you be eating all that sugar?” Nori asks, pointing down at the cotton candy still held in my hand. Looking down, I wonder that myself, was it really a good idea to eat all of that? Yea, yea I’m sure I’ll be fine, after all, splurging a little once in a while wouldn’t hurt right? “Yea.” I say “Yea, I’ll be fine, a little bit won’t cause any problems.” I feel like I’m more trying to justify my actions to myself as opposed to Nori. He gives me an unsure look. If he has anything else to say, he doesn’t, choosing to drop the topic altogether; which Is probably a good move considering he wants to enjoy the festival just as much as I do.
“It looks like the two of you need to return some wooden bowls, well, run along now. Wouldn’t be good for the booths to run out of bowls now would it?” he says, giving a reassuring smile. “I’ll wait here, and Kirino, I’ll take that.” A chuckle accompanies his voice as he snatches a large handful of cotton candy from me as he throws himself onto the wooden bench lazily. I shake my head, turning and beginning to walk towards the booths. The faster I return the bowls, the more festival time I can enjoy!
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“That, ladies and gentleman, is how you take sweater vest over here to the cleaners!” Nori laughs, cracking his fingers and throwing them behind his head, emphasizing his third victory in a row.
“Ya, ya. Why not brag a little more, I’m pretty sure the people in town didn’t hear you.” Hisao laughs, poking fun at Nori’s booming voice. His grin has quickly covered over his normal morose demeanor.
The two boys have just finished playing a booth game involving throwing rings onto pegs, I can’t remember what it’s called. Ring toss? Peg ring? Nevermind, the game doesn’t matter, merely the score. Hisao did his best to keep up with Nori, but it seems fate had other plans. Which, probably wasn’t great for Hisao’s ego, especially considering that this was now the third time he lost to Nori. Despite Hisao’s humiliation at the hands of Nori, he seems to be enjoying himself. The two have become good acquaintances, it seems Nori has an odd knack for befriending people; and an even odder knack for winning.
Nori wraps one arm around Hisao’s shoulder and gives another one of his characteristic laughs, accepting the small teddy bear from across the wooden booth with as much humility as a strutting peacock. It looks like a typical teddy bear, ruffled brown felt fur, soft plush underbelly, black beady eyes; it wasn’t noteworthy at all. Well, that’s not entirely true, it was different than most typical teddy bear’s, each teddy bear offered at the game shop had a unique feature. Some had thick sunglasses, others had a fancy moustache, and this one had a small monocle; It even shared Nori’s coy, ego-inflated smile.
By now, the sun has slowly travelled to the east, in about two or three hours it wouldn’t surprise me if it began to set. The clouds trail lazily in the sky, like thin white ribbons on a blue canvas, creating an almost artistic backdrop for the festival. The weather remains nice, which is always another plus, not too cold, not too hot. The only shame is that we have class tomorrow, really, it would have been nice to have the day off, but that’s not too likely to happen. I’m sure Okazaki has another of her pop quizzes lined up; with that I can hear the class echo the same groan as we always do.
“Now, what game should we play next?” Nori asks enthusiastically. No doubt eager to show off his game prowess further.
“Mind if we get a drink first? I’m feeling a little thirsty.” I say, both trying to save Hisao from further embarrassment and myself from growing any thirstier than I already am. Seriously, it’s like a desert right now! I’m already having trouble moistening my tongue, I don’t wanna risk anything further.
Nori gives a thoughtful hum before returning to his chipper behaviour “I suppose…that is…if Sweater Vest over here has no problem with it~!”
Hisao gives a shrug and chuckles about how he doesn’t mind, then goes to dig around for a few coins in his wallet.
“What do you want?” Nori asks me, trying to shove his newest prize into his already stuffed backpack. Well somebody came prepared for victory, I think to myself. “I’ll take a juice I guess.” I respond, dropping a few coins into Nori’s awaiting palm, quickly counting it in my head before he closes it and accepts Hisao’s order.
Nori gives a quick nod before bouncing away to the nearest vending machine eager to embark upon his quest. His happy whistling can still be heard even when he disappears through the crowds, wiggling his way through fellow students and parents alike. How that man stays so happy all the time I’ll never know. I let a sigh escape from my lips.
“Something wrong?” Hisao asks, a tinge of concern evident in his voice.
I look up at him confused, “You…you mean my sigh?” I raise an eyebrow in confusion. It was just a sigh, nothing big really, although, now to think about it…I do sigh a lot. I wonder if that qualifies as a bad habit?
“Well…that too, but you’ve been drinking an awful lot since we started visiting the booths. Do you wanna maybe, sit down?”
Have I been drinking a lot? I guess I have been thirstier than I usually am, but that’s no real surprise is it? I mean we’ve been walking around for a little over two hours now. Of course I’m going to be thirsty. “No, no. I’m fine, thanks. It’s just one of those days. Besides…it’s a festival right, who wouldn’t want to splurge a little?” I giggle softly, but the newfound doubt still lingers in my mind like a bad odour. I didn’t think much of it, but it seems Hisao has taken notice.
Hisao, still unsure and skeptical just gives a slight nod and quickly changes the subject. “Nori is a pretty cool guy, if a little…”
“Happy? Go-lucky? Enthusiastic?” I rhyme off. Trying to finish Hisao’s sentence before he does.
“Pretty much yeah,” He chuckles “Has anyone ever told you that he’s a lot like a girl in my class?”
“Maybe. Let me guess though, Misha?”
“Ya! How’d ya guess?”
I giggle softly to myself and tuck a strand of hair behind my ear as it dances around between my fingers trying to get it out of my field of vision. “You wouldn’t be the first to make that assumption,” I tease.” Would it surprise you if I said they get along better than most students here?”
“Not in the slightest.” He grins turning his head from me and looking around as he scans the various crowds as if looking for the man himself. “Speak of the devil.”
I glance up, watching as Nori moves through the crowds,holding our drinks between his folded arms like an obsessive pack rat and still carrying that overstuffed backpack of his. A smile still widely carved into his face, I wonder if he has any connection to a super villain by chance. Honestly, it wouldn’t surprise me, would explain his joy in beating Hisao in every single game we played. I’ll have to keep my eyes open, I’m not in the mood for a deadly game of tricks.
Nori sighs, letting out a groan as he hands us our drinks. I shiver as the cold can of juice is passed into my waiting hands. I feel the chill resonate from within the can, like some haunted object. Wow Kirino, great comparison. Now, I don’t even want to drink it, way to go, messing things up as usual I see. I look down at the can ominously, somewhat skeptical as to whether I should drink from it. “Thanks…” I say somewhat uncertain, mentally skeptical as I pop open the tab of the can. It emits a loud pop, which could either mean the seal has been popped, or spirits have escaped; I can only hope it’s the former.
“Ugh oh….that’s not good.”our server complains, causing me to look up from my exorcised can. His typical bright smile has been flipped into a frown, his eyes narrowed at his watch. “What’s wrong?” Hisao asks before taking a long sip from his canned coffee. “It appears I’m five minutes late to take over my shift for our class booth.” he sighs, disappointment leaking into his voice as his frown deepens.
“Sorry you two. I’m gonna have to leave and attend to my class rep duties!~” He says, turning his frown once again into his characteristic smile. The rhythmic chime to his voice has once again returned, no doubt all ears are screaming in fright.
“Oh...alright.” I mumble, disappointed with his sudden leave, but I guess it can’t be helped. Wouldn’t be good for him to get fired on my account, can student representatives even get fired? Whatever, the decision remains. Still, it would have been nice to hang out a little longer. I give Nori a small smile before waving him off, Hisao does the same and we watch as Nori once again navigates the various crowds as he makes his way to our classes’ booth. I take a small sip from my juice, turning to face Hisao.
I guess I should ask him what he wants to do. Wouldn’t exactly be hospitable for me to invite him to hang out with me for the festival then have nothing to do halfway through. Although, to my surprise he’s already looking at me, his brown eyes glancing me over like a porcelain doll.
Ummm…can I help you?
He opens his mouth slowly, hesitantly almost, before any response even comes through.“Hey, Kirino? Can I... ask you a question?” he asks, soon beginning to rub his chest intently. I’m guessing that’s a bad habit of his? That or he just has a very repetitive itch in the same place, every time… Still, what’s with that phrasing? Is he going to confess or something.Oh…my god...is he confessing. I feel an unwanted blush creep to my cheeks and blossoming like a rash, as I begin to stumble and stutter, looking for just the right words. “I…I…um…y-ya sure.”
“ Sorry if this is too personal, but…” he starts, “But how...how come you’re not helping out with your class booth?”
Wa…what? That’s it? You phrased it that way, for a stupid question like that! You could have just asked outright! Ugghhh...idiot.
“I’m not...exactly... good, with people. How about you?” I say, remembering the various awkward and anxious conversations. Taking advantage of the situation I decide to turn this line of questioning against him; doing my best to probe the former inquisitor for info.
“Oh. Well, since I’m new...the stall was already finished basically. Besides, I kind of avoided the student council whenever they tried to rope me into helping…” he trails off, stopping his tedious pawing at his chest. Changing his face into an expression of sadness? Disappointment? Or is he just upset with himself for not helping out when he had the chance? He seems like a good guy, so it wouldn’t be too far off to assume that’s how he feels, like he’s not carrying his weight, like he himself is dead weight.
Ah deadweight, a term I call myself more times than I care to count. I think most people do though, it must be human nature. To be upset with themselves for what they haven’t or can’t do, simply because we like to think we can do whatever we want. We’re so used to being the top dog, it's like a blow to suddenly become ‘disabled’ .Sometimes what we want, doesn’t quite live up to reality, whether it’s due to problems either physical or any other, or even just that we never had the chance to do what we thought we could. When you finally do get out of that rut, finally get to see you can still do the same things. Whether at a slower pace or another way of doing the same thing. It looks like Hisao isn’t used to that, isn’t used to not being able to do things, hasn’t been able to adapt. He might blame it on the fact that he was new and didn’t have much time to help out, but it could just as well be because of whatever has brought him here.
“Hey,” I say, opening up a very clichéd support statement “Don’t sweat it, if you want, you can always help out next time right? Unless you’re bad with people... like me...being shy isn’t all roses and rainbows ya know!” I jeer, finishing off with a smile as I do my best to cheer him up. I’m usually not the one trying to cheer people up, but hey, first time for everything right? Who knows, maybe I can even be able to hug a stranger or do a speech in front of a class without hyperventilating and passing out.
“That’s true.”
“Now, before you get all sad and melodramatic, how about we visit a booth? I think I saw an anime themed game near the gates.” I tease, pointing towards the direction of the school gates.
I start to walk ahead, throwing a glance back, giving a small smile Hisao’s way as I look to see if he’ll follow me.
Hisao stands there, a small shadow of what looks like…loneliness? Flashes across his face, just for a moment. In fact, even I wouldn’t notice it myself if I hadn’t been looking to see if he was following me. It doesn’t last for long, quickly replaced by a smile as he moves to join up with me. His hands in his pockets and his shoulders slouching forward, in a posture almost comparably to that of an urban hoodlum. Oh god…Kirino, you’re turning into your Dad! Only old people say that!
I pick up the small pink ball, locking onto my target—a thin yellow pylon. The only thing standing between me and an anime poster of my choosing stands before me, like a villain ready to halt the heroine in her advance towards victory. Unfortunately for it, I’m ready. I can do this, one little lob and the last of the pesky pylons go down and I can claim victory. The bards will sing of my glory for generations.
“You got this Kirino!” Hisao cheers from behind me, the sound of him cracking open another can of coffee can be heard shortly after. I roll my eyes and chuckle to myself, this is his fourth can; would it be fair to say he’s addicted?
I take a deep breath, steadying my aim, ready to throw the ball claiming victory. I fling my arm forward, sending the ball flying towards the pylon, at a speed it that would make even a baseball pitcher balk. The ball collides with the pylon, with an impact so strong it sends ripples through the air and bounces off…..what!? It bounced off! What the hell is this crap? I feel my mouth open in shock, and I stand there like a statue, stuck in surprise.
“Well then.” Hisao laughs behind me, I can mentally see him. Laughing, raising one eyebrow and shaking his head.
I narrow my eyes, choosing to shoot an irritated glance at both the booth operator and Hisao, the former just gives me a shrug and a toothy grin, revealing his gold tooth. Friggin swindler…
“Hey, at least you have one more ball to throw?” Hisao says, more as a questioned optimistic statement as opposed to anything else. But still...
“Ya.Ya.” I say, waving him away. “Okay Kirino, let’s try this again.” I mutter to myself, rolling up my sleeves as I prepare myself for business.
Da-ling…Da-ling. My phone chimes. Announcing that one of the minuscule contacts I possess has sent me a text.
Da-ling…Da-ling. It chimes again. Can I look at the first one before you send me another? Besides, I’m kinda busy, they can wait. They’ve waited this long to text me, they can wait a little longer. I shake my head, and go back to pick up the ball when the chime goes off yet again…and again...and again. I let out a loud, irritated sigh.
Da-ling, Da-ling. Once, twice, three times, four times.
Whoever is texting me…stop.
“You, ugh… gonna get that?” Hisao asks pointing at my pocket that holds my phone, clearly he’s as curious as I am.
“I suppose I should, considering they’re more relentless than a loan shark.”
I visibly roll my eyes as I retract my hand from the ball, reaching into my pocket to take my phone out, flipping it open only to reveal the absurd amount of text messages I have just received. Twenty…no, make that twenty-two messages received in the span of a minute. Man, this person’s fingers must be equivalent to lightning when it concerns speed! It would be impressive if they weren’t sending them to me. Oh, and it looks like they’re all from the same person.
Miki.
I let out an audible sigh, letting the entire world know my frustration as I channel my frustration and irritation. I pass the ball to Hisao, motioning for him to throw it as I begin to scan through the various texts.
[Hey!]
[Where are you?]
[I see you!]
[Behind you]
[Behind you]
[Don’t fuck up]
[Hey]
[Hey]
[Boo]
“Boo?” I ask, questioning to what the last text is referring to.
“Ya. Boo!” a voice hisses from behind me, causing me to quite literally jump five feet into the air in terror.
I emit a startled scream, spinning around just in time to see Hisao flinch, missing the intended target with the booth ball. God Damn it! I turn around to face Miki, my heart beating so quickly it could probably match the beat of rave music. If I wasn’t so terrified, I’d be pretty steamed.
Miki stands there laughing, her eyes shut tight as she more or less keels over at my very near panic attack. Her tie wobbles back and forth as her body shakes with laughter; her voice alone is enough to draw a few very questionable glances at us. A woman even ushers her son along as she directs a fevered frown at Miki and myself.
“Your….your…face” she laughs, trying to speak through her chaotic laughter, only managing to emit a few muffled words.
I feel my face burst into a ferocious blush, not only at the sheer amount of embarrassment I face but the drove of glances I’m receiving for my banshee like scream. I hate you Miki, I hate you so very much. Great, and I’m thirsty again! Perfect, this is probably the fiftieth drink I’ve had today! I narrow my eyes in irritation at Miki, hopefully it accurately displays my displeasure.
“What happened!?” Hisao asks, somewhat panicked, clutching at his chest. He looks almost as if he was more scared than I was. His face is red and beaded with sweat, and he’s clutching his heart almost like it’s about to pop open with the alien from that movie. “Are you okay?” I ask Hisao, turning his own question against him. It’s a bit concerning at how scared he actually got.
Miki ends her cascade of violent laughter, wiping away tears from her eyes and desperately trying to catch her breath. When she finally gets a look at Hisao’s face, a small case of the chuckles takes over her once again. “Dude, relax. You look like you just suffered a heart attack! You might wanna check your pants!”
Hisao just shakes his head “No, but almost. What was with that scream anyway?” he says, looking at the two of us in hopes the noise will reveal itself.
Oh, crap. That…that was my fault. Maybe I shouldn’t have screamed so loudly, it looked like I really did frighten him. Still, it was mostly Miki’s fault for scaring me like that. “Sorry, that was me. Miki snuck up behind me and scared me.” I apologise, motioning towards Miki who stands next to me proudly. I give Hisao an apologetic look, but Miki seems more happy with herself than perhaps is appropriate.
“The new kid!” she yells, clapping him on the shoulder “Good to see you’re making friends. Here I thought you were too busy getting dragged around by the colour squad!”
“Colour squad?” Hisao asks, confused. I share the brunt of confusion, what exactly is the ‘colour squad’?
“Our class president, and her very vibrant...counterpart. Misha with her… pink hair and Shizune with her blackish-blue hair.”
Hisao chuckles a bit at Miki’s nickname of everybody’s favourite dynamic duo. “I never thought about it like that…It’s pretty accurate though.”
Miki just grins in response, holding her left arm behind her back obscuring her bandaged wrist, letting her right arm trail down next to her. “Aw well, enough about those two. If I remember correctly, we had a challenge. Isn’t that right Kirino?” she says, turning to face me. I guess she really was serious about the challenge between ‘my’ group and hers. Wait, where is her partner? Didn’t she say she was hanging out with him today? Did he slink off before we noticed him? I nod my head tentatively in agreement “Where’s your partner anyway?” I look around for her partner, expecting him to just emerge from the crowd.
“I could ask you the same thing.” She teases “Wasn’t Nori supposed to be your partner? Ah well, I guess Nakai over here will have to suffice.” She laughs, jabbing at Hisao playfully with her elbow. “As for me, well I’m sure he’s off getting food or something. Lazy ass, isn’t very good at throwing or tossing games for that matter. Worse than me believe it or not!”
“Who is your partner anyway?”
“That’s a good question.” she grins “I could tell you…or I could just let him remain anonymous and let it bug you.” She winks, implying that she has no intention of telling me. Typical Miki move if there ever was one.
I sigh in frustration, crossing my arms in an un-amused manner. I give a small shake of my head, turning to look at Hisao instead. “You alright with having a bit of a challenge with Miki here?” I ask, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear once again. Hisao shrugs and gently shakes his head “No, I don’t mind.” I give a small smile before turning to face Miki. “Guess we’ll wait for your partner to get here.” I finish, pointing at her for emphasis. The challenge has been accepted.
“ I guess I’ll get the idiot to come over quicker.” She says, taking out her phone and slowly, but methodically typing out the words with her thumb. How did she text so quickly? It looks like it’s taking her forever to even type one word! Mysteries of the world I suppose. She hits the send button before sliding it back into her skirt pocket, proceeding to whistle a small tune before announcing to us. “Shouldn’t be long now.”
It’s true, he didn’t take long. Sure enough his yelling and half-hearted excuses could be made out even before he revealed himself from the crowd. “Sorry! The line was taking so long!” his deep, baritone voice can be heard, almost distinctively from many others. It travels over the already loud chorus of hundreds of voices, almost seamlessly, as if he was used to speaking over large crowds of people. “Just….a….few….more…..people.” he yells, his voice straining as he wiggles his way through the crowd so full it's already close to overflowing with festival go-ers.
Out from the bustling crowd emerges a tall boy, his dishevelled brown hair, almost as messy as the boy standing to my right. His typical cocky grin and laid-back face, show no emotion of how bothered he may be from wiggling his way through a busy, festive crowd. He strides over, his hand in his pocket and the other clutching a plastic bag that seems almost filled to the brim with confectionary items. Ranging from chocolate bars to cans of soda; it must have easily cost a small fortune.
“You have no idea how much my wallet is aching!” he groans, rolling his eyes around in his head before focusing his jade green eyes on the three of us. “Kirino?” he asks taken aback, confused no doubt as to why I’m suddenly here. Well, I guess we found Miki’s mysterious partner, although to be fair, I was kind of expecting him already; we have a habit of running into each other. “Why is it that we always run into each other? I’m not saying its bad…just a little weird.” He laughs, which only causes me to grin in the process. Guess I’m not the only one who’s noticed
“You know each other?” Miki asks, now it’s her turn to be confused.
“That we do. Honestly, we basically run into each other every time we turn around. Our schedules seem to be intertwined almost!”
The two of us chuckle softly, amused by the rather sudden surprise. Hisao however, just stands there awkwardly, shuffling from foot to foot. He looks as if he is the third wheel to a bicycle, uncomfortable and as if he has no real place. “Yuuto, this is Hisao. I guess, he’ll be Kirino’s partner for today.” Miki says, extending a hand towards Hisao in introduction.
“Nakai Hisao. Most just call me Hisao.” He replies, somewhat stiffly, holding out his right hand.
Yuuto chuckles and shakes his head “Mind shaking with the other? This one seems too comfortable.” He motions towards his right hand obscured within his pocket. He gives a short laugh before handing the plastic bag over to Miki, who takes it and begins to search around like a magpie. The two boys introduce themselves, shaking hands in an odd, but professional manner.
“If you two are done molesting each other’s hands, I have a floor I need to mop with Kirino.” Miki laughs, drawing a few odd stares from the two boys. I raise one eyebrow In worry, she doesn’t actually want to wipe the floors with me right? “Aw Miki, we’ve played games all of today. Isn’t beating me enough to feed your ego?” Yuuto pouts, half frowning. “Besides, why don’t we talk? I bet Hisao wouldn’t mind getting to know a few extra people?” he says, turning to look at Hisao. “No objections here.” He says, chiming in.
Miki sighs, running a hand through her hair, a stick of pocky hanging from between her lips. She seems a little more content with nicking things from Yuuto’s plastic bag than any games anyway. She just shrugs, which Yuuto takes as a ‘go ahead’. “Alright then, how does a nice walk in the woods to a hill sound?” he asks, curious as to our opinions. “Sure.” Hisao responds, eager to make way. I don’t have any real objections, other than the fact that we might not have a good view for the fireworks. Yet, they aren’t really founded on anything, so we walk through the woods anyway, heading for this hill Yuuto spoke of.
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