[He folds his arms behind his head, taking a look around as she describes the weirder aspects of the building. The windows are... kind of creepy, admittedly, but everything else seems to mirror that of a traditional school. Had he walked into here under normal circumstances, maybe he wouldn't think much of it.]
Sounds like kind of a pain, but I guess it can't be helped. It's kind of like a haunted house at an amusement park, huh?
[And he laughs at the comparison, but... Actually, he'd rather not link those two in his mind, either. He might have made himself just a little nervous with that.]
[While Ryuu is making the comparison, Kallen heaves out a sigh, clasping her hands loosely behind her back. It doesn't take long for a faint snort to escape from her lips either, a sudden reminder of one of the Ashford Academy's usual crazy events — one where she was forced to dress up as a plaster wall.
Not one of her finest moments.]
If only it was anything like one.
[She says in a solemn tone. It means Ryuu or any of the newcomers wouldn't be in potential danger, or there wouldn't be a hell hound wandering around in the hallways at night. Just those thoughts cause Kallen to shudder.]
Or you know, just an ordinary school where nothing happens except for the occasional festival.
[She wishes it could be like one? It seems a strange comment, but her tone implicates that the reality of it is the more unpleasant option. Well, of course it is. The extent of it seems to be that they're all prisoners to this school, so it's natural to assume that it's not meant to be such a carefree establishment.
But Ryuu hasn't personally experienced anything so terrible as of yet, and regardless, he's in the presence of a lady here, so he can't afford to show her such a concerned face. Keeping his smile pleasant, he places a gentle hand upon her shoulder.]
Even so, "nothing happening" isn't the way to go, either. High school is all about experiences, right? So, while we're here, we might as well experience it. If things get too unpleasant along the way, I'll protect you. For now, have faith in that and smile.
[Even though the hand placement is gentle, Kallen instantly stiffens at the contact, a look of surprise across her features as she cranes her head at Ryuu. The way she hikes her eyebrows at his words can't be missed either. Ah, to be carefree...
Too bad Ryuu's guide has been in Inugami long enough to make her feel wary of her surroundings. Also she does not take well to sudden proclamations of wanting to protect her, and it shows in the way she makes a face at him, looking like she swallowed a whole lemon.]
Don't be stupid!
[Quickly, she moves that hand away from her shoulder and takes a step back with narrowed eyes.]
You think I'm going to let some random guy like you say a bunch of crap like that? We've only just met, you know! And besides— [She punctuates with a scoff.] I don't need anyone to protect me.
[If there is anyone who will do the protecting, Kallen wants to make sure that she gets that role.]
I get the feeling you've been a little misinformed about the true nature of "picking up"...
[But that's not surprising seeing as it's a commonly misjudged practice. Most people seem to view it under some negative light, but that's only because of the lecherous, desperate men aforementioned who keep giving it a bad name!]
Uwa, creepy! It's no wonder you've come to expect that sort of impression.
[Putting that topic aside, he's eager to set himself apart from that kind of image. At her request, he motions for her to follow as he starts walking towards the door, holding it open for her once they reach it.]
Well, men have needs, right? It's still super gross, but I figured maybe it was something all guys do.
[Is she wrong? Only partially. She's never really met a "player" before, everyone she knows is basically a dork. She steps inside after him and gives him a small curtsy, imitating something she'd seen earlier.]
And here we are, back at the hallways. If what they're saying is true, this is going to be our scenery for a while, huh?
[Especially the idea of the two of them making the coolest combo. Well, despite his earlier confidence, he's not sure where to begin, but the two of them can figure that out along the way.]
[ This is going to be a blast! Thinking about it is pretty exciting too because she's never been able to do anything like this before -- it's not the same as the jobs Izaya gave her. ]
Sure! It would be a lot easier because more students would be free to talk to.
True, though we're actually talking a lot during class right now, aren't we?
[He laughs despite that. But now that he thinks about it, that's strange, isn't it? Normally, teachers would be throwing chalk and things like that at the slightest hint of a cough.]
[He seems satisfied enough with her response. She even got a little philosophical in it, that bit about wanting to follow a dream. In other words, she's the type to set her priorities on her ambitions rather than on her appearance. Not a bad quality at all, and in fact, it's a level of charm in and of itself. Furthermore, it makes sense. It's probably not so much that she doesn't stand out. It's entirely possible that she hasn't even noticed that she's been noticed.]
In that case, I can help you out with that. I'm going to focus my attention on you for a while; is that okay? You can let me know at any time if it's too much.
Y-yeah--- [Max nods, looking a little more enthusiastic. Huh, maybe she can't be sarcastic when she looks back upon this as "another successful interaction with a guy," because while she's just not accustomed to being, well, noticed by anyone besides teachers and a few close acquaintances, it's actually kinda nice to grab someone's attention positively every once in a while. Especially when it doesn't involve odd conspiracies, shady people, and dire situations (creepy school aside).
---But then he graces her with something else she's not used to receiving unwarranted:
Generosity.
Max turns a touch pink upon registering Zaou's next statement, trying to keep herself from gaping at him, but only managing to limit the urge to rapid blinking.]
Uh, you sure? I-I mean, not---not that I'd mind! It's just... [Max inhales, struggling to remain as coherent as she can manage. It's an uphill battle. Buffs plz. Dealing with Warren's praises is one thing, but Warren is also...not this handsome. Nor a stranger. She looks meekly up at Zaou.] ...Well, it's a work in progress...like all...dreams are. So, if...if you don't mind watching me hit roadblocks and possibly trip a few times...'cause I'm gonna do that a lot, trust me...
[Another inhale---]
...It's okay if you help, and I'd appreciate it. [She manages a shy, but genuine, smile, while twiddling her fingers.] And I doubt it's gonna be too much, so don't worry about that. But, say... what's your name?
[Though he extended his offer in earnest (albeit jokingly), he didn't expect her to consider it so seriously. Furthermore, she completely accepted it? Surprising, but definitely in a good way. His smile softens as he listens to her work through it aloud, trying to figure out the proper way to convey her thoughts on the matter. She stumbles on the way, like she describes, but what do you know? She arrives at her destination just fine. If this could be considered a first lesson, she'd already be earning a passing grade.]
Don't worry at all. Whenever you trip, I'll be there to catch you before you fall. [And with that out of the way,] I'm Zaou Ryuu! Just calling me 'Ryuu' is fine.
[He would consider a "poker face" a skill in its own right, personally. Maybe it's because he's unable to hide his intentions? Thinking about it, he could probably really benefit from some lessons in cards.]
Oh, there's a price? I get the feeling you're not interested in one financially, [like a certain friend of his might be] but I'm sure that we could work out some sort of agreement. What did you have in mind?
[Picturesque, really. This kind of scene might be massively cliched, but what's wrong with that? Cliches are the things dreams are made of, after all. He takes a deep breath, feeling a bit refreshed already, and he turns toward her with another smile.]
Visiting it together like this, does that make this a date?
[He laughs as he raises his hands in self defense, feigning at being put on the spot.]
There's been you and only you. [don't look at that other thread up there] But is that the actual question you're wanting to ask? I'll answer anything you throw at me.
[The exact same phone. His eyes go from one to the other, back and forth, to make sure of it, and it's true. While he's busy comparing the two, Io's already made the connection that these phones were given to them. That is pretty weird for a kidnapping, not that Ryuu's had any experience with one before.
Seeing as it's some form of gift, however, he flips it open and is quick to check the contents for a message or some kind of clue.]
There's a lot of contacts in here, but these numbers aren't Japanese. Or rather, is there any place that has such short ones like this? There's no names, though... Oh!
[He does find one, after all! Holding his phone out so that Io can see it, the name listed amongst the random numbers is: Io.]
[ That's slightly concerning, but there's sure to be some explanation. Io peers at Ryuu's screen, then down at his own.]
"You're in mine, too."
[ He glances through the other names, but spots none of their other friends. Ryuu's right - there are no other names. Io begins to type something into his phone. Hopefully these aren't premium numbers. Just in case, he keeps his message short.]
"If I text you, we can see if they actually work."
[ A moment later, a text message should pop up on Ryuu's phone:]
TEST
ah yes!! I always forget about this method too though
[And just like that, the message appears on his phone. They did already come to the conclusion that they were in each others' contacts, but the absolute confirmation that these phones work and link together like that is surprising.]
Uwa, it worked! Nice going, Io!
[It's completely unnecessary, but perhaps as a force of habit, he sends one back.]
works just fine!
[And as he closes it up again, he rests his chin against his hand, leaning on his desk while he looks around the room.]
Think those other numbers belong to the other students? There were a lot of them.
[Well, there goes any confidence he had in this mission. If they don't hurry up and expose this threat, it could only get worse, but... Is it really all right to team up with this kind of guy?
... Jeez. There's really no time to apply any other strategy.]
Listen. We might only have one shot at this, you know? If we're not working together properly, that could be the end of it for both of us!
[In hindsight, it's probably not the best thing to say right now. But not even foresight has ever stopped him from being obnoxious. He can't resist the one last jab. Then he finally concedes.]
Okay, okay. I get it. [He holds his hands in front of his face in surrender.] Teamwork. I'll play nice. I promise. But how exactly do we corner something hiding in a bathroom stall? What, you take the stall to the right, and I take the one to the left?
[At the initial response, he's both shocked and indignant, and his usually charming expression turns into a scowl to match the offense he takes. Before he can actually voice his displeasure, however, the other surrenders first. Ryuu's still not sure if he can trust him, but... There's really no choice.]
Ugh, I definitely don't wanna go charging into a guy's stall, but he's the one who started it! How about this, then? We'll open the door together and then jump back for safety. After that, we'll see if we can lure him out of there...
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September 2015 Intro
Kallen
[He folds his arms behind his head, taking a look around as she describes the weirder aspects of the building. The windows are... kind of creepy, admittedly, but everything else seems to mirror that of a traditional school. Had he walked into here under normal circumstances, maybe he wouldn't think much of it.]
Sounds like kind of a pain, but I guess it can't be helped. It's kind of like a haunted house at an amusement park, huh?
[And he laughs at the comparison, but... Actually, he'd rather not link those two in his mind, either. He might have made himself just a little nervous with that.]
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Not one of her finest moments.]
If only it was anything like one.
[She says in a solemn tone. It means Ryuu or any of the newcomers wouldn't be in potential danger, or there wouldn't be a hell hound wandering around in the hallways at night. Just those thoughts cause Kallen to shudder.]
Or you know, just an ordinary school where nothing happens except for the occasional festival.
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But Ryuu hasn't personally experienced anything so terrible as of yet, and regardless, he's in the presence of a lady here, so he can't afford to show her such a concerned face. Keeping his smile pleasant, he places a gentle hand upon her shoulder.]
Even so, "nothing happening" isn't the way to go, either. High school is all about experiences, right? So, while we're here, we might as well experience it. If things get too unpleasant along the way, I'll protect you. For now, have faith in that and smile.
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Too bad Ryuu's guide has been in Inugami long enough to make her feel wary of her surroundings. Also she does not take well to sudden proclamations of wanting to protect her, and it shows in the way she makes a face at him, looking like she swallowed a whole lemon.]
Don't be stupid!
[Quickly, she moves that hand away from her shoulder and takes a step back with narrowed eyes.]
You think I'm going to let some random guy like you say a bunch of crap like that? We've only just met, you know! And besides— [She punctuates with a scoff.] I don't need anyone to protect me.
[If there is anyone who will do the protecting, Kallen wants to make sure that she gets that role.]
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Precis
I get the feeling you've been a little misinformed about the true nature of "picking up"...
[But that's not surprising seeing as it's a commonly misjudged practice. Most people seem to view it under some negative light, but that's only because of the lecherous, desperate men aforementioned who keep giving it a bad name!]
Hmmm. I'll let you be the judge of that.
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[Of course, he only invited her inside to find a friend for his daughter, but...the imagery, it stays.]
I guess I'll find out as we go on our walk, huh? Shouldn't you be leading the way right about now?
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[Putting that topic aside, he's eager to set himself apart from that kind of image. At her request, he motions for her to follow as he starts walking towards the door, holding it open for her once they reach it.]
Right this way. Please watch your step.
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[Is she wrong? Only partially. She's never really met a "player" before, everyone she knows is basically a dork. She steps inside after him and gives him a small curtsy, imitating something she'd seen earlier.]
And here we are, back at the hallways. If what they're saying is true, this is going to be our scenery for a while, huh?
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how do you even write a tag like that without dying?!!?! he's so awful
Saki
Special detectives... I like the sound of that!
[Especially the idea of the two of them making the coolest combo. Well, despite his earlier confidence, he's not sure where to begin, but the two of them can figure that out along the way.]
Then, after class, want to get started?
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Sure! It would be a lot easier because more students would be free to talk to.
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[He laughs despite that. But now that he thinks about it, that's strange, isn't it? Normally, teachers would be throwing chalk and things like that at the slightest hint of a cough.]
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Max
Oh, so that's it!
[He seems satisfied enough with her response. She even got a little philosophical in it, that bit about wanting to follow a dream. In other words, she's the type to set her priorities on her ambitions rather than on her appearance. Not a bad quality at all, and in fact, it's a level of charm in and of itself. Furthermore, it makes sense. It's probably not so much that she doesn't stand out. It's entirely possible that she hasn't even noticed that she's been noticed.]
In that case, I can help you out with that. I'm going to focus my attention on you for a while; is that okay? You can let me know at any time if it's too much.
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---But then he graces her with something else she's not used to receiving unwarranted:
Generosity.
Max turns a touch pink upon registering Zaou's next statement, trying to keep herself from gaping at him, but only managing to limit the urge to rapid blinking.]
Uh, you sure? I-I mean, not---not that I'd mind! It's just... [Max inhales, struggling to remain as coherent as she can manage. It's an uphill battle. Buffs plz. Dealing with Warren's praises is one thing, but Warren is also...not this handsome. Nor a stranger. She looks meekly up at Zaou.] ...Well, it's a work in progress...like all...dreams are. So, if...if you don't mind watching me hit roadblocks and possibly trip a few times...'cause I'm gonna do that a lot, trust me...
[Another inhale---]
...It's okay if you help, and I'd appreciate it. [She manages a shy, but genuine, smile, while twiddling her fingers.] And I doubt it's gonna be too much, so don't worry about that. But, say... what's your name?
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Don't worry at all. Whenever you trip, I'll be there to catch you before you fall. [And with that out of the way,] I'm Zaou Ryuu! Just calling me 'Ryuu' is fine.
What's yours?
Aika
[He would consider a "poker face" a skill in its own right, personally. Maybe it's because he's unable to hide his intentions? Thinking about it, he could probably really benefit from some lessons in cards.]
Oh, there's a price? I get the feeling you're not interested in one financially, [like a certain friend of his might be] but I'm sure that we could work out some sort of agreement. What did you have in mind?
Kaori
Yeah, it's perfect.
[Picturesque, really. This kind of scene might be massively cliched, but what's wrong with that? Cliches are the things dreams are made of, after all. He takes a deep breath, feeling a bit refreshed already, and he turns toward her with another smile.]
Visiting it together like this, does that make this a date?
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[For a moment, she looks up in the sky with a thoughtful expression before turning her gaze back to him.]
I don't really remember you asking me out, though! Say, how many tour guides you've already had?
[Even though she's crossing her arms on her chest, a faint smile is playing on her lips.]
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There's been you and only you. [
don't look at that other thread up there] But is that the actual question you're wanting to ask? I'll answer anything you throw at me.(no subject)
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Io
Huh? That's...
[The exact same phone. His eyes go from one to the other, back and forth, to make sure of it, and it's true. While he's busy comparing the two, Io's already made the connection that these phones were given to them. That is pretty weird for a kidnapping, not that Ryuu's had any experience with one before.
Seeing as it's some form of gift, however, he flips it open and is quick to check the contents for a message or some kind of clue.]
There's a lot of contacts in here, but these numbers aren't Japanese. Or rather, is there any place that has such short ones like this? There's no names, though... Oh!
[He does find one, after all! Holding his phone out so that Io can see it, the name listed amongst the random numbers is: Io.]
You're in it, though.
Oh THAT'S how you get around the captcha!
[ That's slightly concerning, but there's sure to be some explanation. Io peers at Ryuu's screen, then down at his own.]
"You're in mine, too."
[ He glances through the other names, but spots none of their other friends. Ryuu's right - there are no other names. Io begins to type something into his phone. Hopefully these aren't premium numbers. Just in case, he keeps his message short.]
"If I text you, we can see if they actually work."
[ A moment later, a text message should pop up on Ryuu's phone:]
TEST
ah yes!! I always forget about this method too though
Uwa, it worked! Nice going, Io!
[It's completely unnecessary, but perhaps as a force of habit, he sends one back.]
works just fine!
[And as he closes it up again, he rests his chin against his hand, leaning on his desk while he looks around the room.]
Think those other numbers belong to the other students? There were a lot of them.
it's such a good idea, I might steal it haha
do so! you show that captcha who's boss!!
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Masaomi
In other words, you wanted to see me stomped!?
[Well, there goes any confidence he had in this mission. If they don't hurry up and expose this threat, it could only get worse, but... Is it really all right to team up with this kind of guy?
... Jeez. There's really no time to apply any other strategy.]
Listen. We might only have one shot at this, you know? If we're not working together properly, that could be the end of it for both of us!
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[In hindsight, it's probably not the best thing to say right now. But not even foresight has ever stopped him from being obnoxious. He can't resist the one last jab. Then he finally concedes.]
Okay, okay. I get it. [He holds his hands in front of his face in surrender.] Teamwork. I'll play nice. I promise. But how exactly do we corner something hiding in a bathroom stall? What, you take the stall to the right, and I take the one to the left?
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Ugh, I definitely don't wanna go charging into a guy's stall, but he's the one who started it! How about this, then? We'll open the door together and then jump back for safety. After that, we'll see if we can lure him out of there...
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