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Post by therunawaygirl on Oct 14, 2019 13:15:31 GMT -5
M'Lyn smiled, albeit faintly. Seemed like Kujo was willing to talk if there was something in exchange. The thought reminded her of Jack a bit too much, causing her to chuckle. Alice glanced over towards her, with a hint of curiosity behind it.
"You rarely laugh..." she mumbled. "I guess so, but 'twas inevitable after a fleeting thought crossed my mind" M'Lyn shook her head, "Seems like you and Jack aren't too different than I originally thought" she mentioned, her comment clearly aimed at Kujo.
Ustaff's return caused both to flinch a bit, and confused after thinking that they'd already ordered, but maybe it was their imagination. Once again, they said their order -berry shortcake and a coffee for M'Lyn, and a chocolate milkshake for Alice. They then waited for him to leave with their order in toe, as they didn't want anyone else to listen onto their conversation. They had to admit, the fact that Kujo was causing people to gather and mention things of his past did intrigue both of them, but maybe Kujo wouldn't open up just yet.
"I can only assume that your play at hand right now is the following: you won't say anything unless we speak first, correct?" M'Lyn asked, coy, "Although I was the one to start the question, and therefore rather impolite of you to demand answers from us... I'll let it slide this once. I doubt I can get anything from you otherwise." "..." Alice looked away, fidgeting a bit, "You're gonna ask about our past, won't you...?" she mumbled yet again. "Well, for once... I'm ready to listen to your doubts. Go on -shoot."
M'Lyn leaned forward a bit, resting her head in one hand, while tapping a bit more with the free one. Alice just kept looking away and down, clearly flustered by the current situation. Then again, she was the one that wanted to leave...
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Post by hoodwink on Oct 15, 2019 13:19:30 GMT -5
Kujo couldn’t help but allow a faint smirk to appear on his lips. M’Lyn’s comment of him being ‘impolite’ was rather humorous of him. Doesn’t she know it’s just as impolite to pry into people’s affairs? Regardless, he enjoyed the dynamic with the Miqo’te, finding her coy approaches and ever sly prods to be more entertaining than annoying. ”You’re gonna ask about our past, won’t you…?” Alice seemed to be a bit put off, looking anywhere except Kujo. ”Well, for once…I’m ready to listen to your doubts. Go on—shoot.” Leaning forward, M’Lyn seemed prepared for questioning. Alice continued to fidget and look around. Hm…maybe we should go somewhere quieter, after this… Setting down his spoon, as Kujo wasn’t a fan of talking with a mouth full, he picked up his coffee and stared into it for a moment. The steam was captivating, swirling quietly into the air just under his nostrils. ”Well, I know that you can’t really talk much about this ‘HQ’ Jack is contacting…” The last time he had tried to get anything out of them regarding who they worked for had been fruitless. ‘Classified’ information and all of that. Can’t I catch a break? Sipping his coffee, Kujo placed the cup back down, mulling over what he’d like to ask first. ”I know that you were sent here because of those things…but how long have you both been traveling for? After the encounters we’ve had, it’s easy to see none of you are exactly new to this.” There was a chance that they were simply used to combat due to where they came from, but luckily that just led into his next question. ”Where’d you all come from?”
[[Short post is short ]]
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Post by therunawaygirl on Oct 15, 2019 14:20:40 GMT -5
M'Lyn couldn't help but chuckle yet again. Indeed, the conversation proved interesting, so much as to amuse her to a certain level. Alice herself perked up at Kujo's questions, despite her previous shyness. Seemed like certain topics either forced her out of her shell, or intrigued her just as much.
"First and foremost... I must say yet again that they were not the reason for our arrival here" M'Lyn replied, "We came here in search for information that could help us in our main task. But... You can say that the circumstances forced us to confront them once more." "And, well..." Alice puffed her cheeks a bit, "This isn't our first time doing this job. Y'know, scouting and searching for info? Jack and I have been at it for quite some time. A couple years at minimum, I'd say. Although it's become so redundant, it's just part of the daily routine" she finished with a shrug and a shy smile.
A bit of silence followed, but Kujo's question was quick to break the ice. At first shocked, M'Lyn couldn't help but shake her head in amusement, much for Alice's curiosity.
"Now this took an interesting twist..." the Miqo'te mentioned, "Although I guess that would come eventually... Way to ruin the surprise, Kujo." "...What do you mean?" Alice asked, frowning. "I mean, let's face it -my stay here is enough of a reason to explain anyone else who's curious about the other worlds. Not that I'd say it with ease, mind you" M'Lyn was quick to reply, "But... Kujo already knows. And we're now going to meet his mother. Isn't that enough reason to explain it?" "I guess... Although you're playing a bit of a risk here..." "A risk that might save us trouble" M'Lyn sighed before continuing, "I can't say much about Alice and Jack, for obvious reasons... Although I guess that's no matter to you now, is it? ...I've already mentioned a few things here and there, but not in much detail, have I?" she inquired, not waiting for an explicit answer, "I'm from a world known as Eorzea. I'm sure I've mentioned it before, but monsters are a constant nuisance there, not to mention the Titans, but I won't divulge there, since I only know that much. I became an Adventurer by learning Thaumaturgy, but... Seeing other different battle styles and approaches made me want to learn them." "Oh! So that's why you're so good fighting?!" "You could say that, yes. It got me quite the fame" M'Lyn mentioned, without any bragging behind her words, "The Scions wanted me to help them in a matter I couldn't quite participate in, however. I have no clear perception of what truly happened, but something forced me out of my world and towards another on -Jack and Alice's world."
Finishing her words, M'Lyn glanced at Alice, who only looked back with naivety. After her failed attempt, M'Lyn just shook her head.
"Maybe you'd like to prone her to answer your question now..." she mumbled to Kujo.
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Post by hoodwink on Oct 21, 2019 11:34:31 GMT -5
Kujo’s eyebrow raised a bit as M’Lyn mentioned their ‘main task’. Luckily the trio had arrived when things had gotten bad for SanFransokyo, but Kujo still had to wonder about the timing of it all. Just what kind of information are they after? As Alice chimed in, he was further surprised at hearing that Jack and her had been doing this line of work for quite some time. It seemed all of them had had experience due to the circumstances of their past. So…where do people like that come from? He couldn’t help but be curious. ”Way to ruin the surprise, Kujo.” M’Lyn’s comment caused the man to smirk as he sipped his coffee, looking amused.
A spark in his eyes betrayed his excitement. You don’t meet many people from other worlds, after all. It’s not just rare—it just doesn’t happen. Too good of an opportunity to pass up.
He didn’t want to be surprised. He wanted to know. What other worlds are out there? Anyone would be curious. In this way, Kujo was no different from anyone else on his own world. ”I’m from a world known as Eorzea.” Here it was—the reveal. As M’Lyn spoke of a world rampant with monsters and powerful beings called ‘Titans’, she also reminded Kujo of her ambition and passions. Learning other fighting styles, eh? There was a time that a similar passion had consumed him as well. We aren’t so different. As M'Lyn seemed to have learned Thaumaturgy on Eorzea, Kujo assumed ‘magic’, a fable of fantasy and myth on his world, was real on others. Each world has its own set of laws and physics… It was an odd concept, but one he was working through. It would make sense, as M'Lyn herself was a showcase that even other beings besides humans existed on other worlds (a concept known as 'Aliens' on Kujo's). There were a lot of fantastical things happening, but none he could deny.
There was too much evidence of other worlds he had already begun to see. Kujo wasn’t the type to look away from blatant facts in front of him. It was the last part of M’Lyn’s story that intrigued him the most, though. Having been forced out of her own world, M’Lyn had begun the life of an adventurer, traveling worlds and learning other fighting styles. Those 'Scions' seem fishy. If she had refused a request from what he assumed to be a powerful political head, it wasn’t totally impossible for them to have orchestrated something to remove someone that might know too much.
It was a puzzle to solve for later. Glancing over at Alice, who remained quiet and seemingly shy, Kujo raised an eyebrow as he sipped at his coffee, following M'Lyns prompt swiftly. ”So—how about you, Alice? I’m getting to know M’Lyn’s story a bit…but what about you and Jack? You said both of you have been doing this for a while. Where do you two come from?" He looked back between both Alice and M'Lyn. "How did you all end up on the same team?” He had other questions, but these ones would have to come first. After hearing of Eorzea, Kujo was eager to hear more of other worlds. Though his demeanor remained calm, his eyes glinted with curiosity and yearning.
Kujo was thankful that the din of the cafe allowed them to speak amongst themselves without being overheard. Ustaff always pulled through. None would be overhearing the three, enjoying their beverages and food respectively as they talked over the well crafted table. Outside the city continued to grow in business as others walked by, some dressed for work and others seemingly enjoying the day to themselves. Faint sounds of cars driving past and the train from above could be heard, but it wouldn't disturb any of the customers.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Oct 21, 2019 18:59:23 GMT -5
Kujo's question after M'Lyn's suggestion was quite thorough, all things considered. Alice was quick to raise her head to meet the interviewer, blinking few times dumbstruck. M'Lyn smiled calmly, somewhat thankful for the openings both Alice and Kujo were leaving on the open. At least, both introverts were starting to talk...
"Uhh... Well..." Alice fidgeted, "I'm..." "It's not like anyone will listen, aside from us..." M'Lyn mentioned, "So why are you so silent all of the sudden?" "It's complicated..."
Alice fidgeted a bit, uneasy, causing M'Lyn to worry. While she knew some things about Alice and Jack's world, she wasn't exactly too well-versed to tell Kujo about it. Alice or Jack would do a much better job at that... With the thought in mind, she sighed.
"...Back home... There's a war..." Alice mumbled, "It wasn't always like that, though. There was barely any poverty, because of so many technological and cientific improvements. Most people usually worked in either of those areas. It's just... The ones in control became corrupt, and began to steal and such. People didn't stand it and began to manifest, but..." "Hmm... So that's why Jack always mentions..." "Yeah. Rotten... Hey, Kujo? Can we, like... Not talk about this now?"
Alice looked at him calmly, trying to ignore the topic at hand, but remaining there silent wasn't exactly in M'Lyn's agenda. While Alice began to sip on her milkshake, already very uncomfortable with the topic, M'Lyn wasnot going to remain quiet -not when the chat had gone too far to back off now.
"...What?" Alice looked at M'Lyn, confused. "You'll just leave me alone on the field?" the Miqo'te asked back, "That's not exactly chivalrious..." "It... It's not that! I just... I don't like talking about this!" "You can ommit the parts you don't like... No one's forcing you to tell everything, Alice."
Alice fidgeted a bit, uneasy. It seemed like things weren't exactly easy to say aloud... And she was clearly reluctant to continue.
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Post by hoodwink on Oct 26, 2019 23:44:10 GMT -5
Sipping his coffee, Kujo listened to Alice’s tale silently, observing her mannerisms while she spoke. She seems closed off… It wasn’t in his nature to pry too much into people’s affairs (as he hated when others did so towards him), so he simply decided to ignore it—placing his coffee down as he leaned in his chair. ”Hey, Kujo? Can we, like…not talk about this now?” The sudden question caught him off guard. ”You’ll just leave me alone on the field?” M’Lyn seemed taken aback by the response, left defenseless. There was a slight humor to it all that forced a slight grin on Kujo’s face as he eyed the two.
”Don’t worry about it.” Waving a hand nonchalantly in the air, Kujo placed his chair back down to all fours. He didn’t want Alice to get the wrong idea, despite M’Lyns earnest. ”I’m not forcing you to spill your guts.” With a faint smile—a slightly more common occurrence since being around the trio he met—Kujo sipped at his coffee once more. ”We all have things we don’t want to mention.”
With the last comment, he glanced towards M’Lyn with a knowing look. ”Fair enough. You’ve both told me enough about where you come from.” Despite Alice's reluctancy, Kujo knew that the Mi'qote had placed a bargain. Leaning back in his chair, Kujo reached into his jacket pocket, pulling out a very beaten up paperback package of cigarettes. Pulling one from the pack and placing it between his lips, a zippo flashed in flare within his other palm as he took a drag. Though no other patrons of the cafe were doing so, Ustaff didn’t seem to mind Kujo doing such.
”So—what do you want to know?”
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Post by therunawaygirl on Oct 28, 2019 10:09:27 GMT -5
Surprised by his willingless to drop the issue, Alice calmed down a bit. M'Lyn was shocked at the sight, but simply remained silent, knowing that arguing further would be useless. Nevertheless, Kujo's consideration was to be admired.
"Well... All things considered, and after what you said... I doubt there's anything I could ask that wouldn't be answered later" the Miqo'te said, "So, on my end... No, there's not much I'd like to know" as if to assure her decision, she took a bite of her cheesecake. "Well..." Alice said, humming a bit, "I do have something I wanna know... It's what Lou said... Y'know -that friend who picked us up and drove us here? He said something... That worried me."
M'Lyn froze for a moment, knowing exactly what Alice meant. But, after what Kujo said, she was reluctant to press further and, therefore, decided to leave such a topic for later. Alice, on the other hand, seemed like she wanted to know at that point in time.
"...Are you really wanted here? In the bad way" Alice continued, "A 'yes' or 'no' is fine for answer, by the way. I just... Wanna know if I can do something to help... Y'know -I'm not exactly new to those kinds of trouble." "Alice..." M'Lyn mumbled, worried.
The Miqo'te suddenly flinched, but groaned afterwards. Standing back up, much for Alice's curiosity, she excused herself to go out, while taking out what seemed to be a phone of sorts, although it begged the question -did she have human ears aside her cat ones?
"If you'll excuse me... Seems like there's a call I need to attend to" she said, taking her leave, "It'll just be a moment." "Uhh... Sure?" Alice replied with an uneasy smile.
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Post by hoodwink on Oct 30, 2019 10:51:51 GMT -5
”All things considered, and after what you said…I doubt there’s anything I could ask that wouldn’t be answered later” M’Lyn’s comment caused Kujo’s lips to twitch in a faint grin as he pulled on his cigarette. It seemed the warrior preferred to watch things unfold, rather than dig too deep. A respectable quality indeed. ”I do have something I wanna know…It’s what Lou said…” Alice seemed to have a completely direct approach—admittedly something surprising considering her frequent withdrawn demeanor. His keen emerald gaze noticed even M’Lyn flinch at the mention of the topic. Good grief… It was clear who had more tact in this pair. ”…Are you really wanted here? In the bad way?” She asked him that point blank. Can’t I catch a break? Kujo pulled another drag from his cigarette, leaning back in his chair to blow it into the air out of range of his company.
”I just…wanna know if I can do something to help…Y’know—I’m not exactly new to those kinds of trouble.” One blink. Two. Smoke drifted into the silence that hung on the table for a moment. What? Did he hear her right? M’Lyn’s groan broke the hanging quiet as she rose to excuse herself. Looking over at the Miqo’te, Kujo raised an eyebrow slightly before nodding as she took her leave. Sighing a bit, he reached for his coffee, nearly empty now, finding solace in the taste.
”You’re an odd one, Alice...” The comment wasn’t meant in a negative way, Kujo’s stoic demeanor returning as he gazed at the coiling rings of smoke drifting from his cigarette. ”Most people stop that question where you began.” It wasn’t that he didn’t have those who offered him help. He just never had anyone ask him about the trouble he was in and offer help. It was typically one or the other. Besides Lou… Even the thought filled him with a spiteful regret as his teeth grit. Fuckin’ prick. Shaking the thought off, Kujo focused once more on Alice, leveling with her as he finished his smoke. ”Yeah—I am.” Butting it out on the plate his cup rested on, Kujo leaned back, crossing his arms over his chest and his legs over one another.
”But really—I’m not worried about.” Raising an eyebrow a bit, he wondered about the girl sitting across from him. She had mentioned knowing the kind of trouble he was dealing with...was that from her own experience? ”So—you’ve been hunted, too?” There was still a lot wrapped in mystery about his newfound companions, it seemed the more they talked, he received more questions for every answer. Gimme a break… For some reason, he couldn’t stop here, though. Other worlds existing was something that anyone would want to dig into—but Kujo found himself oddly immersed in the concept. Alice had mentioned a brief description of her home world, but seemed to have more layers than she was letting on.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Oct 30, 2019 11:04:11 GMT -5
Alice hummed in agreement, not really expecting more than what Kujo had said. She did say a "yes" or "no" was fine, since she knew how troublesome it could be to ask further. Besides, she'd probably find out more about it sooner or later, so she wasn't very much worried about that. And since Kujo wasn't exactly worried about it... Did it matter, anyways?
”So—you’ve been hunted, too?” Kujo's question threw Alice off for a bit, not really sure she understood properly. Once her mind processed the information, however, she vigorously shook her head -quite comically, too.
"Nonononono" she said, somewhat caught aback, "That's not -I mean... Urgh..." Alice sighed, seemingly giving up with her line of thought, "I haven't been personally on those kinds of situations, but I know about them regardless... Mostly because of what's happening back home. But... That's all -nothing else. If it doesn't worry you, then... I guess it's fine, so long we don't encounter trouble related to it."
She took a sip of her milkshake, humming happily after the first taste, and drawing a faint smile. M'Lyn had yet to return, making the girl guess on why she left.
"I wonder if Jack's the one calling her..." she said aloud, "If I'm not around, he tends to lose sight on things...." she giggled.
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Post by hoodwink on Nov 3, 2019 21:06:10 GMT -5
Crossing his arms over his chest, Kujo listened to Alice explain. Seems I was off the mark… Alice’s giggle broke the man from his stoic contemplation, a small smirk forming on his lips. ”So you keep him in check, huh?” It seemed like a strong bond between the two, one of reliability and the ability to depend on one another. Kujo lacked such experience around things like that, finally raising from his seat before motioning towards the door. ”We can go find out. I think we’ve been here long enough.” With that, he turned to walk towards the small counter formed from three raised bar walls forming a small stand filled with assorted goods and to-go items that Ustaff manned.
”I’ll meet you outside.” With that, he walked away from the table. Truthfully he was glad to have the conversation over—there were still questions he had, but he wanted to mull over the information gathered. ”Ustaff, always a pleasure. Grab a to-go box for 'em, will ya?” Placing a small stack of bills on the table, Kujo turned to leave. ”I’m glad to see you’re well, Kuta.” The sudden affection caused him to pause. It wasn’t out of character for Ustaff, but caused him to raise a brow. ”Gimme a break—where'd that come from?” With a fond look towards Alice, sitting at the table, Ustaff glanced towards the door and back at Kujo with a smile on his face.
”You’re in good company these days. Far better than the last crowd.” There was a tinge of ice in the last bit, but suddenly Ustaff had swiped the bills from the counter, placing them in the register with a loud ding! ”You’re too kind, Kuta. I always appreciate seeing your face in here!” With that the man was off, rushing towards the table in order to gather any leftovers the others might want to keep. Sighing, Kujo placed his hands in his pockets, making for the exit. Going through the double glass doors, a small bell chiming upon his leave, Kujo glanced around, looking for M’Lyn.
Better company, huh?
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Post by therunawaygirl on Nov 4, 2019 11:33:39 GMT -5
"Huh?"
Alice was too slow to even notice Kujo's question, and raised her gaze when he was already by the counter. She panicked only slightly, as she was quick to finish her milkshake -albeit getting a slight freeze in the moment- and left following Kujo. Was he looking for M'Lyn? Maybe, although his glancing was a bit too subtle to tell straight. At least they were able to take whatever the Miqo'te had left unfinished... Nice detail.
M'Lyn, on the other hand, was leaning against a wall, calmly talking to someone through what looked to be a regular smartphone. It looked like it'd take a while... The Miqo'te glanced their way, flinching only slightly after seeing the two of them. Putting the call on hold, she turned to greet them.
"What's this about? Already finished?" she asked. "I... Guess?" Alice replied, holding the box with her cheesecake in hand, "By the by... Who was calling you?" "About that..." M'Lyn's scowl only caused Alice to giggle, "Do you mind?" "Sheesh... Okay."
Alice grabbed the smartphone, and M'Lyn got the box to hold. Sure enough, Alice had been right -Jack was calling for something, although it wasn't an urgent issue. M'Lyn shook her head, her hood still in place, as the ears were still standing upwards.
"Honestly... He might be smart, but Jack's definitely helpless on his own..." she groaned. Noticing that Kujo was there with them, however, brought her back to ground, "Right... Why exactly did you two leave...? I thought we still had some time before meeting..."
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Post by hoodwink on Nov 4, 2019 12:50:41 GMT -5
Squinting slightly upon exiting the small cafe, Kujo rose a hand to shelter himself from the high rays. The trio had relaxed through the morning, the sun high in the sky—it was already noon. Though still in the less crowded area of the city, many locals were out and about, walking by and driving through the busy streets. A general din sheltered them, one of countless unbearable conversations, car horns and bus bells, high above in the sky were planes with bright banners advertising different establishments. All in all, SanFransokyo was always a busy place. ”What’s this about? Already finished?” Kujo turned to see M’Lyn standing off beside the cafe on her cellphone, Alice quickly rushing to verify her assumption.
Upon the Miqo’te’s scowl and Alice’s giggle, Kujo smirked. Looks like she was right. How on brand. Kujo walked over to the pair, musing humorously as M’Lyn seemed to groan in exasperation about Jack being helpless. Seems these two play a bigger hand in his reliability than I thought… Well, not when it really mattered, though. An image flashed in Kujo’s mind of the other night—the pit of NeoShadows, a swirling Demon Tower, blinding light. ”Why exactly did you two leave? I thought we still had some time…” M’Lyn’s voice brought him back to reality.
”We do—but SanFransokyo’s got more to it than Ustaff’s cafe.” Kujo glanced between the two girls for a moment, raising an eyebrow. ”Alice mentioned wanting to see the city this morning, so I figured we should get moving if she wants to see more.”
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Post by therunawaygirl on Nov 4, 2019 14:29:18 GMT -5
M'Lyn was caught aback a bit, but nodded after catching the message, with a serene expression. Besides, walking around the big city without having to worry about Heartless was a nice thought to have in mind. While Alice continued talking with the already-establish, helpess leader of the Brigade, the Miqo'te didn't want to cut things short.
"If that's the case... Then where exactly did you think on going next? Or will you keep it a surprise?" she asked, with a chuckle, "Regardless..." M'Lyn went quiet for a bit, suddenly caught in thought, "Now thinking about it... You're auwfully cheerful all of the sudden... Did something happen?" she asked, calmly.
Alice kept talking, every now and then growing bitter and calming back down -classic from a bicker between siblings. It was as if Jack couldn't get his act together...
After a while, she hung up, taking a deep breath. She walked back towards Kujo and M'Lyn, handing over the smartphone to the Miqo'te, calmly as before.
"With that out of the way..." Alice began, with a strong hint of annoyance behind her tone, "Where to next?"
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Post by hoodwink on Nov 7, 2019 0:15:17 GMT -5
Standing outside the cafe, the trio seemed to agree on a course of action. As Alice spoke to Jack on the phone, Kujo gazed at the passing cars as M’Lyn asked her questions around their destination. ”Now thinking about it…you’re awfully cheerful all of a sudden…did something happen?” The sudden comment caught him off-guard, his emerald eyes snapping back to the Miqo’te with a narrowing glare. ”Tch—gimme a break.” Shoving his hands in his pockets, Kujo turned away a bit from M’Lyn just as Alice returned to stand beside them. ”With that out of the way…where to next?” Pointing down the street they were on, Kujo’s finger headed in the direction of the large train bridge that snaked over the busier part of city, where taller buildings and sky scrapers began to slowly emerge more frequently.
”This way.” With that, he began to walk off past the cafe, figuring the two would follow. What’s different…huh? M’Lyn had had a good point, though Kujo had not wanted to admit it in front of her. He had been feeling more cheerful and friendly, lately. Gritting his teeth a little, Kujo reached for his pack of cigarettes. Pulling one out and lighting it as he walked, he took a deep drag as his eyes fell on the small shark-shaped fans that floated in the sky far above the city. Though massive, due to their distance they looked like ants from where he stood below. Tch—Lou was right, I’ve gotten weaker. He knew this was what happened when someone got close with others—their strength as a human dropped.
The more ties someone had, the more bonds or feelings they shared with others, the more vulnerable they made themselves. The more open they became. Fragile. Taking a deep pull off his cigarette, Kujo mulled these thoughts over while leading the two girls through the city. As they walked the streets became slightly more crowded by passerbys, though due to Kujo’s size many got out of the way for them. Buildings slowly started to grow more cramped together and taller in size as he led them towards the center of the city. Here there would be far more people gathered, countless food stalls and festive lights hanging all around—red lanterns waiting for nightfall to light hung in the brilliant sun expectantly.
Smells of cooking fried food and rice filled the air, mingling with the smell of asphalt and car gas. Beeps from moped bikes, buses and cars could be heard scattered throughout the structures, masking the general din of casual conversations being had as countless faces walked passed glass and gleaming buildings. Looking over his shoulder towards the two, Kujo gestured around them. ”Holler if you see somethin'.” They had plenty of time to kill, and the city was big, after all. Coming to a stop at an intersection of a busy street, the trio waited with countless others for the ‘walk sign’ to turn on as cars whizzed past.
Everywhere around were colorful shops, food stalls, expensive boutiques and electronic billboards that flashed images and advertisements. It could be a lot to take in, so Kujo wanted to make sure that M’Lyn and Alice could take their time—exploring whatever caught their fancy. ”Place I've got in mind is farther off—but we got time to stop.”
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Post by therunawaygirl on Nov 7, 2019 12:38:04 GMT -5
Hearing Kujo's comment confused the Miqo'te a bit, not really expecting that for a sole reply. His glance didn't do much to help, as the only thought it gave was one of disgust, or more simply, annoyance. Why was such a question an annoyance to him? She couldn't really tell.
As he made his way, followed closely by a cheerful Alice, M'Lyn began to ponder a bit with herself. Sure, she couldn't read minds or anything, but she wasn't the type to pry without given evidence. However... Something about Kujo began to unsettle her a bit.
"His aether's changed again..."
Regardless of the aetherflow around Kujo having a slight disruptive, M'Lyn wasn't really in a position to ask, not to mention Alice was surprisingly calm after having a discussion with Jack, which often ended with her bitter. She wasn't exactly ruining the mood for her by asking something as posibly private. Maybe, while keeping it in mind, she could ask it later.
The amount of people didn't bother neither the girl or the Miqo'te, whose disguise was still as spotless as before. Having gotten used to the large city, and also because of her old lifestyle, Alice was starting to gain confidence. The sounds were nicely familiar, and the scenery was more cheerful than what she was used to. As they entered the crowded alleyways, lit by festive sounds and tempting smells, the insecurity slowly began to rise, but knowing that both M'Lyn and Kujo were there kept it in check.
"Wow~" Alice could only gaze in awe, "It's so pretty here! All these lights and people... IT's honestly really pretty!" "There you go, acting like a child again..." M'Lyn could only mutter with a cheerful annoyance on her tone. "Hey, Kujo? Mind telling me what this place's all about?" the girl asked, taking a few steps to walk by his side, "I find it really interesting that such a big city can have such diversity."
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Post by hoodwink on Nov 9, 2019 1:18:00 GMT -5
Pulling his cigarette, Kujo walked through the crowded sidewalks, giving little mind to any in his way. Due to his size and stoic nature, most moved out of the way. The din of the city around them only furthered its hypnotic rhythms. Entrancing the wary, Kujo could hardly remember a time where the city seemed new and exciting to him. Other worlds, eh? The thought had been nagging at his heart since its discovery. ”Wow~! It’s so pretty here!” Alice’s voice chimed through the general noise, causing Kujo to raise an eyebrow as he turned to glance at her over his shoulder. She seems to be coming out of her shell… Unlike earlier in the cafe, Alice was beginning to seem lively, engaging in the scenery around them.
”Mind telling me what this place’s all about?” The sudden question caused him to turn a bit, his cigarette hanging in his mouth as his eyebrows raised. Kujo hadn’t expected having to be a literal tour guide. ”I find it really interesting that such a big city can have such diversity.” Coming across yet another crowded intersection, the trio finally grew closer to the massive skyscrapers and hovering shark fans that marked the heart of the city. Colorful lights were vibrant despite the sunlight, many shops and stalls already crowded with countless locals and tourists alike. ”Well, it’s not surprising, considering how it was made.” Continuing his pace, Kujo spoke with his head slightly turned so Alice could hear.
”A long time ago, a huge earthquake separated this land from its mainland—California.” It had been some time since he had attended classes, but Kujo had always been a sharp one. He knew the history of his own city well. ”It was called “The Great Catastrophe”—an earthquake so massive it ruptured the earth itself.” The trio was coming across an impossibly tall building—so many windows causing it to appeared almost mirrored. Around it was lush grass and tall shaded cherry blossoms, fully blooming given the time of year. Behind the massive building was a wide sprawling park, one lush with vibrant trees of the same kind and soft grass. A raised fountain was in the center off in the distance, the small brick pathway creating a ‘shortcut’ through the downtown area.
”The citizens that lived here before the earthquake were mostly Japanese, people from another country across the sea. Because of that a lot of the culture stays alive.” Heading for the direction of the park, Kujo butted his cigarette out on top of a nearby trashcan, disposing of the butt rather than throwing it on the ground. ”Continuing on—we built this.” He didn’t bother to gesture with his arms, instead his hands were iconically in his pockets once more. ”Separated from the rest of the country, the citizens that were left aimed to build something that surpassed repair.” There was an obvious hint of pride in his tone as his emerald gaze took in the city around them. It wasn’t a ton of information, but a brief summary.
Kujo could only hope that it’d slate Alice’s curiosity for the time being as he led them to the beginning of the brick path in the sprawling park.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Nov 12, 2019 15:51:03 GMT -5
Alice listened closely, her focus solely for Kujo's explanation. Maybe it was a habit of hers, or maybe her own interest and curiosity, but the attention she showed was incredibly unusual. M'Lyn had an idea of why that was the case, but she didn't want to say anything about it. Alice had only been out for so long, so why bother? Still, she was somewhat anxious to settle things quickly, as the time spent outside, while fun, had been nudging her better judgement for action. One could say it was just the usual adrenaline the Miqo'te had while on missions, much to contrast with Alice's calm demeanor.
"So, an earthquake, huh...?" Alice mentioned, her focus now on the lit lanters above her head, "Hmm... Still, despite all that's happened... I'm surprised. Not a lot of people look things the bright way after disaster. Then again... I guess that, even if we're the same, humans behave differently in different worlds... Never though tof it like that" a bit of silence followed afterwards, and Alice flinched when she revised her wording a bit, "I-I mean... Urgh, I'm not saying it's a bad thing, at all! It's just... I'm surprised by some people's willpower, is all. I've never exactly seen, less heard, or someone like that..."
Pulling up an embarassed smile, Alice kept on walking, trying to return to the bubbly self she was more comfortable with. With the park on sight, and therefore an open area, M'Lyn was now at a slightly better position to calm down, although still with her mind in a turmoil. Reaching Kujo's shoulder, and tapping ever so slightly, she walked past him.
"This might be due to my usual work speed, but you're not stalling for time, are you?" she asked, "I mean no ill by it, though. As I said, I'm used to working a lot quicker, so something that takes time is... Not exactly my comfort zone."
After hopefully recieving a reply, M'Lyn would sit down on the nearest bench, and take a deep breath, while Alice went to check the park a bit closer. Noticing something, she shouted back at the Miqo'te and Kujo.
"Hey, those are cherry trees, right?!" she asked with an eager smile, "I'd read about them before, but I'd never seen one in person. And guessing by the colors..." she chuckled, "Y'know? I read somewhere that, in another world, the cherry tree is a really important part of their culture. They give each other cherry flower-shaped charms for protection, and good luck. I wonder if the same thing applies here..."
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Post by hoodwink on Nov 15, 2019 1:39:30 GMT -5
Continuing down the path sprawling through the wide and verdant park, Kujo smirked a bit at Alice’s stammering. Of course, she thinks of that. It was totally on brand. Focusing on the optimism in the story rather than the disheartening facts seemed like something the bubbly Alice he had come to know would do. I wonder how deep that personality goes… He had glimpsed it a few times while they were out—her moments of unease or clamming up. Just what's underneath…? It was a thought that was quickly broken, as Kujo felt M’Lyn’s tapping on his shoulder. Thankfully his Akogare only responded to danger—though the Miqo’te’s ability of stealth was always impressive. Not many could get behind him that close without his realizing it. Hm… Or maybe, he was just more spaced out than usual?
”You’re not stalling for time, are you?” Her question caused Kujo’s eyebrows to raise—the slight smirk remaining on his otherwise stoic face. ”Don’t worry—I’m not stalling.” There was a slightly playful hint to his tone—he didn’t want to joke too much though. For some reason, Kujo felt like it was a step for M’Lyn to admit her uncomfortableness. How long had it been, since he had exposed vulnerabilities and received them in return? Tch—waste of time. Such thoughts were useless to him now. ”My mother works. That’s all. I told her we’d meet up when she’s out.” It was at this point Kujo reached into his pants pockets, pulling out his cellphone. ”She’s out at 3…so we have about 2 and a half hours to kill.” Watching M’Lyn take a seat at a nearby bench, albeit still seeming nervous, Kujo decided to walk over with her.
”Not used to sittin’ still, huh?” He could see how. This was probably the first time any of them had gotten to relax in who knows how long, given the history he had recently learned of them. ”Hey, those are cherry trees, right?!” Alice’s sudden yell caused Kujo to snap his emerald gaze over to her. Seeing the smile beaming on her face, he found a faint grin forming on his lips. At the mention of the ‘good luck charms’, Kujo’s mouth turned into a sour frown as he glanced away, standing near the park bench M’Lyn sat at. ”Tch—like those ever work…” It was a mumble to himself, but a thought that escaped him in the moment. Almost as if a reflex had struck. ”Yeah—they are.” He didn’t have to raise his voice too much—Alice hadn’t gone very far.
Standing beneath a pair of blooming cherry blossoms, chuckling and smiling in the dappled sunlight—Alice truly looked like she fit in on this world. Just another out of many enjoying the beautiful season during the day. It was hard to imagine her leading the life she had led, in that moment. Glancing over at M’Lyn, Kujo shoved his hands in his pockets as a devious smirk emerged on his face. ”Maybe we should make one of those charms for Jack—“ With that, he began away from the bench before commenting over his shoulder, ”that guy needs all the help he can get, eh?”
Walking to meet up with Alice, Kujo glanced around the park. It had been a long time, since he had come here. He hoped there wouldn’t be any familiar faces as they walked.
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Post by therunawaygirl on Nov 15, 2019 16:47:20 GMT -5
Caught aback, M'Lyn flinched only slightly before shaking her head with a chuckle. She couldn't help it, really -what Kujo said rang true to her. It wasn't in her Adventurer nature to stand still and wait for something to happen. Her life had been one quite full with action until that point, after all.
"Heh... I guess that makes me too easy to read, doesn't it?" she asked back, without aiming to find a reply from the man.
The coment about bringing Jack a charm for good luck only amused the Miqo'te further. While it wasn't wrong, Kujo had seen Jack in probably his weakest moments. After all, the boy's prowess relied on technology rather than direct combat.
"Maybe in battle, he does" she replied, looking up at the sky, "But don't let that fool you. When he's on his turf, he's unstoppable. You just haven't seen him in his brighter moments, is all."
Alice, on the other hand, mostly unaware of their conversation, tilted her head with curiosity. Noticing Kujo was walking towards her, she didn't bother moving from her spot. After all, why do so?
"...You know?" she began talking, "Maybe it's just my idea... But you don't walk around here often, do you?" Alice asked calmly, not really aiming for an answer, "Your body language says as much" she added with a chuckle.
Akin a little girl (which, in a sense, she still is), Alice playfully jumped around and made her way around the park, with as much confidence as she'd shown before. There was a lot of people, sure, but she wasn't very afraid of them anymore. They were just like her -people, trying to live their everyday lives.
Something that she yearned for zealously. Remembering the thought caused her to frown. If anything, she wanted things back home to become peaceful again.
One's willpower. Could it be enough to end a civil war, or not? She couldn't tell. As her thoughts began to cloud her head, Alice's pace began to slow down, until she came to a stop. Thoughts like those were often captivating, but perhaps not the prettiest to look at.
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Post by hoodwink on Nov 19, 2019 18:29:08 GMT -5
Kujo contemplated M’Lyn’s comment as he walked over to Alice. Seen him on his turf, eh? Of course there were always more to people than what met the eye, but he couldn’t help but wonder about the meaning behind the Miqo’te’s words. ”You don’t walk around here often, do you?” Alice’s sudden question brought Kujo from his thoughts as he raised an eyebrow, his hands still in his pockets. ”Your body language says as much.” The girls chuckle caught him off guard, though there was a faint gleam of respect in his eyes. She’s always sharp…that’s for sure. He supposed it made sense, as she seemed to be the eyes and ears of the party. ”Nah. I tend to avoid the busier parts of town…” Ever since the incident with his mother on that night, Kujo had exited the underground scene without a single goodbye, disappearing from the public eye for quite some time.
There was a reason he tended to go out at night, after all.
Watching Alice rush around the park caused Kujo to grin a bit, leaning against one of the cherry blossom trees, resting in its shade. Despite the people wandering through the park, some playing games while others merely walked and talked, Alice seemed to radiate confidence and exuberance. Suddenly she stopped, a frown forming on her face as she seemed to gaze off at nothing. Hm…is she always so up and down? He seemed to vaguely remember similar mood swings at Ustaff’s cafe. At first he wasn’t going to act like he noticed, but after Alice’s pace continued to slow to a halt, Kujo walked over towards her once more.
”Hey—what's up?” There was a hint of worry in his emerald eyes, his head cocked and poised in a confused look. ”You spacin’ out, or what?”
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