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tabularasa_rp2020-11-04 08:28 pm
blue_eyed_obsession) wrote in tabularasa_rp2020-11-04 08:28 pm
blue_eyed_obsession) wrote in tabularasa_rp2020-11-04 08:28 pm
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It's just a leg, we all have them, sounded like a weak way to distract himself from her display of flexibility. What was worse was that she seemed to know is he exactly what she was doing and that it would have some effect on him. She really could move like a cat.]
Now I'm unpointing it. [.. which didn't make a lick of sense. So be it, it had already rolled off his tongue. This time, mercifully, he gave her time to think. Besides continuing to taunt her now would cut into his own deliberation time. Maybe he could have her run a fetch quest- grab something from the market place, relocate something from the beach to the apartment? When she came up with that he visibly flinched.] A... Date? [Flabbergasted by that all other thoughts temporarily drained. A date?! Why a date? The paranoid side of his personality started looking for potential benefits she could be aiming for under the guise of this activity rooted in companionship but he came up with nothing. There was no currency here, so it couldn't be monetarily based. It's not as if she needed someone technologically inclined to repair her phone. It wasn't broken, and electronics only spontaneously worked now. So... Wait. Could... There be the scant possibility that she was ... Sincere? Should he be happy? Appalled? Laughing in her face right now because he's way out of her league? For someone who often depended on his intellectual processes, he was woefully overthinking this and getting no where. Why was he confused at all?! Several quiet moments had passed. He'd missed her last jibe entirely there as he clenched his teeth as not to allow his mouth to gape open.] Fine. Whatever. You're not going to win anyway.
[Still, he swallowed hard, his throat feeling unusually dry, and his pulse feeling irregular before they'd even started. Maybe he was ill.
Or nervous. Impossible]If I win, you have to learn how to play duel monsters. [It might seem silly, or not like much of a punishment but he needed the popularity of the game to spread if he was going to establish a foot hold here. Those poke dweebs were getting too far ahead.]
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You can't unpoint it. Tickets to the gun show are non-refundable. [ There's a slight teasing lilt to her words now, at least; she's missed this bantering. She's missed him, and that's... not something she likes to admit to herself. Because when they'd bumped into each other in that weird dream world, despite her worry for him, she'd been glad to have him with her. Even after their brief little spat, they'd remained together for a while, and had managed to make a pretty good team. When they decided to split off, she almost hadn't wanted to, and had spent a good majority of her time looking at her phone and trying not to send him stupid messages like 'are you okay' or 'please be safe'.
It would be a lie to deny that upon awakening, he was one of the first thoughts that crossed her mind. Him and his well being, of course. So, needless to say, despite not wanting to disturb his training earlier... she's happy to see him, she's happy that he spoke out first, and she's even happy for this stupid little race of his. What she's not so happy about, though, is the silence that follows after her little wager. Honestly, she's waiting for him to laugh or be mean -- she's already mentally gearing up for it. Don't freak out or cry. Laugh it off. Be happy that you're together now.
When he speaks again, she doesn't bother to hide the way her spine stiffens, and she's so glad that she turned away; as a matter of fact, she's going to just sort of... remain facing the opposite direction for a little while longer. ]
Yes, a date... [ Goodbye, confidence. Right back out the window, with you. ] I-I mean... it's not... I can figure something else out... [ Don't freak out, don't get upset, he didn't say no-- he just. Said you're not going to win anyway. ] I hope you like the taste of sand, because you're going to be eating it alllllll the way behind me.
[ There's no heat to her words, of course. As a matter of fact, she agrees with him -- she's not going to win. But she'll try. ]
Mm? [ His request has her turning around again, because... okay, that's a lot tamer than she was expecting from him. What she doesn't realize is that millions of people would kill to be able to learn how to play Duel Monsters with Seto Kaiba as their teacher. What he doesn't realize, is that she'd do that for him whether he wins or loses this anyways. ]
Okay, sure. You just have to promise not to get too frustrated at me when I start asking questions. [ Because from what she understands, this is more of a strategy game than anything... and that's a little intimidating. ] If you can promise not to lose your temper with me at first, then fine, it's a deal.
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I don't recall any currency changing hands, where's your receipt? [Managing to resume engaging in the joking dialogue. Although he wouldn't openly admit it, he found himself enjoying their verbal exchanges. Perhaps it was because it too was a form of mental stimulation having to think of retorts on the fly in a setting where not as many such challenges were present. Ann always had an answer for everything. Splitting up hadn't been the wisest decision on their part, but it seemed as if they'd both managed to stay in one piece. Used to relying on himself, it wasn't his safety he'd been concerned for...
Considering how they had met on the beach today, it would have been easy to ignore her. She had gone out of her way to give him his own space, but somehow that just hadn't been enough. It had almost been frustrating that all he'd received was a little wave.]
You set the terms, now stick to them. [Was this a critical response about her lack of confidence? Or was it meant to be semi-supportive? Either way it was out there now. Kaiba wouldn't make her change it, he wasn't afraid of losing or of some date.
Or... that's what he'd like to tell himself. If he actually lost and had to come up with something, then he'd worry about it] Heh- you've got that reversed.[Kaiba could actually understand the surprise, since no one here seemed to hold card games in the same regard as back in Domino and the world he knew however he was serious about this. If he knew that all he needed to do was ask- he would have found a different bet to place.]
Scouts honor. [Jokes on her, he'd never been a scout!] I'll ... try my best.
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It wasn't physically exchanged, it was done psychically. The receipt never printed, sorry about that. [ She enjoys this, too. It's fun, it breaks up the monotony of the endlessness of this place... and it means that he hangs around longer. She's glad for this, that they're together and able to have stupid conversations like this. She'd been so worried about him once they'd split up -- she'd only split off after she'd received Ren's text about Akechi dying. She hadn't been sure about how Ren was going to take it, and she'd known that he'd want to travel down into the heart of it all. Seto is strong, so are his dragons, but that was one thing she was not willing to do. If they were going to die down there, he wasn't going to be stuck having to face that, too.
Despite their first meeting, and some of their little spats in between and after... she's comfortable around him. She's glad to see him, even happier to be back at his side -- she's never been a good actress, and even though she tries to hide how happy she is to see him, it's probably not hard to tell, either. ]
I... okay.... [ Aha, he got her. Part of her regrets setting the bar so high, she's mentally kicking herself. She should have asked for a normal thing -- helping her carry something into her apartment, or like... just taking a walk together or something. But it's out there now... ] Guess I'm about to prove you wrong, Seto-kun~
[ She really hopes that she can learn this game, at least grasp the concept so that he doesn't think she's completely stupid. ]
That's all I needed to hear. [ Because scout or not, she's HOLDING HIM to that, thanks! ] I appreciate that, and I'll do my best, too! I was actually going to ask you about Duel Monsters a while back, but then the craziness happened... so... this is good timing! You know. Assuming you win.
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Ugh- I blame this shift to paperless commerce. [Though he scoffed at the environmental alteration it certainly did save a bundle in printing. The cards themselves might one day go digital, though he would prefer to have physical copies as well. As convenient as digital is, it isn't much of a collection without being able to hold it in your hand, or stack it in a briefcase. The conversation wasn't the most intellectual sort however it's not without this odd charm. He wasn't sure what had prompted the split, other than her misplaced sense of duty to the other phantom thieves instead of to her own survival. Unable to dissuade her and not wanting to make it into a thing he'd been forced to stand there and see her off.
No. Strangely enough, it's not hard to tell that she seems pleased though damned if he can really figure out why. What's even more peculiar from his perspective was that he had initiated this. Mr-I-don't-need-companionship just kept going against his usual behaviors and engaging in.. shudder... small talk.]
[Oddly, he lingers on the notion of losing and if it might be more advantageous, but then he shakes his head and mentally admonishes himself. Seto Kaiba was no loser. He couldn't intentionally throw a match under any circumstances, he had to prove that he was the best. At. Everything he took on. The fact that he'd even considered it was troubling. Looking accusingly at Ann for a moment as if she had somehow managed to cast a spell on him, the look swiftly faded.
Magic doesn't exist] Or right.[Teaching her won't be easy, since she easily gets deviated with her jokes and quips.. but he'll make the sacrifice]
Mm. [WAIT. WHAT!? Ann had been planning to ask him about the game, anyway?! What a waste of an opportunity. Still, like he told her to do before.. he set the terms and would stick to them.]
Are you ready to line up yet? [Throwing in a few stretches he'd neglected while he had been chatting with her]
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Seto casts her that look and at first she's not entirely sure what it's for, but she shrugs it off and flashes him a smile in return instead. She can only assume she's getting The Look because of her quip of him not winning -- even if she truly believes that, in fact, he will be the winner of this little race of theirs. Even when glowering at her, he's really cute. ] How long's it been since the last you've been running, anyways? Not counting our little dreamland adventure.
[ She doesn't think that 'adventure' counts at all, though. At least they're having a new adventure? ]
I am if you are! There and back, right? [ This is going to be a lot harder than she realizes, what with the sand and... debris, but she thinks she can at least make it to and from, slow or not. She has to, lest she embarrass herself. ] Hey, after we're done here, do you have any plans?
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He also still carries checks. Welcome back to the 90's. He'll do what is best for his interests, and aesthetics. If those aims happen to coincide with being more ecologically friendly, so be it. It's not as if he enjoys disorder, or waste. Look- he could go into why all digital could be detrimental in the long run- mostly because his trust issues... so he wants backups. Backups of backups of any games he's personally that invested in. No argument on that last portion.It's for the best that she can't read his thoughts on this one. The smile she shot him was disarming.] ... Counting the aggressive fish escapade? [Eluding to one of their previous trips to the beach.] It.. might have actually been then. [Come to think of it. Still, he pondered over it a little longer. There must have been another occurrence that required him to be fleet of footing since- but it's like.. right now how could only think of memories that featured her. OOD.]
I was going to make it easy on you- since you're barefoot but sure. Why not? There and back. [Instead of just to the transition point. With all the litter poking out of the sand he did wonder why she was risking it, though maybe.. tetanus didn't exist] Don't get too far ahead of yourself. If you lose focus this won't even be a slight challenge.. [Truthfully, he had no other plans]
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...She probably doesn't even know how to write a check, dude. Why would anyone carry something so outdated....]Hmm... well, that wasn't too terribly long ago, at least. [ Ah yes, their original meeting. Despite saying it wasn't too long ago, it feels like it's been ages. And certainly not in the bad way, either, because a good portion of her time spent here has been spent with him in one way or another, and that's nothing that she's going to complain about. ] You'll do well, I think.
[ That gets an eyebrow to arch up as she turns to finally regard him fully. ] Easy, huh? That's sweet of you to consider that... [ It is, too. Well... was, since he's taken it back. ] You know what? I'm so confident that I'm going to win... [ She's not. She's not at all confident that she's going to win, but she's going to fake it until she makes it. She picks up her heels and walks to the shoreline, rinsing her feet off in the surf, before she puts them back on. ] ...that I'll even wear my heels while we run.
[ This will not end well, probably. She's already envisioning a rolled ankle or a broken foot, but, it's too late to go back now. If she can walk the slippery surfaces of various runways and catwalks, she can run down a damned beach in heels. ] It's not going to be a challenge, because I'm one million percent certain that victory is going to be mine. [ She... is not. Certain of that at all. ] Anyways, after we finish here, let's go grab some coffee or something. We're probably going to need to re-hydrate, you know?
[ Because coffee is clearly the BEST form of hydration! ]
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Maybe he could lure her into playing more of those....Takamaki... he can't with you. Checks are useful for showing off your penmanship and skill in twirling writing utensils. They will never go out of style]Assuming.. we were only out for a month. [Even if time was more or less calculable now, that wasn't always the case. Given the nonsense that followed it did make that encounter feel more like it was from the distant past than the recent present.] I know I will. [Emphasizing the point, yet somehow.. he also thought she wouldn't do terribly either. The time she spent as a phantom thief did require physical fitness. He shouldn't underestimate her] I don't really need the encouragement.
[Oh, he's hit a button with throwing around the word easy. When she reaches for her heels, he's dubious.] Not sure about sweet.. wouldn't it be considering more sporting? [Or whatever the terminology was.] Ann... [He stared at her disapprovingly at the claim. as she fastened those shoes back on her feet. If anything the high heels should make this less of a competition not a greater one. Not only that but .. she could hurt herself in the process.
cough.] If you aren't going to take this seriously, we should call it now so you can get started learning the rules.[If she insisted on this, hopefully she would have the sense to use the front portion of her shoes and not the back. The heels could easily dig into the sand and get lodged there. At least he could appreciate her bravado] That much, huh? I would set the odds much lower than that and more within reason, but you go ahead and live in that fantasyland you've constructed for yourself. [He suspects..] That sounds suspiciously date-like. Trying to hedge your bet so that even if you lose, you win? Not that I can blame you.. [I mean, he knows he is amazing.. the full package, didn't she say before?] .. We'll see.
[Leaving it up in the air for now, but not appearing disagreeable to the notion. In fact he might have even smiled as he leaned his neck to one side rolling out a final kink before aiming for the imaginary starting line. He waited for her to do the same.] On the count of three... we'll begin.
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She'll play them if he wants her to... and probably end up just as competitive. UGGGH checks are SO outdated... and boring....]Let's just hope it was only a month... or like, less than that.[ That'd. Be real nice if it was less, but... considering how stiff she'd been when she woke up? Definitely a month or more. ] You may not need the encouragement, but I feel like giving it, so now you're forced to take it. Sorry, Seto-kun~
[ She teeters on one foot as she affixes the second shoe, flashing him a bright smile. ] Sweet, sporting, same difference! [ Except when it's not. It's strange to hear her first name coming from him... but she likes it. She hopes he uses it more often. ] I'm taking this seriously! Besides, isn't it better than trying to parkour over all this trash barefoot? I'd rather risk a twisted ankle than like... a giant cut. Especially so close to the water.
[ They don't need blood in the water, okay. Especially because they don't want to awaken their little friends from before. Or like, dragon sharks. If that's a thing. Who knows. ] I'm taking it seriously, no worries there. Though, you can go ahead and start teaching me the rules afterwards anyways, if you really want.
[ Read: he really should have bet something different, because she's going to let him teach her his card game no matter the outcome. She can't help it, the way she laughs at his quip; of course he's going to fire back like that. ] I will live in my fantasy land, thanks! [ Of course, he'd have to take the conversation there too, and her cheeks immediately heat up again, turning that same lovely hue of bright pink from earlier. ] Maybe I am, guess this is really is a win win situation, huh?
[ Well, he didn't say no, and she can see that smile. It makes her heart flutter in all sorts of stupid ways, and she almost misses that last bit. She does catch it, fortunately for them both, and she moves to where he's standing, just a few feet apart, getting ready as well. ] Okay! Ready whenever you are.
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Or they could spend all their time trying to beat each other's high scores, which would be a thrilling exercise for him. He really needed to learn how to relax. It did not help that this place tended to keep him wound up and on high alert]Mm. [Not arguing with that. Less time would have been kinder to their bodies, and in many cases- their minds.] Not if I stamp it, 'return to sender'. [... As if it were possible to do that with spoken words]
[There's just something about the scene before him that causes his insides to involuntarily flip-flop. With the backdrop of the ocean, the more casual pose, and effervescent expression Ann might as well have been posing for a magazine shoot. It was a shame that the moment couldn't be captured, immortalized for all time.
What.. in the literal hell, was he thinking? She was just putting on a second shoe, not.. I don't know!. Trying to rationalize this swiftly, and put things into perspective he pushes the mild panic aside to answer her] I ... guess. [There had been a slight pause as he remembered how to formulate words] I don't think you'd have to worry about tetanus, but the gash itself could be problematic. If there's ever an opportunity you should invest in a different pair of shoes.
[The monsters were strangely, far from his mind.
Cough.] A misstep in my own strategy then. [Still, he wouldn't complain. He needed others to learn this game..][It was too late now, he wouldn't try to amend it since he didn't let her amend hers.] This practically is one anyway. [If you leave out the nightmares, the shared memories, and the monsters... no, you need monsters in any fantasy. Scratch that. He's really trying to take control of this situation despite the potentially hazardous subject. If he said too much, it might sound like he was condoning the idea of... dating, if he said too little he might appear cowardly and avoidant. Did he want to encourage this? Or not? Why was he in any doubt? There wasn't like there was anyone he could ask for counsel on this personal subject.] Or we're both lousy at making bets. [Though he actually... sounded.. genuinely amused. Not in the snarky pretentious way, like he was actually engaging in a casual conversation]
[Less questions, and more going with the flow. Like usual.] Alright.. 1... 2... 3! [At the three, he took off like a shot over the sand, trying to place all extraneous thoughts to the side. His arms cutting sharp paths back and forth through the air as he dashed forward. Since she'd pointed out the fact that the bets were essentially useless, there was no reason fix the results. This was just a straight race between two parties.]
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And she will also become insanely competitive and those high scores will be hers, just you wait, handsome.Seto, you need a spa day... ]Ah-ah, not allowed. The address was correct. You can't send something back if it's addressed to the right person. [ None of this makes sense, but if Seto's willing to roll with the light hearted joking, then so is she, thanks.
She's totally unaware of the inner crisis he's having right now as she stuffs her foot into her other shoe, laughing as she almost topples herself over thanks to being on one leg and the uneven surface of the sand. When she looks up, he's watching her, and it makes her pulse quicken just that much more. She likes the way he's looking at her right now, like that gaze was reserved for her and only her, and it's... a really pleasant, albeit strange sensation. Like there's a million butterflies in her stomach just itching to get out. ]
Yeah... I think there's school issued loafers at the underground mall... school, but I think that's all that's there. I mean, I guess they'd be better than heels non stop. [ She does love her some heels, though. ] I guess I mostly just don't want to attract potential predators. I don't know if that even works like that here, but I don't really wanna chance it, either.
[ Because the last thing they need is to get chased down again, okay. She smiles at him again, giggling. ] It's okay. If you want to change your bet later, that's cool, too. I don't mind!
[ As long as it's nothing crazy, that is. Even if it is, if it means spending more time with him? She'll deal with it. His next comment catches her off guard, though, and for a split second her breath catches in her throat. ] A random workout date, then, huh? [ Okay. She can work with this and try to be... cool and not weird and nervous. She doesn't really feel nervous, though... she feels more bold than before, if anything. ] We're definitely both bad at making bets, I think. At least we're both getting what we want? [ This is so weird. She has so many questions -- like, did he seriously consider this a date? Because if he does, she does, too. What are they? These are all questions she is dying to ask but doesn't, because it's time to line up... and she doesn't want to make it awkward. Whatever this is that they're doing now is calm, casual.... and pretty natural, really. It feels right.
She can't focus on that right now, though. Winning or losing doesn't matter right now -- just getting into the 'game' so to speak does, because regardless of bets or anything else, she's promised to give her all and make this somewhat of a challenge, and that's what she intends on doing. She waits for him to give the count, and as soon as 'three' is uttered, she takes off as well. Her legs are a lot shorter than his, so her only bet is that she's got more stamina than he does. She's already trailing behind, but she's pushing herself so hard that the distance is really only a few inches that she's very concerned will grow if she's careful and doesn't pace herself. Isn't that what Ryuji said to do? He was the track star, not her, but she does remember him talking about it, giving them all tips and tricks of the trade during a meeting. Something about trying to breathe through your nose and exhale out your mouth? She's not even sure how that's going to help her here... ]
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If you pull that nonsense and call him handsome while gaming, that's probably worth an additional few points as he loses concentration!. I'm not getting my nails did]You can as long as there's a return address. [Giving her a pointed look, he swiftly added the following:] .. You didn't fill out the full label, did you? [Knowing Ann, she wouldn't. If there had been any curious onlookers they likely would have been baffled by these exchanges, as some of them were verging on the range of flirtatious.]
[As long as she's preoccupied he doesn't feel as if he is under any obligation to look away, just like before. That allots him a few moments to enjoy the view, albeit while questioning his own sanity for doing so. When he's caught mid-stare that's when the worst pile of apprehension metaphorically drops onto his shoulders. To his credit, he manages not to look away this time. If he averted his gaze everytime he'd project the idea that he's bashful, or has a reason to be guilty... which he ISN'T and DOESN'T. If she didn't want him looking in her direction she wouldn't be so animated about it!]
[Crinkling his nose at that] Now that you mention them... that's debatable. [Loafers were a stylistic no-can-do. Kaiba would rather wear her heels than those ugly things] Anything with a sense of smell, can likely pick up on the scent of blood. [At least she reminded him to be conscious of the monsters] Now that you mentioned them- if monsters do interfere, the race and the bets are off until a later date.
[Ann is so busy thinking about the bets, and whether or not they should be altered that she somehow got the subjects twisted together. For a split second after she replies with that he stands there looking at her in stunned silence. Then the spluttering and frantic hand gesturing ensues] That's not what I-?! How did you?! [The inability to formulate his thoughts into words was an irritant. Frustrated he finally spits out a cohesive sentence] I meant that this is like a fantasy! [Then his heart seemed to sink further into the pit of his stomach. Somehow the clarification sounded just as damning. Time seemed to dilate, even though it was supposedly stable now, as the silence stretched on endlessly. At least he'd stopped gesturing, but his face was still contorted with a look that crossed between shock and fear.]
[Both get what we want. Did they want this? Why was she so willing to accept that this was apparently now a workout date?! Ann didn't have to worry about making it awkward because Seto was doing that for them. If he could have erased the last few moments he might have handled this differently, given it more thought and assessed the pros and cons but he didn't have that luxury.]
Let's........ just get to the race.
[Swallowing hard and resuming a more even tone. There's no way she had been able to miss his unease, or the color filtering onto his features as he gaped helplessly at her. Him. Seto Kaiba. One of the most powerful men in his time, and an elite duelist... frightened by a girl's misinterpretation of his words. Ugh. Just shoot him now. Why was he acting like a damn fool!?
The race became more than a test of strength and endurance, it became a way to leave this unsightly encounter behind him. Some would claim that he was always running from his past. At least the workout should do him good, but by he was determined to shape up by the end of it, and deal with ... whatever-this-was when it concluded.]
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NOTED. Time to wipe the floor with you~Like hell you aren't, also, a pedicure. And a massage and a facial. Duh. ]If the return address is there, I'll just make sure to send it back. Really, you'll have to give up and open it eventually. [ Yes, people would think they were insane, probably. Not that anyone else's opinion matters. ] Of course not~ Doing that would have taken up more time, and time is precious, you know. [ Because they don't have an ABUNDANCE of that here. Clearly.
He doesn't look away, and she's glad for that, too. She doesn't really want him to -- it's almost a compliment. She knows how he is by now, after all; he can be picky and a little fickle and yet he's choosing to look at her as if she's the most interesting thing on this beach. Which, to be fair... this beach is full of trash so maybe she really is more interesting to look at than filth and monsters, but, details. Let her believe he's watching her for other reasons. ]
I wonder why school uniforms and shoes, though? Part of that mall is from my world, and I spent a lot of time there. Almost... every afternoon. I can say without a shadow of a doubt that we had a lot of clothing options. Like, I know it's sort of fused with some sort of school, but seriously? Couldn't it have at least given us a few more options? [ She agrees with you, Seto. Believe her. ] If monsters interfere, we can just... race away. To safety.
[ SEE? nothing has to be cancelled if you twist it a little! ]
...W-wait, what? [ Oh. Oh shit. She fucked up. She looks absolutely horrified for a few lingering moments, blue eyes widening and face turning a bright shade of scarlet for an entirely different reason. She's so mortified, so embarrassed that she's just accidentally further outed her stupid little crush or whatever this is, that she mostly just feels like laying down in the sand and dying right on the spot. She can't do that, though, she's got to fix this. But the look on his face only has her panic increasing. She made a terrible mistake, and she can't even take it back... why would he think this was a date? She's read this entire thing wrong and now she's also concerned that whatever friendship they've forged is going to be totally destroyed. ]
I... was just kidding! I didn't mean it, and I uh... I'm going to change my bet to something more appropriate! [ Is she starting to freak out? Absolutely. She feels like she's going to start crying and throw up, but she can't let herself just.. fall apart in front of him. She's held it together for years at home, and she can do it now.
Forcing a laugh that sounds more hollow and nervous than anything, she nods. ]
Yeah, the race! Let's... let's do that.
[ Suddenly, the way she runs or how far behind she gets doesn't matter anymore. Winning doesn't matter, the uneven tread of the sand doesn't matter, the way her lungs burn for air or how her legs ache with how hard she's pushing herself. In a way, this pain is far preferable to the embarrassment she was feeling -- is STILL feeling -- a little earlier. She'll be glad to get this over with and to hopefully laugh it off as a 'joke' once it's done. Or... find a reason to hole up in her apartment again for goodness only knows how long. ]
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That's cheating Ann!PASS. HARD PASS. That involves way too much physical contact with someone else and my anatomy.]Not necessarily, I could either shred it or leave it on the coffee table until it falls off and into the trash. [Seto isn't sure that he'd disagree with them currently, though the latter statement was true. No one else's opinion really matters.] Uh huh, just as I expected. Better not try that excuse with any official documentation.
[Truthfully, the way she was choosing to read it was accurate. Ann was commanding his full attention, and it wasn't just because of the refuse littered around them. Though he wasn't thrilled with the mess, he often would search for spare parts, bits and bobs of use- so the fact that he wasn't doing that, not even just to give himself something to divert his gaze to was speaking volumes. The problem was that he wasn't saying it outloud so she had to base it on body language alone which can be dicey at best times to read]
I stand by the fact that this whole rat trap is someone's idea of a joke or an experiment at our expense. A mall... [He lamented the word, as even he- with his tailored to his specifications clothing, would like to fill out his wardrobe some.] I wonder who we have to thank for corrupting your contribution fusing it with that lackluster school. [Eying her for that one] .. I'm not suggesting that we suddenly come to a complete standstill and invite them to take a bite.
[Monsters are just additional hurdles apparently]
[The panicking was mutual both of the internal and external variety. Seto wasn't certain if the changes in her countenance were triggered by his outburst, realizing her error, or both but they were significant. He didn't think she'd ever turned that deep crimson shade before, and from the intensifying heat he was perceiving he might be just as bad. This was ridiculous, how was this happening?! Things had been going fairly well- at least he'd thought but then all this date stuff got pulled into it.
Once again she tried to change the conditions. Should he let her? Was she really kidding?! Logically if this had been a joke, then Ann would be laughing right now. She wasn't. Someone like her should be able to take their pick of a long list of available suitors, so why him specifically? The following words came out a little more severely than intended] Ugh, just leave it. If you win, which you won't, you'll go on that date and you'll like it. [What? The assertion was meant to be firm but it sounded so commanding. That's a great way to impress a girl. Not.]
[The uncertainty in her quavering laugh makes him worry that he's screwed up whatever this is too. Relationships of any kind could be delicate and fleeting, why should he think that... this... held any potential. She could have been kidding. Very easily, then lost her nerve midway. Ann was always engaging in levity.
But she said... this was a win-win situation... and when all things were said and done it sounded as if she actually believed that]
Mm, the race. Don't disappoint me, Takamaki.
[Reverting temporarily to last names, likely not making the tension lessen. In the midst of the race he finds it easier to distract himself but not fully. There are things to dodge, ground to cover and breathing to concentrate on. Would going on a date, be the worst thing ever? He tried to sneak a casual glance over his shoulder to gauge her features, but nearly tripped over a toaster in the process so he refrained from trying that a second time. Seto Kaiba, doesn't date. He doesn't socialize- he doesn't waste time with such frivolities.
... but thinking back on some of their escapades, he's also.. never really met anyone quite like her.]
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Not cheating! Totally fair, I'm just paying you compliments, that's all!It's not that bad. We can even get you cucumber slices to place over your eyes. You'll feel much better. I swear. ]You wouldn't do that... don't lie, you know you'd keep them in a drawer and then forget about them. [ Are they even talking about encouragement anymore? Does it really matter? ] I'll be sure to sign and date all of the dotted lines on every and all official documents that arrive in the Void. I promise.
[ Ann's pretty good at reading people, but this? She's not entirely sure of. The signals keep getting mixed up left and right, and just like usual... he's a hard book to read. She might have his attention for now, but she's not really sure why or how. Well, she THOUGHT she was sure, for a few moments at least. Now... not so much. Why is this so confusing? ]
I'm not entirely sure that I can disagree with that. It does feel like some sort of sick experiment... but... [ She pauses again, shifting almost a little nervously. ] ...I'm appreciative of the experience. If we weren't here, I'd have never gotten the chance to meet you.
[ And now she can't really picture life without him in some way or form, whether it's gloating about his status in his world, or talking about his nerd cards, or even snarking. It's a really weird thing to think that maybe someday they'll have to return to their worlds and homes and resume life as if none of this ever happened, with no way to keep in contact. It's weird, and concerning, because she doesn't want to not be able to see him or have a conversation with him or even bicker about something asinine.
Their initial first meet and greet may have been strained, but now she's feeling strained in a whole different way. Some how, some way, she's fallen for Seto, and she's only come to realize that within the last month or so. Their time spent in Mementos is what really sealed the deal for her -- he'd been so brave in the face of all that danger and calm. It had been physically painful to separate from him after receiving a certain text from a certain leader. ]
Yeah, the last thing we need here is a high school... [ She's so done with school life. Another bright side of being here, not having to worry about or deal with that shit again. ] They could have at least given us a few more options. Have you seen the uniforms? Save for the color, they're all the same... I want to try and alter a few, or at least, see if I can't... do something to make them less... uniform-y. Aha... becoming monster chow isn't on the list today, right?
[ She has no idea where to start other than to drag a few shirts and skirts and some pants home too and start trying to make some sort of alterations to them and see what she can't come up with.
Her internal freakout is only growing and festering the longer this awkward... whatever stretches on. She is so embarrassed right now, and very much wishing that he could hide right now... but hiding doesn't do anyone any good, and... it's too late. Can't hide from something that's already been put out and into the wide, vast open. ] I... [ ...I? ] I just... [ She wants to come up with something witty to say, but her brain is failing her again and is it hard to breathe suddenly? It's hard to breathe, for sure. But she refuses to give in to her anxiety which suddenly feels more crippling than usual. ] ...you're right, I'll like it, but will you?
[ Because even though it is, in fact, something that she wants? She's not about to force him to do something he isn't going to actually want to do. She's not that... mean, and she has to offer a way out for him if he... doesn't really want to. And the longer this draws out, the more terrifying it's becoming, because now she's concerned that rejection is coming swiftly and this strange friendship of theirs is going to go up in flames all because of her stupidity.
Someone like him didn't need someone like her, after all. ]
Yeah... the race.
[ That thing that they were going to do before all emotional hell broke loose, right. Oh, god, he's looking back at her and he damn near trips. She wants to tell hm to be careful, but she keeps the comment of concern to herself for right now. Right, focus. Their turning point is coming up, she can see where the beach begins to fade into the void getting closer and closer, and she's got to pull herself together if she even wants to make an attempt to keep up with him. She might not win this, but... she's also not about losing by terrible margins, either.
She barely manages to jump over a janky old rusted television set that's wedged within the sand, while having to literally jump up onto a table that's directly in her path and jump off of it -- is she trying to use that leap to her advantage as a way to catch up to his side? Absolutely... ]
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You're paying me compliments at CRITICAL MOMENTS. I'm suspicious of why they're being doled out at these times. .. But if my vision is hindered I can't keep a constant vigil over my surroundings.]The clutter would get to me eventually... [The original purpose of this segment was clearly lost several turns prior. Neither party seemed all that concerned by it.] .. Which likely will be none, so your safe on that score.
[It could have been a combination of things really, that was making this more difficult. Kaiba personally liked being more difficult to read, generally he kept a tight hold on any thoughts and feelings he didn't think anyone had a right to pry into. Coupled with the fact that this was a highly irregular experience and essentially uncharted territory for him made it more difficult to know how to handle it. The signals were mixed because they were a reflection on his own indecision]
... [That admission has him growing silent for a moment. There's something about the delivery and the shy behavior she was projecting that made this seem less like reality and more like one of those dating sim games.
Not that he paid those much mind- but there were sickos out there some of whom pitched video game concepts to him, one of which was designed to allow duel monsters fans to live out their fantasies by courting their favorite card crushes. Imagine Kaiba's revulsion during that meeting. As such he had three options available to him: Heartfelt, Casual, Boastful.] .. Meeting me is a rare opportunity, you shouldn't take that lightly. [Boastful. It was just ... easier. Still, his lips parted, then closed, before they parted again and he added a little more.] I doubt we ever would have traveled in the same circles, no. [A tiny pang of regret was encapsulated in there.][For once, Kaiba's not fixated on the future and for him that's rare. He's living in the present. If thoughts turned to Domino, he knew he would have plenty of elements to occupy his mind from running his business, to plotting his successful reclamation of the duel monsters title, to seeing to the raising of his younger brother. His schedule was usually tight, the hours long, when would there have been time to explore.. whatever this is?
For him, he wasn't sure how this started or how to stop it..
or embrace it. Feelings of a softer nature had always felt like more of a hindrance than an asset, however they kept nagging him when he was in her presence. How she'd managed to stand up to him, the great and powerful Seto Kaiba, on their first meeting had intrigued him, her bravery in face of insurmountable odds on more than one occasion was impressive, and let's face it- on some level she sort of got him. That was actually one of the rarest traits. To find a level of understanding was refreshing. Granted, she had help- the void showed her memories she was never meant to see, and vice versa still when most discarded the experience or moved past it this familiarity with each other's origins seemed to linger between them. Seto spent a lot of time trying to convince himself he didn't need that sort of connection. From anyone. Somehow things just clicked here and another part of him wanted to reach out and grasp it, never letting it go.]Agreed. [Kaiba essentially tested out of Domino High.] Plaid. [That was his short response to say that he had, it was also a way to convey just how much he detested the pattern. Giving her another once over when she talked about alterations] .. You could likely pull something off. There's at least some variation in the colors if not the patterns. [Then about the monsters] It's not on my agenda, no.
[When she isn't able to form sentences either, Kaiba isn't sure that is a positive thing or a negative one. At least he's not the only one feeling out of his element however it's still difficult to watch her unease. Between them they are one complicated mess, a twist of metaphorical electrical cords sparking with energy but without proper utilization for it nor a way to easily disentangle. At first, he thinks he can get himself together, then he'll just ignore the last few moments but she has to ask THAT. How can he answer that?! Honestly? Truthfully? Dismissively?] I don't have to like it- it's your bet! [Honestly- whoever heard of making a bet with your opponent's comfort level in mind? That's not how bets work. Still, he feels like the answer might have been a misstep]
[Would it have been that hard to say 'ye...'.. probably? Apparently it would have. Sure, he often found himself drawn to Ann but admitting that this happened was not currently on the table.]
[With the tensions unabated the race commenced. The additional toaster-incident has him chiding himself further. What is wrong with you? If any of his enemies could see him now- how they would relish delighting in his agitation and his inability to cope. Then one of them would inevitably misinterpret the situation and kidnap Takamaki to use as a bargaining chip in trying to extort his cooperation in a shady deal- then he would have to drop everything, and go and rescue her in the most over the top dramatic way possible...
.. and.. overthinking this?
Yes.
When she came sailing into his peripheral vision, it at least shook him out of the labyrinth of his own 'what-if' scenarios.] Not bad, but not good enough... [Lips curling up as they reached the void section. His shoes skidded against the patch of nothingness as he had to momentarily slow his momentum, then he took off back towards the finish line. She wasn't lying about being able to actually run in those heels, and on sand no less. Still- this was a competition, and not one he was planning on losing. Now that she felt more like an active threat to his claims it was easier to let the competitive side take the wheel.]
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Sorry, that's just how it works~You worry too much... ]Or maybe you'd forget it was there and be forced to open it to remember what it was that you meant to throw away. [ Because logic. ] Well, thank goodness for that! I mean, you never know with this place, though...
[ If she could read Seto's mind right now, she'd want to gag at being compared to one of those stupid dating sim characters. What a total insult. Who even plays those things except for stupid weebs anyways? It doesn't matter, because she really didn't know why she was expecting anything but a boastful response to that. ] Aha, I'm sure it is. [ She wouldn't know -- she doesn't know how often he goes out into the public, after all. She'd imagine not very much, considering he must be busy. It's that second part that has her wincing a little bit, though his words aren't entirely true -- even if they were from the same world, he's right. Her parents, respected and highly regarded were always the ones to take off to events and get invited to those sorts of things, and she was usually not included. Even if she were, she can't see herself crossing paths with him, or even paying him much mind. ] Yeah... [ Does she sound a little upset? Yes. But she quickly stuffs that away.
This is getting out of hand. When has she ever let a man control her feelings? Well... blackmail aside, at least. She's been friend-zoned before, and she feels like that's exactly what this is leading to. She's dealt with it from Ren, swallowed it, and moved on, and she can do that here, too. It's not a big deal. That's what she keeps telling herself, at least. Feelings are easy enough to hide and push back down once she's got her mind set on it, after all. ]
Plaid sucks. Our uniforms are black and red plaid pants or skirts, white undershirts, and a black jacket. But they don't seem to care if we bend the dress code... I do it every day. [ People always give her funny looks, walking around in her uniform plus red leggings, boots, and a hoodie under her jacket. She dresses in layers for a reason, dammit. ] Maybe... sewing supplies are a little limited here, though, unfortunately. I'm not sure I could do it, but I figure if my parents can do it, I can probably figure it out, too.
[ Blah, blah, something about fashion designers or whatever. That doesn't really matter right now, what with... that. I don't have to like it, it's your bet! stings a little more than she'd like, and she quickly looks away, shoulders stiffening for a moment, before they drop back down again. That's it, she's had enough -- she doesn't think he's meaning to hurt her feelings this time around, at least, but she's finally made up her mind: if she's going to get friend zoned, she's going to start putting a handle on it now instead of letting her emotions take over. ] Yeah, I know. Which is why I've already thought of a better idea... we're nixing the date idea. If I win, I'm painting your nails a color of my choice, and you have to wear it for two days.
[ Because he doesn't have to like it, right? It's her bet. As much as the thought of going on a date with him thrilled her... she's not going to make him do something he doesn't want to do, and she's also going to start killing these stupid feelings as soon as she can. They're friends, and she is grateful for that, she can live with that and find solace in the fact that if he is happy, then she can be happy, too. And right now, she needs to start accepting things like they are, because now she's entirely convinced she's read the entire thing wrong and she's just made an ass out of herself.
The race is something she's also grateful for. It's giving her time to think, to start putting her emotions back in check and to put her thoughts into perspective. She isn't really paying much attention to the path at this point, because winning doesn't particularly matter to her anymore. Just finishing is good enough. This is at least giving her time to stop feeling like a giant idiot, and to start thinking about how she can fix things.
When he speaks, she doesn't respond, instead focusing on her breathing. Talking is a waste of precious air right now, after all, and considering how close she is? She's not about to lose momentum. He's already at the turn off, and she's hot on his heels as she slides and turns on her heel, launching herself right after him and pushing herself harder than before, bobbing and weaving between trash and various objects. All she needs to worry about is just getting to the finish, fixing what she's screwed up, and finding a way to slink home to lick her proverbial wounds for a little while. ]
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[Those sentiments, at least the first portion were highly relatable to him. When did Seto Kaiba ever let someone hold so much emotional sway over him?]
Considering what else I've heard about that school it doesn't surprise me. The rules are more like... guidelines, without the authority behind them to back it up. [Ie. That school is a dumpster fire.] I can keep an eye out for materials like that.. [He offered before he nearly bit his tongue. Here he was offering up assistance for nothing.] .. you can make it up to me later. [#savedit]
[The anger that's filtered into his explosive responses isn't really meant for her, but how can she interpret it any other way? Rebelling against the awkward sensations and imprecise gestures he had employed he's trying to appear in control. That just translated into raising his force and stiffening his posture, the rigidity of his form was anything but reassuring. When she had the audacity to change her bet anyway, it at least stunned him back into silence. He needed to give that voice box a break anyway, so perhaps it would give him time to think before making it worse yet again.] .. and since you changed your bet. I'm changing mine. [To what... exactly. Now that she'd soured on the whole date idea, he should let it drop. He should.. but.. he felt this odd sense of loss with the prospect off the table. Also a bit insulted, as if she thought him incapable of getting through one evening with her. If she wanted to test him, then he would rise to that challenge. He could show her that there wasn't anything he couldn't do.
Even..
if..
It was a date.]
[Squaring his shoulders, and drawing himself upright, he looked down at her with a stern expression trying to bury his nerves. Then he spoke calmly but firmly, without hesitation] If I win, you have to suck it up and let me take you on that date. [There. He wasn't going to let Ann just get out of it so easily. She was the one that put all these confusing ideas and emotional baggage into his mind and she was not going to get away with it.
What.][How the tables had turned in the most peculiar of ways.
Talking might have been a waste, but it was almost a prerequisite to razz your opposition a little bit. With that out of the way he can turn his attention onto completing this race. Using those long legs, he takes more often to hurdling over objects instead of diverting around them. Though avoiding them can be accomplished swiftly, a person still had to adjust their speed to do it, therefore if he went over the obstructions it was more or less a straight shoot. Oddly there was a strong desire to win that couldn't be linked purely to wanting to prove he was the best- and it likely had nothing to do with not wishing to have his nails painted.]
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[ She knows him well enough to see him scoffing at the idea, after all. ]
It's funny, because it's a private school... you have to have a certain grade point average to even be considered. Political and monetary sway is also put to use there, too, of course... no big surprise. [ In her case, she'd actually tried her hardest to pass the entrance exams for one reason and one reason only: this was the school Shiho had chosen because of their volleyball team's reputation. And there was no way in hell that she was going to go through highschool without Shiho, thanks. Not that she'll have a choice now, when she gets home, but... well. That's then. This is now. His offer is... pleasantly surprising, and more than a little unexpected. ] Thanks! I appreciate that... and yeah, I can definitely make it up to you for your efforts. [ As if she wouldn't anyways...
She is so confused right now, and she understands enough that he must be feeling confused, too, to a degree. She's not used to this whole... flirting and attempting to bag a date thing. She's never been romantically involved with anyone, and she's only ever had feelings for one person and even that hadn't lasted once they'd established her feelings were one sided. She's fully prepared to embrace this possibility again, but once more he's put a wrench into that idea. She'd expected him to snap at her for changing her bet to something so juvenile, honestly, and had anticipated being able to smile at him and ask him if he liked manicures because that's what he's going to be subjected to. So, when he changes his bet to that? She's... not sure what to think. This is emotionally draining... ]
If you really want to, fine. [ She's still unsure about this idea now, but mostly, she's confused. First he's friend-zoning her, then he's not again. She has no idea what to think and he's thrown her off again. She can feel her cheeks heating up at the prospect that maybe, just maybe this is something he really wants, too... but she's not going to let herself get too hopeful just yet. She glances off to the side for a moment. ] But you're not going to win. I hope you enjoy the color pink, Seto-kun, because your nails are going to look fabulous when I'm done with them.
[ Now more than ever, she has to win. Not only does she sort of want to see him walking around with bright pink nails on her behalf, but she also has a horrible urge to save him from... potentially doing something he doesn't want to do. Even if wearing pink nails is probably something else he doesn't... want to do. Unfortunately, he's a lot more athletic than the average card wielding nerd -- look at him go. Really, if he want to her school, they'd probably begging him to come to the track team, now that their star runner was forced to sit on the sidelines. But Ann refuses to just give up, and so she starts hurtling herself over these objects too.
Months, and months of pilfering around Mementos and the Metaverse in general have made her a whole lot bolder in regards to not giving a shit about what she's stepping on or jumping on or over or trying to squeeze through. Heels be damned, the cogs in her brain are right back in motion now that the initial shock and weariness of emotions have worn down and she's got her head back in the game. If she deviates from the path just a little, despite the trash that's in the way, she thinks... she can get an edge on him. There's a lot of big objects that she's going to have to grapple onto and squeeze through, but she's small and scrappy and she's sure she can do it.
That's exactly what she's going to do, too -- she breaks off from his side, just slightly, to run off and around a few toasters and what appears to be exercise equipment to instead forge her own path, so to speak. She squeezes easily through two large stainless steel refrigerators that are half on top of one another, and while she has to duck and half slide under them, she does so with ease. She springs up and launches herself up onto a chair that's extremely unbalanced, and it's a good thing that she's quick to jump off of that because it immediately topples over, but it was necessary to give her a boost -- there's a stacked washer/dryer combo in her way that she's launched herself up on top of, pulling herself up with the grace of an extremely determined feline, before she hurls herself down from it, using the momentum to push her through the air in an attempt to close the gap between them. She lands with a slight wince, because... heels, but she's too invested to care about that right now. She's maneuvering around a few type writers and computer monitors now, because the finishing point is right there... she tosses a glance to him to see just... how far (or behind, maybe) he is now, because it won't be long until this is over. ]
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[If by funny you meant the exact opposite, which she did] All that time and effort- for what. [It wasn't really a question, just a way to display disapproval. At least it wasn't her school that appeared given the negative memories attached to it] Mm. [Humming to that and giving a little nod, though he had no intention of asking for anything should he be successful]
[It is emotionally draining, on both sides. Trust him, he did want to balk at her juvenile request- but he was more upset by other matters. Not that he could fully explain why. Nail polish, ridiculous though it was, was temporary. The other matter felt as though a door was being sealed shut and might never be opened again. There was a time for joviality, but now wasn't it]
I want to. [... no matter what his reasoning for it. The worst case scenario was that she'd learn that he was a lousy social companion and she'd end up never wanting to see him again.. but he would have time to prepare for it, presumably, so it wouldn't necessarily come to that. Trying to prevent displaying any additional skittishness to convince her that he was not afraid of either outcome he answered her again] There's not a single thing about me that doesn't clash with the color pink, but I'm not worried.
[Likewise, he also has something to fight for now so at least the alterations in the bets served some purpose. He just has to see this through to the end without getting bogged down in what follows. Though Ann has no way of knowing it her bet is the worst of the two, and would result in him living in his apartment for the duration of the bet, however he doesn't bother to let her in on it.
At first as they race across the beach, Ann seemed more sedate, perhaps consumed by her thoughts but once they hit the midway point there's a noticeable change. Now he assumes that maybe it was by design. Could she be that devious? Luring him into a false sense of security, so she could dominate the last final yards? It wasn't an uncommon ploy in a variety of sorts of racing. Then he felt another pang of irritation as he assume that he'd been duped and fallen right for it. If he didn't do something fast, it was over.
It would have been a thing of wonder to watch her graceful acrobatics as she pivoted and dodged the garbage. She'd peeled off from the path he was following, and that made him increasingly uneasy. Hearing the pile topple over, his eyes dart in that direction but he doesn't let it mess up his own trajectory. When he looked forward again his jaw drops because she's so far ahead!
It was actually a good thing that they hadn't set any clear ground rules, or otherwise... what he did next, might be considered cheating. Besides, it's not like Ann had been introduced to this new trick- yet. After she was no longer staring at him, he threw a decidedly pink pokeball forward. He'd always been skilled at lobbing projectiles so it made it as far as it needed to. Landing in the sand ahead of them, the shell popped open and a large winged giraffe just happened to appear in front of his opponent. It was just as surprised as Ann likely was, rearing back and flapping it's wings as a form of caution.
In the ensuing chaos, he dove when he was near enough to slide under the flailing hooves, one of which landed disconcertingly close to his cranium kicking up sand in the process, before regaining his feet on the other side, hopefully... leaving both of them behind him as he crossed the finishing line.]
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Yeah, tell me about it. I can't wait to get out of there next year. Without Shiho, I'm definitely transferring to somewhere far, far away from Japan. I don't know where yet, but... I'm out. [ Peace, Japan. Those are her plans, at least... what she actually ends up doing? Who knows yet. She'll... have to figure out some way to pay him back, should he actually be able to locate sewing supplies, though.
He says he wants to, and he sounds pretty damned sincere. For the umpteenth time today, she can feel her heart flutter wildly within her chest. Losing doesn't... really sound half bad right about now, but she still has to put up some sort of a fight. He asked for a challenge, and it's a challenge he's going to get. ] Okay, then... wait, pink would look good on you! You have pretty hands, you could pull it off!
[ Especially with the pretty glittery pink she's already thinking about topping his nails with. Of course, she hasn't considered that he could just stay inside for two days. Details to hash out later.
He's not kidding here -- she's taking this more seriously than she had earlier. She'd been busy running all of the worst case scenarios through her brain, wanting to start putting her emotions far behind her and start moving on from this strange crush... feelings, whatever it should be called that she's developed for him. Truth be told, Seto Kaiba is the last person that she ever thought she'd fall for, but when she fell? She fell hard and she doesn't quite know how to deal with that. This isn't anything like the chick flicks that she enjoys so much, there's no rain soaked confessions of undying love to be seen here.
Instead, there's a beach, which if not for all the garbage, might be considered romantic... and a race. A race that, in fact, she's actually confident now after her little stunt that she's going to win. Yes, it means not getting to go on that date, but it also means she gets to give him a manicure and jump around and do a few victory cartwheels to really rub salt in the wounds. Victory is just a mere few paces away, she can almost taste it--
Until, out of the corner of her eye, she sees him move. He's doing something -- the hell is that in his hand? At first, she thinks that he's going to toss that thing at her, but when it lands in her path, she doesn't... have adequate time to react. Her second thought, at least, is that for someone who said that his style clashed with pink, he sure was carrying a pink... ball around. Mostly, though, she's concerned with what comes out of it -- a giraffe with wings, of all things.
It appears SO close to her she has NO time to react, and she lets out an indignant yelp as she smacks RIGHT into one of its legs and knocks herself flat onto her ass. She's stunned, and unfortunately, in the few seconds it takes for her to get her wits together and realize what's happened, Seto's gained the lead and has crossed their designated finish line.
She blinks a few times, staggering to her feet with a groan -- that hurt, dammit, and it knocked wind out of her to boot. She does check the poor animal's leg and gives it a few apologetic pats, at least, before she staggers over to the finish line, gasping for air. ]
Cheater--! That-- [ Hold on. Give her a second, she literally just slammed full force into a random fucking animal, okay. She doubles over for a second, hands on her hips as she tries to take a good few gulps of air, before she straightens and fixes a glare at him. ] --was cheating, rematch. Now! No painful animals involved!
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Giving up on the whole country, huh? [No that he could blame her from the sum of her experiences. He refrained from giving her the bad news that the same corruption and ugliness of humanity existed no matter where she might go. The change of scenery at least, might do her some good. She was wiser now, and would know how to better assess potential threats. The sewing supplies would be difficult because of their miniscule nature compared to most other thing, however he'd found some slightly larger tools he required so.. perhaps..]
[It truly was a roller coaster of emotions, but he wasn't planning on backing out of it now. The bets were truly set now. Setting his focus on on the task at hand he compartmentalized the rest to reexamine on his own terms. Mentally, he was feeling much more prepared than where this started. No games, just competition. It came down to what it always did. Winning and losing, and he was no loser] Pretty.. [He sneered at that, not sparing his hands a look.] Sometimes I wonder if you really consider your adjectives before utilizing them.
[There's nothing in the stipulations that says he can't hide.
At least from her perspective Ann could see herself falling for someone, even if it was not Kaiba. This prospect was never a notion he'd entertained and in fact he had told Wei Wuxian as much months prior, not that the guy was here to corroborate the claim now. Romance had seemed- inefficient? Time-consuming? A distraction from more important matters? Now there was this strange alluring and unknowable quality to it. Also- chick flicks are ok, but dating sims are dorky? Same vein to him. Ie. Both are lame.
Although she was already envisioning her victory, there was one wrench left to literally throw into the works. The throw was accurate, like always, and if there had been time he would have boasted about it, but time was of the essence here. Maybe he should have considered the consequences but all he knew is that losing was not an option, and there simply wasn't time to dawdle. It was now or never.
The giraffe does the trick, though as it's flailing it's instinctive, it's not actively trying to play interference or harm anyone. When the girl smacks into it's leg it bleets in surprise and confusion.
Once Kaiba has secured the win- or so he thinks -he comes to a stop, breathing heavily to try and catch his breath after the exertion. Feeling that familiar sensation of smug satisfaction, he wheels around to see just how far back she is, his lips quirking upwards. It's at this point he considers that either Ann or the creature could have been hurt in his zealous need to win. They both- appear fine. Ann having gotten to her feet already by the time he looked and the as yet unnamed giraffe tilting it's head down to look at her while she gave it some pats]
[It's a relief until she starts on that tirade about cheating. Pulse still racing and heart rate still up he's ready to defend his actions]
Cheater?! What do you call all that parkour nonsense?! In a regular foot-race that's not generally allowed! [There they were both shouting at one another. That was fine. This was normal. Ish. This he could handle. When she doubles over his expression drops, thinking that the initial assessment of her wellbeing might have been in error] I didn't expect you to smack right into it, Takamaki... [As if that was a suitable excuse, and somehow her fault] You were the one that insisted the race proceed even if a monster appeared- and you're the one that lost!
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Yep. I love Japan, but I think I've had enough of it. It's my mom's home country, not mine, anyways. [ Don't worry, Seto. She already knows... she's experienced that already. Japan just happens to be the worst offender so far, unfortunately. ]
[ Speaking of offenses being committed, her comment about his hands being pretty must have been one of them. It makes her smile again, at least, as she lifts her own hands to wiggle her fingers at him. ] Yes, very pretty. Your nails are going to be so sparkly~ I can't wait!
[ Do not defend nerdy dating sims. Dating sims are for losers who can't get into real relationships or are too afraid to. At least chick flicks can be more relatable! And realistic! Either way... this situation, FORTUNATELY, can't be remotely compared to neither game nor movie. This is... definitely something.
Ann's not only fallen for Seto, she's also fallen into both his little trap and his stupid pet. Don't think she hadn't noticed how close Seto came to getting his head bashed in by a hoof, either... and the poor animal seems just as confused as anything. Thank GOD it wasn't something... violent. She doesn't even know how or WHY it's here, or why Seto is carrying around pink giraffe balls.
She finishes petting the poor animal, staggering over to Seto whilst holding onto her poor, poor ribs with one hand, pointing accusingly at him with the other. ]
There was trash in the way, what else was I supposed to do?! You were doing it too, mr. wanna be track star! [ Ah, here's the normalcy of all this: a petty argument over who won and who lost. ] That thing could have killed us by mistake! That was definitely cheating, and I want a rematch right now!
[ Except she holds up her hand again, turning her head away to cough because holy shit. That literally knocked what little wind she had in her lungs right back out. ]
YOU put the monster there! I meant wild monsters and you know it! Anyways, that means the race is invalid and I won! Because you cheated! You're getting pink nails!
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I wouldn't have your heart set on that, you still have to beat me first and that's a tall order. [She was sounding more keen on the nail polish than she had been about the dating prospects. How offended should he be?
Or he was remembering it incorrectly][Who was defending them, I'm just saying it's hypocritical. Losers who can't get dates watch chick flicks too to live vicariously through the actors and actresses. Excuse him, did you say more realistic? Since when?!]
[Kaiba might be cut off from activating his trap cards but that doesn't mean he has no alternatives. Perhaps he hadn't been intending on the way things ended up, but it had worked in his favor. That portion of the scenario didn't seem to be a concern to him. Sure, he'd almost received blunt force trauma, possibly worse since it was a powerful animal with enough tonnage to do some real damage but that part was nothing. The giraffe flapped it's wings a few times before tucking them in on it's side, and it even lowered it's head enough to give Ann a light, friendly nudge. It hadn't gotten the worst of it.]
[Bristling at the argument, he fired back] It's different! [.. because he says it is. Stepping closer to her he leaned forward to make it easier to lock eyes with her.] .. but it didn't, did it?! [That didn't invalidate the claim. It could have killed either one of them or both, if death were possible.] That thing can hear you! [What- ignore that..] Rargh- what I mean is.. it can't be cheating if there were no ground rules in play. You just didn't think of interfering with my progress first!
[The posture, the pauses to draw in air- she... she could be really injured.]
Forget it, deal's off. You're getting that checked out. [Inclining his head towards her midsection.] Now. No rematch.. no nails... no... [
date. Somehow he couldn't spit that one out. There also weren't any doctors here, so.. about that...](no subject)
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