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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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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
I have my heart set on doodling little hearts on your pretty nails and slathering them in glitter. Watch me win. [ Except... when she doesn't, oops. Listen, she WANTS this date, okay. But also, the chance to paint a powerful man's nails in a girly fashion? That's not something she's going to pass up, either.
ARE YOU CALLING HER A LOSER, SETO? Have you never seen The Notebook?! It's a CLASSIC. Ugh, if only they had a way to watch it....
She's not even angry or upset at the giraffe, as a matter of fact, if she had to hit a blunt object, she'd rather it be some crazy looking, sweet tempered giraffe thing. She reaches up to pet it's snoot as it leans down to nudge her. Does this dude have a name? She's not sure. She just knows that suddenly, she wants one. Or three. She's going to have to ask Seto how and why this is a thing... later. Once they've established that he definitely cheated. ]
How is it different?! [ Oh, he's leaning closer. She's got a million ideas running through her head right now for payback, and with how close he is, it wouldn't be hard to just... lean up and kiss him. She won't, of course. Not yet, at least. She arches a brow at the quip about 'that THING'. ] I didn't know it spoke English, sorry, jeez-- does it have a name? It's very cute. I didn't know you were in to keeping cute pets.
[ She squints at him, though, leaning up just enough on her goes so she can glare right back. ] No excuses! Your poor little [ BIG ] friend could have been hurt, too! And I wouldn't have ever dreamed about tossing a giant animal in your path because I wouldn't want you to get hurt!
[ She blinks at him, and then immediately reels backwards at that, shaking her head. ] What?! I'm fine, no way! And you can't go back on our stupid bet! I'm fine, I just got the wind knocked out of me!
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[djgkdlgjd POSSIBLY. At least she's in the target audience for such flicks. He totally has not seen it and would snark about the amazingly creative name. Also, he's never been more glad to be lacking some form of technology.]
[That seems to be mutual, as the winged-giraffe is one of the gently animals in the forest. It clearly didn't hold any sort of grudge related to the collision. After looking for something to graze on it walked closer to the arguing pair, looking curiously down at them]
Clearly, you don't know anything about track and field. [Not that he bothered to explain anything to her. It's not like he's an expert on that subject either but he's pretty sure veering off the central course would also be considered cheating.] .. I said forget him! [So much for taking the beast into consideration. It flipped it's ears a bit as it listened, they were a bit too loud..] It's an entirely different story and your diverting away from the point! [Nope. No name]
'No excuses' wasn't a rule either. [Splitting every single hair presented] You can't just make up a bunch of rules to suit you after the race!
[She recoiled swiftly as if she was afraid he was going to reach out and commence the procedure himself] If you're fine, and you don't want me to go back on the bet... then accept defeat, Takamaki! You lost and you know it! The guidelines were to race from here, to the void, and back. First one crosses the finish line being the winner. That's it! I started to add provisions beforehand but you didn't seem interested..
Like it or not, I expect you to show up for our date. [Sounding snootier about it than he should]
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[ The moment they get access to movies, she's forcing him to sit through the CLASSIC. He'll deal with it. D a t e n i g h t? ]
Excuse you, one of my good friends happens to be a former track and field star. I know a lot about it! [ Like. Not a lot, but whatever, it's too bad Ryuji's not here. ] Hey, don't be mean... he didn't do anything. He got stuck in this situation because you made him! And I am NOT diverting, I'm asking a question!
[ JEEZ MAN. ]
Dammit, Seto, it's not making up rules and you know it! I mean it, I want a rematch, whether it's now or later!
[ Oh, she's not recoiling because of him, really. She's more or less concerned he's going to pick her up and drag her, it's happened on more than one occasion at home and she is NOT about being embarrassed here, thanks. ] I am fine, don't worry... and we both know that you totally cheated, but if it gets you to stop freaking out on me, then fine, whatever, you won.
[ UGH it hurts to breathe, but she forces herself to straighten up, because she is not chancing being forced to go... wherever to get checked out. ] Why WOULDN'T I? I'm excited...
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[Oh dear gawd. No. Are you serious?! Is this going to be one of these compromise things? He'll have to watch chick flicks while trying not to have his eyes roll completely out of his head]
Knowing someone isn't the same as participating in it yourself. That's like me saying I know someone training to become a professional dancer- that doesn't mean I inherit their skills and knowledge on the subject. [Ann's friend could have filled her in on some details but he was pretty sure she was just trying to one up him] He knows I don't mean anything by it... [Maybe? I mean, it's hard to tell. The beast was moving closer to the treeline to sample some leaves] .. no, he doesn't have a name.
[Seto was certainly displaying some fine sportsmanship right here]
We'll see.. only then we will set ground rules. [If she just wanted a chance to redeem herself, fine. Re-doing this one, no]
[LOOK. He considered picking her up, but he hadn't made a motion to.] ... Good. I'm glad that's settled. [Straightening up, and taking in a deep breath while still shooting her glances wondering if she was really fine.] At least you admitted it... [It only took tenacity to get it out of her]
[Shrugging noncommittally to that, he was mercifully silent for a change. Then he strode over to recollect his pokeball. After leaning over and snatching it up, he recalled his monster mid-chew.] .. You weren't kidding about being able to run in those heels...
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[ This is what happens when you call her a loser for liking chick flicks. Even Ren sits through them with her. You can, too, and you can love it! While she cries like a baby!! ]
Oh my God. I give up with you right now. If Ryuji ever shows up here, I'm making him show me all of his tricks and tips so I can really wipe the floor with you next time. And there will be a next time. [ Because guess what, Seto? Every time she sees you now, you're going to get harassed about a rematch. Now you'll know how Yugi feels whenever you tell him to duel you! ] Still, it's hurtful! He doesn't deserve that. And he needs a name...
[ UGH. This is the MOST annoying thing ever. She hates losing... ]
First ground rule, right now: no tossing monsters in your opponents direction so they ram into them because you want to cheat to win. [ Settled, huh... she folds her arms under her chest, shifting just a little bit because she knows she's going to be sore in a few hours... but, at least she can sort of breathe normally again. DO NOT PICK HER UP. ] Because you wouldn't shut up about it! Don't think I believe for a second you actually won. Next time, I am going to run laps around you.
[ He's suspiciously quiet... she glances at him as he picks up that pink giraffe ball. ] Mm? Oh, yeah... actually, I thought I was going to fall flat on my face a few times, and I kinda wanted to rip them off after we hit the turn-back-point. I figured if I can jump around high ledges and stuff in a skin tight suit in the metaverse, I can run down a beach full of trash here, you know?
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It's forever a pokeball to Kaiba.] The person you're trying to share it with isn't female...[Ugh, I don't care what that coffee-clerk does in his spare time, I'm not him. I am not sure what is to love about it.
Crying makes him feel a bit uncomfortable since he doesn't do it himself][Somehow this sounded more like a win too, his lips betraying him as he nearly chuckled at her exasperation. It was odd but he actually found the exchange oddly endearing. With a shake of his head he resumed his usual expression.] Sure, there will be. It's not like my training plan included one race, and done. You'll get your chance. [He'd created a monster without realizing it] I think he's got thick enough skin to handle it. A name would be easier to reference... what about winged-giraffe. [Seto no]
[As did he as evidenced by the lengths he resorted to in order to obtain victory]
Eh- seems a little on the nose, but I won't argue with it. [Teasing her a little, unsure of how much she'd let him get away with. Ann still seemed fairly miffed, but Kaiba was starting to wind down. At least she doesn't seem to in an overabundance of pain, which was the one thing preventing her from being scooped up and carried to the apartments.] Agree to disagree, Ann. [.. because he TOTALLY KICKED HER.... He won] Next time, we'll choose a different course, without shortcuts and deviations built in. It'll be a test of pure speed.
[Mostly because he's not sure what to say now. The adrenaline declining, and his mind reminding him that he had a date to plan. It wouldn't be something he started here, in her presence... what would she even like...?] Mm, right. [Still, only a little distracted] That's preferable though. Considering what challenges might await.. [us] you- you'll be ready for it.
... Unless it's a giraffe.
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Hahahaha you're gonna get kicked in YOUR loveballs] The person I'm trying to share it with doesn't have to be female to enjoy pink nails...[ You should, because you're going to take Ren's place for these things soon enough, just watch and see... also, there's EVERYTHING to love about it!
Just sit there and pretend it's not happening, that's what Ren does lksjdfIt's a very good thing that he is winding down, because now Ann's all fired up. She CANNOT believe this crap, but also... she is sort of glad it's over, even if her win was absolutely stolen from her. Not to mention she's also glad that this little argument of theirs has died down, too. ] Good, because I want to race you again. And paint your nails. [ She hums, squinting at the ball in his hand. ] ...You should name him Spot. Or Toby.
[ Is she still a little miffed? Yes. Mostly, she's just trying to even out her breathing... at least she's not hunched over anymore, a goo sign. ] Perfect, I'm glad to hear it. And a different course sounds nice, too... and hopefully, different shoes can be... a thing. We could try the mountain next time, maybe... that might be even more of a challenge, considering the terrain and the whole uphill thing. [ HE DIDN'T KICK HER, HIS GIRAFFE DID!! ]
I guess so... [ She looks down to the aforementioned heels, before suddenly smiling again, glancing up at him slyly. ] ...Want me to teach you how to run in heels, too? [ Because she will, Seto. This can be a life lesson, maybe it'll save your life! She groans and pouts at him, though, at that quip. ]
...At least it was cute... I still can't believe you did that...
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DON'T REMIND ME, OH SOOTHSAYER] I don't paint my nails. [Dropping the subtly and coming right out with it][If he put up with all those sorts of movies it's no wonder he's gay.
Seto no. Maybe by that point tablets will exist and I can work on other things while you watch the movie.That's a lot of time to be idle, I'll go mad!][It would be more difficult if they were both still irate, there's no doubt about it] I really don't get the obsession, you have your own nails to paint. What's so special about mine? [He too looks to the pink ball briefly] Spot? That's just as bad as my sugg- Why Toby?! [Surprise overtaking him at the sheer randomness of the simple name]
[Don't think he isn't still watching, Ann, so you better hope you don't display anything that might be perceived as a more severe symptom] Mm. [Even his own boots weren't necessarily the best for this sort of activity. He could get by with them easier than her heels, but still] Agreed, the mountain would be a better test of our skills. No using the cave system for a shortcut. [WELL- that checks out]
I'd rather you didn't. [Shaking his head disapprovingly, but with a knowing smirk. It was only natural that she'd ask that next]
I don't take competitions lightly, I play to win. [Ok. Maybe he takes it too seriously, but he was raised by a guy that impressed upon him the sage words of "Losing is akin to dying"]
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SETO. Sure whatever, I'm sitting on your lap and watching the movie, good luck trying to work on other things....
you'll be fine! Don't be a baby!]Because seeing you with your nails painted is an amusing thought... [ And he is getting a manicure, whether he consents or not. He has to go to sleep sometime, thanks to the Void. ] Spot makes sense! And Toby is adorable, his name is Toby now. Toby McStuffins, First of His Name. [ Congrats, we just named the baby, Seto!
NO! Stop that! This is why she is glad to stand around and chat for a little while longer, okay. She's... pretty sure she's okay, and even if she's not, she can take care of it herself! She pauses, squinting again. ] That's right, no cave system. We are using nothing but our bare hands and skills. Also, we'll be scaling part of the mountain. [ ...This is just going to keep escalating... ]
Are you sure? It's a nice thing to know how to do... you never know~ [ Listen she doesn't think you can stuff your feet into her shoes anyways, man. You're lucking out right now. ]
It's fine, because the next time we do this, I'm throwing a hippo in a tutu and ballet slippers in your way. To counter Toby. [ She won't. Probably.
...Maybe. ]
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Wouldn't advise that unless you want him to snap at you constantly!] I see no practical reason for it, and I would be a laughing stock if I did. [His image was very important to him, maybe too important][Envisioning the expression on his face in that eventuality is priceless. Then he'd still try to contort himself enough to work on something and ultimately fail.
I'm not a baby, I'm just really fussy about certain things.]You have a low threshold for humor. [Are you sure you want to start a prank war, Takamaki? That goes both ways. You'll have to sleep sometime too.] I'm glad I recalled him, so you couldn't insult him to his face with that nonsense. There's no way I'm calling him Toby... Mcstuffins. It should at least be dignified if not descriptive.
[The result of her slamming into the giraffe at full speed at least got Kaiba to reconsider his actions. Not openly, nor did he apologize but it was a start. There could have been an alternative way to react that didn't involve potential physical harm... Still, it had gotten results.] So, an obstacle course then? [Not outright shooting it down. Little did she know that he had experience scaling steep cliff faces, sometimes one-handed while juggling his briefcase] ... I'm listening. [It also sounded more dangerous, and enticing, really. A greater challenge]
I don't think it'll ever come up, so thanks but no thanks.
There aren't any hippos here. [.. because THAT was the important thing to take away from her dialogue. ] If you do, I will turn it to my favor without running headlong into it.... Just so you know.
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Better not move too much, Seto. Ann will probably fall asleep, you wouldn't want to wake her up, now would you~?
Babies are also fussy about certain things...]Sure I do. I might even have some press on nails in my purse... [ She's not scared of you, Seto! Go on, bring it. Do your worst. ] I'll bet he'd love that name. That's definitely his name, it's very dignified! Toby McStuffins, First of his Name. It's very regal, Seto-kun. Sir Toby McStuffins. Stuffy for short.
[ This is probably not a good time to be planning race number two... and yet, here they are. ] Yes, an obstacle course. We should probably write down what we're doing, where it's taking place, and the actual rules this time around... [ Sighing, she shifts, cocking her hip to the right and placing her hands on them. ] ...We could make it into an entire marathon, if we wanted.
[ She grins at him. ] But Seto-kun, I thought you were up for a challenge~?
[ That grin widens and she laughs. ] How do you know? We might have hippos. Maybe we just haven't found them. If we don't, I'll throw the biggest threat in nature at you instead: the Canadian goose. You may be able to flip the hippo against me, but the goose will not be swayed. [ ...What? ]
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[Then he would be trapped. Again. Ann would be sleeping, while he would be stuck trying not to groan at the rom com and it's formulaic plotline.
Takamaki... no (but they so are)]Now those would just look cheap. [The press on nails that is. Don't tempt him, because he would. You might go to sleep in your apartment and wake up on the Chicago L, or worse] He also seems to enjoy being stuffed into a tiny compartment, I'm not sure that implies that he has the best sense of taste. [The winged giraffe doesn't get a say] .. Now you're just trying to annoy me. [He muttered when she got to the part about 'stuffy' for short]
[It was as good a time as any from his standpoint] I have plenty of paper back in the apartment, we can draw it all up and make it official. I wouldn't want you to cheat again. [
Despite being the biggest cheater] If it's going to be that long, then it will be a while before you get that rematch. After a month of inaction, I'm going to want to get in enough training beforehand.Not one that makes me look like an idiot. [So there]
They might not be what you're envisioning either.. they could be miniscule, no bigger than a fist at maximum growth and live only in the most remote section of the void. [Cue the incredulous look] .. If I didn't know better I would think you had to be on something right now. A goose? Singular? Not that a multitude would do you any good.. but one goose wouldn't be much of a hindrance, if any.
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Not all press on nails look cheap... did you know that some nail artists decorate them and sell them for ridiculously inflated prices? Smart for them, and convenient for people on the go... [ Has she bought these things before? Absolutely. Not that she needs fake nails. Her own nails are still miraculously long and unbroken, thanks. ] Toby might not like being in there, though. Wasn't he forced into that thing? [ ....Irritating him over the name of the stupid giraffe is what he deserves after the stunt he pulled, honestly. ] I guess that means Stuffy is an appropriate nick name... are you ever going to free him, or is he your pet permanently? I am not trying anything, Stuffy is a really cute name! I don't hear you coming up with anything better. I'll bet I can get him to follow to Toby....
[ At that accusation, she HUFFS. ] I didn't cheat, you did. But, yes, let's make sure we write everything down. And it's okay, that gives us time to hash everything out... aha, I want to train, too. I don't think... both of us dying on a mountain mid-race-marathon-whatever would benefit either of us, honestly. [ ...Even if the visual of the pair of them, laying out on the terrain out of breath is an amusing image. ]
I don't think anything could make you look like an idiot! You're too smart for that. [ She's not even teasing right now, either. She means that. ]
Or maybe they're bigger than Toby. And have big, jagged teeth made out of glass. [ Why are they doing this again? ] Maybe it's the lack of oxygen since someone broke my ribs... wait. You've never... dealt with geese before, have you?
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I wouldn't know- I'm not a connoisseur on something so frivolous. [You know- nails aren't as important as card games.] It proves one thing though.. there's a sucker born every minute. [Anyone that was willing to pay top dollar for something so temporary and tiny was nuts- unintentionally insulting Ann in the process apparently since she had bought some herself.] Then he should have broken the ball like the others did.. [It's a minor annoyance to be ignored in future] It means no such thing.. and I haven't decided how long to keep him. [Kaiba has many questions about these pokeballs and how they work] It wouldn't be hard- doesn't most animal training involve rewarding them with treats. [Actually, now that he thought about it, convincing Ann to comply with a request of some kind might be better accomplished by offering her sweet treats too. Then he looks at her pointedly] Don't do that..
It would make for a decisive victory however. [He's kidding. Probably.] If dying is even possible in this environment. [Look, he doesn't know about the two deaths in Mementos]
Glass would be ineffectual for prolonged use. Unless it's reinforced in some fashion- should go with something more durable. [I have no idea. To that next line, his eyes widen briefly as he sucks in a sharp breath.] Are they really-? [Then a moment later, once he's realized he might have shown something awful- like concern -he adds on] You're exaggerating. They aren't broken. [Forgetting the geese for an extended period of time...]
What do you mean dealt with geese? Why would I ever need to? I run a company centered around technology, not livestock.
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That's because you're not a girl. You're not a connoisseur of that stuff, but I am. It comes in handy when you've got a modeling gig that gets booked last minute and no time to get a manicure. [ Also, they're Extra. And every now and then, Ann enjoys being a little #Extra. ] Guess I'm a sucker for convenience, then... [ HMPH! ] Wait, I didn't know they could break out! That means Toby was meant to be your new best friend. Maybe he won't want to leave! And you're right, positive reinforcement generally works, especially if food is involved. [ Seto Kaiba if you try that on her............. she won't care because it's food and also sweet food so, it's fine. ] Why not~? It's his name now, he should follow to his name.
It would! Except, if we both die at the same time, how will we know? [ Ah, she should... probably let him in on that, actually, since he seems oblivious to the fact. ] I can confirm... that dying is possible. Or rather, it was in the dream world. Do you remember when I told you that something came up and I had to go? Crow [ Still not Akechi, she's not going to give him up -- ] was killed by a gunshot to the head...
[ Ann stares at him for a moment, before 'hmmmm'ing. ] It might be crappy for the long run, but also they can probably regenerate their glass teeth, so it's still okay. [ Oh... she blinks a few times, feeling her heart fluttering again, because even for a brief few seconds there he did seem a little concerned for her well being. ] No, no, it was a joke, I'm sure they're fine... [ And there he goes, falling back to his usual self. Despite her own mind screaming at her not to, she ignores it for once as she steps forward, leans up on her toes, and presses a lingering kiss to his cheek. ] Even though you broke my ribs in multiple places, you're still sweet. Thanks for the concern.
[ He should NEVER forget the geese-- ] Geese don't discriminate, Seto. They don't care about who runs what. Have you never encountered one in a park or... anywhere? If not, you're lucky... I have. And it wasn't fun.
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Didn't you spend several minutes taking me to task that some men do have work done on their nails? Now you're excluding them from having knowledge on fake nails? [Her explanation made sense though. For a photo shoot all you had to do was fool the cameras. Look- if she was wearing them and they happened to be in a pattern he could get behind he likely wouldn't say anything disparaging about them] ... Guess so. [Lips quirking up in smug satisfaction at her admission. Was he teasing her? He totally was.] .. Or it was a fluke, or he wasn't strong enough to break free. [Making a mental note to try this positive reinforcement with Ann sometime.] .. It's not his.. forget it, I'm tired of this argument.
The likelihood of that happening is low- I know how to pace myself. [To anyone that knew Seto well they would know this wasn't true. He was always pushing himself, harder and harder- working long into the night if need be. He did not in fact know how to pace himself. What she said next gave him pause] ... Yeah, I remember. [At least having the sense not to fire back with something witty on this subject. He didn't even point out that she shouldn't be using the codenames outside of her disguise. There likely wasn't anyone within earshot but sound travelled differently] ... [Crow. The name wasn't one he'd heard before so using the process of elimination that only left so many suspects. Joker and Panther were known quantities, so that left Akechi and Kasumi.. so.. Akechi then.
Underestimating Kasumi? You betcha] Is he still...? [Swallowing a bit before proceeding. It's not like he cared all that much about the boy he barely interacted with but it was a sensitive subject] Like- dead, dead? He's gone?[Her willingness to continue talking about these ridiculous fake creatures let him know that she was alright. To some extent] We should take the glass shards and use them for various applications if they can just grow more. [The worry was genuine, since he wasn't sure if she would be honest if she had actually been injured.
He wouldn't have been. The jest could have been a slip] ... [Not a very funny joke, in his opinion but he managed to keep that to himself. When she takes a step forward, he's not sure what the intention is, he debates recoiling backwards but doesn't, intrigued and not wanting to appear as if he's afraid of retaliation. When she leans up and presses her lips to his cheek he is dumbstruck. Again. Everything from the soft texture of her lips, to the feeling of her breath brushing lightly against his cheek a mere moment before seems etched into his mind. His mind races with possible reactions, essentially locking him in place. Maybe he should have- pushed her away? Shouldn't he let her know that this sort of behavior was not acceptable?! Was it acceptable?! It shouldn't be. Right? Riddled with contradictions he could feel his face burning where she had kissed him- was she wearing lipstick? Not to go jogging, surely! Although he wanted to reach up and cup a hand to his cheek he managed to stop himself, letting his arm drop back to his side.] .. Whatever- don't go... losing your head about it. [Did that seem casual enough? Despite the halting nature of the delivery? Why was he so apprehensive?!][He was almost glad for the subject change now] I'm just saying they don't have much of an opportunity to run into me. Probably? I don't really recall, they didn't leave an impression. What did you do to incur their wrath?
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