thenearshore | Let's Go Out

Entry tags:

Let's Go Out

Who: Rin Matsuoka and Sousuke Yamazaki
Where: Various locations on the Near Shore
When: Mid-August
What: How many ways can “Let’s go out” be interpreted?
Warnings: Knowing them, something awkward/cute/hot/feels is going to happen.

[You don’t need to get closer. There’s no more distance between us. Those are the kind of thoughts he’d expect any logical person to think about their relationship. Between a god and his shinki, living together and growing together, how could they bother with the idea of getting “closer” when their lives were more or less wrapped up within each other’s? They already experienced so much together. Their initial meeting under the shower of cherry blossoms and clouds. A strange bond rushing together with every race they took in the pool to hone their skills as swimmers and conquer Sousuke’s nostalgia. Sharing the burden of pain and poignancy as they met with Rin’s father and helped him return to the afterlife.

Yelling and arguing over the stupidest things (and sometimes not so stupid) from workout practices to what’s the best way to cook spicy teriyaki. Bright laughs and satisfied grins as they trained their powers out in the castle grounds or raced through the castle to explore its secrets. Even the awkward moments that keep popping up, from sleeping in the same bed to accidentally getting flashes of nudity in the bathroom… and spending an entire week together as kids. They even got a bath (or five) together already! Anyone with those kinds of events in their lives were bound to be called “best friends” or something like that, right? They didn’t need to get any closer, right?

… apparently they did. Maybe it simply isn’t enough to spend those kinds of times and experiences together. Training, living, growing, learning, enjoying, challenging… Those things are always going to be there and Sousuke’s not against any of them. So then, if they’re that close already, why’s this day having so much fun already playing awkward string through their evening tapestry? Let’s go out. That’s all he’d said when he came downstairs. He didn’t say anything remotely related to the term ‘date’ you know! But… his god’s a romantic sap beyond compare and it didn’t take long for someone’s face to get red.

So of course Sousuke’s surprise (maybe suspicion) lingers on as he steps out of the portal that carries his god and him to the Near Shore. The human realm that contains so many sights, scents, and sounds that bring a round of comfort and gentle thrill to his chest. Rin agreed to the offer. After all that, he’d agreed. It’d been a long time, if not actually the first time, they’ve ever gotten dressed up in front of each other. He’s grateful for the cooler evening air. It makes his current clothes far more comfortable. Turns out, even if Sousuke tends to prefer his shirts open and untucked, his collarbones exposed, casual pants a little unconsciously-lowcut… he’s not at all bad cutting an impressive figure in formal wear.]

Where do you want to go?

[The obvious intent is to have dinner eventually… but it’s been a long time since they’ve gone out to simply hang with each other in such a setting. They should really make a whole night of it. Who knows what else they’ll learn about each other… Who knows how much closer they’ll get.]

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[As god and shinki, Rin and Sousuke are destined to act as one body. At some point during their stay here between the two shores, Rin's discovered this to be somewhat true... but for the most part, though Sousuke may never remember, their relationship hasn't significantly changed. He's... not sure what he expected. Some sort of spark maybe. A moment where their powers would combine and the blurred division between "Rin" and "Sousuke" would disappear. But it's never been quite like that. Not really. They've been close, closer than anyone, close enough to never need to put a name to what they have, and yet there's always been a comfortable, respectful distance keeping them apart. Like the same sides of two separate magnets, drawing close but never able to touch...

That's how it's always been. How it might forever be. And... Rin's more than ok with that.

... To a point.

He won't lie, can't lie, when he's reminded of the day Sousuke turned his back to leave him alone in that dark corridor. How empty, how betrayed-- He can't brush away the twinge of envy that spites his soul when he sees the way Makoto and Haru look at each other, talk to each other, be with each other without ever tripping up. Is that what it means to be close, as close as two people can possibly be? And is it enough or even possible for Rin and Sousuke to try? Those are the only questions on his mind when Sousuke chooses to pose his question that way out of all ways and quite possibly they're the only things on his mind up until the sound of crunching grass turns into the click of hard concrete beneath his feet.

Where are they going with all this? All this training, fighting, random bouts of roughhousing which turn into awkward staring contests against whatever flat surface they've found themselves on this time... Let's go out. Well... they're out. And he's dressed. And he's not positive if he quite feels like himself in something so refined. Whether that's because he's hot under the collar or because he doesn't typically dress up like this is... debatable. His embarrassment's evident as he adjusts the tie at his collarbone once they step out into the evening Tokyo air, though all things considered he's not far off from impressive himself.

The portal shuts behind them with a hush and after running a hand through his hair, Rin fiddles with the cuffs on his shirt for what feels like the umpteenth time that night. His expression doesn't show it, but deep inside he's antsy. There's a deep rooted purpose behind everything they're doing tonight, after all.

Closer. I want us to be closer.]

Mm...

[he hums thoughtfully as his fingers tuck beneath the crisp lower hems of his white vest. It's already straightened out as flat as it can be, so why he feels the need to mess with it anymore is beyond him. In the end, Rin forces himself to tuck his hands into his pockets. He'll make a habit to sit on them later once they've picked out a restaurant.]

This area's famous for its nightlife. [Sneaking into them as god and shinki won't be difficult considering they're perpetually invisible. Rin raises his shoulders with a quiet laugh.] But I know for a fact you'd rather be eating.

[He wants to keep that distance between them. It’s comfortable. His sense of self and pride demands it be there. He’s seen other gods and shinki, how close they are, and though he knows by now that he’s fond of Rin, the idea of becoming “one” with him in such a manner is… strange. What makes them each other remains, but there are other things that seem to blur between them. He noticed it the most the other day, when he was swimming beside Rin, and realized just how in sync he was to him. The timing of his arms matched perfectly with Rin’s rhythm, the way they breathed at the end of the lane once the laps were done. Things he never realized before, but instinctively knew that there was no point in trying to change it. His swimming was Rin’s swimming… his bond was Rin’s bond.

Sousuke had no intention of ever changing that. He knew Rin too well now. Could tell what would make him cry and laugh, knew what his favorite foods were, could even tell at a glance if the other boy had gotten a good night’s sleep or not when they woke up in the morning. Over time, they had grown in sync with each other. Without his permission, without his realizing, without any attempt to stop. They walked side by side, but never atop each other. At the start of their pairing, Sousuke would have recoiled at the prospect of becoming so close to someone like that. Self-sufficient and proud, he wanted to shoulder everything himself, not rely on anyone else, wanted no responsibility for someone else’s win or loss. But… now… How many times had they been together, lived together…

And he’s fine with that.

His forgotten memories are now patiently waiting behind so many new memories. Someday, maybe, he’ll remember. But as he waits, he has this to live for. A relationship that makes him smile. A friend that he can laugh and rest with. A partner who stays with him when he’s angry and who trusts Sousuke to support him when he’s sad. A bond that’s deeper than he realizes and yet shows itself every single day. They are close… And he wants to know more. What else about Rin has he not found out and explored? What experiences have they not shared yet? Ever since that day when Rin’s father asked him if he was Rin’s friend, Sousuke’s always had that question floating around in his mind. Wonder if that very question is the reason he wants this… more… with Rin.

Maybe. There’s only one way to find out.

Sousuke takes a few seconds for himself as he watches Rin in the evening sunlight. He’s seen him in a lot by now. Swimsuit, tank top and boxer briefs, casual clothes like sweaters and lounge pants, tougher clothes like jackets and jeans when they train. This, however, is a first. Rin’s dressed up and formal. Yeah, it’s kind of strange. Sousuke doesn’t want to say it’s not “like” Rin to be so refined; he does, after all, look quite impressive like this. The black and white of his clothing match his skin and face, the burst of red tie highlighting his red eyes and maroon hair. Funny that this boy he’s lived with for so long now suddenly appears as if he’s looking at him for the first time. Noticing little things, like how it’s unusual for Rin to put his hands in his pockets, like how Rin pointedly left his tie loose around his collarbones (not as loose as Sousuke’s, but hey it’s not a competition, right?), and the obvious fact his god’s burning under the collar by the way he tugs and adjusts his clothes.]

For a romantic swimming maniac, you’re already flustered.

[Sousuke’s voice is calm and level, but there’s a tiny fleck of amusement that isn’t present on his face. Also in his eyes, maybe. He’s quite content with not bothering his clothes, leaving his normal flair of casual rebel even in his formal attire. God knows Rin’ll run out of patience with it sometime tonight. At least he knows why those hands are back in Rin’s pockets: he’ll be folding his vest into an airplane if he keeps messing with it. Seriously, who’s he trying to impress here?]

You look fine.

[And turns back to face the world in front of them. His senses are alive and excited; it’s been less than a minute or two and he already knows this is something they should do more often. Sousuke arches a brow at the mention of nightlife and then redoubles his scan, teal eyes wandering from one side to the other in a slow, purposeful look. Nightlife has a few different implications here… and he is, after all, his god’s shinki. They do have that invisibility thing going for them too. Pros and cons to that.

Eating? His wandering eyes pause and he shoots Rin a little look out the corners.] Oy. You were licking your chops on the way out. [He’s not the only one who’s looking forward to wherever they happen to land for dinner. Sousuke instinctively slips his hands into his pockets.] I take it you know this area then? [How about that; his own personal Tokyo guide.]

[Similarly, Rin finds it kind of strange seeing Sousuke is this kind of getup. That's not to say it's overtly weird or even bad. It's just... not what he's used to seeing. He's used to the loose fitting shirts, the same one or two pairs of pants and shoes, and five of the same t-shirt in varying shades of "dark." Not dress shirts or pants, shoes that aren't sneakers... and ties. He didn't even Sousuke could tie a tie. Well. Then again, it's not like he's exactly tied it. More like left it draping around his collar as an afterthought. Hn. Suddenly he's hit with the urge to walk over and fix it for him.

Sousuke already knows him too well.

He doesn't say or do anything in response to those first couple comments, because even Rin knows he's being a fidgety mess. Is he over dressed? Should he have left the tie at home? Maybe if he tied his hair up his neck wouldn't feel so warm.

Hoping to distract himself from all that, Rin also begins to scan the surrounding street. Back home, he's never had the opportunity to see Tokyo except in movies and advertisements, so anything he knows about it comes from hearing about it from someone else. Nagisa's offered more details than necessary here and there. Haru's halfheartedly shared his parent's experiences living together in a cramped apartment that's too close to the morning rush of trains. But everything else...

He's smiling when he replies.]

I learned almost everything I needed to know about this place from a close friend.

[You.

Hard to imagine Sousuke towering over these bustling crowds, casually strolling (getting lost) while the rest of the city rushes by. Even harder to picture him frequenting a lively neon jungle like this. Formal, casual-- Those things don't suit Sousuke really. He only ever does what he wants.

In the end, Rin turns back to his shinki.]

If you trust me, I know a place I could take us.

[Of course it’s not bad; Sousuke’s pulling off this kind of look without a problem. They’d probably notice it more if they weren’t initially-invisible to everyone around them. Whether he’s comfortable in these clothes, however… Well, they’re not bad. He far more favors loose shirts and slacks. But since he’s leaving his dress shirt almost halfway open for the time being, it’s comfortable. Come to think of it, this is probably the first time he’s ever seen Rin in something other than casual or sporty. His god’s normal trend is this improbable mixture of stylish and wreck, same dark or white tees with one of his innumerable sweaters and slacks or jeans, layered to the point of either an avant-garde model or a could-care-less hobo.

But whatever Rin wears… he makes it look good, no matter how much Sousuke wants to scoff at it. And excuse you, but he can tie a tie just as well as you can. Just prefers not to right now, considering yours is loosely hanging down half your chest and showing off your collarbones. Like normal. If Rin fusses at him, he’s prepared to fix it… semi-reluctantly.

It's like he can read along with Rin’s thoughts as the other boy messes with his clothes. Worried about how he looks. Wondering if he should’ve gone more casual. Probably jealous that Sousuke can be so lazy with his tie and still look amazingly sharp, right? Honestly, Sousuke’s surprised Rin didn’t tie his hair for the evening, but then again, it’s not like they’re going to a concert or something ritzy. Hah, he bets there’s a hair tie resting in Rin’s pocket. Anyways… onto planning for the night.]
Hm? [Sousuke arches a brow at the little comment.] You have a friend that lived in Tokyo? [That’s interesting. The city stretches out in front of him, towers over them, bathes in neon glows amid the evening sun, impressive even though he’s been here a few times already. He wonders what it’d be like to live in this city, with all its lights and buildings. So different from the green and fresh openness that is the Near Shore and Rin’s castle. Probably easy to get lost here. Not that he has to worry about that, of course. It’s a strange thought… one he quietly brushes to the side. Such a city doesn’t suit Rin. Too enclosed and stifling for his adventurous romanticism.

He glances to Rin again and a tiny frown purses his lips.] Aa… [Sure, he’s fine with Rin leading, but… put that way?] Why would I not trust you, Rin?

[That's what irritates him! He's pulling off that look without an issue, as if he just picked a bunch of random stuff in the closet, threw them on and called it good. It's always been that way back at the dorms with Rin taking an extra ten minutes more than Sousuke to spruce up in the bathroom mirror because he could never decide if this shirt went with that accessory or that belt with that pair of pants... He's not jealous or anything! Not... really.

But Sousuke does pull it off. He looks... grown up? Mature? Like he's ready for the glitz and glamour of a celebrity athlete's life fresh out of high school? He scoffs thinking about it and absently fiddles with the loose hair tie he tucked away in his pocket.

Yeah, that's what Sousuke's good at, isn't it? Masking over whatever lies beneath the surface, pretending like all of that is nothing, like nothing ever bothers or hurts him.]

Yeah. They were there for a while. Which is funny actually. I wouldn't've pegged them to be a city goer.

[Rin's fairly adaptable, he finds. He's never quite comfortable being in one place for too long. From a quiet seaside town to the brilliant Sydney harbors, he learned how to fit in wherever his dream took him. But Sousuke-- Why did he choose Tokyo in the first place? He wasn't so much a creature of habit to the extreme of Haru, but he figured a major city would have been overwhelming for someone who preferred to move at his own pace. Tokyo's amazing, he won't deny that, but in its own way it's also suffocating and cramped. It never rests, never sleeps. And Sousuke-- Maybe that's why he ruined himself. Forced himself to change for a dream Rin never knew about. Come to think of it, he doesn't know why he never asked when he had the chance. ... Too late for all of that now.

He widens his eyes slightly when Sousuke poses his next question before turning to face the street ahead a second time.]

I didn't mean anything by it. [he says, rubbing the back of his neck. Maybe he should tie his hair up.] Well... come on. If I remember right, we can head down this way.

[And with that he starts walking forward, following the flow of people into the brightly lit back alleys of Tokyo's nightlife. There's gotta be hundreds of restaurants here, hundreds of bars and nightclubs stacked one after the other in these six story buildings... It'd be impossible to visit them all in one week, that's for sure.]

[Hey, it’s not random. His white pants match with his black shirt and tie which match with his silver vest which matches with his black shoes and belt, all of which obviously compliment his hair and eyes and skin. See? Not random at all. (In reality, he had pretty much looked and grabbed, figuring white and black were always compliments, so aka: whatever.)

Sousuke doesn’t see what takes Rin that extra ten minutes in the mornings in the bathroom. Rin always comes out looking just fine and he’s definitely not convinced the extra time worrying about it really affects anything. Sometimes he’ll just flop back on the bed for a few-minutes cat nap while he waits. Don’t be jealous of his effortless style, Rin. You have a style all to your own and Sousuke likes seeing it.

He’s not lying when he says Rin can make anything look good. He always comes off as cool and strong, ready for the next big thing at any moment. Sousuke knows his god was an athlete in his past life. They haven’t talked much about it though, since memory issues, but he knows enough. Maybe Rin’d been a celebrity already with his swimming prowess. Probably scouted before he even got out of high school. Hn, of course he knows how to look good. Sousuke wonders just how brilliant a shine Rin had in his life… how many sights he’d seen that Sousuke never got to see. Probably a lot. He even had friends in Tokyo.]

Funny? [Oh. He offers a casual shrug.] Just when you think you know someone…

[He trails off with a little hum, figuring Rin’d gets the insinuation. You can be close to another person, but would you ever be so close you get to know everything about them? How boring would that be... A dynamic relationship, where they could continue surprising each other, challenging and supporting, is the best kind of relationship. As he looks around the great city in front of them, he wonders about Rin’s friend. Questions…]

Na, why did your friend go to Tokyo? Did they ever tell you?

[Why would someone come to this big city? Rin definitely doesn’t strike him as a guy who’d want to stay here forever. (Does Rin want to stay anywhere for a long time?) Sousuke can see him going from a town to a city to a town and back again, over and over to find the next adventure. But… is he really looking for adventure or is he actually trying to find something? Or running from something? Questions he doesn’t want to ask Rin right now. They’re close, but not that close. Some topics have to remain quiet for the time being.

Kind of like that. Sousuke doesn’t look away from Rin for a few seconds, not entirely convinced by the answer. The fact Rin averts his gaze and rubs at his neck tells him that. But, then again… Sousuke does trust him. If Rin says it’s nothing, it probably is… nothing. They’re moving. He sighs and lets the question fall behind him on the sidewalk.]

I’m following you then.

[Yeah, yeah. It's color coordinated and it's irritating because he knows the truth of what really went into throwing that outfit together. Something white, something black, something else white, something else black, then boom. Done. For your information, buster, there's a lot he has to take into consideration in that extra ten minutes! If you had longer red hair that only doesn't clash with certain warm tones, then you'd probably spend some time being picky too!

Anyway... The two of them don't look half bad right now and that's all that matters, right? Never mind that the rest of the world can't even see it, so the only people they could impress are themselves. ... God, why did they bother getting dressed up if that's the case?

The insinuation isn't lost on him, but he doesn't offer much more to it than a casual shrug of his own. No... it's not exactly funny. Actually, it bothers him more than he'd like to admit. He thought he knew everything there was to know, everything he needed to know, when it came to his own best friend. Truth was, that couldn't have been farther from the truth. He knew the little things, sure, even some of the big things he couldn't imagine Sousuke sharing with anyone else, but... Secrets. Did those keep their relationship dynamic? Or did they only deepen the rift as time went on?

Rin doesn't catch on to Sousuke's questions straight away but when he does he lifts his head and widens his eyes as he stares straight forward, caught off guard. ... Hm. You'd think Sousuke could read his mind.

Eventually his expression calms and his gaze lowers towards the pavement in front of his feet. It should be easy to answer. Should've been the very first things he asked the day they reunited. Instead, there's a gap, not because he's forgotten, but because he just doesn't know. It's... pathetic, isn't it? Some things he can accept never knowing, but this-- Rin shakes his head.]

School. Change of scenery.

[It's a vague answer. The only one he has. With the way he gives it, it might obvious he doesn't want to continue going down that path if he can help it. What were you hoping to find out here all on your own? ... Was it all worth the pain? His chest aches on that thought and Rin has to swallow thickly to hopefully keep it from climbing up and clenching his throat.]

Ah... It should be around this corner.

[Time to pick up his pace. He wants to find a distraction.]

[Oh come on. He has yet to see your longer red hair clash with anything. Even the morning with it bed-tousled all over the pillow ends up looking just right. But if that’s what it takes for Rin to be happy, then Sousuke’s not going to take it from him. He knows his god’s pickier about those kinds of things than he is. And even if those extra ten minutes drag, the end result is great. … Even if he’s still going to be smug about having the same results in far less time. Hah.

As for why they bothered dressing up like this, well… Even if they’re invisible for the most part, their aim’s dinner, which means talking to the server at some point, right? And Sousuke wants to go to something a little more upscale. When he said he wants to go out, it isn’t just some walk around the park and a hot dog at a vendor he’s aiming for. He wants… He wants to spend quality time with Rin. Of course he’s not saying that, but… That’s the goal here!

Sides, who knows if he’d have gotten to see Rin in this kind of clothing otherwise.

No, he hadn’t been looking for an answer with his comment. The shrug he gets in return says more than it should. Rin’s friend… How much does he actually know this person? There’s no humor in his face. In fact, Sousuke’s senses discomfort in the air around him. Weren’t friends supposed to have that kind of understanding? He tells himself he knows a lot about Rin. Did this friend know more about Rin than Sousuke does now? Little things… big things… dreams… secrets? It’s not his place to go digging or exploring, but he wonders anyways. What happened to the friend in Tokyo to make Rin feel this way?

He’s walking behind him, unable to see his face, and yet, Sousuke knows what’s showing on it. Widened eyes, a slight catch in his breath, surprised. A momentary shake before the calm coves it. Even before Rin speaks, Sousuke knows the answer. It wasn’t School. Change of scenery. It’s that Rin doesn’t know. This from someone his god described so fondly a moment ago as a “close friend.” For a moment, something clutches at his stomach, hinting at the dread he’s able to mute around the water and swimming. This topic… Rin’s Tokyo friend… It’s not something they should go down.

Sousuke keeps the small distance between them, steps nigh-silent despite his large frame. He should walk beside Rin, but maybe a respite of space is better for now. He’s uncovered something painful and Rin needs a bit to settle it.]

Are you going to tell me where “it” is or should I guess?

[Oh, so you look at him in the morning when you first wake up, do you? Yeesh, he knows he's attractive and all that, but there's other things he could be doing in the morning, you know. Like... getting up? And making breakfast? And being the first one to finish getting ready for a morning jog for the first time in his life?

Anyway, that is true, he supposes. Sooner or later this evening, there's going to be human interaction and he's not so sure he's ready for it, not because he's against it or anything, but because he doesn't want to have to come up with some wacky story about why the server didn't see them come in and sit down. Well, at least they're dressed appropriately for something upscale, which means the chances of them being thrown out after startling the restaurant staff might be slimmer. Right?

As they walk, Rin senses the all too familiar feeling of eyes glaring at the nape of his neck. Doesn't take much for him to know what that's all about. No, Rin's not very subtle, and these days it's becoming easier and easier for Sousuke to read his body language before it even happens. He should be impressed. He's catching on quickly, re-learning all the things he used to do without a second thought. Instead... Instead it's a little terrifying. They want to be closer, but here they are feeling all this dread over innocent questions.

Eventually Sousuke breaks the silence between them and just like that he feels that suffocating weight easing up off his chest. Good. Changing topics. It's... for the best.]

Well...

[He hums in thought, eyes turned towards the sky, before turning around to face his shinki as he starts walking backwards along the sidewalk.]

Now that you mention it, yeah. I want you to guess.

[Hard not to if he’s facing you when he wakes up. It’s not like he lies there for minutes gazing, stupid. He’s just noticing things that are in front of his face. Like your mussed up hair and the fact you sometimes sleep with your mouth partly open. That’s all. He gets up soon enough and does the morning things; why do you think you wake up alone in bed sometimes? ~~The very, very rare times that actually happens~~.

Sousuke wonders how this is going to work out. If they can’t be seen unless they active draw attention to themselves, that’s going to pose a bit of a problem. Especially going to a restaurant. What, are they going to think the booth or table they’re sitting at is empty? Are people going to see spoons and food floating in the air? It doesn’t sound like that from what he’s heard, but… that’s just “heard” rather than experienced. Oh well. What comes comes. They’ll handle it; it’s what they do. Besides, are either of them going to let something like invisibility stop them from eating? Hah, not likely.

He doesn’t mean to bore holes in Rin’s back. Sousuke glances off to the side once the topic drops, not wanting to be the impetus for Rin getting anxious. They want to make this a relaxing night, get to know each other on a different setting, right? Which, he guesses, finding out topics they can and shouldn’t talk about. It’s not very unlike other experiences, such as the gymnasium beneath the castle, where they’d initially found out they could use the weight room but not the pool. Now it’s all open season on everything and Sousuke enjoys it, even if the pool does always give him that dread stab before he gets over it and dives in.

Maybe it only truly goes from god to shinki, but Sousuke notices the change in subject relieves his god. That’s good. The swimmer arches a brow when Rin suddenly about faces and walks backwards. Oh… well that’s a show off… but it gives him a very naughty idea. (And he instinctively begins looking past Rin, watching out for things his god might be blindly walking into.)]

Guess? [He sounds a mix of surprise and piqued. Guess what? There are probably a million places they could go here. And he doesn’t even know if they’re aiming for food first or some kind of relaxation or entertainment. Hmph. Guess, he says. Sheesh, unfair god.] Korean buffet?

[Might as well stab at the most obvious.]

[If you're noticing little things like that, then clearly you're gazing at him for longer than you should be! Also, he's not so sure he can get used to that sight in the morning. An empty space on a bed that's far too big for him, the sheets still wrinkled but put together as neatly as they can be... It still shocks Rin sometimes, sharing a bed with Sousuke out of all people. It's different from a bunk bed... and with the hundreds of rooms in the castle, it seems stupid for them to still be in the same room together. But if Sousuke says he's comfortable...

He shakes the thought away quickly. Sometimes he wonders if they're already closer than they thought.]

Mhm.

[He nods at the first question then laughs quietly at the second. Of course he'd say something like that. It is the most obvious. Which is why, no, it's not where they're going.]

We're dressed too fancy for something like that.

[Even if the thought of barbecued beef is almost too tempting to pass up. Almost. On he goes, still walking backwards into the crowd and somehow avoiding bumping into anyone or any lamp post for that matter. As he does, he takes note of how their surroundings drastically change the further they walk into the street. Brighter lights, taller buildings, women dressed in maid outfits ushering people into their tiny themed cafes. It really is nothing like Iwatobi here. So loud, so hectic and dramatic. He doesn't hate it, far from it, but if they're going to make tonight just about the two of them--

Rin turns back around right as they approach a particular building to the right. Seven stories tall, the lower levels already packed with people. But it's the roof Rin's aiming for anyway. Might not be the tallest view in the city, or so he suspects, but it's bound to be different. Secluded. Private.]

We'll have to take an elevator to the top. ... Not afraid of heights, are you?

[No, it’s just in his face when he wakes up! He’s not studying it or anything. Watch, next time he’ll sleep with his back facing Rin and they’ll be just fine. But even Sousuke has to admit there’s a strange sensation whenever he wakes up to find an empty bed. Normally Rin’s up before him, sometimes Rin has to wake him up, and there’s the rare times Sousuke’s the first to rise. But if it’s odd for him to open his eyes to a bed that’s obviously slipped out of so as to not wake him, he’s sure it’s strange for Rin. Why? It’s not like they don’t have plenty of other beds in the castle. Yet ever since that night, sleeping in the same bed just… continued.

Really, he is comfortable like that. Can’t say why, but he knows it’s true. And he’s not about to fight it or make a change.

Sousuke quirks a brow at the quiet laugh.] What? [It’s a logical guess since he has absolutely no hints or help here. Plus Rin likes kimchi, which is Korean, so it’s not a bad guess. He guesses… The comment about being too fancy earns a scoff and he lifts his shoulders.] If you say so.

[His chances were one in a billion so what’d it matter in the end? The city around him doesn’t fail to distract and soon Sousuke’s head is tilted backwards, turning from side to side, eyes moving from one sign to another window, and otherwise getting caught up in the sheer magnitude of Tokyo. Could someone really want to live here? There’s something breathtaking about it, but also claustrophobic. You could easily get lost here, willing or unwilling. Even if he’d wanted to keep his eyes on Rin’s path. The sounds assault his ears and mind simultaneously, from the traffic to the people, horns and engines mixing with laughing and calling. Rin’s friend… why had he come to this place? How did he learn enough to tell Rin everything he knew? Questions he can’t answer and won’t ask, but will forever remain swimming around in his mind...]

Oof- [And bumps right into his god. Sousuke steps back, murmuring a surprised-but-distracted apology, and then looks up to the building Rin’s facing. Seven… That’s a lot of floors. Already bustling with people and class. The interior’s promising to be similarly designed, which he sees through the windows already. It’s… fancy. And obviously something that suits Rin. He guesses the Tokyo friend told Rin, but doesn’t voice it.

Mostly because someone just said something stupid. Sousuke scoffs and looks down at his god.] I’m taller than you. [Like he’d be afraid of heights.]

[While they walk, Rin does have to wonder if all of this is sparking any sort of memories or strange feelings within his shinki. He knows there's no way Sousuke visited every last inch of Tokyo in the few years he was out here, but surely something has to feel vaguely nostalgic. No... He supposes he'd know right away if that were the case. He'd feel it in his chest just like all the other feelings, the good and the bad, and right now all he feels is... wonder? Awe? Whether or not it's his own, he can't quite figure it out, but maybe he'd like to believe it's both of theirs.

--Oof.

He stumbles forward a step and thankfully it not enough to send him tumbling to the ground or anything like that. Heh. Yeah, Sousuke's definitely as intrigued with this place as he is right now if he's already losing track of where he's going.]

It's fine.

[Back to the building. He's only seen pictures of it online in his curious browsing, back when he asked Sousuke to show him some unique places he saw while he ~~got lost~~ traveled Tokyo alone. Upscale, fancy, expensive. Not something a high school student would really need to concern himself with. But...

'It kind of reminded me of you.'

'Oy, what's that supposed to mean?'

Smiling to himself, Rin drops his gaze towards the ground for a beat, though he's not distracted enough to miss that tease from the side. So here comes a knee nudge right for the back of your leg there, buster. He might be a little bit shorter than you, but that doesn't mean he can't kick your ass!]

Not by much, you tree.

[Ah, enough of that. Don't want to risk drawing too much attention to themselves before they've even set foot in the door. So he leads the way, easily finding the elevator doors through the lobby entrance, calling it, then stepping inside to the sound of soothing jazz music coming from the walls. Hn. It smells like tabaco and cheap cologne in here, but he supposes that just something no one can avoid once they visit the city. Now with the 7th story button selected, the double doors shut and Rin leans his shoulder against one of the glass windows providing a peek into the street outside. People grow smaller, neon lights brighter and larger in numbers... Colors pass over his face as they slowly make their way up.]

... It's different looking at it for yourself. [His voice is quiet but somehow still full of wonder.] Guess I can see why people come here to chase their dreams.

[Truth be told, it is. Nowhere near like his experience with the pool, but faint traces linger around the rims of his mind, sometimes threatening to gnaw at his stomach on the rim of his consciousness. Usually his eyes are going too fast to really concentrate on any one thing long enough to trigger, but there’s something about this place that hints at the pool. At nostalgia. Maybe Rin feels it, maybe he doesn’t. It’s too light and quick for any concern. Even if it did, Sousuke’d probably chalk it up to the uncomfortable dip into the Tokyo friend and brush it aside. Besides… Tokyo’s too magnificent to bother triggering anything bad.

Since normally Sousuke’s too alert to end up running right into someone he’s walking behind. He walks off the momentary embarrassment with a casual shrug and slips his hands back into his pockets. It’s all good nothing to see here people keep walking. Rin’s not bowled over so… moving on.

He looks up at the building again, taking in the rows of floors between windows, the stacked image of it clashing with the elegant interior. Everything about it seems at that moment to be the perfect decision for where to spend their evening together. A little smile appears on his lips, unconscious and faint, but there.]

This is a nice place, Rin. It kind of reminds me of you.

[Strong and poised but full of richness inside. Or something romantically stupid like that. Sousuke opens his mouth to ask--] Ngh! Oy! [Hey! What’s with the knee?! Get your bony cap out of his thigh. He’s only saying the truth. Jeeze, ever since a long time ago, Rin’s been doing this. And Sousuke doesn’t have the heart to truly protest. Sides from tensing and catching himself before his knee buckles. One of these days though…]

Aa, but you’ll never catch me.

[He’s quite confident of that. Sousuke does a quick once over of himself and Rin before they go inside, but both of them are as cool and neat as they started, so no adjustments necessary. Making their way through the lobby is only slightly harder than it should be, since people don’t see them. He’s grateful for the empty elevator they get onto. Well, the jazz is nice; the lingering scents aren’t as thrilling. Sousuke moves to Rin’s side and looks out the window with him. Over the city he doesn’t know he used to live in for months. They’re going higher and it’s a strange sensation that they’re leaving something behind and going somewhere else. The city lights flash by Rin’s face, and Sousuke’s glad that the elevator’s rather slow, eyes alternating back and forth between the city lights below and focusing on Rin’s face reflected in the glass. The street lights nestle within his eyes, turning them into sparkling ruby behind the veil of maroon.

You’re beautiful.]

Aa.

[It really is.]

Maybe that’s why…

[Rin’s Tokyo friend.]

[He's... not expecting to hear Sousuke say something like that so when it comes it catches him off guard with a blink and a stare. There's no way he could have read his mind or anything like that, is there? This place reminds him of Rin... He never understood it in the past and he's not sure he'll understand it now, but-- He looks away and smiles regardless. Whatever it means, it means something to Sousuke, and that touches him in a way he can't quite explain.

It leaves a faint tickle in his chest as they eventually head inside and start rising above the streets. And just like that, there it is again. That feeling. That feeling like he's been in this situation before, with Sousuke, just like this... like nothing ever changed. As he stares out the window he's struck with random, almost fantastical thoughts about how their lives might have been different if he never left for Australia at all. What if he came here and the two of them made it to Tokitsu together? Would they do things like this for the hell of it on the weekends or stay indoors from the moment they woke up to when they fell back asleep? He wonders, really wonders, if that was the past they were meant to have.

Maybe that's why...

He lifts his head at that, eyes turning towards Sousuke in the dim light of the elevator, and with his lips parted, for a moment it seems he has something to say. 'I don't know.' 'I'll never know.' 'I wish you told me...' Before he has the chance, the elevator comes to a halt and the doors slide open to reveal an open lounge. There's not many people up here from what he can see, most of them standing outside on the private balconies in groups of three or four, which seems promising for the most part. He doesn't want to have to deal with too many eyes on them right now if he can help it. Seems like there's no use in avoiding the obvious though: they've clearly confused the hostess seated at a desk nearby. Ah. Right. That. Gotta figure out how to make themselves "present" once she's finished peeking into the seemingly empty yet open elevator.

Well. Improvising's never been his favorite choice, but right now it's the only one he has. So once she looks away, Rin steps out, waits for Sousuke to join him, then clears his throat to catch the hostess' attention.

A brief exchange, some awkward apologizing on his end for giving her a spook, then off they go, following her through the lounge area towards a smaller room towards the back. Hah. Ok. So far so good. If this keeps up, he might be a little too confident by the end of the night.]

Easy. [he whispers over his shoulder with a grin.] We fit right in, don't you think?

[Sousuke, at least, doesn’t notice the start his god gives at his words. Too busy looking at the restaurant. It really does fit Rin’s preferences though. There’s a romantic feeling here that’s “trying” to be hidden behind the strength of the structure. He’s not architect, but at least he notices that much. Maybe he’s just looking though, trying to figure out why Rin chose this restaurant without asking the obvious question about his Tokyo friend’s probable input. Strange that he’s looking everywhere to find out more about Rin… when the very boy is standing right next to him.

But how awkward to simply open up with “tell me about yourself” and wait. Rin’s already spoken a lot about himself during their first few weeks together, trying to learn and understand this strange new relationship they’re in. As he gazes out into the streets and lights below, Sousuke lets his mind drift, recalling all those new memories that rest in his empty mind. Almost all of them are with Rin, involve him in some way. Maybe it should unnerve him that so much of his head frames the same red hair and eyes… but it’s strangely comforting instead. What would have happened to him if he’d never met Rin, if he’d been partnered with another god? Pointless to even think about that, and probably stupid.

All he decides is that he’s glad they’re together.

Sousuke blinks as two of the lights in the window shift towards him. For a moment, it’s surprising, but the next reveals those lights are Rin’s eyes. Looking at him through the elevator glow. The expression on his face tells Sousuke he’s said something again that strikes something else inside his god. They’re really on some sensitive territory right now. All because of that Tokyo friend. Was that person just a friend to Rin? Or something more? But no words come, from either of them, and the elevator door opens, letting out what’s probably a rather heavy, emotional air.

It’s a relief and Sousuke turns to face the lounge. Wow… This is impressive. There’s an atmosphere of privacy here even among the other couples and small parties situated around the floor and balconies. He’s grateful for that, since despite being invisible, he’s a little hot under the collar right now. So he remains silent, smiling slightly at Rin’s attempt at handling the suddenly-surprised hostess. If he wasn’t worried about Rin’s face burning off, he’d give him a little applause for his “suave” introduction and cover up that ends up with them finally getting a table… in a private room… in the back.

Hn, well he is out with a romantic swimming maniac. What’d he expect?]

Impressive. [And just to be a brat, offers a small lift of his shoulders, eyes closing momentarily for a smug expression.] And you were worried about being over-dressed.

[To be honest, Rin's wondering the same thing even as the elevator carries them up this building's many floors. Why did he choose this place, out of all places they could have gone in such a huge city? He's heard of others, little clubs and cafes tucked out of sight, hole-in-the-wall ramen shops that can seat five people at a time. Food didn't even need to be their primary focus. He could have suggested they keep walking. Walking and walking until the lights died out and they found themselves in some quiet neighborhood beneath the stars. Nerves maybe. Couldn't pick just one thing so he went with what was within reach. Or maybe...

Mm. Guess he doesn't know himself as well as he thought either.

What matters, at least, is that they're together through all of this, and that the rest of the evening will play out as they see fit. There's no tight schedule to adhere to, no training or fighting for other people's wishes and wants they have to uphold. It'll just be the two of them... like it used to be.

Rin makes a small, surprised sound in the back of his throat, shoulders lifting slightly as he does, and judging by the twitch in his leg, he's one second away from lifting it up and kneeing Sousuke just like before. Ooh, what's he talking about? He wasn't worried about anything! ... Not too much anyway. But still! They're here now and there's been no fuss or question so far, so if Sousuke wants to keep his legs un-bruised, he'd better hold his tongue! Lucky jerk. Thanks to the atmosphere, he'll be getting away with little more than a stern glare.

Soon enough, the hostess unlocks one of the rooms for them and after stepping aside to let them pass she leaves with the usual formalities and a dip of her head. Well... they're alone. For the most part. He can still see people standing on neighboring balconies, but doubts they can see them back. Not like they have a reason to pay attention anyway, so absorbed in their conversations and drinks... He's struck with a sudden, indescribable feeling as he takes in their surroundings detail by detail, eyes distant, fingers slipping out of his pockets to touch the metal railing seaparting them from the river below. That's right... Nobody can see them. Out there amidst all those millions of tiny lights and stars and reflections on the water...

The world doesn't realize they exist.

Rin intertwines his fingers while a cool breeze pushes back his hair, but once he's had a minute to gather his thoughts he steps back and with a heavy sigh flops himself down on one of the white cushioned couches laid out for them, one arm around the backrest, legs stretched out like he owns the damn place. Sure. In a way the evening's lonely, almost foreboding, but somehow they're going to make the most of it.]

Na, Sousuke. [Rin asks, eyes falling upon the glowing visage of Tokyo's Skytree standing tall and proud over the city skyline.] Can you see yourself living in a place like this? It's no castle, but... something feels more 'normal' about it, wouldn't you say?

[That’s something he’s thought about already. The evening. “Let’s go out” had no plan, no goal asides from simply being with Rin. Out to eat? Out to the park? Out to some kind of entertainment? He’d specifically said he wanted to go to the Near Shore, to Tokyo. But what to do when they got there… Even eating was a tossup. Well, not anymore, since now they’re in the restaurant. This very romantic and definitely-not-a-date restaurant setting.

Sousuke arches a brow at the reaction in front of him, but his little smile doesn’t go away. However, his eyes drop at the little twitch below and he quietly steps to the side, putting some space between his thigh and that knee. He’d rather not risk getting buckled down to his knees in the middle of a restaurant. Who cares if no one can see him? But it looks like his leg’s safe regardless because there’s no hiking over there and the hostess is still leading them on. He falls in step again, but when that stern glare comes over Rin’s shoulder…]

Scary…

[Not. His tone says as much. As the room unlocks, Sousuke looks around at some of the other rooms. An out of the way table is one thing, but an entire private room, with the balcony, as their dining area? He feels pretty high class right now as the door shuts behind them. They’re alone. Well, this is kind of what he wanted. Spending time with Rin and all. But they’re normally alone with each other… It’s not bad though. There are people on either side of them in their own private areas and the city and river are out in front of them. Sousuke approaches Rin’s side and gazes out over the view below, his hands resting in his pockets. They can see each other far down in the reflection, but no one else can. Even here in the city, they’re merely ghosts, separated from the rest of the world.

He turns to watch Rin splay out on the couch, lounging back like he’s the king of the world. It makes him smile. Rin looks nice like that… Turning fully, he follows his god away from the railing and sinks down on the couch across from him, both arms draped over the back and his legs spread like a thug. It’s tempting to lie down and stretch out, which is exactly why he doesn’t. He’s always been able to fall asleep easier than Rin (most of the time).]

Hm? [Sousuke glances up at the question. Could he see himself living in a place like this? … For a while, he’s silent, the breeze gently ruffling the dark spikes on his head. He’s been living in a huge castle, surrounded by sakura trees, ponds, and grass, complete with a gymnasium and pools, alone with Rin, for all his life—technically speaking. The idea of trading all of that for this cramped place full of lights and noises and people, a place that seems like it’s so easy to lose your self in…]

Maybe. If I had a reason to.

[Hey, it's not romantic! It's just private! This isn't much different from being in the castle all by themselves eating dinner on one of the many balconies there, right? Well, except that they're dressed up right now... and the view's a little more refined... and he's pretty sure he caught the hostess giving him a knowing look before she shut the door on them a minute ago. Ugh, he's thinking about this too much. Again.

Sousuke's answer comes soon enough and with a tilt of his head he turns onto his side to face him more fully, elbow propping him upright. Can't really judge the guy for lounging around like that when he's not doing much better. Anyway, what's it matter if nobody can see them, right? Che. Pretty sure they could even leap off the railing and straight into the river if they were crazy enough.]

Oh yeah? Like what kind of reason?

[Come on, don't be vague with him. It's easy to say "if I had a reason." Everyone needs a reason to move somewhere! But here in Tokyo specifically... In the short time he's been "alive" like this, what reasons can Sousuke come up with? Would he have any aspirations, dreams, wishes for leading a life outside of what he has?]

[Sure. But he’s right; it’s not much different than spending time together at the castle. Still, it feels different. They’re out here in the open, there are people around even if they don’t see them, the air doesn’t carry sakura, they’re not making the food, they can sit here and focus on doing nothing except talk or look out at the scenery. Dressed up all fancy and lounging on couches. It’s pretty different when he thinks about it. In a good way.]

… che. [Of course his answer’s not satisfying. Sousuke pouts slightly and glances off to the side when Rin calls him out on it and props himself up. What kind of reason? Well, that’s a hard question. Why would he want to live in Tokyo when he’s got the castle and Rin in the world of the gods? Sousuke’s come to terms with being a shinki for a while now, so that’s not really much a reason. Besides, he figures Rin could give the same reason about being a god. Both of them probably prefer to be normal humans anyways.

But what else about Tokyo? Why… Can he even see himself living here? He looks out over the river again, over the city with its glowing, blinking lights and close-packed buildings. Once again his mind turns towards the idea of getting lost, but who’d want to come here to lose himself for any good reason? Saying that would only earn him a weird look from Rin and probably a concerned, uncomfortable question right afterwards. Considering he knows very little about the city, what’s in it, why people live here in the first place…

See? This is a very unfair question, Rin! It’s probably showing on Sousuke’s face too and he’s unconsciously tensing up so he doesn’t squirm.]

If I wanted to get away… or if I was chasing something and this… was the best place… to reach it…

[… where the hell did that come from? His words trail slightly as he listens to himself. Because he had no idea why he’d even say such things.]

[That's just like him to not want to specify and Rin grins a little bit when Sousuke looks away, almost as if he's annoyed. Nope. Not running away from the question this time, buddy. They came out here to learn a thing or two about each other so here's his first attempt! Might not be the lightest topic of conversation now that he thinks about it... hell, it's not even the fairest, but it's the first thing that came to mind. Anyway, they've been here a couple times already for short missions and general adventuring. Sousuke has to have some sort of lay of the land by now.

For that reason, he's expecting something simple. "If there was a job opportunity here," "If I just wanted a change of scenery," "If this was the best place for school." Typical answers like that. Not... something that'll make him tense up, visibly uncomfortable.

His expression softens with every word and once they all come together Rin's eyes drop towards the floor. If he wanted to get away, if there was something he had to chase... Is that why you did it?

Rin shifts again, this time turning onto his back. Maybe it'd be a more comfortable conversation if they were somewhere else... like if there was a bunk to look up at over his head.]

I--

[He's cut off when there's a soft knock on the door and a waitress steps through to greet them. He's quick to sit up and respond, worried if he doesn't, she'll be startled by them appearing out of thin air, and he hates how quickly the rest of the exchange goes, almost as if he rehearsed it long before they had this night planned. Truthfully, it's just all nerves. Words to distract them, make them seem less out of place, more put together. By the time she's gone, he's already ordered two glasses of beer for them without a second thought. You told me you liked Kirin at one point. Hn... I hated how that made you look so cool. Another one of those little things I heard about Tokyo that didn't really matter, but I remembered all the same.

Pushing his hair away from his face, Rin turns his attention back to the city.]

It doesn't seem like a bad place for it, you know. Doing something out of the ordinary. Imagine all the crazy things you can do here in one night alone.

[The grin doesn’t exactly help his current state. It feels like his head is trying to put together a puzzle he’s never seen before. The words he’s spoken seem to float around in his mind without any place to go, yet somehow feel like they belong there. Two items from his own mouth. A desire to leave something behind, to escape something. And a desire to find something he could only located or achieve in this place. But neither of those offer him any sort of clue as to what that “something” was or is. The more he tries to think about what it could be, the more it threatens to turn his stomach.

It’s like the pool. The blooming sense of dread opening beneath his guts if he tries to continue down this path. Tokyo, this city where it seems no one ever sleeps, what does it mean to him? The question sends a bolt up his spine the moment he thinks it and Sousuke mentally backpedals from his own thoughts. Warning, caution, get away. His experience with the pool had been a one-time lesson he doesn’t need repeated. This topic is bad and he’s quick to abandon it, both for his own sanity and because he doesn’t want to ruin their evening together because of his amnesia issues.

Sousuke focuses on whatever lights he can see over the railing and counts. Even if they’re blurs of orange or blue. Anything to drag his mind away from the fatal draw of wonder. He’s so distracted he doesn’t even hear the knock on the door, eyes distant and wandering along the city. It’s only when he catches movement out the corner of his eye—Rin sitting up—that he realizes someone’s there and turns to look at their waitress.

Huh. Well that’s reassuring. She came in to check on them even though she couldn’t “see” them initially. That makes him feel better, reminds him he’s still here even if there are some strange things going on with them. I’m still me. Just missing parts for now. Strange thought, but it helps. His heart rate begins to ease down from its previous racing and the lurching in his stomach fades. Thankfully.

Rin seems to have everything under control. Sousuke quietly watches as he talks, smooth and easy. It’d be impossible for anyone to tell the jumble of nerves going on inside Rin’s head right now. Sousuke knows they’re there, but even he finds it hard to believe his friend’s nervous. Despite himself, a small smile appears again as Rin orders two beers without hesitating. Kirin. The brand’s familiar; he remembers seeing it in a store window while they were here on a prayer request. Always had wanted to try it…

Sousuke turns his gaze back to the city once more. While part of him would rather not imagine anything about the city, wary it might trigger something in his head, the rest of him forced his mind to realize this is the same thing as swimming. He doesn’t have to remember. He can learn and make his own thoughts on his own memories he’s making right now. Tokyo itself isn’t bad for him and he refuses to let his missing memories dictate that for him. I go my own path.]

Depends on how long you do something. A cabaret show would take two hours at least.

[Sousuke's drifting in and out of dangerous territory the longer he sits there stewing in his own confusion and if Rin weren't so well practiced with this by now he knows he'd be nearly doubling over this couch with the same heavy pain weighing down his chest. That familiar sense of dread, of panic and worry... Sousuke backs out of it just as Rin trusts him to do and with that the topic fades, back into the blurred darkness where it needs to stay.

He wishes they could speak more about it, if he's honest. Once in a while they could do with some serious and heartfelt conversation. But not that. Not yet. ... And not now.

Sitting back in his seat, Rin crosses one leg over the other. Casual. Light. He should keep the evening feeling just like that.]

Oh? You planning on watching something like that? [he asks with a lighter laugh, one brow raised.] Thought you would've preferred things like the robot cafes. Or maybe... [His gaze wanders, eyes turning up towards the sky, but then he shakes his head and glances off, grinning to himself.]

Nah. There's no way you'd be into that.

[With the way he says it though, it seems he wants Sousuke to pursue the idea anyway. What's "that" exactly? Well, maybe he should ask. Seems there could be a way to can lighten up this evening after all.]

[It’s kind of sad that they even have practice in this event. No matter how many times Rin assures him about this or how many times Sousuke accepts this is the price he has to pay to live again, the swimmer’s still frustrated with himself for being a burden on Rin. Forcing him to pay attention to his feelings and retreat from things that Sousuke doesn’t know and isn’t allowed to experience, all the while experiencing the same sensations and emotions from Sousuke he shouldn’t have to be saddled with in the first place. But as problematic as it is, Rin doesn’t coddle him or pity him, but rather trusts his shinki to know when to back away. Really, Sousuke appreciates that more than he says.

He knows Rin wants to probe those things more, and Sousuke does too, but right now… it’s not the time or place. They both need to swerve away from the topic and return to the casual, the lighter side. Make the most of this evening, right? Sometimes, Sousuke’s amazed at just how perceptive Rin is towards him, and how kind he can be to look out for and help him. And the shinki knows his very existence with Rin gives the young god the same sort of support in turn.]

I wasn’t planning/ [A bit curt, with a slight pout. Mutter, mutter. Sheesh, does he really think he would?] I was just… guessing a suggestion.

[It’s not like he suggested they go burlesque or something! That light laugh and arched brow definitely insinuated Rin thought Sousuke had… Wait, what? The shinki sits up a little, fixing his god with a deeper pout.] What’s in a robot café? [His mind jumps to silver bodies with staccato motions serving drinks via pincher hands and talking in electronic voices. That’s… well it’s not completely uninteresting.]

Maybe…?

[Oh come on! He’s really going to dangle bait in front of him like he’s some fish? Sousuke’s tempted to ignore it like a butt, but that’d be rude, especially since Rin’s changing the subject and lightning the mood for his sake. Fine, he’ll bite. … But don’t think he doesn’t realize what you’re doing!]

Oy.

[Sousuke might think he's a burden on Rin, but that couldn't be further from the truth. Sure, it's been difficult to adapt to this kind of life and at first he didn't believe they'd get this far so soon, but he did believe in them regardless and wouldn't let any complication slow them down. That's who they are and who they always will be, memories or none intact.

I promised I'd wait for you. I won't break that for anything.

For as understanding as Rin is, however, he's doing an awfully good job at picking on his best friend tonight and with that curt response he snickers quietly to himself, head tilted back with a cocky smirk. Oh, a suggestion, was it? Might not have been a burlesque show, but it's almost dipping a toe into that territory. Anyway, he'll let him live for now. Still don't want to draw unwanted attention to themselves.]

There's a popular one a train ride away, I heard. These big glowing robots dance and serve people all through the night. You can even have robot battles.

[Sounds loud. And flashy. And frankly, kind of awesome. Not exactly refined or what they're going for tonight, but, hey, it's a thought. As for catfishing... Heh. He's not taking the bait directly, huh? Can't blame him. Rin'd be pouting too if the roles were reversed. Still, he holds his tongue, only humming quietly in consideration... just before there's another knock and their waitress brings in their drinks and a couple small menus for them to look over too. Oh, don't mind him. He'll just pick up his bottle and continue lounging here like Cleopatra~

...Ah, what the hell. He'll quit beating around the bush.]

Come on. We're both guys. You've thought about popping into those red light district clubs before, haven't you?

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