(Lost Girls - Lindsey Stirling)
(I Talk to the Rain 2021 recording - Yuki Kajiura)
What is wrong with me! I'm a Sailor Senshi! I've faced greater monstrosities the world over. And yet… She stops running with Shuichi in tow, not able to look at him just yet as she breathes out her nose. I want so much. Things I'm not meant to have. Just be happy with his friendship, Mina. Taking a deep, cleansing breath and pushing her thoughts away, she locks them all back within before turning toward him with a big smile plastered across her face, hands clasped together against her right cheek. "Man, I didn't think we'd end up trapped in the arcade for so long! And you're really good at video games! That was so cool!"
And I found out a few things about you today Minamino, Shuichi. The perky starlet's memory of him so focused on something, yet still so alert to their surroundings stirred her insides deliciously. You play video games, are really good at them, and to top it all off… She studies the concerned look on his face, trying desperately to hold onto her false expression as his glittering emerald irises bore into her. You know how to fight, and have fought before… but how, Minamino-san? But more importantly, why? She tries not to let her face fall at the thought that this sweet guy was forced to fight, perhaps even for his life from the skill he displayed. Whoever they are… if they hurt him again, they had better watch out, cause now he's friends with Sailor Venus!
His pensive expression and lush verdant gaze reflect his doubt regarding her previous facade, but with her renewed undertaking for him, she feels her lips tilt warmly. His stare softens and although the suspicion is still there, he seems to concede to her for the moment. "I occasionally dabble in video games, when I have free time. My mother had gotten me a console when I was younger, so whenever I wasn't studying or gardening with her, I would practice with it." Grinning happily, the sunny stylist states,
"That was nice of her. I practically had to beg to get mine!" The astonishing businessman smirks while teasing,
"Yes, but you didn't study that much, did you?" Groaning, Minako throws herself around the nearest street lamp, clinging while dramatically whimpering,
"It's too hard! My brain isn't wired that way!" Huffing with laughter at her dramatization, he gently tugs her away from her pole and hands her the melon soda she must have forgotten to grab at the arcade. "Oh! Thank you Minamino-san!" Shaking his head at her while she drinks heavily from it, he chides,
"You shouldn't drink it so fast or you'll get-" A small 'hic' erupts from her throat, making her blink and flush in embarrassment, turning to pout full on at the enigmatic horticulturist as he laughs openly at her newest plight.
"You can be such a jerk." Huffing the last of his laughter away, he counters easily,
"Had you really thought that, you wouldn't want to be near me. It seems to me you rather enjoy being teased." Puffing a cheek out, she's about to argue when he adds, "And you're already using my first name? I don't even know all of yours." She blinks, holding an arm behind her back and looking away as she chides,
"You get to be all cool and mysterious with your super secret business, gardening hobby, and video gaming prowess, so I have to be secretive with my name. You already know so much about me, but I barely know anything about you, so we're still pretty uneven." She's dumbfounded when she glances back at him and Shuichi's grimacing, having never seen the expression on his handsome facade before. The Guardian of Love is nearly awed when he agrees,
"You are right, of course." Smiling gently, she shrugs before asking,
"You still want me to show you around Mr. Cryptic?" It's his turn to flutter scarlet lashes, wonder prevalent across his face before turning to that disastrously handsome smile.
"I would like that Mina-san. Thank you." Grinning widely, the spunky warrior hop spins until she's facing the way they were running again to hide her growing flush, skipping a few more times for good measure while motioning with her free hand, "Well then c'mon! There's still a few more things to see! And it's already almost dinner time!" After walking a few meters, they turn right and continue on for a few more meters, turning left, and left again to a large and quite artistically designed building. Studying the patterned windows on the structure carefully, he didn't notice Minako's gaze glued to him, that heat she felt before coming back full force.
Why does he have to be so handsome looking at a dumb building! It's like… ugh, this is troubling! I'm attracted to smart guys I can't have! Breaking her eyes away from him, she narrates,
"This building houses a lot of different stores, most of which are high dollar specialty merchandise. One of the stores is run by a friend of ours' mother. It's called Osa-P." The rose colored gentleman nods in understanding, turning toward her as she motions for them to keep moving. She points out the local convenience store, a produce market, a few three and four star restaurants, a supermarket, a french style restaurant, and a crepe shop on their way. More notable landmarks being Mamina Inari Shrine, which he made a strange face at, and Momoiji Waterfall. He didn't react adversely to Hikawa Shrine, so why this one?
They come across another of her shops with roof access, and keep moving toward Tower Tokyo. When they stand before the tower, Mina points toward a spot full of flags, chiming, "That's Hebizuuka, it was said that snakes used to occupy the stone chamber, and around that bend is a spot where the bats like to gather so people come here to watch them." And~ another weird face for my records. His pensive look with sweat drops are quite noticeable, yet still terribly charming. By the time they reach it, it's some minutes past dinner time and paying the fee, both make their way to the elevator. Leaning back against the elevator wall, the playful diva feels her energy finally wean away from lack of sleep.
(Sleepwalking - Lindsey Stirling)
Fluttering her lashes closed, she lets herself exhale slowly and push her exhaustion aside. It's the past, there's nothing I can do about it now. And yet, anytime she slept, Minako was plagued by nightmares, old memories rehashed into new and terrifying forms. Ever since we came out of the Cauldron, it's been like this. For a whole year. She couldn't drag the other girls down with her, not when they were all living their best lives now. For now. When she opens her eyes again, she finds a hand under her chin and one on her forehead, gazing at Shuichi with a concerned frown. "I thought so. You're exhausted. Why didn't you say anything?"
Blinking wearily, she grins wanly while batting gentle, calloused hands away. You don't get all those from just gardening. "I'm fine, just hungry." Que her stomach seconding the statement, causing her to flush and him to hide his expression behind his bangs for a moment, as though debating arguing. Then, a warm chuckle vibrates the caring planter's chest as he chides,
"You should have said something. You pointed out several restaurants on our way here." It's her turn to smile sheepishly as she whispers,
"I… kinda forgot?" Or I just wasn't hungry until now… which is really weird for me… the struggling warrior hears a smooth baritone huff lightly while deciding,
"Well, a few moments here and we can remedy that. But please, next time don't push yourself for my sake. I can survive going without seeing everything from up here, you on the other hand, will not live without food." The doors to the elevator pop open, several people waiting to mill in as they step out. Minako's awed when she feels his hand at her back, guiding her gently and keeping her near him in the crowd. Flushing lightly, she feels a twinge in her loins and an urge to grasp onto him in some way. Keep it together Minako. Exhaling through barely open lips, she crosses her arms to keep from reaching out to him.
"So, what were you thinking of eating? Like you said, we already passed a few restaurants, so you've got a few choices. Anything particular?" They stride over to the observatory window and gaze out over the area, the calculating tycoon studying the scenery with a discerning eye, once again making her swoon inside. This is getting ridiculous, why am I getting turned on from watching him concentrate? Sighing at herself, the lovelorn media darling feels his hand move away from her back, staring as he pulls the map out of his jacket pocket to compare what he sees to what is on the map.
"I'm not a picky eater, so whatever you're in the mood for will suffice." Biting her lip gently, she turns away and takes in the breathtaking view to get her mind off the good-looking tycoon next to her. For a moment, she considers allowing herself to relax in his presence, but remembers the goons from the previous day and keeps her senses open. Minako's still startled when a hand touches her back again, the warmth sending tingles down her spine as she turns toward him, cheeks stained lightly. She feels her heart in her throat at the tender smile upon Shuichi's visage as he tilts his head toward the elevator. "I'm done here, so let's get you fed, shall we?"
If this guy keeps smiling like that, I'm going to melt! Holding a hand over her pounding heart, she nods shyly before whispering, "Yeah…" Sunny lashes beat as he keeps her close to him, steering them clear of the crowds still lingering before dinner. Getting into the elevator, this time with a small smattering of other people, the two stick together and nearly brush arms. His hand moves to his side as he stares cooly at the elevator doors, ignoring the other passengers who are suddenly staring at the two of them. Is it really so surprising for the two of us to walk around together? An older lady smiles lightly and comments,
(Crystalize Remix - Lindsey Stirling)
"Oh, you two are such a cute couple! You must have such beautiful children!" The excitable, half-tailed media darling feels herself flush head to toe, and when she peeks at him from under her golden bangs, his typically even expression is also consumed with pink. Trying to get the situation wrangled back in, as the other passengers are now giggling and grinning cheekily, she flails in a squeak,
"Ah! wait, um… we're not-"
"Oh, you are such a sweet, shy thing! There's no need to be embarrassed! I wish I could see pictures though… Oh! You wouldn't happen to have any on you would you?" Putting her hands to her face, she can't stop the nuclear meltdown from happening and feels her knees buckle. Thankfully, her partner-in-shame seemed to notice before Minako hit the ground, catching her quickly around her waist and arm. There's quite a few gasps and worried cries as he supports her weight easily, calmly explaining,
"Ah, apologies, but she's a bit frail at the moment. It's nothing to worry about." To their continuing anguish, the same old woman coos as she assumes,
"Oh! You're expecting another? My, my! I really wish there were some pictures now! You ought to carry some photos of them with you! But I suppose you must not have been expecting to be gone for too long, considering your wife's condition!" The steadily shrinking soldier can feel the painful mortification coming from the man holding her up, others in the elevator striking up conversations about what their children would look like. Oh my god, this can't be happening! When the doors open, they couldn't get off fast enough, Minako even let him carry her bridal style out of the building. The old woman's voice echoing behind them, "Carry pictures with you next time, dears!"
When they get far enough away, he sets her down gently, allowing her legs to adjust to her own weight again before huffing in humor. "Quite a presumptuous woman, hmm?" The harried diva groaned before squeaking,
"Just 'presumptuous?' She was coming up with our children for us. Why are old people so freaking weird!" Chuckling lightly, the scarlet haired gentleman responds,
"They're usually just lonely, or oftentimes I find that they are bored." Her eyelids flicker at his assessment, she can't help but ask,
"You sound like you've got experience talking to those types." The civilian senshi is shocked when he sighs openly before admitting,
"My stepfather's family is constantly badgering me on getting married. That, or trying to 'arrange' a meeting with one of their friends' daughters." Minako feels her stomach twist at the idea that he's met with other women. He's not mine, I can't claim him so get over it! Grumbling, she replies with sympathy,
"I know what you mean, sometimes it's my parents, others it's the people I work with. I'm still young! There's so much I want to do! And really… it's-" she cuts herself off, realizing she almost revealed her innermost thoughts. It's for the best... We never agreed to it, but we all know it. The words that Adonis last spoke to her echo in her mind. You will be hopeless when it comes to love…
For all eternity.
Smiling in melancholy, the cosmic warrior's heart twists in grief while she shakes her head, correcting, "Anyway, there's this one place nearby that has a nice selection of fresh seafood and vegetables for a decent price. What do you say?" Looking back up into his lush ivy colored gaze, she's surprised by the concern growing within them. Deciding to nip it in the bud before he could question her further, Minako grabs his hand and tugs him toward the restaurant. "Come on, I'm practically starving here!" Keeping hold of his hand until she was sure he'd not ask her anything, but when she lets go, she feels so much colder than before. When they stand before the place, he reads the sign while she walks up a set of stairs to go inside.
Smiling at the staff, she walks up to the counter and asks for a place for two. When Shuichi catches up to her, they're being led toward a table in the back. Smiling, Minako points at the board and says, "They change their menu daily, but the Taakoma set meal is always available."
"What is it?"
"Iwanori shirasu rice, sashimi, fried mackerel in tatsuta, chawanmushi, pickles, and miso soup." He hums lightly, then turning to the waitress and ordering easily,
"I'd like the seafood mix bowl please." The lady smiles politely and bows.
"Right away." Grinning lightly, the peppy idol teases,
"You really aren't a picky eater! So you weren't just saying that to be nice?" The curious, long haired gentleman smirks at her from across the table, nodding smoothly.
"I don't make it a habit to say what I don't mean. Lies have a tendency to be exposed eventually, so no, I don't usually say things to just be nice if I can help it." The tilt to his lips grows into a downright mischievous grin as he adds, "If I do recall, you keep telling me I'm a jerk for my honesty." Flushing brightly, the civilian sailor soldier puffs out her cheeks and agrees quickly,
"You are! You're so rude!" Shaking beautiful, wild scarlet forelocks the smart alec concedes,
"I won't deny that, however, you must admit that you enjoy it." Minako gapes as he smiles smugly back at her again, leaning back in his chair incredibly casually. He's winning all of our arguments! I can't let that fly! A determined look crosses her face as she argues,
"I obviously enjoy attention, as I am an idol, but I won't let you slander my character! Just because I want to be looked at doesn't mean I like being scrutinized in such a manner." Sticking her tongue out at him for good measure, she grins smugly and crosses her arms, waiting for his rebuttal, but to her surprise he doesn't immediately give one. Instead, an incredibly devilish gleam cuts through Shuichi's leafy eyes as he continues to smirk at her, conceding,
"Not a bad counterargument, however, we'll have to finish this conversation later." The sporty connoisseur blinks when she sees something akin to approval flash across his features, gone in an instant when the food is brought out, and to her elation, he looks incredibly pleased by what he saw. Using the oshibori to wash their hands, Minako smiles excitedly, pushing what she she just learned away while chiming,
"Looks good doesn't it!" He nods emphatically, grabbing his pair of chopsticks while she grabs hers, and while glancing over his bowls, she decides, "Why don't we trade some! I'll give you some of my rice in return for some of your tataki!" Huffing with laughter, he grabs one of her extra bowls and puts some of her requested food into it.
"If you want some, you don't have to trade with me. I don't mind sharing with you, Minako-san." The half tailed blond feels her eyes widen, lips popped open as she questions excitedly,
"Really? See, you can be really sweet when you want to! You should still try some of the rice, it's absolutely delicious!" Lapis gems stare questioningly into his shimmering emerald as that heart melting smile reappears, carrying her heart away with it as he concedes,
"I suppose if you don't mind sharing, I'll take some." Trying to cover her fluster with a cheesy grin, she puts some of the rice into another bowl and hands it over. Her heart feels like it leaps out of her chest when their hands touch, and if it weren't for his quick, fighter's reflexes, she would have dropped the bowl. His lips quirk a bit, taking the bowl back to his side as he asks, "Are there many more spots to see here?"
"Uh, yeah! There's lots! But there's only a handful left to show you for today, which I can do on our way back to your apartment." Taking a bite of the fish she traded with Shuichi, she closes her eyes and hums happily, thoroughly savoring the flavors tantalizing her taste buds. When she swallows and flits blond lashes open, she notices the caring connoisseur staring at her with that handsomely glowing smile, as though admiring something about her. Blinking in confusion, she asks in a squeak, "Is something on my face?" Shaking red forelocks, he replies with a light chuckle,
(Simple and Clean Musical Cover - Utada Hikaru)
"No. It's simply I've never seen anyone enjoy what they have eaten quite as thoroughly as you do. Honestly, I'm a little envious of you." Tilting her head in uncertainty, she waits a moment for the spellbinding office worker to continue, "You have a way of appreciating little things that most overlook. It's a wonderful trait to have, especially given both of your lines of work." Minako can feel her cheeks staining a dark pink at his compliment, sending delightful tingles up and down her spine. Trying to regain some semblance of calm, she takes a deep breath through her nose. This man will be the definite death of me. Pushing some of her loose golden strands back behind her ear, the bashful princess gazes at him from under her fringe as she mumbles,
"It's just… When I like something, I really like it. I'm either all in, or not at all." Still blushing, doe-eyes are rolled toward the ceiling as she pokes a finger to her cheek, adding, "I just can't help myself, I dive headlong into everything. With the dangerous situations I've been in, I've had to act fast or lose everything important in only moments." That heady, pensive look he used as he concentrated on the game was now aimed at her, and feeling that forest gaze has her stomach a flutter. Lapis gems flit back toward him, lips parted as his expression shifts slightly into a smirk,
"Some would call that passion." Shaking her head, Minako waves a hand and corrects,
"That's Mars' thing."
"Just because she represents it doesn't mean you don't feel it, Mina-san." Re-aligning her chopsticks, she grabs something else from her plate as she considers,
"Well, sure, I got that. What I'm trying to go for though is a little different. There's passion, and then there's what I've got going on, which I would describe as more ardent than anything." Once again, he seems slightly startled by her insight, before appearing appreciative of her random tidbits of awareness. Shuichi's lips quirk as he replies,
"I see, you've thought about this before then." Shrugging, she tosses a slice of fish in her mouth, chewing and swallowing before responding,
"Of course! 'A good leader always turns their mistakes into lessons.' She is the guardian of War and Passion, and being as different as we are, it'd be silly to use the same words to describe us both." Eating a few more bites, she feels him studying her heavily, but wants to finish her food first. Sighing in content with her eyes closed, Minako grabs one of the last bites on her plate. Sunny lashes flick back open to his intense stare again, but she just smiles gently and asks, "You done, Minamino-san?" He nods lightly, beautiful scarlet locks drift across his cheeks as he returns,
"You are as well?"
"Yup! Let's pay and head to our next stop." She tries paying, but the smooth talker insists on covering for her.
(Stars Align - Lindsey Stirling)
"As I said before, you're taking time out of your day to show me around. It's the least I can do." The two wander away from the restaurant and back out to a setting sun. Watching the sun settle for a moment, the blond half-tailed senshi feels the wind brush her face as she takes in the world around her with all her senses. Fluttering blond lashes closed, the breeze tugs on her silky locks as though pulling her toward something. These incidents aren't unrelated are they… Then she senses it, eyes of a malicious nature watching her closely. Revealing ocean blue waves flecked with gold, Shuichi stares at her in confusion. Smiling warmly to ease his worries, she keeps a track of their stalker as she flaps a hand carelessly.
"The place I want to show you next is one of my favorites. The girls and I used to meet there all the time. Now whenever we have time to, we sneak over there." He sweat drops lightly, irises lidded as he adds,
"You're not actually going to sneak there are you?" Hearing the consternation in his voice makes her titter as she chimes,
"No, but I might do that in the near future! Good idea, Minamino-san!" His incredulousness could be felt for kilometers, she was sure as he pleads,
"What can I do to convince you not to sneak around in public? And especially in my company?" Cackling at the turn in conversation, and the advantageous change in subject, Minako nearly falls over while she chirps gleefully,
"Absolutely nothing! It sounds like a fun way to pass some free time!" The hopeful redhead's face falls, a sweat drop and a sigh of exasperation her reward as she chitters maniacally. Although tempting, they reach Crown Fruit Parlor without sneaking and as they walk through the glass door, they're greeted by the wonderful sugary, fruity smells of the cafe. Turning to glance over her shoulder, Minako grins eagerly. "Welcome to Crown Fruit Parlor! Any cool confections you can think of, this place has them!" Lush verdant irises study their surroundings keenly, taking in the couples and groups sitting at the tables. He blinks before looking back to the parfait enthusiast and asking,
"Wait, we're eating here too?" Grinning mischievously, she wags a finger at him while explaining glibly,
"Uh, yes. What we ate earlier was just a snack. Now this is the main course!" Shuichi's jaw literally dropped, making her laugh heartily as she makes her way toward a small booth. When she sees a certain carrot colored ponytail bob toward them, her smile widens as she calls cheerily, "Una-san! Ohayou!" The cute waitress blinks, then a bright smile lights up her face as she dances lithely around customers to reach them.
"Ah! Mina-chan, Ohayou! How are you feeling today? Have you been helped yet?" Grinning at her return in enthusiasm, Minako greets,
"I'm pretty good today, so no worries. And no, we haven't been helped yet." Unazuki grins eagerly before deciding,
"Alright, I'll help you today, cause I really want to know about your new friend!" Spring green eyes drift to the garden colored pretty boy across from her as the ritzy performer groans,
"Mou, you don't have to emphasize 'friend' you know! And he's just that, a friend!"
"Mmm-hmm, whatever you say Mina-chan- oh wait, does Usa-chan and the others know?" Smiling sheepishly, the candy red ribboned athlete mumbles,
"No, not yet." The giddy carrot top squeaks, demanding eagerly,
"Alright! Fess up! I want details, details!" Cackling lightly, Minako replies,
"Okay, okay! I will after we order!" Pulling out a notepad excitedly, Unazuki asks,
"Orders then please! Unless you want the usual Mina-chan?"
"Yeah, that'll work for me, what about you, Shuichi-san?" He had already been looking over the menu at the center of the table curiously, lifting his gaze to their perky attendant and causing her to flush.
"I'll just stick with some green tea." Unazuki winks animatedly as she chirps,
"Coming right up! I'll be back with your orders!" She dashes away and almost into a few customers in her eagerness. Snorting with laughter, the trendy senshi explains,
"Like I said before, all of us girls and Mamoru-san come to this place. And considering she's Matoki's little sister, the guy we just met at the arcade, we all know each other." The handsome inquirer tilts his face toward her curiously.
"Mamoru-san?" Nodding emphatically, the mushy guardian responds,
"Yup, Usagi-chan's fiance. They're getting married in a few months." Emerald gems glimmer as he smiles gently,
"I see. Well, if I meet Usagi-san-"
"When, Minamino-san. Because you don't just meet me and not my girls." He blinks in bewilderment before correcting,
"When I meet Usagi-san, I'll have to congratulate her and Mamoru-san."
"You'll probably meet them sooner than later, considering where you live." Once again his expression is perturbed as Shuichi catches on,
"Wait, does that mean-" She grins before he even finishes, "one of them lives in the same complex as me?"
"You got it. Mamoru-san lives there, and Usagi-chan is always visiting. In fact~" he sweat drops when she wags a finger at him, "He lives in the apartment next door to yours. So we could probably introduce you guys at any time."
"That's…" Adopting a serious expression, Minako reminds him soberly,
"When we said you attract weird energies, we weren't joking. You found me and literally live next to my best friend. The fates would have found some way for us to meet." His verdant eyes narrow at the table in thought, a hand coming to his chin. The reflective soldier keeps the silence within her own thoughts when their drinks arrive. Unazuki giggles lightly as she sets the orders down, whispering conspiratorially,
"I've gotta let management know I'm taking my break, so I'll be back in a sec!" Once again nearly bowling the other patrons over, Minako grins faintly toward her tall glass of deliciousness, the bottom clear layer ruby red, then an opaque light green layer, a clear orange layer, and a final solid yellow layer, topped with sliced fruit arranged in colorful sections of each topped with whipped cream and a cherry with a sprig of leaves. Picking up her spoon, she takes a bite and shivers in delight, her pallet tingling happily while Shuichi asks in amazement and slight pain,
"What is in that?"
"This is a drink they made especially for me. I requested it and they've added it to their menu. I call it 'Fruits of Love' while everyone else calls it 'Midsummer's Night,' though I don't know why." She can see the wheels in that well oiled mind working as she continues, "Starting at the bottom, it's got pomegranate cherry jelly, the bottom green layer is an apple kiwi tea yogurt, the orange layer is rose mango tea jelly, the top yellow layer is pineapple banana yogurt topped with sliced mangos, pineapples, coconut, kiwi, pomegranates, bananas, cherries, and myrtle leaves. Don't ask me where they get the myrtle leaves, I haven't a clue." Shuichi's leafy irises are wide while his mouth is popped open slightly.
"You… you requested this?"
"Yup. Why, what's wrong?" Pinching the bridge of his nose and shutting scarlet lashes, he grunts,
"What you have in your hands is not just a dessert, it's using almost every aphrodisiac known to man." She blinks for a moment, looking like nothing registered... then,
"So is that why I'm always horny leaving here?" He chokes on his tea, not having expected her to straight up say it. Snorting with laughter, Minako adds, "And here I thought I was just losing control of my hormones." The purveyor of forbidden fruits grins when she sees the pink in his cheeks, whether from her honesty or from the choking, she's not sure, but it's cute either way. Putting a hand through his red bangs, the agonized scholar huffs,
"Yes Mina-san, that would be why." Unazuki chooses that moment to come sit next to the amused dessert aficionado as she asks,
"What's going on over here? Are you alright?" The school graduate blinks at Shuichi, who's sighing before answering,
"I believe Mina-san just learned why others call that desert 'Midsummers Night.'" Holding her own simpler parfait, the cafe gossip gapes at her seatmate.
"Wait, you didn't know why?" Raising a squiggly sunny brow, Minako counters,
"Huh? No, why would I?" Unazuki's head tilts to the side in disbelief, pastel green eyes blown in shock as she questions,
"Mina-chan… didn't you go through foreign literature?" Shrugging undisturbed, the sugar buff answers,
"Nope, and I didn't go to college. So what's it about?" She's surprised to see Shuichi adopt a lecturing air as he answers,
"It's a famous play by William Shakespare, it involves political dissension, romance, and the supernatural. The play is set in Athens, and consists of several subplots that revolve around the marriage of Theseus and Hippolyta. One subplot involves a conflict between four Athenian lovers. Each section ends with the implication that sex was involved." Both girls stare at him unabashed, gawping before her fellow parfait lover gasps,
"Wow, are you a walking textbook?" Minako beams mischievously as she notes,
"No, but he's a super genius. It only took him a few seconds to recall all that." Wearing an expression that could only amount to a pout, the brilliant scholar defends,
"You make that sound like a bad thing." Winking cheerily at him, the delighted fighter giggles,
"It's a you thing, Minamino-san, so it's not bad. However, you're talking to one detention devotee here, and the master truant of study there."
"Hey! I got better grades than you did!"
"I'm sorry for your loss." She smiles impishly at the look of exasperation coating Shuichi's face, a sweat drop running down his temple as he stares at her nonplussed. Unazuki groans before redirecting,
"Okay, we're getting off topic here. My name is Furuhata, Unazuki. It's nice to meet you."
"Minamino, Shuichi. It's nice to meet you." The energetic stewardess pokes a finger to her lips as she contemplates,
"Minamino… Minamino… I swear I've heard that name somewhere before…" Mouth quirking, said Minamino quipped,
"Hopefully nothing bad was associated with it." Grinning teasingly, the devious diva prods,
"Ooh! Maybe someone's been bad mouthing him in here! Come on Una-san! You gotta remember the juicy bits!" His verdant gaze flits to her in bafflement as Unazuki grumbles,
"Ugh! I'm trying Mina-chan, but I see so many people, it's hard to say." Glancing slyly at Minako, the study truant taunts playfully, "Well, even if I remember, what're you gonna do about it?" In absolute seriousness, the heroic Venusian bursts instantly,
"I'm gonna find them, and then whoop their butts of course!" Both Unazuki and Shuichi slump in their booth seats, the ponytailed chitchat snorts with laughter before responding,
"They had better watch out then if I do remember, you hear that Minamino-san? You have a cute bodyguard now!" The mysterious businessman sweat drops with his eyes closed, his expression at a loss as his eyelid twitches.
"So it would seem, though I must request you speak with me before assaulting anyone on my behalf, Mina-san." The younger Furuhata sibling laughs spritely while chiming,
"Fat chance of that! Once Mina-chan has a goal, she goes at it until it's done or she's knocked out, whichever comes first!"
"That's right- Hey! That makes me sound really stupid!" Slapping the other girl's arm softly, Minako glowers sourly at the creamsicle head's guffaws as Shuichi tries to mediate,
"Ladies, please settle down, we're disturbing the rest of the establishment. As for tracking down bad rumors, I appreciate the help, but really I can handle it on my own." Wrapping her arm around Unazuki's, the snazzy sleuth purses her lips at him before asking,
"Are you sure? You've seen me fight, so it's not a problem. If it's a male pride thing that's just silly. We all have our specialties, you shouldn't have to put up your dukes if you don't have to." His smile is genial as he assures,
"I will be fine. Besides, silly rumors are nothing to get arrested over, you realize." Snorting with humor, Minako boasts,
"Who's gonna turn me in? How embarrassing would it be for them to tell officers that a spunky teen tore them a new one?" The logical thinker pinches the bridge of his nose as Unazuki giggles and adds helpfully,
"She's got a point!"
"No, she most certainly doesn't. Such archaic ideas will get you into trouble, Mina-san." Waving a hand, the messy imp brushes off his concern as she digs back into her parfait,
"Well one thing is for sure, someone knows about you and possibly has bad intentions. I'll help watch your back!" Humming around the giant bite of deliciousness, Minako doesn't notice the sigh of surrender across from her, as the T.A. Academy graduate eats her own parfait beside her. Deciding the conversation was at an end, the inquisitive civilian queries eagerly,
"So! How long have you two known each other?" Being as her mouth was busy with savouring her dessert, Shuichi answers,
"For two and a half days, give or take." The educational procrastinator gasps then squeals,
"Eh~! Two and a half- but you two don't act like it!"
"Yes, well, it's difficult to be a stranger with that one." Swallowing her mouthful, the current subject grouses,
"Hey! I'm a person, not a thing, Minamino-san!" The orange colored ponytail bobs while it's sassy holder crosses her arms as though pondering while she notes,
"You're not wrong." Jaw dropping, Minako whips toward her bench partner to scold,
"Mou! Whose side are you on, Una-san!"
"The honest one!" While the blond media darling's brows curl lightly, Shuichi chuckles to himself while diverting them from arguing further.
"It has most certainly been some of the most adventurous two days I've had in a while." Pointing her spoon at him, Unazuki observes candidly,
"I can imagine. Not many realize the amount of energy hidden in Mina-chan. Speaking of hidden, what happened to the rest of your parfait?" Both redheads blink when they stare at her nearly empty 20 centimeter (7.87 inches) tall glass as Minako replies airily,
"I ate it all, where else could it have gone?" The rose haired gardner grimaces as the playful worker's eyes widen in mounting awe while she iterates,
"But it's only been seven minutes since I gave it to you…" Snorting in humor, the agent of good food lifts her chin and resounds,
"Yeah, that's easily enough time to go through it." Surprisingly, it's Shuichi who ponders sickly,
"Did you even taste it?" Pooching her mouth at him, Minako huffs before answering,
"Of course, and it was divine~!" Stars explode in her eyes as she holds her hands to one cheek, swooning over it's apparent taste as Unazuki wonders,
"Alright, but why did you eat it so fast?"
"Uh, so I could get to the cherry pomegranate layer?" Both of her booth partners are quiet for a moment, expressions hidden by their fringe as the speedy eater looks back and forth between the two. "Uh, guys?" A sigh escapes the waitress by her side as she flops onto the table, face touching the glass as Una cries in confusion,
"I just don't understand that logic! Why don't you just request they switch the layers around?" Looking at the carrot top like she said something completely impossible, the affronted star retorts,
"Because it's funner this way! It's like opening a present! I have to go through a few more delicious layers to get to the yummy finale!" A bark of laughter cuts off anymore conversation between the two as the mysterious pretty boy throws his head back, holding his stomach and gasping,
"Like presents? That's why you had it made that way? It's incredibly clever, even if it is a little strange for something like food, of all things." Chuckling the last of his humor away, Shuichi looks directly into Minako's lapis irises as he praises, "It's such a unique way to see things. You have an incredibly outward way of thinking Mina-san." The sporty stylist feels her cheeks alight as he gives her that heart melting smile again, adding, "You may not be a good study, but your mind isn't suffering that loss. It's refreshing really, and reminds me of a friend of mine." Perking up further at the mention of some history, she inquires eagerly,
"Oh yeah? They apply weird logic to things too?" Lips tilting indulgently, he explains,
"Oh yes, and as with you, he certainly hasn't been at a loss for it." Both girls are watching him in awe when the after school attendee snaps to first, turning to the dumbstruck server while chiding,
"See, I might not have better scores, but I'm still smart in my own way!" She doesn't notice the look of adoration on the rose tinted gentleman's face, nor Unazuki catching it and gawking in shock. Flicking orange lashes, the older girl looks back to Minako before conceding,
"Alright, you might not be book smart, but you should still keep up some studies. Like my uncle always says, 'You never stop learning!' So just because you're not dumb, don't get cocky!" Winking at her lax booth mate, the red ribboned fighter grins and wags a finger while agreeing,
"Yeah, yeah. Ami-chan always says that too, I'll keep it in mind when I have some free time in the studio. So put that brow away!" The higher tester raises her brow in a knowing manner, recalling Minako's bad habit of brushing studying aside. They're both startled when a breathy baritone intercedes,
"Don't worry, I can always help her with some of her studies if she wishes." Both girls turn his way, one with teary ocean blues, the other new bud green wonder filled as Unazuki agrees,
"Yeah, she could probably learn a lot from having another good friend." Taking a look at her watch, the waitress sighs before standing spryly, "Well, my break is up, so enjoy the rest of your trip and be safe! Trouble likes to find you Mina-chan, so try and keep Minamino-san out of it!" Pooching her lips dourly, Minako objects,
"I don't get into it all the time!" Wagging a finger at her playfully with one eye closed, Unazuki rebukes,
"Usa-chan says otherwise~!" Waving a hand at her offending finger, the trouble magnet smiles cheekily as she relents,
"Fine! I'll stay safe, but we're gonna have to talk about what Usagi-chan said, considering she's a little story teller and embellishes details in her tales." Giggling lightly, her orange haired friend cheers,
"For sure! Thanks for coming," turning to the cryptic academic, she continues, "and it was nice meeting you, Minamino-san!" Nodding politely as he leans back, he responds cooly,
"It was a pleasure, Furuhata-san. And thank you for having us." Beaming brightly, the bubbly youth cheers lightly,
"Not at all! It's always nice to see Mina-chan and the girls! All of you will have to come together next time." Smiling warmly, Minako promises,
"Next time I'll bring them. Until then, take care Una-san!" Waving cheerily at the retreating waitress, she glances toward the long haired redhead across from her and giggles,
"So, how are you liking this city so far? Is it pretty different from where you're from?" Crossing his knee over the other, Shuichi relaxes further and drinks the last of his tea before answering,
"It's certainly more busy, but it's not terrible. Even with the size, it sacrifices little of the nature I'm used to in Sarayashiki. The people are incredibly nice as well, it's better than I could have imagined. And thanks to you, I have many more acquaintances than I would have on my own." Shrugging easily, the book doodler scoops some jelly out of her nearly empty glass and envelopes her lips around the spoon, talking around it.
"It's nice to not feel alone in a new city, and although I'm sure you'd be fine, it's good to have people to go to for questions or companionship." The smile that moves her heart so swiftly returns as he murmurs,
"Yes. I believe you are quite right." Pink suffusing her ears, she finishes the last of the parfait, nodding when he asks if she wished to continue. As they approach the counter with their bill, Minako insists she pays this time, citing, "Considering it was a surprise trip for you, you weren't prepared to pay for this. And mostly because I can't resist their parfaits, so I'll get this bill!" The argumentative savant looked slightly bewildered for a moment, but strangely he relaxed as he relents,
"This time." Grinning at him, she turns back to the cashier who smiles appraisingly at them. After leaving and moving down a few blocks, the cosmic knight motions toward a door and pointing up, indicating another building which he can utilize the roof. Greeting the patrons, their once rescuer voices her request, and as before, they agree readily and the two head on up. Taking out his map, she points to the spot they are now before asking,
(Hikari - Utada Hikaru)
"You notice something about all the roofs we've visited?" Sparking emerald studies everything in the distance, particularly…
"Tower Tokyo is visible on all of them."
"Yup! So if you do lose your way, just come up here and see where the tower is compared to where you need to go." The cosmic protector circles on the map where Tower Tokyo is located with a pink pen she managed to find in her purse. "All you really need to know is the location of the place you want to go, what direction it's oriented from the tower, and if you keep a compass with you, you'll never get lost in the city." Nodding in appreciation, Shuichi comments,
"You're quite good at this." She grins softly as she admits,
"You gotta be when you can leap across the sky." Her cheer vanishes for a moment as she gazes into the distance, azure irises lid part-way as she focuses on the building across the street. The eyes she felt earlier are moving away, along with her chance to possibly find out more information on her companion's attackers. Without turning back to him, Minako inquires, "You know how to get back to your apartment from here, right?" She hears the confusion as he affirms,
"Of course, but why are you-"
"Someone's been following us since we ate dinner. They finally left. If I follow them, I might be able to learn more about the guys who are after you." There's a sharp intake of breath before she's gently spun toward his voice.
"You shouldn't go after them alone! It's foolish to run into a situation before knowing any details!" The romantic senshi finally flits deep ocean waves into worried verdant, knowing flecks of gold glittered the depths as she declares,
"If I leave them now, we may not get a fore-warning again." Capturing his pupils with her own, Minako insists, "I'm a soldier first and foremost, Minamino-san, this is my life, the military life. As such my first and greatest duty is the protection of her, so If there are any threats to her or the world she loves, the people she'll one day love, I will find them, and I will eliminate them. No matter what I stand against." Lush forest green grow with emotion, many of which she can't identify, not in him yet, as he asserts,
"Be that as it may, I can't allow you to do this alone-" Pushing herself onto the tips of her toes, petal soft lips tangle with his firm ones to cut him off, and that strange, intimate energy passes through them in a delicious coil. This is so strange, I don't recoil from him as I did Ace. Even with all my training to react negatively to sensuality, he… A twinging pleasure builds between her thighs, but she pulls back, their mouths making a sucking sound before they get carried away. The forlorn royal slips away easily, hopping up on the ledge of the maintenance building while glancing down at the back of the gorgeous, wild rose haired sweetheart. Stunned ivy irises swing to where she stood as she calls out,
"Venus Crystal Power, Make Up!" Overwhelming love flows through her, consuming every part of her being as she twirls within. Donning her guardian uniform, Venus stares sadly at the startled civvie, entreating, "You shouldn't have to waste your life worrying about a silly girl who protects this world from greedy darkness. And…" Smiling in melancholy, the guardian of love wishes, "You should be worrying about that secret job of yours, not over someone attacking you at any time. I'll take care of it, Minamino-san." Snapping out of his shock, he shouts in concern,
"No Mina-san! Wait! You haven't fully recovered yet!" Pressing a kiss to her fingers, a heart appears in her hand and she throws it to him, the heart landing on his cheek as she winks and jumps away. Knowing that the little bit of energy she imbued into him would keep him safe, she felt secure leaving him on his own now as she dealt with their newest 'stalker.' Glaring darkly past the glowing, settling sun, the gilded warrior catches sight of her target 20 meters (65') away. He's going incredibly slow if I could catch him this quickly. What's he up to? Although she didn't bring him with her, Minako took Shuichi's advice seriously when he told her it could be dangerous. It's always dangerous for me, but I will overcome anything to keep everyone safe. Especially… Her cheeks color as she recalls the quick kiss she just stole, touching her lips tenderly before focusing on the task before her again.
Author Notes
I used this site as a reference for dishes in the actual Isoya Taikoma restaurant.
Restaurant_Review-g14129647-d9956363-Reviews-Isoya_Taikoma-Toranomon_Minato_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_
Oshibori - a wet towel which is used to clean your hands before eating.
Tataki - たたき: raw/very rare skipjack tuna or beef steak seared on the outside and sliced, or a finely chopped raw fish (Japanese jack mackerel or Sardine), spiced with the likes of chopped spring onions, ginger or garlic paste.
Iwanori Shirasu Rice - A popular dish in the Shonan region of Japan made with shirasu, or baby sardines.
Sashimi - is a Japanese delicacy consisting of fresh raw fish or meat sliced into thin pieces and often eaten with soy sauce.
Chawanmushi - literally "tea cup steam" or "steamed in a tea bowl" is an egg custard dish found in Japan. Unlike many other custards, it is usually eaten as a dish in a meal, as chawanmushi contains savory rather than sweet ingredients.
Miso Soup - The base of traditional miso soup is a simple combination of dashi and miso. Dashi is a basic Japanese soup stock, made with dried bonito flakes, kelp and anchovy. Dashi is used extensively in Japanese cooking. Miso is a fermented paste created from a mixture of soybeans, sea salt and rice koji. /en/article-a0000334/
One sad thing that's quite noticeable about all these guys is… they don't usually resolve the scars on their hearts. They just keep moving, never stopping for consideration (Often times they can't, afterall, there's no time to stop and think about how fucked everything you just saw and experienced was as the world's ending). So even though they work with their partners well, there are a lot of old wounds just festering in their minds. Say what you will about them having 'super minds that can just deal with shit,' with the exception of Kurama and Hiei, all of these guys began their journeys at 14, 13 for Mina. And really, even Kurama and Hiei have their baggage that wasn't fully dealt with at the end of the series. So honestly, this is like a train crash waiting to happen o_O
So throughout both series, they either change the names, or reverse the names of the places they cite, so I like doing the same :)