[ Taken...? That gives him a moment's pause as his mind tries to process the statement. Taken by whom, he wonders? It's been some time since he dated anyone, and in truth he's been happier for it. Men and women were equally fussy when it came to his lifestyle. Yet, why should he accommodate those individuals when he was so much more successful than them? When they offered him nothing but their dull, uninteresting thought and minds that were the same as everyone else's, just regurgitating what was told to them? Ah, it was such a hassle.
Hiyori blinks slowly as he tries to find what he's missing throughout all of this, yet he finds nothing. ]
Komaeda-kun, I'm not seeing anyone right now. You must be right that my emotions aren't in check, but...
[ That is true enough, too. Hiyori hated basic tasks. He was a procrastinator who would make excuses and put things off, but never would he have fits as he was here. That was his mind depending on his most basic instincts, irrational and stupid as all can be, though he's in no state to think that through clearly. Still, he can at least acknowledge the premise. He looks to Komaeda's arm, linked with his own, and then back to his face. It's so pale. He looks so sickly. So unlike anyone he's been with before.
Maybe he wouldn't have been so blunt if he were sobered up...? He can't think too hard on that, but it hardly seems to matter because - ]
I love you, Komaeda-kun... I've said it before, right?
[ With or without drugs, it doesn't matter. It's something that has remained the same. ]
Mm...? Have I forgotten them? Ah, they must not be very important, then...
[ Which is true. Drugs muddle the mind and simplify it, reducing it to those things in which were on the forefront of it already. It make a person basic and instinct and completely stupid, as he is now. But it does coincidentally ensure that only the most important things to a person remain, whatever those might be. For Hiyori Komaeda, and it was his work and his patients, and then came other miscellaneous thoughts that might come and go as they pleased.
Yet, how sad would it be to date a person whom you couldn't even remember while intoxicated? A few drinks would have the same effect, albeit he would never let himself wind up in such a state. He'd like to humiliate both of them in public now, but some more sensible brain keeps him from doing so for the moment. Hiyori instead just lens against him just a bit more for a few moments.
How can he possibly explain it...? Even now he remembers it, he's aware of it, how boring the world is. ]
I have money and status, so company is easy to come by.
[ Had he the confidence, he suspects that Komaeda could garner the same. But ah, perhaps he would be too picky for that. Hiyori asked for a person of interest, and if they couldn't be that, then attractive features would suffice. ]
I love everything about you. Your company, your thoughts, your kindness, your passion, your cute face... [ And it's here that he'll let his fingertips brush against Komaeda's cheeks. ] Everything, everything, I love everything about Komaeda-kun~ ♡
[ ... Is he sure that he wants to let him keep going on like this? ]
[ He can do anything, anything at all. That's the wonderful thing about intoxication of any kind - it lowers one inhibitions in such a way that all those social norms and stressors no longer matter. For a man like Hiyori, that effect was stronger than most due to the amount of effort he put into maintaining himself. To even hold hands in public is a big deal in a place so conservative and traditional, albeit one that was steadily defrosting, and to a person such as Hiyori who followed such things strictly. Yet here he is, at a stoplight, taking his free arm to wrap it around Komaeda and press his cheek against his head while they wait for the light to change.
He could be rejected a thousand times, and yet none still would catch his attention. The world was bland and dreary, so much so that even this terrifying risk of death was exhilarating. Dull, boring, dreary, and yet this one had caught his attention - it was predictable, standard, digestible, but there's something so lovely and incomprehensible about that singular fixation on the idea of hope. It's so pure, so raw, that he wants to see more of it... More of this thing that Komaeda lacks, that Ultimates lack, that the world lacks.
Ah, to see it start spinning once more... Even now, he thinks of some ideal world so far detached from what there is. ]
Ahahaha... That's quite the task, you know? I'm always getting scolded for shirking my duties.
[ That's probably true, too. Komaeda probably has something of an idea just based on how Harai addressed him before. Even so, he doesn't seem to object to the idea, though he seems to find enough sense to let go once people start giving looks. The word talent registers, but in a subtly different way, ]
My talent has been so misunderstood... Ahh, I've never forgotten it, Komaeda-kun...
[ And for as much as he's rejected his title, there is a hint of pride to those words - he was the Ultimate Surgeon for a reason, after all. Most needed specialize in just one form, and yet, his talent was so strong that he could work in all of them. That was consequently what allowed him to branch out so easily - to develop those hobbies, as it were. ]
[ Hiyori lets out a little sigh. He's drugged and not at all there, but he's not so dense that he can't sense a lack of enthusiasm from his partner. It's unfortunate, but he supposes it's a bit much to ask of somebody who would quantify being his lover as a sole way to make him remember his talent. Even so, his drug-addled brain tells him that even that wouldn't be so bad. There's no need to scold him, of course, because Hiyori is living his life exactly as he should. He is no longer the Ultimate Surgeon of Hope's Peak, but he was never just that. He was always so, so much more even to them. Ah, how could anyone possibly understand...?
He's broken out of his scattered, irrelevant, dull thoughts by Komaeda. Hiyori offers a shy little laugh. This person can't understand, but he doesn't mind handing a piece of himself over. He doesn't mind the efficiency he associates with that action... Nor the love that was behind it. ]
Hm... I believe you, Komaeda-kun, when you say that you'd always remind me...
[ Cars pass by as he blinks, knowing the light will change too soon, and he only has this short duration to speak. Komaeda's arm is linked with his own, and there it will stay, but his thoughts will scatter in the breeze the moment he lets himself lose focus. It's unfortunate because his idea of "what's best" no doubt differs. ]
If you wanted to, you could be my lover. I'd be happy then... But it should be what Komaeda-kun wants, not what Sou wants.
[ He'll reach up to cup his cheek just briefly, just long enough for another humilating display of PDA that would no doubt kill his soul normally by kissing his temple. Why did he give his ID? Why had he chosen that? It was a logical action; he needed his kit, and yet, Namida would have fixed him regardless. He need not do it, and there was something pleasant about the idea of it being thrown out.
Why indeed... ]
Hm... Is Komaeda-kun unhappy with it...? [ Another soft laugh. ] It's because I believed Komaeda-kun would use it best... Because Komaeda-kun is the greatest ally of hope... And I felt this would have the greatest impact, greater than me simply preventing myself from bleeding out when Namida would save me regardless.
[ It's not a lie. There may have been other motivations, but... That was one. ]
She's the Ultimate Healer, yes?
[ Another rare title, reserved for one who could heal both the physical and mental injuries of anyone they encountered. A truly rare, almost miraculous gift. ]
[ It's a harsh rejection, but an expected one. Komaeda couldn't conceptualize the idea of being loved, but nor could he imagine loving anyone. His circumstances brought him misfortune, and there was no one in this world who would try to understand him. All this on top of his disease and bad luck, such factors that made it difficult for him to even hang onto a doctor. It's the opposite for Hiyori, who was always blessed with good fortune in every aspect of his life, and for whom things always seemed to somehow end with some benefit or another to him.
That seems to be the case here as well. Komaeda shoves him roughly toward the street. It hurts, and it hurts more the second time he's moving in some odd direction or another, and even this doesn't do much. He stumbles forward and wobbles backwards and winds up at least landing on his ass this time. Around the same time as he's stumbling about, an approaching car rightfully attempts to go past the traffic light only to swerve to avoid hitting a person, just in time to get t-boned by oncoming traffic, followed by a rear end job because some asshole was tailgating, and in the end Hiyori doesn't wind up with any particularly strong risk of electrocution despite the live wire that falls, hopefully hitting some other unsuspecting person that does not have any Ultimate title to add to the chaos and keep the attention squarely off the people of real importance here.
It's a noisy affair, with wires falling and the impact of metal on metal followed by tires skidding as others hit on their breaks and honking horns and concerned bystanders and me thinking about how I've seen this kind of stupid scenario before. There is now an accident right in an intersection, and some good fortune allows him to recover quickly enough to force himself up and get out of the way before anyone can recover from the shock well enough to pay mind to the person who was suddenly in the middle of the street. That hurts even moreso, and he seems to have lost his companion, but he thinks that Komaeda will either trail along.
That said while Hiyori is too dazed and out of it to react properly, and even if he did he was neither dead nor going to be bothered by the police due to his status, the mixture of pushing and falling and quick movements that his body isn't prepared for is enough that he's all the same left shaking and gasping for air, breaking out in a cold sweat as he leans against a building because even a nat 12 can't save a person from agitating an injury, especially one which had just been patched back up. His vision may or may not be blurring now. It's fine though, he just might need to find a place to sit down for a minute. ]
[ Hiyori shivers when he feels Komaeda's hand on his cheek, vision blurring in and out of focus. It's difficult to understand the words being spoke to him, even though he's certain that he should be able to. But he realizes that he's being praised, and that Komaeda is safe, and those two things seem to be toughen. The kiss on his forehead seems to cause him to shiver again, or perhaps that's just the fact that he can't stop shaking? He does regain enough focus to listen to the rest, those comforting words that ease his heart and mind alike. ]
... My... Talent...?
[ He mumbles those words as he watches the other start to turn as he realization slowly dawns upon him. He coughs several times, and each time he feels another sharp pain in his back. Had his talent protected him? There's a few seconds in which he accepts the premise that it had, and that such a thing was enough to keep him from being electrocuted to death or smashed into by a car or simply to severely injure himself on the way down. There really were any number of ways that he could have ended today, all in just the span of a few seconds.
There's sirens now. It'll be bad if he's caught like this, they'll certainly want to send him back to the hospital, and he has other plans today. So it is that Hiyori collects himself enough to move in the same direction as Komaeda, and after several moments he enters the same shop. The sounds of sirens and other activities are muffled as the door shuts behind him, and that much is a relief. He shifts out of the way of the entrance and looks around, scanning the area for his companion. ]
[ That number is quite ominous, and Hiyori suspects that he's been pinned as an easy mark. This sort of thing isn't uncommon, though. Those in sales excelled at pressuring others into unnecessary purchases. He drew attention for his presence as much as his expensive tastes, as just the watch on his wrist would doubtlessly cost more than anything here. There was no better person to test their skills on than one who was as fun to stuff into outfits as he was able to open his wallet to them without so much as blinking.
He at least has enough sense of mind to insist that he's merely looking for someone and to apologize for wasting their time and so on and so forth, despite the insistence of while he's here (because in truth, he would rather not agitate the injury and further,) while promising to come back when he has more time because everything here looks lovely... Really, he seems to go on autopilot for this.
He really does have too many outfits already, and he hardly wears any of them. His work outfits were kept simple, clean, and professional after all, with seasonal items being replaced as he grew bored with them. Komaeda is lucky, as Hiyori isn't quite astute enough to notice him as he tries to find a good way to exit without being rude - all while thinking that he really should go find a bench to pass out on.
With that being said, he's not quite as capable of his usual firmness and charm even with habitual stock phrases so he's getting tugged along to the back anyway. Good to know another ambulance is going to be needed in the area within the next fifteen minutes or so. ]
[ It is normal and typical for Hiyori, who always attracts so much attention, and if only he had his normal sense of mind he would no doubt lean into it even as he offered a polite rejection. He does so even now, careful to avoid any offense as he attempts to explain that he's looking for his companion. He doesn't go as far as to call it a date after being so flatly rejected, but he was spending the day with someone.
He's loath to bring further attention to his poor condition, and so for the moment he resigns himself to being trapped as a play thing. He at least slips his jacket off, though, neatly folding it and setting it down on his lap as every inch of him is measured. He's used to it, given that many of his clothes are custom tailored, but it really is unnecessary here. If anything, this is the kind of place where he'd be happier to yank a few random items off the shelf simply to satisfy the employees.
He looks over at the sound of the bell, frowning a little upon seeing that neither of them move. How unfortunate... It seems that his prediction about someone attempting to max out his credit cards wasn't terribly far off. This is why he hadn't wanted to wander out alone. Hiyori does lift his hand, though, shaking his head and waving it with an embarrassed little laugh. ]
Oh, I'm afraid already married to my work...
[ Normally at this point, he would explain that he was a doctor, and make up some excuse about needing to go into the office (which was rarely a lie, there was always work,) but that's impossible while he's dressed like this and speaking of searching for somebody... Damnit. He's never wearing casual attire again. Hm, but maybe... ]
I was actually meeting up with a couple coworkers, you see, so I really can't afford to keep them waiting... But I can certainly recommend this place to them.
[ To his credit, Hiyori does make a point of inserting the information into his phone. He's not sure if Harai or Namida would be interested, but he does know others who would be interested in a quaint little spot such as this. Aside from that, despite his initial thoughts they did seem to be quite charming, and it never hurts to do little favors like that for others. He gives his home information easily enough, smiles and thanks them for their assistance and promises to return before being let go.
He had caught sight of what was going on, and his drug-addled brain was able to pull up the nearly useless information that the aforementioned spot is empty even as it refuses to let him remember which direction he would need to walk in to get back to his apartment or when he last took his medication, or what he was doing after this for that matter. Those important details have been discarded in favor of recording the conversation the two outside the room are having... Hm, how unsavory.
The idea of crawling under a bench is becoming increasingly tempting, but he fixes his smile and walks toward the pair instead. ]
Were you almost...
[ Hiyori stops suddenly as he looks between the two, blinking several times. It takes his cloudy mind a bit to process it, but he's certain that he's met this person before. It was the kind of awkward person who always approached others who were way out of their league in hopes that they would see past what worthless trash they were. It was the kind of person who would trail an easy mark, and it was the kind of person who would stand outside a person's job in hopes of catching them on their way out. But who would want to waste their time on trash like this?
His coworkers really did have more patience for the dregs of society than Hiyori. His face brightens. ]
Oh my! Well, isn't this a pleasant surprise? How good to see you again! I was worried I'd offended you... A coffee shop, hm? Might I accompany you? Oh, but we really must step outside if we're not buying, hm? It won't do to loiter.
[ He makes a point of bumping against the stranger as he steps past, offering a sheepish smile and clasping his hands together with a word of apology, and he can see that this method is effective enough.
Ah, if only this were his clinic once more, he would be able to work on his talent as promised... How unlucky. ]
[ Rejected, hm? Perhaps it was a mistake to think that he could be of interest to such lowly trash, who could only busy themselves with those they mistook as being even worse than them. Hiyori knows better, of course, and he's quite protective of his toys. The clinic, his patients, Komaeda - they were all his to do as he pleased with, and he wouldn't allow anyone else to play with them. The very thought that this person might be running about on his playground makes him wish he'd acted the first time he saw him tainting it.
Hiyori is remiss to cause further problems for the owners of the establishment, but he dares to wrap an arm around Komaeda's waist and pull him a little closer in response to those words. He looks down at him with an apologetic smile that begs him to give just a moment more. Unlike their unsavory company, Komaeda is quite cute and charming, and Hiyori has the confidence needed to show affection so openly. He nods once, as though this were all according to plan. ]
Isn't that perfect? This is my date, you see... Ah, I've been causing him trouble, though, and I'm sure I'd only trouble you as well.
[ Another nervous, embarrassed little laugh, and he allows his words to begin to slur once more as he goes on. It's not very difficult when it's only by minimizing the amount spoken that he's had any level of success in doing so. ]
I injured my back, you see, and so I've been in quite the state... It's my fault that he's so shaken up now.
[ He blinks, and the smile fades briefly as he seems to give serious consideration to that fact. It's not wrong, though it's not quite right either. He gives Komaeda's hip a gentle squeeze before he unwraps his arm, reaching to take his hand instead. It's a natural movement, ]
No matter, another time!
[ It doesn't particularly matter to him if this person knows his condition. In truth, he's just interested to see how it'll end. This is a natural born coward, but it's clear they had ill intentions with his companion. Would they be interested in somebody who might be missed? Who was so vulnerable? How amusing, to be afraid of a cripple. He doesn't concern himself with it as he starts slowly walking to the exit, gingerly tugging Komaeda with him. Having now decided the entire flow of the conversation, he has apparently concluded it because he's now addressing Komaeda alone, ]
Oh, Komaeda-kun, have you tried Ethiopian Yirgacheffe coffee? There's a blend that Harai-san is quite fond of that I'm sure you'd love! I'll treat you~ ♪
[ Hiyori shifts to taking Komaeda's arm, leaning on him a little to support himself as he tilts his head to look at the article. Komaeda is cute when he blushes, he thinks, and he doesn't regret his choice. It was a bit forward to call it a date, but he prefers to think of it as such. It was useful in this case as well. It would draw a clear line, and it would draw a stark contrast between himself and the other individual in the equation. Hiyori could garner the attention of the unloved and unwanted as easily as anyone, and he could steal them away at a moment's notice.
He listens for the sound of the door opening, and when it doesn't his smile grows warmer and more genuine. That was a problem that could be dealt with later, and he does regret letting his inclinations get the best of him when he'd already promised this day to Komaeda, and he points at the paper. ]
They have a lovely little coffee stand at the aquarium. They have some biscuits that you might like with it. They're pretty bland, so they absorb the flavor of the coffee quite nicely...
[ Hiyori does glance over his shoulder just once. He decides to remain aware out of an overabundance of caution, but he does offer a small laugh now. ]
But you're right, the only person I want to spend time with today is you, Komaeda-kun... It was just a little test. I wanted to see if they'd notice that I was giving them a chance.
[ It was to test their feelings on him, but it was also to see if that person was smart enough to realize what a precarious situation that simply being noticed by a man like Sou Hiyori should put them in. Would he be smart enough to try and protect himself, or would those cowardly instincts win out? In the end, it seems that they were too dense to even try and play the game.
He glances to the article regarding teenagers disappearing. He doesn't need his full capacity to understand what had been happening. He's not being intentionally ominous, it's more that he assumes that Komaeda can figure out why Hiyori would be slightly miffed about somebody at his clinic failing to meet his expectations, or otherwise causing trouble. That would reflect on him, after all. ]
I don't care for people who don't put their full effort into reaching their goals. I find it insulting to know there's somebody like that loitering at the clinic.
[ Hiyori pulls out his phone, skimming through his contact list until he finds the name that he's looking for. He's not ignoring Komaeda, his eyes flicking between him as the phone as he writes a short message to his police contact, but with his mind only working at half capacity he decides it best to ensure that the matter will be handled. It has the added bonus of drawing attention if something should happen.
He's just replacing his phone when the car pulls up. My, my, had he been mistake then? Even so, this effort is no more impressive than his initial one. He looks to Komaeda briefly, weighing his options. At this point, it's just a nuisance to see the mistake corrected for. His attention had already shifted back to the matter of seeing cute fish and holding baby penguins, but he supposes it'll wind up being a nuisance if the issue isn't handled now.
Hiyori notes the model and color of the car, though he hadn't caught the license plate number. He laughs softly. ]
Not at all. I can handle having you on top of me...
[ He pinches a lock of Komaeda's hair between his fingers, letting them slide down it without pulling. The idea seems to distract him for a moment before he blinks, remembering himself. ]
Oh, we were just headed to the aquarium... I did take quite the tumble before, but I couldn't possibly trouble you any further.
[ Hiyori works his way through the humble refusals, and he'll wait for the repetition of the offer that's necessary in order for the offer to be accepted. ]
If you're so kindly offering, I can't possibly refuse.
[ Just as it was only polite to not immediately accept, it would be rude to continue to refuse, and he'll be willing enough to enter the car - for now, playing the part of the esteemed and beloved doctor who was all too used to such favors, and half-out of it due to pain and drugs. Though he supposes the latter is true enough. How annoying... He would have to make up for all these little detours later. ]
[ It's hard to miss the tired, uncomfortable look on Hiyori's face. It's already been a long day, but he's certain once they finally reach their destination he'll be energized. He might take a second dose at that point, sacrificing a little bit of functionality for the sake of not being in so much pain. That's not an option right now, though, as he'd like to hang onto as much of his clarity as he can.
The circumstances aside, having Komaeda close like this is nice. It's a fun little reprieve that he knows will be soon broken. He's even able to close his eyes as Komaeda plays with his rattail and he thinks about what they might be able to do. The jellyfish, and turtles, and feeding the stingrays... He thinks once more that they would both like that. There were the various fish tanks, too, all of which had unique creatures swimming about. ]
I love you too, Komaeda-kun. We should start at the coral reefs... We can make our way down to to the polar exhibits.
[ Hiyori reaches up to touch his face and leans forward to kiss he tip of his nose. They won't have time for the beluga encounter, he doesn't think, but perhaps they could do that next time. That's another one that might be fun. He starts to pull away, stroking his cheek. ]
It's alright, anything we don't see tod--
[ He's abruptly cut off by the car slamming to a halt, and his arms instinctively move around Komaeda to keep him from falling back even as Hiyori jerks forward into his chest. There's a sharp cry, followed by a pained gasp, both of which no doubt confirm his current condition. His body trembles, and it takes him a moment to properly pull himself back. He doesn't comment on the matter, though the pain is evident in his voice now. ]
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no subject
Hiyori blinks slowly as he tries to find what he's missing throughout all of this, yet he finds nothing. ]
Komaeda-kun, I'm not seeing anyone right now. You must be right that my emotions aren't in check, but...
[ That is true enough, too. Hiyori hated basic tasks. He was a procrastinator who would make excuses and put things off, but never would he have fits as he was here. That was his mind depending on his most basic instincts, irrational and stupid as all can be, though he's in no state to think that through clearly. Still, he can at least acknowledge the premise. He looks to Komaeda's arm, linked with his own, and then back to his face. It's so pale. He looks so sickly. So unlike anyone he's been with before.
Maybe he wouldn't have been so blunt if he were sobered up...? He can't think too hard on that, but it hardly seems to matter because - ]
I love you, Komaeda-kun... I've said it before, right?
[ With or without drugs, it doesn't matter. It's something that has remained the same. ]
no subject
[ Which is true. Drugs muddle the mind and simplify it, reducing it to those things in which were on the forefront of it already. It make a person basic and instinct and completely stupid, as he is now. But it does coincidentally ensure that only the most important things to a person remain, whatever those might be. For Hiyori Komaeda, and it was his work and his patients, and then came other miscellaneous thoughts that might come and go as they pleased.
Yet, how sad would it be to date a person whom you couldn't even remember while intoxicated? A few drinks would have the same effect, albeit he would never let himself wind up in such a state. He'd like to humiliate both of them in public now, but some more sensible brain keeps him from doing so for the moment. Hiyori instead just lens against him just a bit more for a few moments.
How can he possibly explain it...? Even now he remembers it, he's aware of it, how boring the world is. ]
I have money and status, so company is easy to come by.
[ Had he the confidence, he suspects that Komaeda could garner the same. But ah, perhaps he would be too picky for that. Hiyori asked for a person of interest, and if they couldn't be that, then attractive features would suffice. ]
I love everything about you. Your company, your thoughts, your kindness, your passion, your cute face... [ And it's here that he'll let his fingertips brush against Komaeda's cheeks. ] Everything, everything, I love everything about Komaeda-kun~ ♡
[ ... Is he sure that he wants to let him keep going on like this? ]
no subject
He could be rejected a thousand times, and yet none still would catch his attention. The world was bland and dreary, so much so that even this terrifying risk of death was exhilarating. Dull, boring, dreary, and yet this one had caught his attention - it was predictable, standard, digestible, but there's something so lovely and incomprehensible about that singular fixation on the idea of hope. It's so pure, so raw, that he wants to see more of it... More of this thing that Komaeda lacks, that Ultimates lack, that the world lacks.
Ah, to see it start spinning once more... Even now, he thinks of some ideal world so far detached from what there is. ]
Ahahaha... That's quite the task, you know? I'm always getting scolded for shirking my duties.
[ That's probably true, too. Komaeda probably has something of an idea just based on how Harai addressed him before. Even so, he doesn't seem to object to the idea, though he seems to find enough sense to let go once people start giving looks. The word talent registers, but in a subtly different way, ]
My talent has been so misunderstood... Ahh, I've never forgotten it, Komaeda-kun...
[ And for as much as he's rejected his title, there is a hint of pride to those words - he was the Ultimate Surgeon for a reason, after all. Most needed specialize in just one form, and yet, his talent was so strong that he could work in all of them. That was consequently what allowed him to branch out so easily - to develop those hobbies, as it were. ]
no subject
He's broken out of his scattered, irrelevant, dull thoughts by Komaeda. Hiyori offers a shy little laugh. This person can't understand, but he doesn't mind handing a piece of himself over. He doesn't mind the efficiency he associates with that action... Nor the love that was behind it. ]
Hm... I believe you, Komaeda-kun, when you say that you'd always remind me...
[ Cars pass by as he blinks, knowing the light will change too soon, and he only has this short duration to speak. Komaeda's arm is linked with his own, and there it will stay, but his thoughts will scatter in the breeze the moment he lets himself lose focus. It's unfortunate because his idea of "what's best" no doubt differs. ]
If you wanted to, you could be my lover. I'd be happy then... But it should be what Komaeda-kun wants, not what Sou wants.
[ He'll reach up to cup his cheek just briefly, just long enough for another humilating display of PDA that would no doubt kill his soul normally by kissing his temple. Why did he give his ID? Why had he chosen that? It was a logical action; he needed his kit, and yet, Namida would have fixed him regardless. He need not do it, and there was something pleasant about the idea of it being thrown out.
Why indeed... ]
Hm... Is Komaeda-kun unhappy with it...? [ Another soft laugh. ] It's because I believed Komaeda-kun would use it best... Because Komaeda-kun is the greatest ally of hope... And I felt this would have the greatest impact, greater than me simply preventing myself from bleeding out when Namida would save me regardless.
[ It's not a lie. There may have been other motivations, but... That was one. ]
She's the Ultimate Healer, yes?
[ Another rare title, reserved for one who could heal both the physical and mental injuries of anyone they encountered. A truly rare, almost miraculous gift. ]
no subject
[ It's a harsh rejection, but an expected one. Komaeda couldn't conceptualize the idea of being loved, but nor could he imagine loving anyone. His circumstances brought him misfortune, and there was no one in this world who would try to understand him. All this on top of his disease and bad luck, such factors that made it difficult for him to even hang onto a doctor. It's the opposite for Hiyori, who was always blessed with good fortune in every aspect of his life, and for whom things always seemed to somehow end with some benefit or another to him.
That seems to be the case here as well. Komaeda shoves him roughly toward the street. It hurts, and it hurts more the second time he's moving in some odd direction or another, and even this doesn't do much. He stumbles forward and wobbles backwards and winds up at least landing on his ass this time. Around the same time as he's stumbling about, an approaching car rightfully attempts to go past the traffic light only to swerve to avoid hitting a person, just in time to get t-boned by oncoming traffic, followed by a rear end job because some asshole was tailgating, and in the end Hiyori doesn't wind up with any particularly strong risk of electrocution despite the live wire that falls, hopefully hitting some other unsuspecting person that does not have any Ultimate title to add to the chaos and keep the attention squarely off the people of real importance here.
It's a noisy affair, with wires falling and the impact of metal on metal followed by tires skidding as others hit on their breaks and honking horns and concerned bystanders and me thinking about how I've seen this kind of stupid scenario before. There is now an accident right in an intersection, and some good fortune allows him to recover quickly enough to force himself up and get out of the way before anyone can recover from the shock well enough to pay mind to the person who was suddenly in the middle of the street. That hurts even moreso, and he seems to have lost his companion, but he thinks that Komaeda will either trail along.
That said while Hiyori is too dazed and out of it to react properly, and even if he did he was neither dead nor going to be bothered by the police due to his status, the mixture of pushing and falling and quick movements that his body isn't prepared for is enough that he's all the same left shaking and gasping for air, breaking out in a cold sweat as he leans against a building because even a nat 12 can't save a person from agitating an injury, especially one which had just been patched back up. His vision may or may not be blurring now. It's fine though, he just might need to find a place to sit down for a minute. ]
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... My... Talent...?
[ He mumbles those words as he watches the other start to turn as he realization slowly dawns upon him. He coughs several times, and each time he feels another sharp pain in his back. Had his talent protected him? There's a few seconds in which he accepts the premise that it had, and that such a thing was enough to keep him from being electrocuted to death or smashed into by a car or simply to severely injure himself on the way down. There really were any number of ways that he could have ended today, all in just the span of a few seconds.
There's sirens now. It'll be bad if he's caught like this, they'll certainly want to send him back to the hospital, and he has other plans today. So it is that Hiyori collects himself enough to move in the same direction as Komaeda, and after several moments he enters the same shop. The sounds of sirens and other activities are muffled as the door shuts behind him, and that much is a relief. He shifts out of the way of the entrance and looks around, scanning the area for his companion. ]
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He at least has enough sense of mind to insist that he's merely looking for someone and to apologize for wasting their time and so on and so forth, despite the insistence of while he's here (because in truth, he would rather not agitate the injury and further,) while promising to come back when he has more time because everything here looks lovely... Really, he seems to go on autopilot for this.
He really does have too many outfits already, and he hardly wears any of them. His work outfits were kept simple, clean, and professional after all, with seasonal items being replaced as he grew bored with them. Komaeda is lucky, as Hiyori isn't quite astute enough to notice him as he tries to find a good way to exit without being rude - all while thinking that he really should go find a bench to pass out on.
With that being said, he's not quite as capable of his usual firmness and charm even with habitual stock phrases so he's getting tugged along to the back anyway. Good to know another ambulance is going to be needed in the area within the next fifteen minutes or so. ]
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He's loath to bring further attention to his poor condition, and so for the moment he resigns himself to being trapped as a play thing. He at least slips his jacket off, though, neatly folding it and setting it down on his lap as every inch of him is measured. He's used to it, given that many of his clothes are custom tailored, but it really is unnecessary here. If anything, this is the kind of place where he'd be happier to yank a few random items off the shelf simply to satisfy the employees.
He looks over at the sound of the bell, frowning a little upon seeing that neither of them move. How unfortunate... It seems that his prediction about someone attempting to max out his credit cards wasn't terribly far off. This is why he hadn't wanted to wander out alone. Hiyori does lift his hand, though, shaking his head and waving it with an embarrassed little laugh. ]
Oh, I'm afraid already married to my work...
[ Normally at this point, he would explain that he was a doctor, and make up some excuse about needing to go into the office (which was rarely a lie, there was always work,) but that's impossible while he's dressed like this and speaking of searching for somebody... Damnit. He's never wearing casual attire again. Hm, but maybe... ]
I was actually meeting up with a couple coworkers, you see, so I really can't afford to keep them waiting... But I can certainly recommend this place to them.
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He had caught sight of what was going on, and his drug-addled brain was able to pull up the nearly useless information that the aforementioned spot is empty even as it refuses to let him remember which direction he would need to walk in to get back to his apartment or when he last took his medication, or what he was doing after this for that matter. Those important details have been discarded in favor of recording the conversation the two outside the room are having... Hm, how unsavory.
The idea of crawling under a bench is becoming increasingly tempting, but he fixes his smile and walks toward the pair instead. ]
Were you almost...
[ Hiyori stops suddenly as he looks between the two, blinking several times. It takes his cloudy mind a bit to process it, but he's certain that he's met this person before. It was the kind of awkward person who always approached others who were way out of their league in hopes that they would see past what worthless trash they were. It was the kind of person who would trail an easy mark, and it was the kind of person who would stand outside a person's job in hopes of catching them on their way out. But who would want to waste their time on trash like this?
His coworkers really did have more patience for the dregs of society than Hiyori. His face brightens. ]
Oh my! Well, isn't this a pleasant surprise? How good to see you again! I was worried I'd offended you... A coffee shop, hm? Might I accompany you? Oh, but we really must step outside if we're not buying, hm? It won't do to loiter.
[ He makes a point of bumping against the stranger as he steps past, offering a sheepish smile and clasping his hands together with a word of apology, and he can see that this method is effective enough.
Ah, if only this were his clinic once more, he would be able to work on his talent as promised... How unlucky. ]
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Hiyori is remiss to cause further problems for the owners of the establishment, but he dares to wrap an arm around Komaeda's waist and pull him a little closer in response to those words. He looks down at him with an apologetic smile that begs him to give just a moment more. Unlike their unsavory company, Komaeda is quite cute and charming, and Hiyori has the confidence needed to show affection so openly. He nods once, as though this were all according to plan. ]
Isn't that perfect? This is my date, you see... Ah, I've been causing him trouble, though, and I'm sure I'd only trouble you as well.
[ Another nervous, embarrassed little laugh, and he allows his words to begin to slur once more as he goes on. It's not very difficult when it's only by minimizing the amount spoken that he's had any level of success in doing so. ]
I injured my back, you see, and so I've been in quite the state... It's my fault that he's so shaken up now.
[ He blinks, and the smile fades briefly as he seems to give serious consideration to that fact. It's not wrong, though it's not quite right either. He gives Komaeda's hip a gentle squeeze before he unwraps his arm, reaching to take his hand instead. It's a natural movement, ]
No matter, another time!
[ It doesn't particularly matter to him if this person knows his condition. In truth, he's just interested to see how it'll end. This is a natural born coward, but it's clear they had ill intentions with his companion. Would they be interested in somebody who might be missed? Who was so vulnerable? How amusing, to be afraid of a cripple. He doesn't concern himself with it as he starts slowly walking to the exit, gingerly tugging Komaeda with him. Having now decided the entire flow of the conversation, he has apparently concluded it because he's now addressing Komaeda alone, ]
Oh, Komaeda-kun, have you tried Ethiopian Yirgacheffe coffee? There's a blend that Harai-san is quite fond of that I'm sure you'd love! I'll treat you~ ♪
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He listens for the sound of the door opening, and when it doesn't his smile grows warmer and more genuine. That was a problem that could be dealt with later, and he does regret letting his inclinations get the best of him when he'd already promised this day to Komaeda, and he points at the paper. ]
They have a lovely little coffee stand at the aquarium. They have some biscuits that you might like with it. They're pretty bland, so they absorb the flavor of the coffee quite nicely...
[ Hiyori does glance over his shoulder just once. He decides to remain aware out of an overabundance of caution, but he does offer a small laugh now. ]
But you're right, the only person I want to spend time with today is you, Komaeda-kun... It was just a little test. I wanted to see if they'd notice that I was giving them a chance.
[ It was to test their feelings on him, but it was also to see if that person was smart enough to realize what a precarious situation that simply being noticed by a man like Sou Hiyori should put them in. Would he be smart enough to try and protect himself, or would those cowardly instincts win out? In the end, it seems that they were too dense to even try and play the game.
He glances to the article regarding teenagers disappearing. He doesn't need his full capacity to understand what had been happening. He's not being intentionally ominous, it's more that he assumes that Komaeda can figure out why Hiyori would be slightly miffed about somebody at his clinic failing to meet his expectations, or otherwise causing trouble. That would reflect on him, after all. ]
I don't care for people who don't put their full effort into reaching their goals. I find it insulting to know there's somebody like that loitering at the clinic.
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He's just replacing his phone when the car pulls up. My, my, had he been mistake then? Even so, this effort is no more impressive than his initial one. He looks to Komaeda briefly, weighing his options. At this point, it's just a nuisance to see the mistake corrected for. His attention had already shifted back to the matter of seeing cute fish and holding baby penguins, but he supposes it'll wind up being a nuisance if the issue isn't handled now.
Hiyori notes the model and color of the car, though he hadn't caught the license plate number. He laughs softly. ]
Not at all. I can handle having you on top of me...
[ He pinches a lock of Komaeda's hair between his fingers, letting them slide down it without pulling. The idea seems to distract him for a moment before he blinks, remembering himself. ]
Oh, we were just headed to the aquarium... I did take quite the tumble before, but I couldn't possibly trouble you any further.
[ Hiyori works his way through the humble refusals, and he'll wait for the repetition of the offer that's necessary in order for the offer to be accepted. ]
If you're so kindly offering, I can't possibly refuse.
[ Just as it was only polite to not immediately accept, it would be rude to continue to refuse, and he'll be willing enough to enter the car - for now, playing the part of the esteemed and beloved doctor who was all too used to such favors, and half-out of it due to pain and drugs. Though he supposes the latter is true enough. How annoying... He would have to make up for all these little detours later. ]
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The circumstances aside, having Komaeda close like this is nice. It's a fun little reprieve that he knows will be soon broken. He's even able to close his eyes as Komaeda plays with his rattail and he thinks about what they might be able to do. The jellyfish, and turtles, and feeding the stingrays... He thinks once more that they would both like that. There were the various fish tanks, too, all of which had unique creatures swimming about. ]
I love you too, Komaeda-kun. We should start at the coral reefs... We can make our way down to to the polar exhibits.
[ Hiyori reaches up to touch his face and leans forward to kiss he tip of his nose. They won't have time for the beluga encounter, he doesn't think, but perhaps they could do that next time. That's another one that might be fun. He starts to pull away, stroking his cheek. ]
It's alright, anything we don't see tod--
[ He's abruptly cut off by the car slamming to a halt, and his arms instinctively move around Komaeda to keep him from falling back even as Hiyori jerks forward into his chest. There's a sharp cry, followed by a pained gasp, both of which no doubt confirm his current condition. His body trembles, and it takes him a moment to properly pull himself back. He doesn't comment on the matter, though the pain is evident in his voice now. ]
... Are you alright?
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i rolled a 7 on intellect i'm crying
HE'S SO STUPID RN but he got a 17 in perception so i guess his ears and eyes work just not his brain
HIS NEW CATS GOOD GOOD
MEEE i'm thinking of cute names rn
they're perfect for him... why do i keep rolling 17s, i was doing it for speed he's CRIPPLED DICE
IT'S HIS NOW, HE'S TAKING EVERYTHING AS COMPENSATION
??? HE'S JUST BORROWING THEM FOR A LITTLE WHILE?
IT'S FINE HE'S JUST GONNA HURT AND THEN HEAL IN THAT ORDER
? he's healing komaeda's faith in ultimate surgeon raising project
he's going to be the ideal ultimate by time he's done (but not now)
help not him only getting laid for using his talent he hates that
BECAUSE HE DOESN'T WANNA JUST GET LAID AS THE ULTIMATE SURGEON
EXCUSE YOU? THAT IS NOT ALL HE IS????
sou hiyori, keeper of 20 different titles
STOP HE DOESN'T WANNA GIVE UP HIS OTHER TITLES
crying the way he has to only be the ultimate surgeon now
the way that he can't even keep his name i'm crying
STOPPPPP can't he at least have his name if he attaches it back to his title
RUDE he's never acknowledging his ultimate status again