[ 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. ]
[ There's a small word of protest, but it shifts to a quiet agreement after a moment, and he takes the pill as directed. Komaeda abandons him, and Hiyori supposes that he must be just as unhappy about their present situation. He tucks the pills away his pocket, and that hand presently slips into the pocket of his jacket. He chuckles in response to the warning, finding that to be the first bit of pleasantry that he's experienced so far. ]
You flatter me. I'm just a simple doctor... But I wouldn't be a very good one if I had no interest in people.
[ He laughs softly. Whether he was slipping into the role of a physician, a psychiatrist, a surgeon, or anything else, he was ever just a humble doctor. He would never deny his skills, but it was far too embarrassing to be referred to as though he should be of some particular interest to a stranger. He withholds his thoughts for the moment, not wanting to make a scene, though Hiyori finds himself puzzled when Komaeda chooses to stop. He thinks at first to follow, and he does in fact try. His hand tugs at the handle a few times, and there's a noisy click each time, but it seems that the child locks are set. How troublesome.
He almost tries the other side, but it would look as though he were panicking if he did so. He lets out a small sigh instead, hand remaining in his pocket. With his means of escape cut off, there's not much he can do save waiting. That's alright, Hiyori can handle himself just as well. But he finds himself trying the door a couple more times all the same. It's odd, after all - there was no reason to have those locks set unless one had small children.
He speaks as he does so, keeping his voice level and without a hint of concern, ]
I suppose you wouldn't have heard. I've decided to take some time off to sharpen my skills, and so my patients have all been transferred to my coworkers.
[ It goes without saying that while unethical, there was no practical reason that he couldn't do anything at all with a former patient. ]
[ Hiyori takes the bottle with a word of earnest thanks and a word about how difficult it was to swallow pills dry, making a point of popping off the cap and faking a sip. It's a habit, because Hiyori would never trust anything that was so casually given to him - much less such a sketchy fellow, one who had caused his patients so much trouble. As he thought, this person is afraid of him. He must hate him, must find him despicable, must be jealous of each and every single thing that he has... The very thought of such resentment makes his heart race in a way nothing else can.
This person can only appreciate those who are close to death, then? It's quite boring, he thinks; a person should be willing to smash and crush and kill each and every single person who stands in their way. Yet, that smile remains on his face, that warm tone that suggests everything is fine. It was nothing more than one of the facets of being a doctor. One had to be able to remain calm and collected in any situation. ]
Not at all. He's a very warm person who's reignited my passion, and so he's more precious to me than any other.
[ He laughs softly, seeming amused by the prospect of the boy being eye candy. What trash. he continues this line of thought, not missing the opportunity to shift the conversation, ]
But all of my former patients are precious to me. I would be devastated if anything was to happen to even one of them in my absence.
[ There's another soft laugh and he shakes his head. Perhaps he's suddenly aware of how awkward the point of conversation is, or perhaps it's just the understanding that he's rambling due to his drug-induced state, but either way he makes a show of being embarrassed. ]
Ah, I apologize.... I really am married to my work, to be discussing it even now. But some of them are quite young, and the news these days is quite frightening, don't you think?
[ Quite young, he says, despite being in his early twenties and already more successful than most can ever hope to be. But ah, all of this is just the ramblings of a drug-addled man regardless. ]
Edited (FORMER patients that's what i came here to fix.....) 2021-12-27 08:37 (UTC)
[ Hmm... How much does he want to say here? Hiyori doesn't talk about Hope's Peak often, but it seems as though anything he says here will prove to be of little consequence when he's already made up his mind on how this should end. He glances over his shoulder at the cushioning behind him, twisting slightly to better inspect it. He loves those who are broken and helpless, he loves to take people apart and he loves to piece them back together, but he hates those who have neither love nor passion. Worthless creatures who dare to look down on those who put forth effort.
Those who were broken were meant to be fixed, those who were fixed were meant to be broken, but those who could fit into neither category were rotten limbs that needed to be cut off. Most of all those in his profession, which was the most important of any of them. So it is that he's willing to disclose a little more than usual here, just for fun, ]
Yes, he is. I went there myself, you know. Let's see now, I was the Ultimate Surgeon back then...
[ He chuckles, as though recalling a pleasant memory. By all appearances, that nostalgia is enough to keep him distracted from the oddity of the flow of conversation. Hiyori catches himself soon enough though, shaking his head. His smile brightens a little, awareness glinting in his eyes. ]
Oh, but we truly should have connected sooner! My former patients have already been set up with the best; however, I'm always looking for worthwhile peers that I can refer others to, as I only take on certain patients. The amount of third-rate doctors obsessed with trivial things like profit and status while their patients suffer for their incompetence makes me sick.
[ There's a faint note of disgust here, the first hint of anything other than pleasantry that he's shown before. He wasn't above taking on patients if offered enough money, but the thought of fixating on that makes him want to throw up. The feeling passes quickly, and his excitement returns as he claps his hands together - after all, he's just so certain this person won't disappoint him. ]
Now then, tell me, what skin condition do you think he has? You should be able to tell his condition at a glance with an easy case like this, yes?
[ Is there the faintest hint of condescension to that question...? Of course not, he's as pleasant as ever, leaning forward a little as he waits with interest to hear the answer. ]
[ It's a sound that's neither approving nor disapproving, a neutral acknowledgment of the guesses given. In the same way, he offers no hints as to whether or not any of them might be correct. It would be wasteful when the point of this exercise was to hear his thoughts on the matter without having a more experienced doctor correct them. Besides, he can't go around discussing his former cases. But he nods in acknowledgment. ]
I'm quite selective about which patients I take, [ He repeats, ] Because I only take on the most difficult cases. My patients are always grateful to me for being the only one who can cure them.
[ It's not a judgment nor a response to his prior statement, of course, it's a simple statement of fact. He takes pride in his work. Hiyori loves that he can heal people, that he can watch their lives unfold. He loves curing the sick, who can finally achieve all their dreams and do all of those things that their disease cut them off from. It's far more interesting to watch than a person who had never struggled.
He likes breaking things, and he likes fixing them. It's the joy of being a surgeon. How unfortunate that Komaeda wouldn't accept treatment. What would he be like? What would his life hold then? Hiyori would like to see it, just as much as he'd like to see how beautifully the man before him might break. I was a bit wasteful, but it was always amusing to see how those pitifully grasping at some semblance of control reacted to realizing just how powerless they were. ]
So, there's no need for that. I've already created a plan of care, and I've set them up with my most trusted peers. There's no need for you to worry.
[ He laughs softly. His voice is as light as ever, but there's a coolness hidden beneath that, something that borders on offense. The man should be so lucky not to see that piercing gaze that tells him not to even think about putting them on the same level when this hack job couldn't even come up with a single diagnosis, nor gain a word of thanks, nor even hide a single thing from a man he'd just met.
Ah, but it's all just the ramblings and the vacant gaze of a man on drugs, and anything else would just be his imagination anyway. ]
I only wish I could offer you the same. If I weren't on leave, I'd be happy to offer you a proper physical exam. I don't do so often, but you've been so kind to Komaeda-kun and I, and disease can spread so easily if it's left undetected. You needn't worry though, even if I found something, I would cut the sickness right out of you.
[ Oh, but wouldn't that be all of him...? No matter, he's on leave, so it's nothing more than an attempt to match his kindness anyway. It's just a small bit of humor from the Ultimate Surgeon - he does so love connecting with his patients, after all. ]
Edited (SORRY i hit enter on that eddit too sooooon) 2021-12-27 22:41 (UTC)
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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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You flatter me. I'm just a simple doctor... But I wouldn't be a very good one if I had no interest in people.
[ He laughs softly. Whether he was slipping into the role of a physician, a psychiatrist, a surgeon, or anything else, he was ever just a humble doctor. He would never deny his skills, but it was far too embarrassing to be referred to as though he should be of some particular interest to a stranger. He withholds his thoughts for the moment, not wanting to make a scene, though Hiyori finds himself puzzled when Komaeda chooses to stop. He thinks at first to follow, and he does in fact try. His hand tugs at the handle a few times, and there's a noisy click each time, but it seems that the child locks are set. How troublesome.
He almost tries the other side, but it would look as though he were panicking if he did so. He lets out a small sigh instead, hand remaining in his pocket. With his means of escape cut off, there's not much he can do save waiting. That's alright, Hiyori can handle himself just as well. But he finds himself trying the door a couple more times all the same. It's odd, after all - there was no reason to have those locks set unless one had small children.
He speaks as he does so, keeping his voice level and without a hint of concern, ]
I suppose you wouldn't have heard. I've decided to take some time off to sharpen my skills, and so my patients have all been transferred to my coworkers.
[ It goes without saying that while unethical, there was no practical reason that he couldn't do anything at all with a former patient. ]
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This person can only appreciate those who are close to death, then? It's quite boring, he thinks; a person should be willing to smash and crush and kill each and every single person who stands in their way. Yet, that smile remains on his face, that warm tone that suggests everything is fine. It was nothing more than one of the facets of being a doctor. One had to be able to remain calm and collected in any situation. ]
Not at all. He's a very warm person who's reignited my passion, and so he's more precious to me than any other.
[ He laughs softly, seeming amused by the prospect of the boy being eye candy. What trash. he continues this line of thought, not missing the opportunity to shift the conversation, ]
But all of my former patients are precious to me. I would be devastated if anything was to happen to even one of them in my absence.
[ There's another soft laugh and he shakes his head. Perhaps he's suddenly aware of how awkward the point of conversation is, or perhaps it's just the understanding that he's rambling due to his drug-induced state, but either way he makes a show of being embarrassed. ]
Ah, I apologize.... I really am married to my work, to be discussing it even now. But some of them are quite young, and the news these days is quite frightening, don't you think?
[ Quite young, he says, despite being in his early twenties and already more successful than most can ever hope to be. But ah, all of this is just the ramblings of a drug-addled man regardless. ]
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Those who were broken were meant to be fixed, those who were fixed were meant to be broken, but those who could fit into neither category were rotten limbs that needed to be cut off. Most of all those in his profession, which was the most important of any of them. So it is that he's willing to disclose a little more than usual here, just for fun, ]
Yes, he is. I went there myself, you know. Let's see now, I was the Ultimate Surgeon back then...
[ He chuckles, as though recalling a pleasant memory. By all appearances, that nostalgia is enough to keep him distracted from the oddity of the flow of conversation. Hiyori catches himself soon enough though, shaking his head. His smile brightens a little, awareness glinting in his eyes. ]
Oh, but we truly should have connected sooner! My former patients have already been set up with the best; however, I'm always looking for worthwhile peers that I can refer others to, as I only take on certain patients. The amount of third-rate doctors obsessed with trivial things like profit and status while their patients suffer for their incompetence makes me sick.
[ There's a faint note of disgust here, the first hint of anything other than pleasantry that he's shown before. He wasn't above taking on patients if offered enough money, but the thought of fixating on that makes him want to throw up. The feeling passes quickly, and his excitement returns as he claps his hands together - after all, he's just so certain this person won't disappoint him. ]
Now then, tell me, what skin condition do you think he has? You should be able to tell his condition at a glance with an easy case like this, yes?
[ Is there the faintest hint of condescension to that question...? Of course not, he's as pleasant as ever, leaning forward a little as he waits with interest to hear the answer. ]
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[ It's a sound that's neither approving nor disapproving, a neutral acknowledgment of the guesses given. In the same way, he offers no hints as to whether or not any of them might be correct. It would be wasteful when the point of this exercise was to hear his thoughts on the matter without having a more experienced doctor correct them. Besides, he can't go around discussing his former cases. But he nods in acknowledgment. ]
I'm quite selective about which patients I take, [ He repeats, ] Because I only take on the most difficult cases. My patients are always grateful to me for being the only one who can cure them.
[ It's not a judgment nor a response to his prior statement, of course, it's a simple statement of fact. He takes pride in his work. Hiyori loves that he can heal people, that he can watch their lives unfold. He loves curing the sick, who can finally achieve all their dreams and do all of those things that their disease cut them off from. It's far more interesting to watch than a person who had never struggled.
He likes breaking things, and he likes fixing them. It's the joy of being a surgeon. How unfortunate that Komaeda wouldn't accept treatment. What would he be like? What would his life hold then? Hiyori would like to see it, just as much as he'd like to see how beautifully the man before him might break. I was a bit wasteful, but it was always amusing to see how those pitifully grasping at some semblance of control reacted to realizing just how powerless they were. ]
So, there's no need for that. I've already created a plan of care, and I've set them up with my most trusted peers. There's no need for you to worry.
[ He laughs softly. His voice is as light as ever, but there's a coolness hidden beneath that, something that borders on offense. The man should be so lucky not to see that piercing gaze that tells him not to even think about putting them on the same level when this hack job couldn't even come up with a single diagnosis, nor gain a word of thanks, nor even hide a single thing from a man he'd just met.
Ah, but it's all just the ramblings and the vacant gaze of a man on drugs, and anything else would just be his imagination anyway. ]
I only wish I could offer you the same. If I weren't on leave, I'd be happy to offer you a proper physical exam. I don't do so often, but you've been so kind to Komaeda-kun and I, and disease can spread so easily if it's left undetected. You needn't worry though, even if I found something, I would cut the sickness right out of you.
[ Oh, but wouldn't that be all of him...? No matter, he's on leave, so it's nothing more than an attempt to match his kindness anyway. It's just a small bit of humor from the Ultimate Surgeon - he does so love connecting with his patients, after all. ]
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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