[Having been out in the kitchen preparing for breakfast after sneaking Rainy the deer into Hiyori's room (yes, he's already decided on a name for her), Yato all but jumps out of his skin when that yell rings echoes throughout the house and probably down the street several blocks.
Within a couple of seconds he's bursting into the room, dreamotion sword formed in one hand and ready to fight off whatever threat might be targeting Hiyori. Is it a noctaere? His dad?? A really big spider?! Whatever the threat, it better watch out--!]
HIYORI!! Are you okay?!
[Clad in his pajamas, he doesn't exactly cut a very impressive figure, but at least he's armed?]
[ when he bursts into the room, hiyori is standing on her bed and has her back plastered to the wall behind her, one of her thick anatomy books in her hands raised up to defend herself, and breathing hard. it doesn't look like there's any noctaere. or his dad (thank gods). or a big spider, although that would probably cause her to at least yelp pretty loudly. nobody likes big bugs. not hiyori.
her face has gone white as a sheet and she's in the pajamas yato gifted her on day 9. ]
THERE'S A--!!
[ hold on. that deer hasn't moved at all after her screaming and flailing around. it hasn't so much as twitched as yato bolted down the hallway, threw open his door, and shouted too.
IT'S A ]
YATO. DID YOU DO THIS?? DID YOU PUT THIS IN MY ROOM???
[Scanning the room for the danger, he takes in nothing outwardly suspicious. (Sans reindeer because you know, totally normal when you've put it there.) He doesn't let down his guard, though, not until Hiyori is directing his attention to said plush. Then he lets his sword dissipate as he walks over to Rainy and throws his arms around her neck, balancing on one foot.]
Oh, this? Yeah! Isn't she awesome! I knew I had to go for something big for the final day, so I had them do a rush order.
[He nuzzles up against the fluffy fur, grinning like he's the one who got a gift.]
[ HAVING A GIANT PLUSH REINDEER IN YOUR ROOM IS NOT NORMAL. but once it becomes clear that this is all yato's doing, she sinks into a heap on her mattress in absolute relief.
awesome... yeah... of course. he had to go for something big on the final day, rushing an order. uuugggghhhh she thought she would have a heart attack when she woke up to some unknown creature in her room. staring at her!
she lifts her head to give the plush an unsure look, but carefully scoots herself to the edge of the bed and stands up. like the deer is going to turn its head and bite at her. ]
Yato, where are we going to put this? [ she asks as she reaches forward to rub the muzzle.
[tbf there's a lot about Yato that's not normal, so really, this should just be par for the course. That he doesn't see anything strange or unusual about this set-up is just another proof of that fact.
He almost comes over to check on Hiyori, but figures that she's probably just overwhelmed by the splendor of gift number twelve~ After all, how could anyone not fall in love with this cute (not so little) face when they lay eyes upon her?? She's amazing! Especially when it comes to the craftsmanship. Why, she almost looks like a real reindeer! How cool is that?
After Hiyori is on her feet, he gestures eagerly for her to come closer, petting the plush's flank with one hand.]
I was thinking maybe in the entrance to greet visitors! It could be like having a pet dog that runs to the door to meet people!
[He beams at her once her hand touches fur, eyebrows raised in search of approval. Soft, innit??]
[ ... fair point. still, this isn't anywhere on her list of "Strange Things Yato Has/Will Do". buying her a life-size reindeer!! it's the fact that it looks so real that is the real terrifying part. that nearly made her pass out in fright. those eyes stare into her soul. ]
In the...!? N, no! You'll scare people away! I'll get scared coming home!!
[ ok, yes, it's soft. she's still rubbing her muzzle and trailing along the head to stroke up the nose toward the forehead. ]
C-can't we put it outside? By the snowmen we made or something?
[ not like they have storage. under the treehouse, maybe. pet pet pet.
this gift is too much, but with yato beaming at her like that, she can't tell him to send it back. knowing him, he's already named it. ]
[To be honest, if one were to play Yato Bingo, this probably wouldn't have been on any of the cards at all. It is pretty out there, even for him. But that's what makes it so great! It's a unique and special gift that Hiyori will never forget! For better or worse.]
Awww... But why would you be scared of Rainy?! Isn't she just the sweetest thing??
[Yes, he's named her. Now they have a family of three plushies! How could they ever send her back, like a rejected foster child?! Yato throws himself across the deer's back, legs flailing in the air.]
Outside?! But she'll get ruined, Hiyori! She's not meant to be an outdoor display...! Though she would look cute with the snowmen...
[He hums in thought, going limp for a time. Think, think, think... Where to put her...]
How about in a corner of the living room, near the fireplace? That way we can see her whenever we're just chilling during the day, but she won't get underfoot! Or overfoot.
[ for better or for worse... what is she going to do with him? ]
She looks like a real reindeer! Those don't belong in houses, Yato!
[ RAINY. can he PLEASE just see this logically, hiyori begs inwardly. nope. he's going to throw a tantrum. she's amazed rainy can hold yato's weight.
by the FIREPLACE? in the corner isn't a bad idea. maybe if they decorate it like they did with the tree it'll look less real. and terrifying. it's not that she's NOT CUTE. reindeer are cute, but it's the whole having it in the house that startles her. and it being life-size.
... as if hiyori wouldn't let a baby deer into the house if it lost its mama. she would. ]
I...! [ hiyori peers at the reindeer's face. angry eyebrows. antlers. wait, if it has antlers isn't it-- nevermind. it's a plush. she can let yato believe what he wants. eventually, her gaze lands back on yato's pleading puppy-dog look. ] Fine. In the corner, near the fireplace.
[ that decided, she lowers herself into her new beanbag with a sigh. ]
But she's not a real one - she's a plushie! Those belong indoors!
[Thank goodness for his godly lightness, huh. It'd be a tragedy if he broke one of Hiyori's gifts on the very morning of giving it to her.
Sliding off of Rainy just in case, he still drapes an arm around the neck like he's about to take the damn thing out on a date. She's a dear deer! Can't Hiyori see that?? Those sweet, big doe eyes...! It's nothing but a really tall, slightly lankier baby deer, after all!]
Pleeeease? [He hugs the reindeer with both arms, casting a pleading look towards Hiyori. One that screams 'deprived kid who wants to be able to enjoy his new toy.' Even if it is supposed to be for her and not himself. Makes one wonder who it was really for. Probably them both, to be honest.
When she finally folds, he throws up both hands in an enthusiastic cheer.] Yaaaaay~! I know she'll be perfect there, just wait and see!
[He pets the plush's neck, glancing down at Hiyori with a smile.]
I know. But since Santa made a mistake, I thought you deserved something to make up for it.
[ a real calamity if he did. she wouldn't cry about it, though... she has 11 other ones.
good, he can take it out on a date. with those doe eyes. like looking into a mirror. seriously, who is this gift for again? yato, right?
despite herself, hiyori feels a small smile tug at her mouth when he cheers so happily and strokes at the plush. well, one of them is happy.
aaaand she tries not to wince. what she ends up doing is glancing away, guiltily. ]
But I told you it wasn't a big deal. I probably have presents fr- AT!! At my parents, s-so it's not like I won't have anything...!
[ SHE MADE A MISTAKE. but she just couldn't! stomp on yato's hopes and dreams!! she can't do it! he believes in santa so much. ]
It's not like I didn't get any gifts, either! I got that really beautiful pendant from you and another from Ereshkigal-sama! And Zelda-sama got me this lovely little harp...
[She would be the one witnessing a god crying over it, that's for sure. He just about threw out his back earning the damn thing...!
It's for her, of course! B-But there's nothing wrong with him getting some enjoyment out of it too, right? In fact, the more joy it brings, the better!
Thankfully Yato is so engrossed with his her new gift that he doesn't notice any strange reactions from Hiyori.]
I know~ But while you're here, I wanted to show my appreciation for all you've done. You've been a huge help since we arrived here, after all...
[He grows quiet then, glancing down at the floor as he pets Rainy. Though when she mentions getting a musical instrument, he perks back up and leans forward enthusiastically.]
A harp? Really? Are you going to learn to play it? Then with the dress I got you, you could really be my goddess~!
[ yato...... don't throw our your back over giant plush deer.... ]
I-I haven't really- it feels like you've been the one helping me. [ teaching her how to cook. saving her in candyland. drawing her that picture of touno when he was SICK. it's hanging in her room now, by the way. right over her desk.
"while she's here". does he think she's going to leave? yet this being about his appreciation makes everything hit differently. something in her softens, considering the gifts under a new light. still too much! but different now. it's not just yato showering her with presents as another one of his strange ways to show he cares.
CALL HER HYLIA. ]
Yeah! I'd like to learn to play it. I'm not too musically inclined, but playing an instrument sounds fun! [ JUST GOING TO PASS OVER THE GODDESS THING. EMBARRASSING. ] Eventually. Right now, I'm learning how to embroider from Zelda-sama.
[But it was all for her...! That makes it worthwhile!]
No way! You've gotten me out of so much trouble, and helped me when I needed Yukine's guidance. All I've been doing is playing support.
[True, they've both saved each other, but more than cooking, she's shown him so many better ways of doing things, like handing out inari for Christmas and advising him on marketing himself better. Things he would've struggled to come up with or do on his own.
So even if she is far away from home, he can't help but be grateful for her continued presence here. Which is why he has to make up for the fact she can't be with her family or friends at this time of year. She only really has him, though thankfully she's almost made friends here, too. But as her God of Fortune, her happiness is his responsibility. He takes that very seriously.
YES HYLIA-SAMA]
I'm sure you could do it if you try! Maybe we could even go caroling with it if-- if we're still here next year. [It's a sobering thought, one he does his best to smile through. He doesn't even remark on the lack of remark about her being his goddess.] Embroider, huh? Man, you really will make an excellent wife.
[He smiles a bit ruefully over that, and the fact that this Zelda person is worth a -sama but not him. Just who does she think she is, huh?? He'll have to find out one of these days... For now though, he just shakes his head lightly.]
Not the harp, but I have a little experience with the koto and shamisen.
[ she is temporary guidepost. she's been doing her best to channel yukine. except the slipper-beating part. she won't do that. ]
Support is important, too.
[ very important. people need support. being without her friends and family hasn't been easy, but yato has made it far more tolerable than if she was alone. if yato wasn't here, she wonders if she would have the same mindset as that girl she ran into on christmas. when she was handing out inari. the one that asked her how she takes it when she doesn't know how long she'll be away from everyone.
by having faith, hiyori said.
even if they're here next year. she can't imagine. a year of potentially missing school. of worrying her family by being asleep for a year. they would think she's gone into a coma. poor yukine, too. she cleches her fists in her lap at the sound of "next year". it's not that she dislikes this place, either. and she would miss everyone here and it feels just as terrible to want to leave because she's come to really care about some of these people that come from other worlds. ]
Eeeehhh-- I want to hear you play the shamisen! Hehe, heh...
[ and she calls her zelda-sama because she's! like!! BASICALLY AMATERASU-SAMA IN HER WORLD. he lost his chance at sama when he complained about san! ]
[Sometimes the slippering is a necessary part of his training discipline, tho. Thankfully he hasn't done much of anything to warrant it here. Yet. Give him time.]
True. Still.
[He wants to be able to do more for her. To be her Prince Charming, even if it doesn't involve setting up some dumb, kooky scenario where everybody shuns her. After all, it shouldn't be the other way around - he's the god in this relationship! It's his job to protect her and ensure her contentment!
...which he seems to be doing a piss poor job of by bringing up the possibility of being here for a whole year. He sees those fists. The tension running through her body, sapping away what joy they seemed to have been building up, at least temporarily. Thankfully it doesn't seem to last too long, if her laughter is anything to go by. That's good, he would've hated to have spoiled their good cheer with a thoughtless comment.
His smile widens slightly at her enthusiasm to hear him play. It's been a long time since he's practiced, but still, it could be fun to see if they have one of those instruments here, or something similar, maybe.]
Heh... In that case maybe I'll ask around. See what's available.
[Okay, that seems fair, but--! He's still a god, too!! All he wants is a little respect, dammit!]
[Cue the blushing and bashful avoidance of her gaze!]
W-Well, yeah! Because that's the kind of life you deserve-- a happy one filled with someone who will love and cherish you, and kids if you want...! A normal human life...
[She can totally be a doctor and a mother! She's strong enough to do both!]
[ hiyori's stern looks and sharp words can be just as effective as a slippering. she doesn't want to hurt him if she can help it.
why can't they protect each other and both want each other's happiness, huh? he's the god but as far as she's concerned, he needs it just as much as she does. if not more than she does.
and he does have her respect among... other things.
frustration currently. embarrassment, too. he's so focused on her meeting some guy, getting hooked up, and being a wife. after HOW many times making a spectacle of himself by proposing to her!! ]
I am happy! [ he sounds like her mother, sometimes. talking about husbands and kids. she has a happy life with people who love and cherish her already, doesn't she? m-maybe not kids but that's a long way off! she still has a normal human life, too. right? groaning, she flips over in the beanbag to bury her face in it and kicks her feet once (like yato's flailing on rainy earlier) and then goes limp so she can mumble into the beans. ]
I keep wondering if I finally find someone to go on a date with, will that make you happy...?
[ tenjin mentioned it, too. everyone is always asking her about it.
also, yes, she could absolutely be a doctor and a mother but woof, that's a lot. ]
[They both could protect each other and desire the other's happiness, if Yato had more experience with such things. Hiyori is his first human friend, after all, so all this is him feeling out how a relationship between god and mortal should be. And he takes his status as a deity seriously.
Which is why he's so insistent that she be able to live a normal human life. That's what humanity desires, right? To hit all the important milestones such as obtaining a desired career, finding a marriage partner, having children... All he wants is to help her achieve that. To keep her on the trajectory towards a bright future.
At least, it's what he should want for her...]
I know, it's just-- [He clams up at her groan, biting his lip. Does he have it wrong...? Abandoning the plush reindeer, he takes a couple steps closer to her, one hand raised hesitantly as color spreads across his cheeks.]
No--! I mean-- Yes? I-I don't know...!
[Dropping his hand, both clench into fists as his head dips down so that his chin is touching his chest and his eyes are fixed on the floor. He knows what he wants, but that's not important or relevant. Only Hiyori's happiness is.]
[ guess it's up to her to teach him that humans can also be supremely protective and wish for other's happiness, huh?
and that he shouldn't pigeonhole her into those milestones. sure, they're good paths to take and she'll get there. but... she doesn't want to lose everything she's gained at the far shore. her friends. her experiences. all of it. the hurts and the joys. it's all important. things she can't forget again.
at his first, vehement no she lifts her head and looks over her shoulder in surprise. her brow furrows at the confused yes. finally, she shifts and stands up at his flustered "I don't know". which is it?
she sees his clenched fists, too. ]
You... don't look happy though. [ hiyori points out, reaching out for a fist where he held himself back. truthfully, she didn't sound too happy SHOUTING she WAS, either. ] Or sound it.
[She is his temporary guidepost, after all. If there was ever a person who should help a god learn about the ways of humans, it's them.
It's something he doesn't realize he's doing, which could be part of the reason he's so conflicted on everything. He thinks wanting the best for her means following the path others who are happy have followed. Although... there is a small, selfish desire in there. He wants Hiyori to leave behind a large family for him to look after and care for. A legacy that will last until the end of time.
Realizing his outburst was so strong, he colors slightly, scuffing a socked foot against the floor as his fingers dig deep into his palms. He's sending mixed signals, he realizes that. But... both his feelings are true. He knows that now. That he wants what's best for her, but he also longs to keep her for himself. His two sides, warring against one another.
Maybe it won't make sense from a human perspective, but to him it's something he can't help feeling.]
.....dunno. Maybe it's because I know you can't actually be happy being stuck here with me. [Not that he's bad company or anything, even though sometimes he is. He's totally lying to himself and her, though. That's not the reason at all. He lets her take his fist, trying with some effort to stop clenching it.] ...whatever makes you content is what I want, Hiyori.
[ a job she's taking seriously!! for all of yukine's hard work!! and also yato. him, too.
for how deep he dug his fingers into his palm, she has to work on loosening them as she listening to yato all but demean himself right in front of her. mixed signals don't matter as much anymore when he does that. she takes the hand she's loosened and holds it to her heart with an intense look in her eyes. eyes as hard as the gems in that pendant. ]
Don't you dare assume how I feel. That's not true. I've already told you I want to be with you longer.
[ there might be mixed signals with hiyori sometimes, too, but she thought she's made at least THAT MUCH clear. ]
I like being with you. I said that, too. I wasn't lying when I said either of those things.
[Him too, huh. He sees how it is. Yukine-kun comes first, is that how it is? Kidding. Mostly.
Though she might not be able to see it, the strength of his nails digging into his palms leaves red marks in their wake, the pain helping to get Yato focused. At least, as focused as he can be when she all but presses his hand to her chest. Color creeps further up his face, bridging his nose and making him feel overheated as he finds himself captured by her gaze. Held in place, his breath catches momentarily at both her actions and words.]
...even if it means being stuck in a dream world, separated from everyone?
[That part seems to surprise him (stupidly enough); he figured she'd want to hurry home to her parents and brother, to keep them from worrying about her extended sleeping spell. That she might actually be okay - or hell, even want to stay with him - here comes as something of a shock.]
Y-Yeah, I know. I never believed you were lying. ...I'm sorry if I gave you that impression.
yeah, she hasn't realized where she's put that hand as of yet. since he's not moving, she going to continue to not realize and keep it there. ]
... I'm worried, but that doesn't mean I can't also be happy. It wouldn't be fair to myself if I didn't enjoy things here, too.
[ there's no rule saying that she can't be both. being separated from everyone isn't ideal but she isn't going to let herself be miserable about it forever. that's silly. self-destructive. yes, she does want to go home but what can she do? and she's not going to forsake yato like that. not when he's always trying so hard to make her happy. to be her god of fortune.
besides, like she told helga, it's not all bad here. yato is largely the reason it's not all bad. ]
Don't you feel the same? I know you're worried about Yukine-kun, but you're not letting yourself be upset about it all the time. Or you wouldn't have gotten me all these gifts or have been trying to build a shrine here and gain followers or have fun teaching me how to cook or help save the Ice Queen or any of those things.
[ perhaps as stupidly as him, she grips his wrist with her other hand and moves a step closer. ]
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Within a couple of seconds he's bursting into the room, dreamotion sword formed in one hand and ready to fight off whatever threat might be targeting Hiyori. Is it a noctaere? His dad?? A really big spider?! Whatever the threat, it better watch out--!]
HIYORI!! Are you okay?!
[Clad in his pajamas, he doesn't exactly cut a very impressive figure, but at least he's armed?]
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her face has gone white as a sheet and she's in the pajamas yato gifted her on day 9. ]
THERE'S A--!!
[ hold on. that deer hasn't moved at all after her screaming and flailing around. it hasn't so much as twitched as yato bolted down the hallway, threw open his door, and shouted too.
IT'S A ]
YATO. DID YOU DO THIS?? DID YOU PUT THIS IN MY ROOM???
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Oh, this? Yeah! Isn't she awesome! I knew I had to go for something big for the final day, so I had them do a rush order.
[He nuzzles up against the fluffy fur, grinning like he's the one who got a gift.]
Why don't you come on down and pet her??
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awesome... yeah... of course. he had to go for something big on the final day, rushing an order. uuugggghhhh she thought she would have a heart attack when she woke up to some unknown creature in her room. staring at her!
she lifts her head to give the plush an unsure look, but carefully scoots herself to the edge of the bed and stands up. like the deer is going to turn its head and bite at her. ]
Yato, where are we going to put this? [ she asks as she reaches forward to rub the muzzle.
ooo soft. ]
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He almost comes over to check on Hiyori, but figures that she's probably just overwhelmed by the splendor of gift number twelve~ After all, how could anyone not fall in love with this cute (not so little) face when they lay eyes upon her?? She's amazing! Especially when it comes to the craftsmanship. Why, she almost looks like a real reindeer! How cool is that?
After Hiyori is on her feet, he gestures eagerly for her to come closer, petting the plush's flank with one hand.]
I was thinking maybe in the entrance to greet visitors! It could be like having a pet dog that runs to the door to meet people!
[He beams at her once her hand touches fur, eyebrows raised in search of approval. Soft, innit??]
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In the...!? N, no! You'll scare people away! I'll get scared coming home!!
[ ok, yes, it's soft. she's still rubbing her muzzle and trailing along the head to stroke up the nose toward the forehead. ]
C-can't we put it outside? By the snowmen we made or something?
[ not like they have storage. under the treehouse, maybe. pet pet pet.
this gift is too much, but with yato beaming at her like that, she can't tell him to send it back. knowing him, he's already named it. ]
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For better or worse.]Awww... But why would you be scared of Rainy?! Isn't she just the sweetest thing??
[Yes, he's named her. Now they have a family of three plushies! How could they ever send her back, like a rejected foster child?! Yato throws himself across the deer's back, legs flailing in the air.]
Outside?! But she'll get ruined, Hiyori! She's not meant to be an outdoor display...! Though she would look cute with the snowmen...
[He hums in thought, going limp for a time. Think, think, think... Where to put her...]
How about in a corner of the living room, near the fireplace? That way we can see her whenever we're just chilling during the day, but she won't get underfoot! Or overfoot.
no subject
She looks like a real reindeer! Those don't belong in houses, Yato!
[ RAINY. can he PLEASE just see this logically, hiyori begs inwardly. nope. he's going to throw a tantrum. she's amazed rainy can hold yato's weight.
by the FIREPLACE? in the corner isn't a bad idea. maybe if they decorate it like they did with the tree it'll look less real. and terrifying. it's not that she's NOT CUTE. reindeer are cute, but it's the whole having it in the house that startles her. and it being life-size.
... as if hiyori wouldn't let a baby deer into the house if it lost its mama. she would. ]
I...! [ hiyori peers at the reindeer's face. angry eyebrows. antlers. wait, if it has antlers isn't it-- nevermind. it's a plush. she can let yato believe what he wants. eventually, her gaze lands back on yato's pleading puppy-dog look. ] Fine. In the corner, near the fireplace.
[ that decided, she lowers herself into her new beanbag with a sigh. ]
Yato, you didn't have to get me all this stuff...
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[Thank goodness for his godly lightness, huh. It'd be a tragedy if he broke one of Hiyori's gifts on the very morning of giving it to her.
Sliding off of Rainy just in case, he still drapes an arm around the neck like he's about to take the damn thing out on a date. She's a dear deer! Can't Hiyori see that?? Those sweet, big doe eyes...! It's nothing but a really tall, slightly lankier baby deer, after all!]
Pleeeease? [He hugs the reindeer with both arms, casting a pleading look towards Hiyori. One that screams 'deprived kid who wants to be able to enjoy his new toy.' Even if it is supposed to be for her and not himself. Makes one wonder who it was really for. Probably them both, to be honest.
When she finally folds, he throws up both hands in an enthusiastic cheer.] Yaaaaay~! I know she'll be perfect there, just wait and see!
[He pets the plush's neck, glancing down at Hiyori with a smile.]
I know. But since Santa made a mistake, I thought you deserved something to make up for it.
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good, he can take it out on a date. with those doe eyes. like looking into a mirror. seriously, who is this gift for again? yato, right?
despite herself, hiyori feels a small smile tug at her mouth when he cheers so happily and strokes at the plush. well, one of them is happy.
aaaand she tries not to wince. what she ends up doing is glancing away, guiltily. ]
But I told you it wasn't a big deal. I probably have presents fr- AT!! At my parents, s-so it's not like I won't have anything...!
[ SHE MADE A MISTAKE. but she just couldn't! stomp on yato's hopes and dreams!! she can't do it! he believes in santa so much. ]
It's not like I didn't get any gifts, either! I got that really beautiful pendant from you and another from Ereshkigal-sama! And Zelda-sama got me this lovely little harp...
no subject
It's for her, of course! B-But there's nothing wrong with him getting some enjoyment out of it too, right? In fact, the more joy it brings, the better!
Thankfully Yato is so engrossed with
hisher new gift that he doesn't notice any strange reactions from Hiyori.]I know~ But while you're here, I wanted to show my appreciation for all you've done. You've been a huge help since we arrived here, after all...
[He grows quiet then, glancing down at the floor as he pets Rainy. Though when she mentions getting a musical instrument, he perks back up and leans forward enthusiastically.]
A harp? Really? Are you going to learn to play it? Then with the dress I got you, you could really be my goddess~!
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I-I haven't really- it feels like you've been the one helping me. [ teaching her how to cook. saving her in candyland. drawing her that picture of touno when he was SICK. it's hanging in her room now, by the way. right over her desk.
"while she's here". does he think she's going to leave? yet this being about his appreciation makes everything hit differently. something in her softens, considering the gifts under a new light. still too much! but different now. it's not just yato showering her with presents as another one of his strange ways to show he cares.
CALL HER HYLIA.]Yeah! I'd like to learn to play it. I'm not too musically inclined, but playing an instrument sounds fun! [ JUST GOING TO PASS OVER THE GODDESS THING. EMBARRASSING. ] Eventually. Right now, I'm learning how to embroider from Zelda-sama.
Can you play the harp?
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No way! You've gotten me out of so much trouble, and helped me when I needed Yukine's guidance. All I've been doing is playing support.
[True, they've both saved each other, but more than cooking, she's shown him so many better ways of doing things, like handing out inari for Christmas and advising him on marketing himself better. Things he would've struggled to come up with or do on his own.
So even if she is far away from home, he can't help but be grateful for her continued presence here. Which is why he has to make up for the fact she can't be with her family or friends at this time of year. She only really has him, though thankfully she's almost made friends here, too. But as her God of Fortune, her happiness is his responsibility. He takes that very seriously.
YES HYLIA-SAMA]I'm sure you could do it if you try! Maybe we could even go caroling with it if-- if we're still here next year. [It's a sobering thought, one he does his best to smile through. He doesn't even remark on the lack of remark about her being his goddess.] Embroider, huh? Man, you really will make an excellent wife.
[He smiles a bit ruefully over that, and the fact that this Zelda person is worth a -sama but not him. Just who does she think she is, huh?? He'll have to find out one of these days... For now though, he just shakes his head lightly.]
Not the harp, but I have a little experience with the koto and shamisen.
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Support is important, too.
[ very important. people need support. being without her friends and family hasn't been easy, but yato has made it far more tolerable than if she was alone. if yato wasn't here, she wonders if she would have the same mindset as that girl she ran into on christmas. when she was handing out inari. the one that asked her how she takes it when she doesn't know how long she'll be away from everyone.
by having faith, hiyori said.
even if they're here next year. she can't imagine. a year of potentially missing school. of worrying her family by being asleep for a year. they would think she's gone into a coma. poor yukine, too. she cleches her fists in her lap at the sound of "next year". it's not that she dislikes this place, either. and she would miss everyone here and it feels just as terrible to want to leave because she's come to really care about some of these people that come from other worlds. ]
Eeeehhh-- I want to hear you play the shamisen! Hehe, heh...
[ and she calls her zelda-sama because she's! like!! BASICALLY AMATERASU-SAMA IN HER WORLD. he lost his chance at sama when he complained about san! ]
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wait what did he ]
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[ well. like. one day?? maybe?? BUT NOT FOR A WHILE, OKAY.
she has to be a doctor. ]
Y-You're always bringing that up!!
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trainingdiscipline, tho. Thankfully he hasn't done much of anything to warrant it here. Yet. Give him time.]True. Still.
[He wants to be able to do more for her. To be her Prince Charming, even if it doesn't involve setting up some dumb, kooky scenario where everybody shuns her. After all, it shouldn't be the other way around - he's the god in this relationship! It's his job to protect her and ensure her contentment!
...which he seems to be doing a piss poor job of by bringing up the possibility of being here for a whole year. He sees those fists. The tension running through her body, sapping away what joy they seemed to have been building up, at least temporarily. Thankfully it doesn't seem to last too long, if her laughter is anything to go by. That's good, he would've hated to have spoiled their good cheer with a thoughtless comment.
His smile widens slightly at her enthusiasm to hear him play. It's been a long time since he's practiced, but still, it could be fun to see if they have one of those instruments here, or something similar, maybe.]
Heh... In that case maybe I'll ask around. See what's available.
[Okay, that seems fair, but--! He's still a god, too!! All he wants is a little respect, dammit!]
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W-Well, yeah! Because that's the kind of life you deserve-- a happy one filled with someone who will love and cherish you, and kids if you want...! A normal human life...
[She can totally be a doctor and a mother! She's strong enough to do both!]
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why can't they protect each other and both want each other's happiness, huh? he's the god but as far as she's concerned, he needs it just as much as she does. if not more than she does.
and he does have her respect among... other things.
frustration currently. embarrassment, too. he's so focused on her meeting some guy, getting hooked up, and being a wife. after HOW many times making a spectacle of himself by proposing to her!! ]
I am happy! [ he sounds like her mother, sometimes. talking about husbands and kids. she has a happy life with people who love and cherish her already, doesn't she? m-maybe not kids but that's a long way off! she still has a normal human life, too. right? groaning, she flips over in the beanbag to bury her face in it and kicks her feet once (like yato's flailing on rainy earlier) and then goes limp so she can mumble into the beans. ]
I keep wondering if I finally find someone to go on a date with, will that make you happy...?
[ tenjin mentioned it, too. everyone is always asking her about it.
also, yes, she could absolutely be a doctor and a mother but woof, that's a lot. ]
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Which is why he's so insistent that she be able to live a normal human life. That's what humanity desires, right? To hit all the important milestones such as obtaining a desired career, finding a marriage partner, having children... All he wants is to help her achieve that. To keep her on the trajectory towards a bright future.
At least, it's what he should want for her...]
I know, it's just-- [He clams up at her groan, biting his lip. Does he have it wrong...? Abandoning the plush reindeer, he takes a couple steps closer to her, one hand raised hesitantly as color spreads across his cheeks.]
No--! I mean-- Yes? I-I don't know...!
[Dropping his hand, both clench into fists as his head dips down so that his chin is touching his chest and his eyes are fixed on the floor. He knows what he wants, but that's not important or relevant. Only Hiyori's happiness is.]
I-If you're happy, then I am, too!
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and that he shouldn't pigeonhole her into those milestones. sure, they're good paths to take and she'll get there. but... she doesn't want to lose everything she's gained at the far shore. her friends. her experiences. all of it. the hurts and the joys. it's all important. things she can't forget again.
at his first, vehement no she lifts her head and looks over her shoulder in surprise. her brow furrows at the confused yes. finally, she shifts and stands up at his flustered "I don't know". which is it?
she sees his clenched fists, too. ]
You... don't look happy though. [ hiyori points out, reaching out for a fist where he held himself back. truthfully, she didn't sound too happy SHOUTING she WAS, either. ] Or sound it.
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It's something he doesn't realize he's doing, which could be part of the reason he's so conflicted on everything. He thinks wanting the best for her means following the path others who are happy have followed. Although... there is a small, selfish desire in there. He wants Hiyori to leave behind a large family for him to look after and care for. A legacy that will last until the end of time.
Realizing his outburst was so strong, he colors slightly, scuffing a socked foot against the floor as his fingers dig deep into his palms. He's sending mixed signals, he realizes that. But... both his feelings are true. He knows that now. That he wants what's best for her, but he also longs to keep her for himself. His two sides, warring against one another.
Maybe it won't make sense from a human perspective, but to him it's something he can't help feeling.]
.....dunno. Maybe it's because I know you can't actually be happy being stuck here with me. [Not that he's bad company or anything, even though sometimes he is. He's totally lying to himself and her, though. That's not the reason at all. He lets her take his fist, trying with some effort to stop clenching it.] ...whatever makes you content is what I want, Hiyori.
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for how deep he dug his fingers into his palm, she has to work on loosening them as she listening to yato all but demean himself right in front of her. mixed signals don't matter as much anymore when he does that. she takes the hand she's loosened and holds it to her heart with an intense look in her eyes. eyes as hard as the gems in that pendant. ]
Don't you dare assume how I feel. That's not true. I've already told you I want to be with you longer.
[ there might be mixed signals with hiyori sometimes, too, but she thought she's made at least THAT MUCH clear. ]
I like being with you. I said that, too. I wasn't lying when I said either of those things.
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Kidding. Mostly.Though she might not be able to see it, the strength of his nails digging into his palms leaves red marks in their wake, the pain helping to get Yato focused. At least, as focused as he can be when she all but presses his hand to her chest. Color creeps further up his face, bridging his nose and making him feel overheated as he finds himself captured by her gaze. Held in place, his breath catches momentarily at both her actions and words.]
...even if it means being stuck in a dream world, separated from everyone?
[That part seems to surprise him (stupidly enough); he figured she'd want to hurry home to her parents and brother, to keep them from worrying about her extended sleeping spell. That she might actually be okay - or hell, even want to stay with him - here comes as something of a shock.]
Y-Yeah, I know. I never believed you were lying. ...I'm sorry if I gave you that impression.
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yeah, she hasn't realized where she's put that hand as of yet. since he's not moving, she going to continue to not realize and keep it there. ]
... I'm worried, but that doesn't mean I can't also be happy. It wouldn't be fair to myself if I didn't enjoy things here, too.
[ there's no rule saying that she can't be both. being separated from everyone isn't ideal but she isn't going to let herself be miserable about it forever. that's silly. self-destructive. yes, she does want to go home but what can she do? and she's not going to forsake yato like that. not when he's always trying so hard to make her happy. to be her god of fortune.
besides, like she told helga, it's not all bad here. yato is largely the reason it's not all bad. ]
Don't you feel the same? I know you're worried about Yukine-kun, but you're not letting yourself be upset about it all the time. Or you wouldn't have gotten me all these gifts or have been trying to build a shrine here and gain followers or have fun teaching me how to cook or help save the Ice Queen or any of those things.
[ perhaps as stupidly as him, she grips his wrist with her other hand and moves a step closer. ]
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