are we crawling, and falling? | @houndfangs

[suibo]

[ It's late, and Sangonomiya Kokomi should be asleep. Sleep deprivation, after all, can lead to any myriad number of issues, none pleasant nor conducive to a successful diplomatic trip— which, considering her current status as on a diplomatic trip, is a problem more pressing than usual. Not only are there the physical issues that on their own are something of a concern, but there's also the threat of weakened mental acuity and heightened emotional instability. So, really, going to sleep would be the best option, and if her body would just listen to logic and obey her, then all of this would be much easier.

Unfortunately, said logic does nothing to make it easy by calming the actual issue at hand, which is that sleep is doing its very best to evade her.

And that's why she's currently in the courtyard of the Tenryou Commission Headquarters, where she and her retinue are generously being housed, watching the stars and the full moon, her ears tuned to the sounds of the city around them. And really, she's not meant to be out here on her own; the peace is still new, the wounds still fresh enough that she promised her people that she'd keep a guard on her person at all times...

But it's late, and she didn't want to wake anyone for what is essentially a pity party.

......

She misses the ocean.

It's not that the capital is far from the shore, but unlike Watatsumi, it isn't one with the water that surrounds it. The smells in the air are those of festival foods and fireworks, the sounds those of people talking and celebrating the turn of a new year. At home, it would be the calming scents of salt and sand, the soothing hush of the rolling waves.

With a sigh, Kokomi takes a seat on the wooden stairs, her eyes trained on the sky.

Strange, isn't it, how with the war over, there seem to be so many little things for which she no longer knows how to prepare. ]

Comments

[houndfangs]

(There seems to be something amiss even for him, normally by now Gorou would be asleep by now but he seems to also be combating his own problems with the sights and sounds of peace before them. Peaceful hustle and bustle, people wandering around with some manner of joy, pleasure, and even excitement with their festive foods in hand from what he had seen earlier. Even Itto had attempted to get him to come out and be his wing man but he declined. He didn't want to do that whenever he had a job and... really there's other reasons for his actions.

As if to give her some manner of company it would seem that fate made a decision for the two of them knowing he also couldn't rest. And even then he finds his thoughts going beyond what should be his duty; thoughts of traveling these festivities with her in a more quiet fashion, thoughts of them attempting to peacefully eat while in their own little bubble away from the crowds for her sake as fireworks begin to be prepped.

Or thoughts of really just the two of them at the shores of the capital away from it all before he shook himself out of it. He'd cause more problems and he knows that by letting his heart decide things such as this but he cannot help it no matter how much he tries to push it down, he felt like a pup sick for the love and affection of a loved one.

But that isn't true once he quietly makes his way toward her after spotting she couldn't sleep either. A rash decision which he knows to be true however much he finds himself soon seated right next to her; honestly he misses the ocean too or seeing her in it as she always had been with such freedom and joy in more quiet moments where she could be alone.) You couldn't sleep, your excellency? (Not that he's too shocked. He felt out of place there as well despite knowing Inazuma well enough due to friends; his own however has been more fueled by feelings of longing gnawing at him that he's attempting to ignore.

Feelings that were flaring knowing that he could be alone with her though he isn't showing that.)

[suibo]

[ She's focused enough on her own inner thoughts that Kokomi doesn't realize immediately that she has company— and so when he speaks, she startles, looking around at him with a shock on her face that she's quick to school back into as normal an expression as she can muster, attempting to hide not only the surprise but also the wistfulness that has caused her late night wanderings in the first place.

A smile is her first defense, the second a nod and soft "mmhmm" that answers his question in the affirmative, and then her gaze moves back to the sky as the third, focusing on its patterns and lights instead of the worries clouding her heart and mind.

They're defenses she needs against him— this much is evident, even if the reason for it is less clear in her mind. It's easy to explain it away as needing to appear strong as his leader, though, and that's where she settles it for now in her mind: as Divine Priestess of Watatsumi Island, she doesn't want to cause him any concern beyond that which he undoubtedly already feels as head of her retinue.

She clears her throat, that careful smile still on her face as she looks back at him. ]

I apologize if I woke you with my movements. It's late, so I wished not to disturb anyone... [ A wry note creeps into her voice as she continues: ] I see I may have failed in that endeavor.

[ Of course, he's within his rights to scold her over her actions, she realizes even as she says it. A part of her entourage's role is to ensure that she's not left alone, after all, and yet here she is, making decisions for them that involve her being exactly that. ]

[houndfangs]

... you don't have to apologize, I was already still awake. I couldn't sleep either. (Not that he's going to admit the reasons knowing their positions make that difficult. It's a fleeting dream. Something he knows that he shouldn't think about so much yet it seems to be lingering now more than ever; with him not really bothering to think of awakening others by this point. They can be alone however much that causes his feelings to almost seem overjoyed at the prospect of him attempting to get her to notice.

He is her general, not someone that she should take as a lover knowing that losing him would hurt her more if he did fall. He'd prefer that to not be the outcome too even as he finds himself struggling with it.

Regardless, he can't help but just smile a little at the thought of them both being unable to rest though he fails to appear stern this time. It must be because it's so late and he hasn't necessarily slept yet. He can chalk it up to his emotions and his mind clouding his logic for the time being anyway.)

Were you wanting to do anything then given that it doesn't seem like either of us are sleeping? (Not that he minds being the bodyguard here. It sounded a lot better than dealing with Itto's loudness as he tries to flirt with a few girls to get their attention as the bigshot gang leader in the area. A fact which somewhat gives Gorou a migraine at times with how loud he is despite their closeness.

Part of him hopes that she does want to go out of the Tenryou Commission for a bit so that he could distract himself. Though knowing her she might prefer to curl up alone instead.)

[suibo]

[ After realizing for herself that it's within his power to scold her, Kokomi almost assumes that that's what is going to happen. Instead, he changes the subject altogether, and there's another surprise, one leaving her eyebrows lifting as she looks at him.

Does she want to do anything, he asks, and the word "no" is halfway to her lips when a firework lights the sky with a pop, the stars disappearing momentarily in its flurrying brilliance, and she's sure she hears voices of awe carrying on the night breeze— or maybe they're imagined, a siren song calling her away from the wistfulness of her feelings and out into trying something new.

She's silent for a moment, and then several more, her gaze low and her arms folded over her chest as she contemplates; no doubt Gorou can see the wheels turning, her lips straightening into a thin line, her brows creasing, her eyes deep as the ocean itself with all the possibilities and potential outcomes.

Eventually, she looks up at him once more. ]

It might be enjoyable if we were to go out and explore the festivities with the public. However... [ Kokomi's frown deepens as she looks down at her clothes, and then across at his, both of which mark them noticeably as natives of Watatsumi Island— and thereby revealing who they are to everyone. She sighs. ] I would feel more comfortable with our doing so if we were able to blend in with the locals. As it is, we are somewhat conspicuous...

[ Something else she failed to foresee, she realizes belatedly. Knowing that the festival was on, she should have predicted something like this might happen, and yet...

Kokomi shakes her head with a small smile, once again aiming to mask the discomfort settling on her. ]

[houndfangs]

(Just as he thought, she might be about to say no, that is until Gorou blinks at seeing her suddenly look up before he notices the fireworks launching brilliantly in the sky. Yoimiya must be working hard is his current thought at the sight of them beautifully decorating in their unique colors and shapes; he remembers that Itto mentioned she couldn't join him and Shinobu for long due to her job being important.

After the explosions and awe, he finds his gaze drifting down to her and taking note she seems to be thinking. Kokomi must be contemplating something given his question, normally they don't have opportunity for such things, such times of quiet and relaxation between them even now. Normally he's off doing some manner of important business for her; off working to take care of things she needs done while performing his own duties.

They could just use it as a chance to get their minds to slowly ease away into letting them sleep once they their fill knowing it might drain her energy once they get done. Her social batteries and the like, something which Gorou often times understood is difficult to manage which is why he can't say he minds if Kokomi wants him to do the talking.

Though really it's her words that surprises him that she's willing to go out into the festival but there's the manner of their clothes which causes him to settle his cheek on his hand in contemplation for now. His own gears turning as if thinking about it until it hits him.) Isn't there yukata and the like we can borrow then? At least without alerting everyone that I'm leaving with you? I can likely go retrieve it unless they set some aside from earlier for us like I had thought I saw.

(Since he did notice her discomfort, he's good at picking up on small things as a diligent hound in his duties. It's really a requirement for him to be able to notice such details since changes in his men's attitude could get concerning; morale and the like falling apart is another thing that can get nasty if it's too low.

It can apply here is something he thinks rings true for her knowing that the two of them did have some manner of differences in how they socialize and how they tend to go about things.)

I do think that since I believe they did we'd have to get help in changing however... without waking the others. (A fact which Gorou doesn't need to mention as a reminder knowing that the others from their group would potentially want to interrupt.) Maybe some of the ladies here can help out of the Tenryou Commission since I'm not sure if you'd want me to do it.

[suibo]

[ Yukata set aside... it makes sense that the Tenryou Commission would have done that for them, but with how busy she's been since arriving here, Kokomi hasn't had time to notice or think about it.

Gorou, though, whose eager eyes are always on every little part of their surroundings— as always, he's doing an outstanding job in his role, even when he's technically off-duty. Between the attention to detail and his determination to support her in not waking the others, even though they really should if they're to leave, she can't help but feel an odd moment of pride, a moment of content in knowing that she's truly chosen the right person for the job.

She finds her smile softening, becoming a little realer, the worry starting to leech away in favor of genuine excitement at the thought of going out and experiencing the festival for themselves. Inazuma City may not be home, but isn't that all the more reason to enjoy themselves with things like this?

And at least with Gorou, she can enjoy herself— he looks up to her, of course, they all do, but the puppy-like eagerness in his personality means that he's willing to do things sometimes that the others might panic and fret about.

Things like this plan they're making now. If the others were to wake up... Kokomi can practically hear the lectures.

And she can't blame them, not really. She understands the importance of her being her and being safe. So does. But at the same time, right now she truly needs a pick-me-up, something to take her mind off the wistful longing for home and the other discomforts sitting deep within her breast, unaddressed and unacknowledged. If she were at home, it would be as easy as making a break for her secret base—

But she's not home.

That's the whole problem.

And so she finds herself nodding in response to his words, standing from the wooden step and taking in a short breath, a gathering of determination. ]

It sounds as if we have a plan. I will go to the Tenryou Commission maidservants and ask for their assistance. Will you bring the yukata once you have obtained it?

[houndfangs]

(It worked! He near felt as if bouncing around out of happiness at this point but refrains. He has to be dignified here for the time being once he takes chance to rise to his feet not long after. The two of them having fun to themselves is just the thing needed for this trip that they were on; plus he knows his friends are likely out there exploring too if they do catch them, Itto especially should be around now with Heizou and Shinobu anyway.

He can introduce her to everyone later if they don't run into them is his decision but he'd do it slowly. Gorou is mindful enough of her social batteries anyway whenever it comes to these things unlike the others on terms of those details, it's why he's made the decision to take up the position of having others talk to him for her as necessary.)

Of course! I'll gather them up, your excellency, and we'll get ready to head out once we're both changed after. (It's a good thing he's noticed the maidservants were still awake too. Yoimiya's fireworks were a show people rarely missed, especially knowing that she painstakingly went through everything to be sure that it would all be a fantastic time worthy of her nickname. This thought aside he'll have to be sneaky which is why with a wide smile and his houndish determination he lightly claps his hands together before turning to leave.

Quickly enough but quietly enough to avoid drawing attention from their sleeping retinue. The yukata soon enough found in colors that suits them both with teal and brown for him is something that he notices; they likely planned this from the start to allow opportunity then for them to wander when they can manage it. Good. That makes his job easier once he takes in hand both before heading back toward Kokomi knowing her and the maidservants are going to be waiting to dress them.

He'll just have to apologize for his habits of wearing certain types of undergarments like fundoshi due to his clothes being more suited to Watatsumi, not the capital anyway. Thankfully his is more modest than some can be out of the others once he catches up to Kokomi after holding out the ladies yukata meant for her knowing he would be in the other room.) I brought them, excellency, whenever you're ready I'll wait by the steps. (His tail is wagging too behind him out of his excitement at the thought. Even if his emotions are hoping he gets chance to have more with her no matter their roles.

Something he still says is wistful thinking to himself even as the maids who would be helping him murmur to themselves they seem as if they might be a cute couple with thoughts of cheering them on that his ears catch though he attempts to hide the fact he's flustered by the notion. This is just a trip to let themselves be simply not their roles as priestess and general; nothing more than that is what he tells himself.

Something to take their minds off home.

Or as he might be about to find out, fate has other things in mind for them.)

the outfit in the image is teeeechnically a kimono so imagine it's a little simpler

[suibo]

[ She has to hide a smile at the way Gorou is clearly trying not to make a show out of how happy he is at her having agreed to go out to the town with him. He must be eager to see the sights of the festival, is her reasoning, and while doing so will likely be quite an effort on her part in the long run, she can't deny that it's nice to see him this happy about it— perhaps even worth the agreement all on its own, is her fond realization.

(Her brain, logical as ever, is quick to follow said realization with a reminder that as the leader of her troops, his morale is more important than anyone's.)

She's alone with the maidservants for a short time before he appears holding a yukata for her, one she accepts with a quick smile of thanks and a nod to acknowledge his words before she closes the door between the rooms for their mutual privacy.

It's not the first time she's worn one of these, but she forgot until now just how complicated they can be, and she's glad in the long run for the ladies who help her into each part of the outfit, building in layers so that even in the thin material of the garments, she'll withstand the cool air outside without a problem. ]

[ The donning of a woman's yukata is always somewhat more complicated than a man's, and so it takes her a little longer to emerge from the rooms than it does Gorou; it's easy to see him though at the stairs where he said he'd wait, and so she hurries over, her steps small and light over the pebbled ground. ]

I hope I did not keep you waiting too long, General.

[ It's a slight call across the courtyard as she approaches, her voice at the right volume to carry to him without awakening those asleep in the nearby buildings— that is, the others of her retinue. And when he looks at her, she'll greet him with a smile, something bordering on shy, eyes taking in his outfit as he no doubt observes hers. ]

I am confident that we will be able to blend much better with the crowd, now.

[houndfangs]

(Though his own was a simple affair, teal and brown to match his colors accompanied by for his own comfort a spot for his tail to protrude through knowing that he has some manner of differences in comparison. The ladies were unfazed by how he covered himself which made him just a little relieved knowing that Watatsumi styles of dressing tend to hold more differences; especially with the men even as he has to remind himself to not give himself too much hope.

He's pleased really she accepted, not just due to the festival but because of more underlying all of his intentions that he is so desperate to pretend isn't there after hearing the comments of the women who changed him about wanting their date to go well. About how they wish for their relationship to bloom as if they knew something he didn't. Gods, were he to ask anyone for advice he knows how badly that can go even amongst the others.

There isn't much of anyone he can dare ask but it's when she speaks and makes her steps forward that he has his attention back to reality. This time it's thoughts of how beautiful she looks even in something as simple as her yukata as of now; his cheeks bordering a vivid red before he tugs himself back to reality with his usual smile coming across his lips.

He hasn't noticed yet but his tail is swishing around as if it's excitement grew at the thoughts really but he shouldn't worry her by keeping quiet.) You didn't, your excellency! (Quiet enough but it did little to hide how pleased he is once he takes up his position beside her since he is suppose to be guarding her for this occasion. They might not always be able to attend these festivals but he thinks it should be nice.

Once she's ready to go he keeps near her with each step taken out the Tenryou Commission's courtyard, his eyes at first taking note of the number of children on the streets happily playing with prizes or chasing one another with fireworks as adults and others ate, drank, and enjoyed themselves as well. Or that's his best guess from their current position knowing his eyes are trained for these moments, he did need to have them at their best for moments where he must find a good position to fire from.

As well as really where he needs to strike at from his distance but that isn't the case here. He is here to enjoy himself with Kokomi simply as himself, and her as herself, that is that then.)

If we run into any of my friends I apologize in advance for one of them, Itto if we see him tends to be loud. (His best friend is after all the type to miss things, obvious things, or to go on about saying the most oddest conclusions about others without thinking. That and he remembers Sara is often times his target for revenge.) I mainly say it because he tends to go after General Kujou due to her besting him multiple times. (And he isn't certain if Sara would be wandering the streets either. He has a feeling to his immense displeasure that Guuji Yae would be knowing the Shogun by now but he'll avoid her as best as he can while keeping near Kokomi.

He didn't want to run away this time no matter how much that fox terrifies him.

Not whenever he gets to have a moment as close as this with her to near confessing he longs for more though he knows it best to just leave it as part of a fleeting dream for tonight.)

[suibo]

[ It's strange how for a moment, Kokomi thinks he's blushing. Even with the darkness of the night (lit only by the sprinkling of fireworks from time to time) around them, there's a very definite change of color in his cheeks, something that nearly causes her to ponder, to tilt her head in curiosity at him— it's out of politeness that she restrains herself, logic reminding her that he's likely embarrassed at being seen in such casual clothes, or perhaps at seeing her in them.

(It comes down to that same shyness she felt upon first seeing him dressed like this, one that has quickly faded in favor of warmth, a brightness glimmering behind her eyes even as she tries to stop herself from being too obvious about the fact that she's suddenly found herself quite excited about this—

And to think, just a few minutes ago she was sad and lonely.

It's lucky, Kokomi thinks, that she has Gorou by her side. He knows her so well.)

She walks with him out of the courtyard and into the city proper, her own eyes scanning over the festivalgoers in much the same way that his do, although where Gorou finds himself watching the children and adults alike, Kokomi's eyes end up straying more towards the couples, wrapped arm in arm as they watch the skies and share food and drinks. They look happy— happy enough to not only fill her with a vicarious warmth of her own, but at the same time to cause a fresh pang of wistfulness, a little envy. Wouldn't it be nice, she thinks, to have someone with whom to share a night like this in such an intimate way? Between her busy, never-ending schedule, and the way people look up to her as a leader instead of a person, she's not sure it's in her stars, but still—

Gorou's words draw her out of the deepening thoughts, an almost surprised look on her face as she realizes that he's talking, and she offers an apologetic smile just in case she's missed anything.

Itto? She feels like she may have heard the name before, but she can't be quite sure. What is gently amusing to her though is the idea of someone loud (and likely brash, based on the limited description of his actions) pursuing Kujou Sara. It's enough to bring a small smile to her lips. ]

Of course, I will be happy to meet any of your friends, General. [ Even as she says it, she finds herself hoping it's not too many. The negativity of before has somewhat drained her social energy already. It's another reason why being dressed to blend in should be helpful. ]

[houndfangs]

(In this moment he was attempting to honestly force himself to not look at the couples but he did sneak glances at them too. The thoughts of longing felt so strong he near wants to choke with how much he wants to admit these things that always have flown about his head toward her; something that he would always worry about saying once he finds himself at her side. However, there is something he did not realize, the eyes of others had settle on them with gentle murmurs and smiles as if approving something he had not accounted for.

As if saying the sight of them together was worthy of attention, approval, a few murmuring as he walks by comments on how fitting for a first date this is though he attempts to force his mind to not focus on that. Sometimes he dislikes how excellent his hearing is but he is quite good at hiding feelings he's had growing as time went on between them anyway.

If anything he's far too pleased that it was him that got to do this with her. To him this would have been amazing, a first date of the ages were he not his rank. Were he able to be more than that he'd have confessed he thinks under the fireworks once Yoimiya gets ready to launch the bigger part of the show.

Focus Gorou. This isn't time to lose oneself even as he finds himself just smiling at her comment about meeting his friends. Unfortunately he knows how many he has and he is certainly going to limit it if possible; she didn't need to be completely drained by speaking to all of them.) If anything if Itto and General Kujou are on the streets it can get amusing to watch, not so much to be dragged into. The people tend to rally behind her from what he's told me. (Rally and cheer broadly for her victory as if it's something excitable whenever he really thought more of it as a brutal beat down personally.

Then again Itto never once knew the meaning of 'stop', especially if it were one of the bulls he was so fond of charging him full steam ahead. His head soon drifting out of that thought aside, he should figure out then what to do first since couples tended to do things differently. Maybe prizes if anything catches her eye, food if she wants to try it too.

His heads already turning gears on figuring out how to make this night memorable without revealing how deep his own feelings go toward her.)

Since there's time before the fireworks, the bigger show I believe, we can do anything that catches your eye then, Excellency.

[suibo]

[ Admittedly, Gorou's ears are not the only ones that should be picking up on the fond murmurs around them, directed toward them— the people in question are not exactly being secretive in the way they talk, and their words are perfectly audible even to Kokomi's less-sharp ears. The problem, then, is in the fact that the priestess simply isn't listening to them; over time she has learned to tune out the murmurs and whispers that tend to surround her, a defense mechanism in favor of sustaining her social capabilities just a little longer where they are needed. Between that and the fact that her focus is already split between her companion and the sights and sounds of the festival, she has no hope.

Perhaps it is for the best; she is on edge enough tonight that the addition of admiring whispers would be nothing but another stressor, something to go over one too many times in her mind as she tries to comprehend why the people might think such things of the two of them.

Unfortunately, though, her obliviousness toward the situation does nothing to help it, or help Gorou himself as she turns to him with a smile in her water-deep eyes. The truth is, when it comes to "what catches her eye", she has no idea where to start, simply because, well, everything catches her eye. It's all so different, and her curiosity is as limitless as the sea— But Gorou, she thinks, who spends more time in the city than she does, probably has something of a better idea. After all, he was the one who suggested this outing in the first place, was he not?

One key part of being a strategist is understanding when someone else's strategy may work in a more beneficial manner than your own.

The smile travels to Kokomi's lips, and she reaches out to put a hand on her companion's forearm. ]

Perhaps instead you would do me the kindness of acting as my guide, General? Your eyes are significantly better than my own, and I trust your judgement on what activities will be enjoyable.

[houndfangs]

A-ah? Then maybe we can try one of the more relaxed activities first... (One of the ones he can think of is favored often times by children even as internally is panicking due to the close proximity of them now. He's trying so very hard to ignore the comments while focusing strictly on her which is working successfully to a large degree; though acting cool is something he's forcing himself to do by reminding himself to be calm even as his tail wags at her hand upon his forearm like he just received high affection.

Right. Goldfish scooping was a staple, something she might enjoy knowing that it'd give her a pleasant chance at taking back a new 'friend' and aquatic companion back to Watatsumi.) Since they have set up goldfish scooping, we can do that then first, it's something festivals do occasionally and... I thought that you might be thrilled since you can keep the fish. Whether it's a goldfish or a medaka. (Especially since he vaguely remembers that the medaka count as four goldfish which might also equally please her once he carefully links their arms together for her to keep near him. The stall wasn't too far away which helps even as the murmurs of adoration start to grow at his actions.

Damn it. He's trying not to let the thoughts get to him but he is at least making certain to make this as enjoyable as he can knowing this is such a rare opportunity in itself for the two of them to not be their ranks. Especially now that he's taken in thoughts of maybe trying to win her one of the prizes from whichever stand has something she might want after they attempt to get her a new friend for her to 'swim' with in a sense.

It is a good thing that his eyes and ears are excellent. Being an archer and holding his rank made it quite the necessity with him being additionally thankful he was smart enough to bring his coin purse. The games are cheap but it's best that he didn't ruin it by letting such blunders kill the gentle atmosphere between them.

He'll likely fail at this game but it's worth the chance at her lighting up knowing that they have something that might be able to help her feel more at ease.)

I'll pay too, it's only one hundred mora per game.

(So time to let Kokomi play to her hearts content instead of simply wandering the festival grounds aimlessly. He'll do this and pull out all the stops needed.)

[suibo]

[ She's a little shocked at first by the name— goldfish scooping? For a moment it almost sounds cruel, but she also knows that Gorou knows her well enough to not subject her to something unkind toward ocean creatures. And then he explains, and her eyes light up with excitement. They're able to catch goldfish, or medaka, and then keep them? Okay, maybe she has an entire ocean's worth of fish around her at any given time, but admittedly she's never thought to keep any as pets. ]

That sounds wonderful.

[ It's a simple statement, but a true one, and there's a genuine smile on her lips when he links his arm with hers, something bright and warm that only serves to fuel the murmurs around them; it certainly doesn't help that she shifts her own arm to tuck it more comfortably into his, her smile broadening somewhat as she shifts a little closer into his side. She is, after all, aware of his purpose in being sure that the two of them are not separated; and it makes sense to her for them to remain as close as possible.

Once he leads her over to the stall in question, he pulls out his coin purse, and her head tilts in curiosity. It's not that it's unlike him to offer to pay for someone, not at all; it's more that as his commanding officer for lack of a better term, it feels a little strange to have him do so, as if he's taking care of her rather than the other way around—

(which of course he is, because she's also the Divine Priestess and he is a member of her retinue, her bodyguard, someone who is bound by duty to look after her)

—If she's honest, it makes her feel more like a person than she normally does when dealing with other people from Watatsumi, and she finds a small smile on her lips despite herself. Her arm unwinds from his, and she can't resist a little poke at his forearm before she lets go entirely. ]

Do you treat all your dates like this, General?

[ It will only be later that she realizes that she's implied they are on a date. It was certainly not her intent after all— she only wanted to tease him a little— but the words are what they are, and later she will realize as much. ]

[houndfangs]

(He thought it would be at least as good as any place to start with their outing currently, being able to first start with something this simple though he doesn't think he needs to tell her yet that the game requires gentle movements given that the net can break easily. Plus knowing her she'd not want to antagonize the fish given that akin to her mermaid nature, she wouldn't dare dream of anything harmful to them.

It was at least something that wasn't wrong, he did link arms to make sure she stays near him even if they were all murmuring about the way the two of them seemed to fit and compliment one another perfectly. Gods, he has to remember to force his ears to tune them out harder though it's when she speaks again that he blinks.

It takes a moment for it to register what she said, Gorou soon finds his heart pounding and his cheeks reddening again a brighter hue as he tries to remind himself that he shouldn't step too far. She didn't mean it. He didn't think she meant it since she has to be teasing but it's not helping with the idea it plants in his head.

A date between them, an actual date... something he'd have truthfully wanted more than anything.) I-I um... I actually haven't been on one before, Excellency... (Not a lie either, he was far too busy pining for her from afar though that and the war had his its focus before and then later after everything had been fixed. With all the visions being returned plus other things going on with it as well, such as their stay in the capital as of right now.

This aside he's sure that she might feel bad that he just openly admitted he hasn't gone on a proper date which is why he quickly adds:) N-not that it's a bad thing, I was more focused on my duty and really on helping you.

(And he'd do it all again if he got to be with her.)

[suibo]

[ She notices the coloration of his cheeks— how could she not, when they're so suddenly red against the light brown and white of his hair, startling on a face that she's used to seeing so stoic and calm— but she says nothing, not wanting to embarrass him further. After all, it wasn't proper of her to have made the joke she already did, was it? If the others were to hear it, there's the chance he could get teased— as his commanding officer, it was irresponsible of her...

So she's all set to ignore it when he says something that means she cannot, sets her stomach doing an awkward little flip as she looks at him, surprise on her features.

He's... never been on a date?

As he explains it, the surprise turns to guilt, making her stomach do another awkward little twist, and Kokomi finds herself averting her gaze, not entirely sure what to say. He describes it as "not a bad thing", but at his age surely by now he should have had more experience than that, and for his duty to have taken that away—

(Of course, her own situation is shocking similar, if she would stop to think about it... which of course she doesn't, busy enough on her worries about him as she is now.)

It's with a sense of relief that she realizes the stall-keeper's attention is on her now, and with a quick, forced smile Kokomi leans over the pond, eyes watching as the fish— both small and large— swim to and fro. Would it be cheating, she wonders, forcing her attention on them and them alone, to talk to them?

Maybe she will if she finds herself in trouble.

With a determined expression, she lowers the net into the water, moving it carefully amongst the fish. ]

[houndfangs]

(Gods. He blew it already, he can tell in the way she was forcing her smile after the stall-keeper was looking at her. Being so honest with her about having had not dated but this is with good reason; he had his eyes on someone else. That someone being her so he decides maybe he can hint at having feelings toward someone and try to keep it from sounding too closely to her; he doubts she'd have noticed if he did.

This can be later since once she starts her attempt at catching one of the many fish eagerly swimming about amongst one another. Gorou likes to think they might be receptive to her knowing her affinity with such things once he squats nearby but not too close to let her focus in wonder first. He has to wonder what fish she might catch knowing that there's plenty about that might be vying for her ocean deep attention in joy.

Admittedly the thought of her with a goldfish is adorable as much as it is with one of the medaka. Truthfully he had to pick out another he can think of that might suit her, perhaps a koi? Involving the colors of them that is since their coloration is unique enough.

Still he'll think more of that some other time with his gaze following along idly between the fish and her net. He'll start a round of his own once she's finished so she can see how hopeless he is about playing this game; his stronger suit was the archery along with really anything that can use a good throw if he's honest. Maybe he can show off with wanage knowing the rings were simple to throw about unless they had some manner of other game he can try.

The thoughts were near enough to distract him from murmurs of them being cute again with him silently cheering her on at Kokomi's side to not distract her. He'd honestly pay to let her keep going as long as she desires if she fails the first time but somehow he thinks she might be okay, he's assuming so anyway knowing her intelligence and the fact she could have caught on to how it works enough.

For the time being he'll simply let his tail swish about lowly in wait about what fish she might come out with from this attempt at giving her time to relax with. With something familiar enough in concept but not.)

[suibo]

[ Of course, Kokomi has no idea whatsoever that Gorou's brain is now telling him that he's blown it; to the contrary, whatever it is he thinks he's messed up, she is feeling the same way, telling herself that her selfishness in keeping him tied to such an important duty is what has led him to be in such a situation. Someone as kind-hearted and sweet as he is should have more chances than none, and it's with the guilt from that that she finds herself trying to focus on the goldfish and not... well, everything else.

After all, did he not bring her out here for her to clear her mind? She is doing him a disservice if she does not at least try to do that.

And so she quiets her thoughts and focuses.

Some of the fish are familiar to her, she notices, being endemic to her own waters, but there's one in particular she's never seen before— a type of medaka, based on its shape, but with a color the pale blue of Cryo. Kokomi narrows her attention in on that particular one, moving the net carefully through the water so as not to frighten it—

—Her first attempt has it spot her and dart out the way, but on her second movement of the net she's able to catch it, and when she does she greets it with a warm smile and a kiss on the nose before the stall-keeper puts it in a small glass bowl for her, and the bowl in a paper bag for carrying. ]

I am sorry for the size of your home, friend. [ She says it in a whisper as she straightens up, peering in at it. ] As soon as we return home, you will have oceans' worth of water in which to swim.

[ And then, as if bolstered somehow by the success— or perhaps by the new friend she's made, Kokomi turns back to Gorou. Her smile fades just a little, but this time holds true— and genuine, not like the fake one she wore before she played. ]

I am sorry to you also, General. I would never wish for your duty to take precedence over your ability to live a normal life. You have already given so much for Watatsumi Island. If you wish the time off, you need only ask.

[ She offers her arm to him again, a silent invitation for them to move to the next event on his internal schedule— after all, saying it out loud may take away from the rest of what she's just said. ]

[houndfangs]

(A medaka that near seems infused with Cryo? He didn't expect that whenever he had his eyes on the fish before his ears and tail lifted from being so pleased by her catching it. It's normally tricky to do it but it's good to know he didn't have to worry in the end after all; this does leave however the thoughts of him needing to figure out how to go about explaining he likes her later.

It's enough that he does near blush again at her words, her movement once he with care links arms with her again. Next he can try and find food if she's hungry which he should consider knowing that they'll be walking a lot, keeping up energy with festival food is always nice though he isn't sure she'd want to eat the fish based ones so he'll scratch those off.)

Excellency, really it's fine, my duty to me is just as important and... admittedly there is someone I thought about though I'm not sure if she'd notice. I'm honestly just happy being at her side even if she doesn't. (Maybe not a direct admission with his wistful smile gracing his lips but the only woman he's typically around is Kokomi anyway, Gorou knows that much since he avoids Guuji Yae, barely gets along with Sara, and Shinobu has long since admitted that he's more a brother to her as well. With the amount of time around her and even after getting to know them he just knows that his heart is set only on one, the girl beside him that he felt was far more beautiful than the ocean of Watatsumi once he starts his walk with her further.

Next then... Taiyaki since that's something he thinks would be far more pleasant to taste for the time being. Sweets were one of the better parts of these things aside from the other foods.)

Since I saw a Taiyaki stand and wasn't sure how hungry we'd get, I thought maybe we can get at least something to snack on while we look around further. A-at least since I can always try and see if I can win any bigger prizes from other stands if any of the stuffed toys and the like catch your attention.

(His aim and arm is good after all if she wanted to get anything from wanage throwing or even other games of similar nature since he's certain that he could do it with his smile gradually turning into being brighter. Seeing her cheered up from something he got her on top of her new friend would be nice.

He can carry whatever she wants him to get for her with ease anyway if she does have something catch her fancy. Who knows, maybe this can work in the bigger picture of letting her have some manner of confession from him on his feelings toward her being bigger than he lets on.)

[suibo]

[ Her smile softens and broadens both as he links their arms together once more, and with that done she falls into step alongside him, listening with curious ears to his words. Her brows lift in surprise when he does speak, and with the motion comes a feeling almost bittersweet, a realization that she knows less about him than she would have previously assumed—

(but isn't that how it is supposed to be? He is her general, after all, and she his priestess; they are comrades, she is his leader, they are not friends in the way she might otherwise like to imagine they could be)

—and, after that, another fresh wave of guilt for allowing his duty to potentially keep him away from someone with whom he might like to spend time. After all, while Gorou's own assumption, based on his words, seems to be that the woman in question doesn't share his interest, she does not see how that is possible— how anyone could miss those things that make him as special as he is.

(Yet another irony lost on her.)

She shakes that thought off, though— there's no point in trying to force him to take time off to spend with this mystery lady, especially not right now— and nods instead at the idea of both the taiyaki and the other games, a contented smile on her lips. Perhaps later she'll ask him more about it, if she can find a way. It might not be her place, but she wants to see him happy his personal life too, if it's possible. And as he is a citizen of Watatsumi Island, is it not in some way her responsibility?

So lost is she in her thoughts that she doesn't really notice the way he stumbles over the words when he offers to win her a prize— nor does she consider that such acts are usually offered on dates. ]

Taiyaki sounds lovely. It has been quite a while since I've had the opportunity to taste it. And of course I would be disappointed if I did not have the chance to see your perfect aim in action with these games!

[houndfangs]

(Had she known that he meant her, it would have been more ironic though Gorou himself was shaking off those thoughts to enjoy this moment now. He owes her his happiness too instead of him being lost in thoughts and struggling to put to words his feelings toward her. He half wishes Kazuha was there to give some manner of sagely advice but he knows his friend was off elsewhere in his adventures; he'll write him later if he has to figure out something.

The Taiyaki stand is their next destination then, something he's hopeful about is that they'll have plenty time to enjoy themselves together knowing that he can't quite help the fact he's trying to maybe get out his feelings more in the end. Pining after her like this has been all over his mind; with thoughts of more throughout it all mixed into wishful thinking in hope she sees one day how far his own heart goes.

However it seems he hadn't accounted for something in the end after all once he spots a familiar large figure, two familiar figures.

The largest being one half-oni himself, Arataki Itto, who was in the middle of trying to sweet talk his way into getting an extra thing of Taiyaki to try and bring it back to his grandmother who couldn't make it. So that means that the second would be Shinobu, who he's sure just finished eating her own because he thought he caught glimpses of her wiping her face off before adjusting her mask.

Not good.

He was hoping that he could get Kokomi's energy back up first knowing her social battery differs drastically in these scenarios but this might throw a wrench in that. Especially if Itto were to turn around and even—:)

BROOOOO, YOU'RE HERE!

(Damn it, too late! Itto already in a wide yet happy grin was on his way over much to Gorou's dismay to the point he just barely released Kokomi's arm in time before the giant of a man hoists him to the sky. The hound in Gorou's case was near yelling from that sudden movements but that's unfortunately Itto for you.)

I-ITTO!?

Dude! I thought you were busy, when did you get here!?

(Poor Gorou is going to have to explain a lot later, unfortunately.)

[suibo]

[ The truth of it is that if Kokomi had any idea that she is the person in question, she would have no idea what to think. Her life and duty being what it is, she has never stopped to consider anything like it, particularly when it comes to herself. It's one thing to look out for her people and friends and be sure they have a chance at happiness, but for her...

Well, dating is not something for which she has the luxury of time, is what she decided some time long ago.

(Never mind that her rules for the people under her command are so vastly different, that she would expect them to follow their hearts at all times...)

Knowing none of this, though, she proceeds onward side by side with Gorou. And so as it is, they're partway to the taiyaki stand when the world is shattered by possibly the loudest voice she's ever heard, and her General is being snatched out of the space beside her and hoisted into the air— for a moment she tenses, and reaches for the place just outside of reality where she keeps her Everlasting Moonglow, ready to defend the man who has come here to defend her—

But in the next moment she realizes that this isn't someone from whom Gorou needs protection, and she relaxes. To the contrary, the tone in Gorou's shout is...

...is it possible the two of them are friends?

The stunned expression on her face betraying her despite her best efforts, Kokomi looks between her General and the tall oni holding him in the air, her eyebrows slowly lifting even further under her bangs. ]

...I am afraid I am at a disadvantage. Is this gentleman a friend of yours, General?

[houndfangs]

Ah? Hey, Gorou, you never told me you knew a girl this cute, who is she? Better yet, you manage to score a cute girl like this, way to go bro!

... that's Sangonomiya Kokomi.

HUH?

(Somehow Gorou wasn't too surprised by this turn of events though he was currently being held 'hostage' by his best friend, said best friend and half-oni in the middle of holding him near upside down from whenever he was spinning around with him earlier out of excitement from seeing him. The soft yet stern tone of the woman behind Itto was none other than Kuki Shinobu who was normally there at his side to bail him out of trouble before unleashing her own brand of punishment on Itto anyway.

Though it took Gorou a moment to clear his throat and tug himself out of this setback that this caused him. He almost seems apologetic to Kokomi about the turn of events given he didn't expect to run into them; not this soon anyway given that he near thought they were playing with the children not getting food themselves.)

T-this is... Arataki Itto, he's the friend I told you about that tends to be very loud, behind him is—...

Shinobu, Kuki Shinobu.

(Gorou can't say he surprised she introduced herself on her own right as Itto set down his canine friend with a wide grin. The two of them seem to be thinking over something, that can't be good if Itto of all people is thinking though he isn't going to tell Kokomi that.

If anything that'd likely make it worse! He didn't need her to think that his friends were insane and though he won't tell her in front of them; they knew that he had feelings toward her past the norm for general and priestess. Something that Gorou was grateful for this time about since Itto was choosing to not let slip something that important.

Regardless with him now freed, Gorou takes back up his position next to her while the two of them seem to be quietly chatting amongst themselves as if mulling over something.

Gods, he hopes they aren't about to 'help' him.)

[suibo]

[ She looks from one to the other, a slight smile on her lips— a genuine one, too, if somewhat confused— and then bows to each of the new acquaintances in turn. ]

As you said, I am indeed Sangonomiya Kokomi. It is a pleasure to meet you both— you seem to be important people to Gorou, so if there is ever anything I can do to assist you, please do not hesitate to let me know.

[ With introductions done, said new acquaintances seem content to talk with one another, and Kokomi can't quite help the way her eyes shift to watch Gorou, who in turn has his intense gaze trained on the pair, something of a pained expression evident on his features, a worry in his eyes that she's unable to place exactly, but—

Kokomi's eyes travel back over to Kuki Shinobu, watching her interact with Arataki Itto, watching Gorou's eyes on the two of them, and a strange, heavy feeling strikes her in the gut.

Is it her, then? The girl her General mentioned?

She's gentle in the way she lays a hand on Gorou's forearm, tries to catch his attention with a small smile, nudges her head toward them to indicate their presence. And when she speaks, her voice is soft, sweet with understanding: ]

If you want to spend time with your friends, General, you should. Opportunities like this one are not easily come by. Besides, there are enough people around that I can comfortably ensure my own safety.

[ It's the right thing to say, she knows it, but that doesn't explain the sick feeling leftover in her stomach as the words leave her parted lips. ]

[houndfangs]

... ah? Excellency, it's fine, I promise.

(Because he didn't want time with them. Were he more interested in time with Itto he'd have accepted his offer originally, right now there's only one person that he's focused on right as his gaze softens into something more relaxed toward her. Something more at ease with the thoughts of Itto's brand of help dissipating to give her back a part of him that rarely anyone can say they've seen from him the way she gets it; to a degree he's use to letting his men see it but her is another story.

Something that he can't help knowing the way that he felt toward her differs than the way the others felt toward her out of their own.

Maybe it's her tone, maybe it's the way she doesn't notice that causes him to internally wonder where this came from. Normally he doesn't overthink on it but it's almost as if he swears he detected jealousy; that can't be right, can it? Something he's swearing Shinobu is side-eyeing them over before the two of his friends both seem to quietly reach an agreement on what to do for his painfully obvious pining.)

Yo, bro, we're gonna go ahead and head out! Knock her dead for me, yeah? Remember, you are a friggin delight, a damn fine person and you got this!

Anyway. Good luck, Kokomi, he's been torn up more than you think.

(Poor Gorou nearly gawks at Itto's 'pep talk' more than Shinobu's encouragement toward Kokomi. Gods, why him, though he's forcing himself to not focus on them entirely once they both turn to leave as if they made their best choice to silently push them without interrupting further. Likely after Shinobu pressed Itto into not doing anything else or else he'd face her wrath again right there in front of them; something he thinks would not be a good thing for Kokomi to witness either.

He'll have to explain later more on them, more on the Arataki gang too, which he isn't interested in saying now. Now there's something else in his head he's thinking of more, the jealousy he near thought he detected from Kokomi... that still can't be right, could it? This can't be. He has to be imagining it but for the time being he'll file it back just in case if he did hear right.

Gorou has more important things to do anyway, giving her his utmost attention being one of them.)

I'm sorry about how loud Itto is, a-and about really his way of encouraging people... he actually became an unintentional best friend of mine but he's well-meaning despite his loudness and winning snacks off children to the point Shinobu gets a migraine often.