802 Posts
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17 Years
Female
"Steelheart"
Student-Rank Quirk:
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Post by Tetsuko Shindou on Feb 2, 2019 3:10:18 GMT -4
"I don't need to tell you the weight of this event, Tetsuko. I'm sure you're already aware of just how important your own showing is."
The booming voice of Ryouichi Shindou filled the hall, falling upon the ears of his granddaughter, who was knelt a short distance away from him on her own mat. This time, there were no other masters, just a one-on-one between granddaughter and grandfather... Between student and grandmaster. "Yes, Grandfather. I won't dishonor our school, or U.A., or my family." The ironblooded lass replied firmly, bowing her head slightly. The pressure was all around her, as usual, only this time Elise wasn't there to subdue it. On this day trip to Kashima, only Tetsuko's presence had been required.
"It isn't just a matter of honor, Tetsuko. This is your chance to show you can elevate our school, and our blood. Do not let it go to waste. A lot of people will be watching. Make us proud, for you represent all of us, all of this family and all of this school. Show them the future of the first Shindou hero."
His voice was stern, firm, and proud. This was a man who, for all his powerful force, for all his crushing pressure... Truly did wish nothing more, nothing less, then the persistence and excelling of his blood, of his legacy. Tetsuko had known since her birth that it was her responsibility to uphold her family's name, to uphold the name of her mother and her grandfather, to uphold the pride of the town that they had made their own. Tetsuko bowed her head yet deeper, even as her body felt squeezed by the stress mounting upon her, she did not abandond her duty. "Yes, Grandfather. I will do everything I can to honor you, to honor us."
She would do her utmost to win with honor, or else she would fail her family yet again... That was what Tetsuko, without any room for doubt, thoroughly believed.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A few days later...
Fortunately, Tetsuko had only had one minor panic attack since that meeting, and since the conditions for her victory in this festival were so clearly set. Otherwise, she'd been doing fine enough managing the stress upon her shoulders! It was just the honor of her family and school, after all... The ironblooded girl was, honestly, hoping more and more that the tournaments would finally get started, so she could hurry up and pit her all to see if it was good enough. To see if she was good enough.
In other words, Tetsuko needed something to distract her until then.
Otherwise, these worries and doubts in her mind were going to tear her apart. Just like they'd done in the past. Abandoning the worries wasn't an option, for she truly believed in everything her grandfather had said. This was the opportunity to make her family and sword school proud, to do right by them, to respect the origin that she cherished. This was her chance... To live up to the path laid out by her mother before her, to carry on that path where her mother could not. If Tetsuko could not abandon this anxiety, the least she could do was set it aside until it was truly needed. Hence, the distractions. And there was no one as good at filling her mind with other, sillier thoughts than her a certain Germanic lass...
Tetsuko was currently in her school uniform, worn properly as ever, waiting just outside the main alley of the U.A. Sports Festival. Within were plenty of stalls and sights, the perfect location for a date. The idea had been a mutually concieved one, as both were aware of how much fun it could be to go around the stalls, and enjoy themselves before the main events started, before their abilites were truly put to the test. It was the perfect time for Tetsuko to distract herself from the mounting pressure of this event.
From the mounting pressure of putting her own family's honor on the line...
Tetsuko shook her head, expelling those thoughts and glancing around. She'd told Elise to meet her around her at around this time, so the burgundy-haired girl was sure to arrive at any moment now. Where they went from there, well, was up to them. Tetsuko was, admittedly, preferential towards somewhere where the crowds weren't so big, but with so many visiting schools and others it was bound to get a bit crowded around the whole place... Hell, right now, the crowds were big as ever, it seemed some large group had just turned up...
In the distance, one particularly noticable member of that group could be soon pushing through lines for some dango, not that Tetsuko had taken notice of the familiar faces yet, still keeping an eye out for Elise.
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1,038 Posts
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18 Years
Female
"Spymaster"
Civilian-Rank Quirk:
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Post by Elise Von Eisenberg on Feb 2, 2019 3:53:49 GMT -4
A few days prior to the start of the Sport's Festival.
Seated in the living room of the Von Eisenberg household the oldest child of the family had been busy caressing the back of the Japanese Bobtail cat that was nestled onto her lap. She was not alone, for next to her was her mother, Diana von Eisenberg who was smiling kindly at her. "What's the matter Eli? you seem to be quite troubled by something." The words of her mother quickly snapped her thoughts back to reality, a sheepish chuckle escaping Elise's lips while she bashfully ran a hand along the back of her head. "Hehe~ Is it that obvious?" As if on cue Stumpie, the cat on her lap mewled in response, upon which Elise snickered softly. "Point taken~" Indeed, if she spend quietly petting a cat for nearly a whole hour, then something must have been going on. "It's just that..."
A frown emerged upon her face. It had been only a few days since Tetsuko had returned from her trip to Kashima, a trip that she had undertaken by herself. In the end, it was likely that they didn't consider her presence important enough for whatever matter had to be attended to. Of course, Elise wasn't oblivious to what the matter would have been, and after a minor panic attack from her lover, Elise knew all too well that there was no doubt that Tetsuko had been reminded by her grandfather of just how important the upcoming Sports Festival would be. The responsibility of carrying the name of the Shindou family, of being the first hero within the Shindou household was no doubt burdening her lover. "I worry about Tetsu..." Elise muttered softly, upon which her mother gently reached with a hand for the orange juice that was on the table and after taking a sip from her glass mused softly. "Oh? And why would that be?"
Elise couldn't help but pout in frustration at the question. "You know just as well as I do that Tetsu's grandfather likely drilled the reminder of how important the upcoming festival is into her mind." Diana paused for a moment, a glint of mischief in her eyes as she hummed softly. "And you wish you could have drilled something else inside her~"
The teasing remark of her mother was more than plenty to make Elise's cheeks flush up into a scarlet red hue. "MOM!" After chuckling for a moment Diana shook her head softly and grinned at her. "You're basically worried that Tetsu is getting stressed, right?" A little nod was made by Elise in affirmation to the question, which soon led to her mother to answer her. "Then you don't need to worry~ After all, aren't you the one who has the best medicine available for her?"
Tilting her head slightly to the side in confusion Elise muttered in disbelief. "Medicine?" Diana nodded her head lightly, and while she leaned back against the sofa hummed with a playful wink. "The medicine known as Elise von Eisenberg~ Just be there for her, let her know that no matter what you'll be supporting her and cheer for her with all your might."
It was true, if there was one way for her to help Tetsuko, then it was no doubt by distracting her from all those worrying thoughts! "Also, I and Touma will be expecting some good results from you for the Obstacle Course~" Elise couldn't help but grin in response to that statement. "Will you be spectating also?" And upon seeing that nod her grin turned even wider. "Then I got no choice but to place among the top ten!"
And then the time of the festival had arrived. It had been a mutual idea of the girls, a date on the first day of the festival so that they could find some distractions from the excitement of the upcoming events. After all, they had quite a while before the events like the obstacle course would take place, and Elise was adamant that she would succeed in making Tetsuko relax. This date wouldn't be a success unless she saw Tetsuko smile!
Dressed in the school uniform the burgundy-haired lass darted among the crowds, quite eager to reach the meeting place that they had agreed on for their date. After all, Tetsuko had some business to attend to in the morning, and she had volunteered to help Kirk set up some stuff for the Sports club demonstrations, but now that it was time for their date nothing would stop her! Not even a Nuclear Bomb! Okay, that might actually force them to relocate their date to a shelter, so she hoped no Nuclear Bombs would be thrown their way. But with China and America participating in this festival, there would be no reason for concern... right?
"We should have invited Russia..." Elise muttered as she forced her way through some of the crowds. "I tell you, Russia is going to try to ruin my date, and then the festival cause they weren't invited..." But fortunately her musing didn't take much longer, for spotting Tetsuko nearby the burgundy-haired lass quite literally bounced into her direction, tackling her lover sideways with the same enthusiasm of a certain bouncy tiger from a children's tale involving a talking bear with a fondness of honey. "Tetsu~" Elise exclaimed happily, giving her lover a smooch against her cheek. "You looked quite distracted, so I became an even bigger distraction~"
The burgundy-haired lass stated with a mischievous smile while looking at Tetsuko, the spark of liveliness in her eyes clearly showing just how much Elise was already enjoying their date. Indeed, for her Tetsuko's presence was already more than enough to stir that sense of happiness and joy in her that she couldn't find in the same style elsewhere. It truly reminded her of just how much she adored the iron-blooded girl.
"So~ Ready for a date? Today's adventure will be at the Sports Festival, so you better hold on to me tight~ Don't want to risk getting seperated from each other with those crowds~"
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802 Posts
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17 Years
Female
"Steelheart"
Student-Rank Quirk:
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Post by Tetsuko Shindou on Feb 3, 2019 23:21:44 GMT -4
As much as Tetsuko wanted to keep her focus on looking for Elise, it was difficult for her thoughts not to wander with all the things that pressed on her. It was one of the reasons she usually hated big crowds like this... All the people, all the things to keep watch of, it emanated a pressure onto the ironblooded girl that only exacerbated her preexisting stressors. Not to mention, this particular crowd kept grabbing Tetsu's attention for some reason. Every time she glanced at it, some kind of familiarity lit up in her mind, only to pass the next moment. Was she just seeing people she knew? That would make sense, given all the UA students participating...
Tetsuko let out a sigh, her eyes cast down for a moment as another fact dawned on her. If this was the crowd attending the sports festival, that meant all of these people... All of these countless individuals... Would be watching her. These were all the people that would bear witness to the first debut of the first Shindou Hero. They would all bring their judgment upon her, they would collectively decide if she and her family were really up to snuff...
Just as Tetsuko's heart rate began to accelerate, a much-needed distraction made her presence known. A weight bounced into her side, a full head of burgundy hair being the first thing to catch her eye, the first indicator of who this sudden arrival was. Instantly, her heart softened, her serious expression softened, the world itself seemed to become so much more comfortable when it was Elise that filled Tetsuko's mind, and nothing else.
"Eli..." Tetsuko uttered quietely, before feeling those soft, kind lips against her cheek. It seemed that the Germanic lass had arrived just in time, with the intention of being a significant distraction for Tetsuko Shindou. "Well, I'm sure you'll do just fine in that role. It suits you, even." The swordswoman declared with a light chuckle, her ocean blue eyes gazing warmly at Elise, before she returned the initial gesture and pressed a soft peck against the Eisenberg's cheek. Things between them these days were, well, great. It wasn't some grand and passionate adventure that they were having, but a steady row down a stream. A steady approach to the relationship they were working on, now with a more firm intent than before, now moving on in spite of the doubts they might have harboured.
Tetsuko couldn't even say those words yet, but still, that felt... OK. If she could just stay by Elise's side, devoted to her and fighting for her, then Tetsuko felt with a strange certainty that she might one day truly fall for this girl. That she might really be able to say those words, that the simple attraction she felt might become something as grand as what Elise herself felt. That wasn't just Tetsuko's hope, it wasn't some flappable dream, it was the promise that she had made during thier time in Kashima.
"Right, right. Wouldn't want you getting lost in here." Tetsuko replied in agreement, before swiftly clutching Elise's hand and holding it tightly. These crowds still made Tetsuko a bit anxious, so she really was holding on with the slight worry that losing Elise in these crowds might be a legtimate risk! "Let's head up through the main alley. Where did you wanna go first?" Tetsuko inquired of her girlfriend. Regardless of the answer, Tetsuko would proceed ahead, weaving through the crowds and making sure to keep Elise close as they headed onward towards whatever Elise decided would be a good place to start their date in the grand UA sports festival! Though, little did they know, that their date wasn't exactly going to go to plan... As nice as it would have beem for them to spend all that quality time alone together, there were some unexpected guests who might snatch away their attention...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Akane Uwabami was not exactly a lucky woman.
One look at her singular arm and singular eye was all it took to realize that. That luck seemed to permeate outside of just her physical appearance, however, as was the case with her most recent predicament. After some high-octane rounds of rock-paper-scissors, Uwabami alone had been the grand loser, and thus, the one burdened with a certain task. The task of chaperoning Jikishinkag-ryu's youngest masters. Ryoko and Ryoma Taniguchi.
"It really not possible fer you guys to just go on yer own? Ya got each other, don't ya?"
The woman lamented. The Taniguchis were only a year older than Tetsuko and Elise, after all, so the one-armed woman did admittedly not see much purpose in having her keep an eye on these twins. They, however, evidently didn't see the same problems she did, and both shook their head at the older woman's words. In unison, of course.
"Grandmaster said it could be dangerous if one of us get caught on our own." The female twin said first. "He's afraid the Koyanagis might be here. We aren't us strong if we get separated." The male twin concluded. Uwabami sighed in response, but couldn't deny their reasoning was msotly wound. They could easily be made targets, and although they were quite strong together, individually they weren't nearly as formidable. Even Tetsuko could likely go toe-to-toe against a single Taniguchi, though when they did fight alongside one another, even the likes of Uwabami and Masaru Shindou could struggle against them.
"Alright, whatever. Guess I'm stuck bein' yer babysitter no matter how much I complain 'bout it..." Uwabami lamented. Truthfully, right now she would have preferred to be drinking with the rest of the guys, but instead... There she was guiding the twins around the UA sports festival. After all, they were to be important spectators of the sword school's heiress!
"Just lemme know where ya wanna go. I'll push through that fuckton of people." The woman declared flatly, gazing over at the crowds present. Shit sure was busy, no doubts about that.
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1,038 Posts
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18 Years
Female
"Spymaster"
Civilian-Rank Quirk:
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Post by Elise Von Eisenberg on Feb 3, 2019 23:47:20 GMT -4
Tetsuko's concern was understandable if anything perhaps it had been the very reason for Elise to undertake this grand quest. The quest of distracting the iron-blooded girl from all the pressure that was weighing down upon her shoulders. Of course, Elise did have a way with making her entrance, as became evident when Tetsuko's heart rate began to accelerate, just for the much-needed distraction known as Elise von Eisenberg to make her entrance. Bouncing into Tetsuko's side, the burgundy-haired lass smiled gleefully at her lover, the way Tetsuko's expression softened already making it evident that her idea had worked. The gentle uttering of her nickname made Elise's gaze soften for a moment after delivering that gentle smooch onto her lover's cheek, and her declaration of wanting to be a distraction for Tetsuko clearly amused the iron-blooded lass, who commented about how she felt that it was a role that fitted her just fine, in fact, if anyone could distract Tetsuko Shindou, then it was she.
"Hehe~ I'm the best distraction you could wish for~ Also the most fun one~" Elise answered with a hearty giggle, yet when Tetsuko leaned in and gently kissed her cheek Elise felt her cheeks flush up lightly, her smile brightening tenfold at the gesture. "hehe~" A bashful smile emerged on her lips as she looked at Tetsuko. It was such a pleasant change from how things had once been. Nowadays it would not be wrong to say that things were, pretty much great between the spoiled little princess and her iron-blooded knight. Their mutual devotion and dedication to steadily let their relationship blossom was such a beautiful and pleasant something, it even allowed those gestures of affection to be given between each other, gestures that wordlessly conveyed just how strong and warm their bond was.
Indeed, even if Tetsuko still couldn't say those words yet, Elise felt it was okay. It were little things like the kiss she gave, the warmth with which she treated her that made Elise feel that it was fine. A devotion that was just for her, truly one that fitted the iron-blooded knight. In a way Elise believed that it was things like this that were Tetsuko's way of showing her feelings, and if those gestures were a signal, then it was just a matter of time before she would truly grow to understand her heart, and she would hear those words the burgundy-haired lass longed to hear. It wasn't a dream, it was a promise they had made, and something for Elise to look forward to, a promised future for both of them.
"Nyehehe~ Indeed, perfect excuse for us to cling closely together." And as she felt Tetsuko clutching her hand tightly, the Eisenberg grinned sheepishly, gently pressing closer against Tetsuko as she nodded her head lightly, letting Tetsuko guide her through the crowds in the main alley. "How about we visit some of the foreign schools their stands? I noticed a lot of foreigners set up their stalls and are selling all sorts of things. Like from snacks to games you can play at their stall and such." Elise clarified with a little hum, clearly excited for their little date.
"How about that one over there? I heard that Chinese store specializes in historical souvenirs and they even got drawings and paintings of various Chinese martial arts weapons. And I know you love those~" Yet she soon added with a little snicker. "Totally not suggesting it because the German vendor next to them has some delicious snacks on sale also~"
Teasingly poking out her tongue at the jest, it seemed both were still oblivious to the potential reunion awaiting them~
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802 Posts
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17 Years
Female
"Steelheart"
Student-Rank Quirk:
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Post by Tetsuko Shindou on Feb 4, 2019 12:05:29 GMT -4
"Gingerbread."
"Gingerbread."
"Come again?"
After Uwabami had handed them a map of all the stalls, a hand from each holding it up to read, the Taniguchi twins had provided the older woman with a rather unexpected answer. The one-armed woman stepped over and looked at where they were both pointing, and surely enough, there was a booth set up featuring some rather tasty German snacks, including some good old fashioned 'Lebkuchen', AKA, gingerbread. "Yeah, alright... But, uh, why?" The older woman asked with a confused look, turning her gaze back to the creepily in sync twins.
"We haven't had it before." Ryoko claimed simply. "The festival seems like a good place to try new things." Ryoma rounded out their reasoning. Uwabami just furrowed her brow even more deeply at them. These kids were strange, to say the very least, but Uwabami supposed she was in no place to judge. Their upbringing wasn't something she was familair with outside if it being... Abnormal.
"OK then. Let's get this show on the road. Y'all better keep in mind the favour ya now owe me, though." Uwabami huffed, before marching off and ushering the two younger swordsmen along with her only arm. The sooner they got what they wanted, the sooner she could do what she actually wanted.
"Thank you, Master Uwabami."
"We won't forget the favour."
Their mutual gratitude actually took Uwabami aback for a moment, a soft reddening to her cheeks as she just glanced back at them and nodded.
"Guess those kids... Can be kinda cute, huh?'
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Back on Tetsuko's end, she was experiencing a much more desired distraction in the form of her girlfriend. There was nothing quite like Elise's presence to soothe the stressors that clung to Tetsuko's core, nothing like it at all. It was almost ironic, really... Part of what had drawn Tetsuko to Elise in the first place, back when they were oh so young, was that innate desire in Tetsuko to be needed by someone. To be worthy and necessary, to be a pillar of strength and protection. Yet, now, all these later, Tetsuko had found herself someone that she needed just as much, if only for different reasons.
Well, perhaps 'need' wasn't the right word. No, it most certainly wasn't the right word. As Master Gai had pointed out, they didn't need each other... Deep down, what was truly the case, was that they wanted to each other. To act on those wants was what they had long since decided.
Indeed, there were no distractions that Tetsuko could think of that were quite as fun as Elise von Eisenberg. Unlike the ironblooded lass, Elise was much more spirited and bubbly, the perfect condensed ball of fun that Tetsuko needed at a stressful time like this. Of course, Tetsuko couldn't see this perfect solution go unrewarded, hence that kiss against Elise's cheeks. The cycle of joy and rewards continued with that look on Elise's face afterward. The smile, the look, the flushed cheeks, it was all enough to make Tetsuko's heart skip a beat. If nothing else, Tetsuko definitely found Elise hopelessly attractive and adorable.
Attraction and devotion were, perhaps, the two most important ingredients they had nowadays. Substances which were mixing together, slowly reacting to creat the relationship they now had. Even if it was small things everyday, even if they weren't sure of the true feelings that lay at the core of their connection, they could keep going with the assuredness that this reality was manifesting right before them. Now, separate from their other stressors, unhindered by Tetsuko's anxieties, this relationship instead became a bastion from all her worries and doubts.
As Tetsuko clung tightly to Elise, she'd inquired on where exactly the Germanic lass would like to visit. The Eisenberg girl had a pretty interesting suggestion in mind, mentioning that there were a lot of foreign school stands set up that they could visit. Tetsuko nodded along, agreeing with the idea right away. "It would be good to visit the stalls of schools that are visiting, a lot of the other stuff we could just experience any other time." She nodded a long with a hand on her chin, before Elise pointed out one stall in particular that featured Chinese historical souvenirs, including drawings and depictions of Chinese martial arts weapons. Normally, this would have been right up Tetsuko's alley, but...
"Eh, I'm sure my school could get their hands on art like that any other time... Besides, it not something you'd enjoy as much." Tetsuko explained, much preferring something that they could both enjoy. "German snacks sounds pretty good, though... I've cooked you plenty of Japanese food, maybe it's time you showed me the cuisine of your people." Tetsuko declared with a grin, leading Elise onward towards the German food vendor. It was amongst the other foreign school's stalls, as Elise had said, and featured all kinds of snacks and sweets.
One of the most prominent of which were those good old fashioned 'Lebkuchen'. All of them were, per usual, written with different kinds of sappy and personal messages addressed to whoever you handed it to. Tetsuko, of course, didn't actually understand any of these, given how poor her German was... All that Tetsuko knew were the few words that Elise let slip on occasion, including the names of Elise's combat techniques. "Y'know, the more I think about it, I haven't really seen much of German culture... Well, compared to what you've seen of Japanese." Tetsuko mused as they waited in line for the German vendor.
It was quite true, as Tetsuko's only experiences had been with the Eisenberg family, which was fairly well integrated into the Japanese society. Elise on the other hand, had seen a buttload of Japanese culture, between attending school and witnessing the traditional stylingss of the Shindou family and Jikishinkage-ryuu. Perhaps experiencing some authentic German cuisine would let Tetsuko see a bit more of her lover's home country!
Of course, they weren't the only one interested in investigating the Germanic delights, as towards the back of the line a new trio had emerged. A rather odd one, consisting of a giant of a woman and what one might presume were her twin children... Indeed, that reuinon was only drawing nearer!
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1,038 Posts
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18 Years
Female
"Spymaster"
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Post by Elise Von Eisenberg on Feb 5, 2019 0:01:54 GMT -4
She was glad to see her attempt to distract her girlfriend was working, and seeing Tetsuko smile like that? It brought a smile to the burgundy-haired girl her lips who hummed happily in response. "Good~ A smile better suits my hero~" Indeed, in her opinion, nothing was as pleasant as an expression as seeing a smile upon Tetsuko's lips, it made Elise feel all sorts of warm and happy to see it.
It was something that had begun all those years ago. When Tetsuko emerged into her life she had been a pillar of strength and protection, someone Elise felt she needed in her life. Although she understood now that need was a wrong assumption, she wanted Tetsuko in her life, because to her Tetsuko Shindou was more than her girlfriend, her childhood friend or her iron-blooded knight. She was the one Elise considered her 'hero'. It waas Master Gai that taught them that, the reason why their bond was so strong wasn't because they needed each other, rather it was because the one they wanted the most was each other, that had led to their bond to be so strong, and with their mutual decision to act upon those wants? It was a recipe for a wonderful adventure, one which was exclusive for the two of them.
Some might wonder where Elise's bubbly attitude came from, the reason why she was so spirited and such a bouncy condensed ball of fun, and if she was asked the reason behind it, she would no doubt believe that it was because she had Tetsuko by her side. Someone who acted on their wants, and was honest in acknowledging their wants was naturally much happier than someone who was shackled by their needs.
A sheepish smile lingered on her lips as her cheeks remained flushed into a blush of embarrassing happiness, and with the way the two of them were ready to start their adventure? Elise knew that more of that would be approaching throughout the day.
Attraction and devotion, the two most important ingredients that made up their relationship today, and that was fine. Those small everyday things were more than plenty to allow them to grow closer, to slowly and steadily explore their true feelings for one another.
There was a certain excitement to feeling Tetsuko cling so tightly to her, the feeling of her body pressing so closely against her delivering a sense of safety and comfort, but also excitement as the two navigated their way along the main alley where plenty of foreign school stalls were set up. "Hehe~ Then snacks it is~" Elise chimed in response as the two girls made their way to the German food vendor.
Just as expected a large assortment of food and sweets were on display, the most prominent of which were the good old fashioned Lebkuchen, or Pfefferkuchen as they were sometimes called. Although they resembled Gingerbread in a way. "Tetsu~ they got some Lebkuchenherzen here~ notice those boxes that have the shape of a heart? Inside them is a special type of Lebkuchen~ It has some icing that makes it slightly harder, in particular, there are messages written on them."
She paused for a moment, her cheeks flushing up lightly as she continued. "In Germany, lovers have the tradition to pick one for their partner and give it as a present~ Some folklore even say that the messages contained on those Lebkuchenherzen are a premonition or like a hint toward the future~"
As they finally got to their turn Elise pointed at the right-most box, considering she was right-handed and thought it might make her a bit lucky to get a cute message. If only she had realized just how ironic fate could possibly be.
After Tetsuko had chosen hers and they figured out how to pay for it, the burgundy-haired lass handed the lebkuchenherzen box to Tetsuko and grinned sheepishly. "Want me to translate it for you?"
the burgundy-haired lass inquired, a sheepish smile on her lips as she waited for Tetsuko to give the box to her. "Lebkuchen were actually invented by Monks in Franconia, Germany during the thirteen century. Although the first Lebkuchen bakers were known to be recorded as early as one thousand two hundred and ninety-six in Ulm, and one thousand three hundred and ninety-five in Nuremberg~ In fact, the latter is the most famous exporter of the type known as the Nuremberg Lebkuchen!"
It seemed the lore nerd in Elise was slowly rising as she exclaimed with a grin. "Local history in Nuremberg relates that Emperor Friedrich the third held a Reichstag, an Imperial Diet in one thousand four hundred and eighty-seven and he invited the children of the city to a special event where he presented lebkuchen bearing his printed portrait to almost four thousand children. Historically, and due to the difference in the ingredients, Lebkuchen are often known as honey cake, or pepper cake~ However, traditionally those cookies are usually quite large and may be up to eleven and a half centimeter if they are round, or even larger if rectangular~"
"Hehe~ Actually a long time after, a variety of the Nuremberg Lebkuchen was made without flour which is called the 'Eliseniebkuchen' ... Some speculate this Elise was either the daughter of a gingerbread baker or the wife of a margrave. However, her name is sometimes associated with certain Lebkuchen produced by members of the guild that work there. However, fascinatingly enough, before the year two thousand, a law was made that Nuremberg lebkuchen have to be produced within the city Nuremberg~"
Chuckling heartily Elise squeezed herself a bit closer to Tetsuko as she hummed softly. "Now that we got the lore out of the way~ let's see what yours says." Elise chimed with a grin as she waited for Tetsuko to open the box, yet as the lebkuchenherzen came into view and the message Elise's cheeks turned crimson in hue.
If one was to read the message, they would no doubt understand why, because the message inscribed in it read: Willst du mich heiraten?
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802 Posts
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17 Years
Female
"Steelheart"
Student-Rank Quirk:
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Post by Tetsuko Shindou on Feb 7, 2019 5:59:20 GMT -4
Did a smile really suit her best? Tetsuko wasn't even entirely sure of such a thing. Kashima had been strides of progress for the young Shindou, but even after it, doubts still were harbored in her heart. Of course, it was clear to her now that seeking a life based on wants rather than what she thought she needed was a happier existence, but even now Tetsuko doubted her own happiness, doubted if it had meaning when it could be taken away so easily... The uncertainty of their condition could often cripple her with fear and worry, yet, at other times...
When Elise smiled so brightly, or clung so tightly, when their bond was on full display, when they weren't shackled or bound to anything but their own devotion... In those moments, the uncertainty and fear that dwelled deep within Tetsuko didn't seem so strong. They weren't going away anytime soon, or perhaps even at all, as her anxieties were simply a part of her... But if Tetsuko could control them, and beat them back inch by inch with Elise's help, then she just might be able to walk confidently into this future with her girlfriend.
Master Gai's lessons hadn't gone to waste, even if they wouldn't change everything right away. For now, Tetsuko was content with just having a new adventure every day with Elise, as they traveled through life, moving slowly and carefully and simply enjoying the ride. Maybe exploring these feelings wouldn't end well, maybe it would end perfectly, either way, Tetsuko knew she could be content with it so long as she savored the path.
With a smile on her face, Tetsuko happily walked that same path today with Elise, the path along which their wants lay. It wasn't an easy path, but no matter what they came across, no matter where this path led, Tetsuko managed to find sanctuary in one certainty above all else... Her devotion to Elise. It wasn't an inferno of passion, but a quiet and immovable devotion that bound them.
As Elise clung to her, the Germanic lass wasn't the only one who was feeling safety just from the simple embrace, Tetsuko herself feeling a sense of security at knowing Elise was near and entirely safe. They'd already determined thier first course of action, and were currently headed off toward some sweets from Elise's own home country.
What seemed to be the most prominent of this particular vendor were the classic Lebkuchen or Pfefferkuchen that were on display. Tetsuko wasn't too familiar with the foodstuff, but had heard of it before and even tried some within the Eisenberg household. However, the concept of Lebkuchenherzen was entirely new to her, which apparently were shaped like hearts and possessed special messages written on them in icing!
"I see..." Tetsuko uttered, nodding along as her girlfriend explained the ins and outs of them, her slightly flushed cheeks prompting a knowing smirk from Tetsuko. "So, in other words, you're hoping to get a good fortune from the gingerbread? Hah, guess I'll have to accept." Tetsuko sighed in faux exasperation at her lover's antics. Once they were next up line, Tetsuko picked her own box purely out of chance. With both paid for, they stepped aside to let the line progress as Tetsuko took Elise's box and they came across the first problem with this idea...
Tetsuko's German was rather lacking!
"Ah, yes please." Tetsuko uttered in response to Elise's offer to translate it. The Shindou girl then passed her own box over to Elise, where she then received the impromptu history lesson she hadn't expected.
Tetsuko's eyes widened at the bombardment of lore, impressed by the sheer quantity of names and cities she didn't even know how to begin to pronounce. By the end of it, Tetsuko had left with a much more thorough knoweldge on the subject than she'd entered with, but had one main takeaway from the sudden lore spouting. "So... You're saying these aren't authentic Lebkuchen? If I ever go to Germany, you'll have to show me the real deal." Tetsuko declared with a firm nod, grinning slightly. The Shindou girl was already beginning to carry herself in the way she usually had since Kashima, despite her anxieties... Though, a reminder of them soon approached.
For now, there was the box Tetsuko had chosen that they still needed to inspect! Once the box was opened, and its contents unveiled, Tetsuko looked to Elise for translation... However, much to the Japanese girl's surprise, her translator seemed far too flustered to say anything! "H-Huh, w-what does it say?" Tetsuko stammered out, her own cheeks flushing red.
She knew 'du' and 'mich'... Was 'willst' supposed to be 'will'? Will you...
"Is Tetsuko-sama proposing?"
"Congratulations, Elise von Eisenberg."
"HA!?" Tetsuko cried out, pivoting on the spot behind her at the sound of two monotone twins... Surely enough, standing right behind them, having seen the Lebkuchen from an angle, were the masters Taniguchi... As well as Master Uwabami, who was laughing hysterically at the two scarlet-faced girls.
"BAHAHAHA, oh, that's too good... Yer pretty damn bold, or mayb ya just can't read it as well as these nerds! Bahaha..." The older woman howled, keeled over as she bellowed with laughter. Her presence was startling and sudden, but at least it was a good distraction from the very embarassing gingerbread that they'd recieved! Speaking of which, it looked like the twins had their own, own-messaged gingerbread cookies that they were eating as they patiently waited near Uwabami.
"Master Uwabami? Masters Taniguchi? W-What are you... Doing here?" Tetsuko stammered out, looking away from the Lebkuchen, which was going to be even more embarassing and awkward than this sudden surprise. Uwabami just smirked back, giving a simple shrug of her shoulders.
"Babysittin'. What about you two lovebirds, huh? Enjoyin' yer school festival?" The older woman said simply, leaving Tetsuko still stunned and confused... And the Lebkuchen yet uneaten!
It was turning out to be a very surprising reunion... As Tetsuko glanced back at Elise with that same confused looks, their cheeks still red, and the awkwardness that could have occurred luckily cut through thanks to Uwabami herself...
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Post by Elise Von Eisenberg on Feb 8, 2019 2:49:18 GMT -4
Indeed, even if Tetsuko herself doubted it, Elise believed with all her heart that a smile suited her the most. There was nothing that made Elise as happy as seeing Tetsuko happy, even all the more if that happiness was caused by her. Although she understood that the iron-blooded knight was someone who needed time, it was a promise they had made, after all some problems weren't solved instantaneously or within a few days, but she believed that by supporting her, and staying at her side, that Tetsuko Shindou would someday find the happiness that Elise longed for both of them to have.
In Elise's case, there was no doubt that the happiness she longed for could be found in moments like this. Moments where the strength of their bond was on full display. Moments where she could smile without any worries, clinging happily onto her lover and enjoy those little moments where the iron-blooded girl pampered her. Indeed, even if Tetsuko was uncertain and afraid of the future, Elise believed that with her help, she could aid Tetsuko in keeping those worries suppressed, worries which surely would become something that they could vanquish, or perhaps she could just help Tetsuko learn to control the anxieties which filled her heart. It was all just a matter of time, and until that day they would continue to enjoy walking toward that path together.
It was odd how strongly Master Gai's lessons had influenced both of them. Even if the lessons themselves had not caused a drastic change right away, they did change tiny things, tiny details and matters some might consider trivial, but in Elise's opinion those details had made their relationship all the more beautiful. The fact Tetsuko was slowly growing more comfortable with her 'expressive' way of showing her love for the iron-blooded girl, the way they traveled through life at a slow and careful pace in a way where both of them could truly enjoy life to its fullest... Elise felt that things were slowly, but surely changing for the better.
A sheepish grin lingered on her lips as she watched Tetsuko smile, the way the two of them walked the same path bringing a sense of warmth and comfort within the Eisenberg that felt so special. It was a path forged by their wants, and while it wasn't exactly an easy path, it was one they could travel together. Both had their own thing which allowed them to say on their path no matter what obstacles they came across. For Tetsuko it was her devotion, for Elise it was something as simple as her love and affection for the iron-blooded girl.
Still, she had to admit it was a rather amusing thought, to think the first attraction they would visit on their date at the Sports Festival was something as silly as a vendor selling sweets which originated from her home country. Although she was already spending eleven years within Japan, the girl was still Germanic of origins, and sometimes it was special to have those moments where she was reminded of Germany and the very first years of her life.
Of course, the sight of the lebkuchenherzen was something which had quickly inspired an idea within Elise, who thought of a rather adorable and cute manner of showing their bond, they could have a delicious snack and also enjoy some sweet messages. It seemed like a perfect idea to have an endearing moment with her lover, although she had been entirely oblivious of just what type of messages the various boxes contained.
Tetsuko's utterance at the explanation, and the smirk made Elise smile bashfully while she hummed softly. "We don't need good fortune, we have each other and the feelings between us~" Elise whispered reassuring, and after the two of them had ordered their sweets and stepped out of the row, Elise had already realized the first problem of the idea: Tetsuko's German was rather lacking! Although, she did know a few words since Elise did have the unusual habit of speaking in German when she became emotional.
Of course, as she received the box and Elise explained the nature of the origins behind the Lebkuchen, the burgundy-haired lass chimed in response. "I'm not sure where those Lebkuchen were made, we likely can look for that on the box." Elise explained while at the same time the moment Elise read the message, her cheeks red, the sudden unison response from two familiar voices made Elise spin around on the spot, her face growing even redder. "N-N-No! I-It's too early for that! She might be my girlfriend, but we promised to take it slow... That and I think I know at least one master who is likely to kick my backdoor straight out of that hall if I was to convey such intentions..."
The burgundy-haired lass explained in a flustered tone, as Master Uwabami was laughing heartily at their flustered state. "Mou~ Master Uwabami!" Elise replied, her cheeks growing even redder to the point she looked like a tomato. "I swear if this one is also as embarrassing we're asking for new ones..." Elise muttered softly as she opened the box and saw the contents and her lips curved up into a smirk.
"Say Tetsu~ Lemme translate this one for you."
She gently turned the box toward Tetsuko, showing the message which was on the icing and then suddenly leaned closer, giving the iron-blooded girl a gentle smooch on the lips before withdrawing and muttering softly. "That's for making me read something so embarassing~" Elise answered, clearly recovering slowly as she picked up her Lebkuchen and started to take a bite from it.
"Mhmm, the school festival is going to be pretty intense, there are schools from all over the world showing up, some even say they are the best of the best. So we been preparing ourselves for the big events! Although right now we're relaxing a bit and enjoying some time together, can't always be all tense and stressed." Elise nodded a few times, as if affirming her own statement. At least they had escaped from an embarassing situation.
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Post by Tetsuko Shindou on Feb 10, 2019 4:35:57 GMT -4
Of course, it wasn’t going to be easy, this path they traversed. Any path that led to the top of the mountain was going to be difficult, treacherous and testing. All of their devotion was what bound them to each other, and that path, and all the little changes they’d undergone were what let them scale that mountain together. By moving slowly, carefully, they could avoid being crushed by the mountain, being beaten by it. They could always be prepared for what obstacles it placed in their path, or so they hoped. The mountain was dangerous, but there were many paths, and both Tetsuko and Elise were willing to scale this relationship together, no matter what lay ahead.
It wasn’t just a matter of the lessons they’d learned or the devotion they shared, but something more. An inevitability that came from the moment they’d first met, from the moment their needs had intertwined. Elise’s need to have someone to protect her, to be important to her. Tetsuko’s need to be someone’s Hero, to be someone people admired and were proud of. Ever since then, they’d been bound by an intangible force, a string of fate that guarded them and guided them through this path…
Of course, as much as Tetsuko could stand around and think about this path for ages and ages, considering the mountain as a whole didn’t do her much good. For the same reason that looking upon the uncertain future she feared did little to aid her. They could not experience the mountain as a whole at once, for they were bound to the present, and it was only with each step up the mountain that they could earn new joys and experiences. In other words, as interesting as it was to think about how high and towering the mountain was, it was far more important to consider each step they took along the path.
Even if that step was something as silly and small as their festival date, the first attraction of which was none other than the German sweets that Elise had favoured. Of course, Tetsuko understood the Germanic girl’s desire to honor her origin somewhat. Origins were important, they were the ocean from which the river of one’s strength flowed. Tetsuko’s own origins, bound to the city of Kashima, were also something that she had held closely to her all her life. So Elise wanting to try some sweets from her own home country to respect her origin didn’t seem too strange at all.
Elise’s words about their lacking a need for good fortune had Tetsuko playfully chuckling at just how cheesy and dramatic her lover could be. ”I don’t think some good fortune could hurt, either…” The Shindou girl teased. Truthfully, though, she understood what Elise meant by those words. Their devotion toward one another, forged so long ago, provided them with the graces of fate that guided them. The strings of fate were very real for them, even if they could not be seen or felt, they were always there and always had been. Perhaps it was only natural for them to perceive this ‘fate’ that tied them together as something akin to good fortune.
That wasn’t to say, however, they couldn’t still be unlucky! Such as, when they received these particularly unique Lebkuchen which posited a very embarrassing and sudden idea, one that a certain one-armed master and her twin companions close by to witness the resulting fallout and harsh blushing! Fortunately, Elise’s words calmed Tetsu down a little, who was glad to see the idea was equally shocking to her as well… Marriage, something like that Tetsuko didn’t even want to think about. She’d only been dating Elise for a few months now, that was something ages into the future, so thinking about it now was definitely not taking things slowly! It was so embarrassing and awkward for Tetsuko, that she remained a little reserved afterward, even as Uwabami laughed it all off, especially Elise’s comment about Master Ueno.
”Bah, don’t worry about four eyes, he ain’t even here.” Uwabami said dismissively, her words making Tetsuko curious about something. The twins continued to watch quietly, confused by the proceedings and why the girls were so red.
”So it wasn’t a proposal?”
”That’s a shame.”
Ignoring their antics, Tetsuko looked over as Elise opened the other box. At the offer of translation, Tetsuko would lean over with a slightly curious glance, only to find herself victim to a surprise attack, as Elise suddenly pecked her on the lips! Luckily, it was only a brief peck, perfectly family friendly for the kids present… Even if the Taniguchi were older than they looked.
”G-Geeze…” Tetsuko sighed lightly, slowly cooling down from her prior embarrassment. With the Taniguchis as quiet and observant as ever, and Uwabami smiling smugly toward them, it looked like they had some newcomers to their little party…
Tetsuko nodded along lightly to Elise’s answer to Uwabami’s question, though part of it did admittedly hurt the Shindou girl, somewhere deep. Those thoughts within wondered if this was actually a good use of her time, or if she could actually be training… If she should be training…
”Yeah, fair enough. I’m sure Grandmaster’s been giving you the full spiel about how important this shit is. Much as he can talk and talk, he ain’t exactly wrong, I guess… So better do yer best, kid.” Uwabami sighed with a small shrug of her shoulder, the Taniguchis pitching in too.
”We’ll be cheering and supporting you, Tetsuko-sama.”
”You too, Elise von Eisenberg. Do your best.”
”Th-Thanks…” Tetsuko uttered quietly, a bit of pressure mounting upon her shoulders. Maybe she should change the subject. ”Who else is here? At the actual festival, I mean?” She inquired of the one-armed woman.
”A buncha students. Of the Masters, just us and yer old man.” Uwabami answered simply. ”Grandmaster and four-eyes are holding down the fort back home, though they’ll still be watchin’. Gai’s… Who knows where. Off on another expedition of his, should be back in a few days.” The way she spoke, it was clear this wasn’t something strange.
”Y’know, this festival is really somethin…” Uwabami uttered suddenly as she glanced around the place. ”Reminds me of the first tournies I saw. Anyway, you girls up to anythin’ else?”
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Post by Elise Von Eisenberg on Feb 10, 2019 5:50:43 GMT -4
The most beautiful rewards never were easy to obtain. In the same way Elise could perceive Tetsuko's smile as a reward for an incredibly difficult quest from a video game. After all, anyone who wanted to traverse the path that led to the grand finale of a story knew that there would be plenty of trials and tribulations awaiting them. However, not only was their story far from finished, their devotion was just the thing the two girls needed to be able to overcome whatever trials and tribulations the game known as life would set upon their path. As long as they had each other Elise was confident that nothing could stop the two of them. Indeed, it was that aspect of their relationship that made it such a beautiful story. They didn't simply need each other, rather they wanted to be at each other's side, traveling that path together and it were those wants that allowed the two girls to become closer than those who were tied together simply by their needs.
It was such a unique experience, to see how the past and the present had shaped their relationship into what it was now. The lessons they had learned from the various events they had experienced together, the devotion which had been shared and was even more durable than the toughest of metals. It all began from the very first encounter the two girls shared. Her need to have someone to protect her, someone who she was important to, and Tetsuko's need to be someone's hero, to be someone who was admired and proud of, even since their needs intertwined, an unusual force had bound them together. A string of fate which tied them together and guided them in such a special manner.
Of course, they could spend days thinking about the path they traversed together and the beauty of their mutual devotion, but that would be a silly thing to do while they were on a date. Especially since Elise felt she could spend the time much better snuggling up to her girlfriend and thinking of all the various things they could do together to enrich the experience. As much as the Sports festival was a time where they would be tested, it was also a festival in nature, and if there was one thing the Eisenberg believed, then it was the fact that festivals were meant to be enjoyed! And Elise always found the most entertainment at the side of her iron-blooded knight.
Indeed, the first step was something really silly and small, an adorable little festival date, the first attraction being the German sweets that she had favored so immensely. Although she might had been living in Japan for most of her life, Elise was still Germanic of origins, and the girl still felt some unusual ties toward the country. It was an odd something, considering most of her memories were somewhat unpleasant in nature when it involved her childhood in Germany, but nonetheless, this seemed like an excellent way to make some more pleasant and fond memories of her origin.
Hearing Tetsuko's chuckle, the teasing remark made Elise snicker softly as she squeezed her lover's arm and mused softly. "You're my good fortune~ Although, I guess we can clap our hands together and pray for some good luck if it reassures you~" Elise answered with a teasing poke of her tongue, although she was glad Tetsuko understood the meaning of her words. They didn't need something like good fortune when they had each other. Their devotion toward each other, a devotion forged so long ago, provided the two girls with the graces of fate that guided them. The strings of fate were very real to them, even if they could not be seen or felt, it was as if that red thread had tied them together in such a special manner. Indeed, to Elise it was all the good fortune that she needed...
Still, a bit of misfortune could always happen, especially when they received those rather embarrassingly unique lebkuchen. Although Elise was a hopeless romantic in nature, and marriage was clearly a part of that dream, she knew all too well that it was way too early to think or talk about that. Marriage was something which was meant to follow after she had helped Tetsuko discover the true nature of her feelings, helped her reach that immovable heart... Of course, Uwabami and the twins had made an excellent recovery of the situation, and Uwabami's words made Elise's face turn even redder. "I-It's too early for a proposal of that sort..." Elise answered the Taniguchi siblings and when Elise offered to translate the contents of the box, Tetsuko leaning in was the perfect opportunity for a surprise attack, a brief and playful kiss on her lips which made Elise snicker softly as Tetsuko sighed lightly.
"I'm certain that Tetsu will be doing her utmost~ Of course, constantly training would just hinder her, and we need Tetsu to be at her peak condition when the events begin. Leave that to me! Not only am I a former medical student, I'm also pretty good at massages, so I'll make certain that there is no stress left in Tetsu when I'm done with her~"
Of course, Uwabami's reminder did make sense, and she didn't doubt for even a moment that Tetsuko knew just how important this event was. However, when the Taniguchi's pitched in, Elise nodded her head firmly. "Mhmm~ as Tetsu's girlfriend I can't make any unsightly displays either~ I'll make sure to do my best!" The burgundy-haired lass answered enthusiastically, clearly invigorated once more.
Of course, Tetsuko had tried to change the subject, upon which Elise decided to follow along. "Hmm so Master Gai is off on another adventure... No wonder he has been so difficult to reach recently." Elise mused softly, clearly a bit curious about the whole subject. "Oh! Tetsu's papa is here also?"
Clearly fascinated by the statement Elise watched Uwabami's wandering gaze and upon hearing her question shook her head lightly, turning to look to Tetsuko to see what she had to say. Knowing her lover, she likely would want to see her father, right?
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802 Posts
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17 Years
Female
"Steelheart"
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Post by Tetsuko Shindou on Feb 12, 2019 9:49:10 GMT -4
As silly as Elise’s words seemed, calling Tetsuko her good fortune wasn’t too far off the mark. From Tetsuko’s point of view, that was exactly what Elise was to her. They were each other’s good fortune, their bond was what qualified as the guiding hand of fate. Of course, prayers to the Gods and the divination of gingerbread cookies didn’t hurt either. Tetsuko wasn’t much for superstition or supernaturally dictating forces of luck and fortune, but she did firmly believe in their own ability to take the reigns of fate, so if a prayer or Lebkuchen gave them the strength of will to do so, then so be it.
”You can’t just clasp your hands together, you need to pray to a kami first…” Tetsuko uttered in faux exasperation to her lover’s comment, a teasing grin still back on her face. The young swordswoman would have previously been unsure about how to respond to this teasing, but nowadays she’d adapted to it, and was about as capable of giving as good as she got… Most of the time. The Shindoug girl clasped her hands together playfully, a soft smile on her face. ”I’d recommend Takemikazuchi, the chief deity of the Kashima shrine… Guessing he was there watching us too.” She said with a light chuckle, before releasing her hands and continuing on with their date. Takemikazuchi was a powerful and revered kami of thunder and swords, the principal being of worship within the shrine that birthed Jikishinkage-ryuu. Yet, even with all his might and will, that kami could not bring these girls good fortune, as what happened next certainly qualified as almost the exact opposite.
Tetsuko wasn’t nearly as hopelessly romantic as Elise, so the very idea of marriage at this age was terrifying and foreign to her, the very mention of it and the ensuing embarrassment being enough to feed the more anxious side of her that was just waiting for an opportunity to increase her stress levels. Fortunately, Elise seemed to be equally embarrassed by it, even against Uwabami’s relentless teasing. ”T-Too early to even think about…” Tetsuko groaned in agreement. As occasionally casual and even friendly Uwabami could be, the woman was also utterly relentless when it came to teasing others. Tetsuko was still feeling pretty high-strung after the whole kerfuffle, but that brief and innocent moment with Elise helped the Shindou girl calm down a bit.
The conversation shifted from there, leading on to the natural questions about the sports festival they were all currently attending. This unexpected interruption to their date, however, might have some unforeseen consequences as the conversation continued. Elise’s mentions of massaging the stress out came as a bit of a sting of uncertainty to Tetsuko, her fears about if being relaxed was a good thing arising further… Wasn’t this stress, this strain… Helpful? Didn't it remind her of how much was at stake?
Then again, a massage from Elise did sound kind of nice…
”Heh, she’s in yer hands, kid. She gets too stressed out, she’ll get slow.” Uwabami huffed, earning a confused and surprised look from Tetsuko. ”Yeah, this shit is important, and ya better do damn well. Just don’t embarrass us with stagefright or somethin’.” The one-armed woman proclaimed with a toothy grin. For all her bluntness and general brutish nature, the woman had some degree of wisdom to her, it seemed… Tetsuko just nodded lightly, not sure what to say in response.
Of course, her constant training and all her focus was highly important, as was the fact that Tetsuko had to do well in the upcoming events to honor her family. So… Perhaps not letting her body get too stressed did have some merit to it. However, the real problem would be shielding her mind from these demons that dwelled within her, trying to hurt her at every turn with her anxieties…
Tetsuko wished she could be as enthusiastic about it as Elise was, but alas, that just wasn’t the kind of person Tetsuko was, and that wasn’t the kind of person the Shindou girl could be with all this pressure imposed on her… Pressure that was only going to mount further as the conversation continued, whether intentionally or not.
The mention of the other masters didn’t surprise Tetsuko too much. The Shindou girl was actually already aware that her father was there, and the fact that Gai was off again wasn’t too shocking either. Master Ueno was the obvious choice for someone to hold down the fort back home, as he was, in most situations, the most skilled swordsman among the masters of Jikishinkage-ryuu. Barring Grandmaster Ryouichi Shindou, of course.
However, the mention of Tetsuko’s father, and the implication of Elise only had Tetsuko lightly rubbing the back of her head, Uwabami’s expression softening a bit as she answered. ”Yeah… Masaru’s takin care o’ Miku-sama right about now…” The very mention of Tetsuko’s mother made her tense up a bit. ”Apparently she ain’t a fan of the crowds, makes her uncomfortable. Maybe it’s just the festival itself. She used to be in tournies like this all the time, before, uh… Anyway, he’s off by the quieter areas near the fields. Keepin’ Miku-sama safe.”
Tension radiated off of Tetsuko after all that, something strange boiling within her. Anxieties, fear, and a hint of shame at hearing all this about her mother… Not that too much of it was news. Her mother had always been different, ever since suffering that injury all those years ago…
When Uwabami asked what they were doing next, Elise wasn’t going to get the answer she expected from Tetsuko. Right now, the swordswoman… Didn’t want to see her mother and father. As strange as it sounded.
”Um, we don’t have anything planned. I can’t actually think of where I’d like to go next, even. I’ll leave that to Eli.” Tetsuko said with a soft frown on her face, glancing slightly to the side. Whether she wanted to see her mother and father right now was one thing, whether she should was another. Tetsuko… Simply didn’t want to yet see her dearest mother at the festival.
Not yet.
Not until she could come to her with pride.
Not until… She won.
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18 Years
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"Spymaster"
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Post by Elise Von Eisenberg on Feb 14, 2019 7:47:52 GMT -4
Indeed, Tetsuko's response had been unexpected, and yet a tiny part of her had predicted this might have happened. Elise knew all too well just how much pressure Tetsuko was currently dealing with, the responsibilities to her family, the reputation and honor she had to uphold, for Tetsuko Shindou the Sports Festival was much more than just a festival, it was a trial that had so much at stake. As a result her lover had been quite stressed, the signs of it were evident, the way she started to spend more time focused on training, and the subtle cues during their conversations which made Elise get more and more aware of the fact just how much Tetsuko was struggling. To her it likely must had been a natural conclusion, a sign of just how serious she was considering this event, but the pressure a person could carry was finite, and at some point they would reach their limit. With Uwabami's approval, Elise smiled cheerfully, pulling an arm around Tetsuko's own and pulled herself closer, a firm nod being given. "Aye~ Aye~ Captain!" A sheepish grin lingered on her lips as she listened to the conversation shifting to Tetsuko's parents, and it was there the surprising response came.
"..." A momentary pause lingered in the air, noticing how Tetsuko glanced slightly to the side and frowned softly made it clear that seeing her parents was currently something her lover didn't consider, although Elise expected that it wasn't because Tetsuko didn't 'want' to see them, rather she likely carried a sense of need, a need to gain the pride that would be associated with competing in the events and ending out on top. Although, Elise had to admit that felt somewhat sad to her.
"Guess we'll find out next destination soon enough then~" Elise chimed mysteriously yet the glint in her eyes made it difficult to predict what she might have been thinking or planning next. However, judging from the fact a subtle shift happened with the hand that had been withdrawn into her pocket she had been scheming something for sure.
Meanwhile, somewhere at a more quieter place on the campus grounds, Tetsuko's parents would have no doubt found themselves in the presence of a certain youthful lady, one who could easily have been mistaken as an older sister of Elise. Indeed, Diane von Eisenberg was every bit as lively as Elise was, and when her phone ringed the young woman withdrew her phone and started to look at the screen. "Oh mai~ It seems our daughters are having quite an interesting adventure, Masaru~ Miku~"
A hearty chuckle escaped her lips as she turned the phone toward them and showed the two of them a picture which seemed to have had the two girls with an arm locked together while talking to master Uwabami, although a gentle sigh escaped her lips as she continued. "Although it seems our girls are a handful to deal with~ Seems that darling of a Tetsu is too stressed about the upcoming event, no doubt she wants to appear before you both as the grand winner--- phew that means she likely is going to have to give my Eli a whooping~"
A soft snicker followed before she resumed speaking. "She's asking me to come over to say hi, but not without a little 'encouraging gift~ How about we record a message for Tetsu, to know that we're cheering her on?"
It was a typical Eisenberg trait, to meddle in things they shouldn't meddle with, but they did it for one of the sweetest and purest reasons possible: They did it because they cared about someone so much.
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802 Posts
1 EP
EXP
Total
17 Years
Female
"Steelheart"
Student-Rank Quirk:
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Post by Tetsuko Shindou on Feb 19, 2019 12:24:09 GMT -4
Indeed, a trial wasn't at all an incorrect comparison for what Tetsuko was facing with the sports festival. More than just simple competition, for her it was a test against her skills, against the validity of her pride and honor. Succeeding would bring a great deal of distinction to her family, just as much as failing it would bring them only disgrace and dishonor. Tetsuko could simply not allow the latter to happen, no matter what it cost... Whether she could actually carry all that pressure was irrelevant in her eyes, because she had no choice but to bear at all, the entirety of that burden, for the sake of her family's pride. Tetsuko remained at Elise's side, growing more tense by the second as they talked along with Uwabami and the twins about the events, and eventually the Shindou girl's own parents... Even with Elise so close to her, the topic started to make Tetsuko feel cold, as the heaviest weight of them all became clear. Without anyone asking her to, Tetsuko had chosen to carry the burden of her mother's own unfulfilled life. To achieve what she could not, all in her honor, was the best way Tetsuko could think of to bring pride and glory to the mother she admired... Thus, when the idea of seeing her came, Tetsuko was quick to shift the conversation away, as the Shindou girl simply didn't feel like she deserved to see her just yet. Not when victory was still out of her grasp, not when she couldn't say she stood at the top to the woman who'd once had that very same position. Yet, Elise seemed to be quite mysteriously content with this whole ordeal, stating they'd see where there next destination was. "Yeah... We'll just look around for now." Tetsuko decided, bowing her head lightly to Uwabami and the Taniguchis. As much as they were her fellow swordsmen, Tetsuko didn't want to spend much more time around them, if she was being honest... The reminders were starting to be too much. "See you guys around.""Later.""Goodbye.""Bye."~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Elsewhere, in the quieter areas of the campus grounds, Masaru and Miku Shindou would be in the company of Diana von Eisenberg. A woman who Miku Shindou got even quieter in the presence of, these days, after the death of Elise's father... Not that Miku Shindou was all that talkative. At present, she just stared off into the distance, looking over the festival from afar... Memories stirring within, interrupted only by a sudden ring of Diana's phone. "Hm?" Masaru uttered lowly, before looking towards the phone that showed them talking to Master Uwabami, earning a huff of amusement from Masaru and... A small upturn of the corners of her mouth from Miku. The lightest and most imperceptible of movements. "'Least someone's havin' fun..." Masaru uttered with a groan in the cold weather. What Diana spoke so lightly of next, however, soured the expressions of both the Shindou parents. Of Masaru, who huffed in annoyance at just how much pressure was on his little girl. And a downcast gaze from Miku, who knew far, far too much about it. About everything. Knowledge had cursed her long ago. Ultimately, Diana's good intentions... Well, they weren't too thought out, but the consequences wouldn't yet become clear, grave as they were. When Diana suggested recording a message, Masaru didn't hesitate once it began. "Don't think I need to tell you, but kick some ass out there, Tetsuko. I know Grandpa's all about that Shindou Pride, but show 'em some Nakamura Stubbornness out there, don't let any weak-ass foreigner put ya down." He declared heartily, before glancing back towards Diana. "Er, no offence." He uttered awkwardly, before looking to a Miku who still had her gaze cast downward. A pause came. Miku opened her mouth. It closed again. That repeated once more, before she finally spoke. "D-Do your best. T-T-Tetsuko."The stutter, something she'd acquired from her TBI along with everything else, accompanied what seemed to be a fine message... However, it wasn't until it was revealed to Tetsuko that the true weight of it would soon become apparent. The weight of what was lost, and what was still there. Which took precedence? Who was decide such a thing? What had Tetsuko already lost? |
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Post by Deleted on Mar 17, 2019 11:25:26 GMT -4
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