81 Posts
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16 Years
Female
Student-Rank Quirk:
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Post by Saiko Tachibana on Feb 2, 2019 19:36:13 GMT -4
Saiko paced about in an attempted effort to quell her anxiety. Today was an important, albeit noisy, day for...almost all of the world now that Saiko thought about it. This wasn't just a...UA thing, or a Japan thing. Schools from across the world, all invested in the development of students with quirks, seeking to strive to greater heights and push said quirks to the limits of what they might be capable of. Though Saiko was fairly competitive, and it was one of the few things that got a drive out of the lackadaisical student, it wasn't why she was nervous. There was a much bigger...and louder reason, and a bit of a wild card at that.
Rubbing her cold hand together, Saiko tried staying warm as the heavily bundled up girl looked around the building crowds of people. Things were already picking up at the sports festival that UA was hosting, but things had barely even begun to start. She would need to do all she could to squash her fears before she was up to home plate, and would need to prove how much she had improved...which she felt wasn't as much as she wanted.
With a sigh, she shook her doubts away. This was no time to act sullen. This was her choice in signing up for this, even if she didn't believe that she would even come close to the peak of what was available within UA, let alone several schools worth of the most elite. Elise came to mind, one of Saiko's earliest reminders that she was no match for the top. With a grumble, Saiko lightly smacked her head, realizing she was beginning to worry again.
"I would recognize that long, sapphire colored hair anywhere!" A voice rang out from a distance, and in a startle, Saiko quickly spun around, recognizing the voice instantly. "There is my baby girl!" the man announced, nearly sprinting towards her like a mad man. However, he shortened his eager sprint to a simple jog once he caught that his over-excited attitude might draw more unwanted attention towards his daughter.
With a mixture of a weary sigh and a breath of relief, Saiko slowly approached the man that was meeting her. "Glad you could make it, dad." Saiko said plainly, her father looking a little disappointed as he slowed himself to a staunch position in front of her. He father was bundled up head to toe, which was odd considering the man normally liked cold weather. Boots, baggy jeans, a heavy coat, large scarf haphazardly slung around his neck, and a feathered cap resting on his head. Where he had claimed hold of said hat, Saiko could only begin to guess.
About the only thing that appeared the same about her father was his rectangular spectacles which he wore in between his cap and scarf. Non of the colors coordinated, and he looked like what might have happened if someone was thrown into a theaters wardrobe and was spit out, only to walk away as if everything was fine.
"What? No more 'daddy'? When did this happen?" He said in a disheartened tone. Saiko stared at him blankly, wondering how this man even went on to become a vigilante. "Dad, I stopped calling you that back when I was...like, six or seven. That was about ten years ago. Where is mom?"
Saiko shifted the question, but was swiftly answered when she saw a familiar face appear from the crowd. Her mother approached, though looking a tad worn out. "I'm here. I lost track of your father for a minute. You wouldn't believe the amount of excitement he has been flying off on since you mentioned a sports festival." She said tiredly, but Saiko shook her head at the concept.
"Actually, I have a pretty good idea. Dad can be-" Saiko was cut off as the air was nearly choked out of her, the man swiftly snatching a hold on his daughter in a tight hug and, without realizing it, lifting her off the ground in an emotional display as he swiveled himself around.
"How I have missed you so much Saiko! You have to tell us everything about your time here! Every little detail!" He said with wonder and pride, to which Saiko coughed out, attempting to regain composure. "If you don't mind putting me down, I can tell you all about it." Saiko whimpered out, and her father complied, though with resistance against himself.
Saiko readjusted herself and looked up at her father, mildly annoyed. "Dad, it has been only a few months. Are you really going to act this way every time we are separated for more that a week?" She asked in a tired tone, to which her father's face could be seen, even under the disguise, as curling into an almost cat like expression of joy. No words were exchanged though, as the two stared awkwardly at each other.
"Anyways." Saiko's mother proclaimed, attempting to break the silence. "How has everything been? I know you send messages to your father and I, but anything new and interesting? Any new friends, or a club you joined perhaps? Or maybe even some exciting news regarding hero work?"
It was clear that her mother was just trying to move things forward and was just genuinely asking questions. However, she unknowingly invoked the volatile wonder ball of energy known as 'Ironclad Valor'.
"Yes! You must tell us! I know my little girl better than anyone, and because of that, I know that she must be swimming in friends and activities by now! In fact, I am surprised she even has time for us middle-class folk! Oooh, I am so eager to meet them all!" Saiko's father twisted and turned in place, his heart aflutter with glee.
However, Saiko buried her face further into her coat, hiding away her expressions and thoughts. She didn't know what to say to them. That she hadn't really made any friends, mostly just students she got along with better than others? Or that she hadn't found interest in any club activities and chose to instead continue her somewhat lucrative streaming job?
Saiko's face lit up slightly, embarrassed at the thought of how her father might react. She was sure that her mother would approve, but Ironclad Valor...
Her eyes shifted to towards the man that shifted in place eagerly, and shut her eyes.
He was a completely different story.
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208 Posts
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17 Years
Female
Student-Rank Quirk:
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Post by Relena Tsuruya on Feb 6, 2019 1:13:57 GMT -4
❝You're showing me colours of the sky, But all I see is Grey❞ 506 w. kenjutsu-f | reinforcement-f | radiant dawn-e The Sports Festival had kicked off in full swing and, despite herself, Relena was actually quite excited! She had only been at the school for a few months now, but her demeanor had changed quite dramatically. Well, she wasn't the cold and distant person she once was, anyway. But her interactions with her class and the various encounters throughout the school with the other students had molded her into a slightly more sociable person.
She approached one of the booths and happily accepted some takoyaki in one hand and a stick of yakitori in the other before continuing on down the main alley. It was pleasant to simply move about so much fun and excitement that she ended up getting a little side tracked. After all, until the rescue event, Relena didn't quite know what to do with herself.
Ever since Kimiko had left UA, she had been alone for the most part. It was actually very disheartening to lose someone so soon after meeting them. Her heart felt rather...empty whenever she was alone in the dorm. So she supposed that being among others in the festival was much more amiable to being stuck reading alone in her dorm room.
She passed by a few others booths and waved politely at some people she somewhat recognized, but she was soon growing weary. Not physically, but mentally. It didn't seem too fun wandering around by herself and she noted that everyone was either with friends or family. Relena didn't really have any friends and her Aunt and Uncle were too busy to attend. She understood their plight and knew that it hurt them not to come, but she still couldn't help but feel saddened at the news.
So when she was walking by a very loud and boisterous man, she stopped to regard him with an arched brow of confusion. Despite the myriad of sounds around her, this guy was clearly the loudest of all of them. But, as odd as that was, what was even stranger was who he kept company with. Standing with a much quieter woman was Saiko Tachibana.
Relena grinned to herself, seeing the look on the girl's face. It was pretty obvious through simple deduction that these were her parents and her Father was most likely embarassing her. It was a cute scene, but Saiko looked like she could use a little outside assistance. So Relena walked over to stand next to her class mate with a polite smile beamed at the two adults.
"Good day to you all."
She bowed in a sign of respect to the two before holding out her food to them. "Could I possibly interest you in some of the local food? I believe my eyes were bigger than my stomach."
Relena gave off a short chuckle before bumping her shoulder softly against Saiko. "Forgive my forwardness. My name is Relena and I'm one of Saiko's class mates in 1-A. We've had a few...run ins already, so I'd say we're friends? Right, Saiko? Friends. Yes, we're friends."
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81 Posts
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16 Years
Female
Student-Rank Quirk:
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Post by Saiko Tachibana on Feb 6, 2019 19:26:01 GMT -4
A simple greeting stirred the air near Saiko as she came to alert and turned her eyes to the now included fourth figure in this small band of misfits, Relena. Instantly, Saiko's parents locked sights on the blond haired girl and Saiko couldn't help but worry. At this point, it should really be expected, considering the two seem fated in some bizarre way to always run into each other and the most awkward of times and situations. While Relena wasn't the out that Saiko was necessarily looking for, beggars couldn't be choosers. It could be worse. Much worse
The bow and gestured of food got a slightly surprised look out the the small band, save for Saiko's father which seemed entranced by her entrance to the conversation. With a light nudge, Saiko listened to Relena give her full introduction, though Saiko couldn't help but wonder what the story was with the odd self reassuring of calling the two friends. It was almost like an alien trying to convince its understanding of the word. A little weird, but than again they all were a little strange when you got down to it. Just some more than others.
"...1-A? I assume that is your class?" Saiko's mother chimed in slight confusion. Saiko saw her opportunity to jump in, feeling the small weight lift off her shoulder.
"Oh, I thought I had mentioned that in our conversations about UA. Yeah, 1-A is our homeroom, though we take many other classes aside from that. Some more typical, others to train our quirks."
Saiko's mother looked towards her husband with a relaxed gaze at the man that might appear as if he would collapse from his boundless excitement. "Saiko seems to have made such a courteous and kindly friend, don't you think, honey?" She said, and it was fairly obvious to Saiko that she was trying to bail out her daughter from the overly obsessive nature of her father. She looked over towards the two students, with a playful wink and gentle smile.
Saiko toyed with a dangling lock of hair nervously as she surveyed the situation. "Uh, yeah. Let's just say how we have been acquainted in the past has been...rather odd. We have butt heads before, but I suppose that is what friends do, right?" She smiled faintly, unsure if the two would be considered friends with how little they had actually conversed before, but Saiko saw no need in putting down the idea simply because Relena was trying to be friendly.
The man, that had been building pressure this whole time suddenly burst out like a balloon with to much air, catching Saiko and his wife by surprise, eyes wide at his display. "She is everything one could want in a friend, and more! Polite! Charming! Beautiful...and with such a radiant quirk! Offering us grace...and food!" He flourished, and clutched his hand tightly, raising it to his face in almost visible tears.
"My wishes came true. I knew my baby girl had it in her." He whispered to himself, but he was loud enough to where they would still hear him. Wasting no time though, and a quick movement of his whole body, her father bent his knees, taking a stance like a delusional samurai before thrusting his arm skyward. Within his grasp was a shiny pair of thin, metallic chopsticks. Saiko and her mother both stared hard at the man on display, fully being aware that despite the warnings, he decided to use his quirk anyways, even if he hid it to viewing eyes.
"With such a generous offer, I have no choice but to accept your offer, Relena of the blade!" With a stab at blinding speeds, one of the takoyaki that had previously been in her hold had vanished before the groups eyes and was inhaled with equal vigor. His eyes lit up with fervor as he clasped at his mouth.
"Oh my god! So hot, yet so packed with flavor! This must be the skills and talent of those that run such a prestigious and glorious school such as UA! Sweetie, you have to try some for yourself!" Saiko stared at her father with daggers for eyes, to which her mother laughed and silently plucked her husbands self made chopsticks. "I mean, with such praise, how could I not?" She played along, though Saiko's father seemed stunned by his wife's sudden action.
"Actually...I meant..." He tried to say, but was defeated as she took one of the takoyaki herself, blowing on it gently. Exaggeratedly, he hunched over, Saiko's mother deciding to continue the discussion instead.
"Don't mind him. He can be a little...up front at times with his words and actions. So, Relena, what brought you to UA? Simply honing yourself, or anything in particular? How did you meet Saiko? Please enlighten us. It isn't often we hear stories of our girl and her friends." She asked Relena in curiosity as she took a bite of the takoyaki carefully. Saiko silently looked away, not finding the words to say to her parents whom had directed their attentions towards her fellow 1-A student. Part of Saiko was glad some of the pressure was diverted away from her, but at the same time...now it seemed like they were trying to pry information out of others.
Saiko just hoped Relena would be able to keep up with it all.
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208 Posts
0 EP
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17 Years
Female
Student-Rank Quirk:
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Post by Relena Tsuruya on Feb 10, 2019 20:19:23 GMT -4
❝You're showing me colours of the sky, But all I see is Grey❞ 505 w. kenjutsu-f | reinforcement-f | radiant dawn-e Relena raised her eyebrows, as she was a bit caught off guard by the energy of the man standing before her. His loud speeches and emotional declarations were quite grand and he didn't seem to care who heard what he had to say. To be honest, Relena felt a surge of energy rushing through her seeing the mannerisms that he put on display.
Heh, to think that this is Saiko's father. The two seemed worlds apart in terms of personality. It's quite amusing to see who had raised her though.
She tilted her head to regard Saiko as the girl did indeed refer to her as a friend. Whether that was a nonchalant way to pass the conversation along or a legitimate claim of friendship, Relena was unsure. But regardless, it brought a smile to her face.
Looking down at her hands, she saw that they were empty and the food was now within Saiko's dad's possession. Relena let out a small chuckle at the enthusiastic way he was devouring the meal. To see someone who was so open with his emotions was very charming and it made her happy to watch him laugh and proclaim his enjoyment.
Though it didn't slip her attention about his comment regarding her quirk. How did he know? The term 'radiant' was a little too close for comfort, considering the name she had given to her power. Also, Relena of the blade? She did openly carry a bokken with her, it was true, but how did this man know her as well as he did? Considering that the two were complete strangers...there was something about this man.
But her train of thought was interrupted as Saiko's Mom brought up a question about her. Relena looked up at the sky for a moment, allowing the chilly wind to blow through her hair.
"Why had I come to UA? It's a long and...bloody story. Not something to be told during such a joyous occasion such as this." She smiled politely at the woman. "Perhaps another time, if I'm not being too rude. As for Saiko, we met under an interesting confrontation. I'll admit that it was my fault that our first meeting led to a fight. A fight that I am happy to report...I lost." She laughed happily at the thought before continuing.
"I'll be honest. I don't quite know why I'm drawn to seek her companionship, but I feel that she is an amazing person. Call it fate or tenacity, but..."
Relena turned to face Saiko directly with steel in her eyes. "I feel strong when around you. There's something...sad inside that I feel a kindred connection with. I feel that we could learn from one another."
She shook her head with an added air of laughter as she looked back at Saiko's parents. "My apologies. I don't quite know what has come over me. Perhaps it is the melancholy I am suffering after a close friend of mine had left UA. I regret that I am now feeling lonely after she left me with an empty dorm."
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81 Posts
0 EP
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Total
16 Years
Female
Student-Rank Quirk:
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Post by Saiko Tachibana on Feb 12, 2019 15:03:47 GMT -4
Saiko was relieved to see that Relena was taking her parents eagerness in stride. If there was anything that Saiko was aware of regarding her parents, it was that her father could be a little...oppressive at times with how wildly frantic he got with life in general. However, Relena's smile and manners continued and she seemed relaxed through the whole conversation. It was a weight off Saiko's shoulder, and she could feel herself lightening up, even if only slightly.
However, Relena's reaction to the question about coming to UA didn't seem to get the same carefree response that her mother was likely hoping for, bringing a regretful frown to her face, with her husband rather oblivious to the matter as her took in the surrounding sights like a child at a theme park.
"I...am sorry I brought up such bad memories for you. Nothing rude about not explaining it if it isn't a comfortable subject for you." She gave a polite smile back at the knightly student, if not a tad nervous about upsetting her day because of her question as she looked towards Saiko. "Don't worry about telling us. I'm sure a time will come when it will be appropriate, but until then, don't mind us."
Saiko was sure the way that her mother gazed at Relena was similar to how she worried over her daughter's past, and concern was just something that came with motherly instincts. "On a less touchy matter, what is this about a fight?" She asked, partially jokingly and partially with legitimate wonder for her daughter. It was a tone which Saiko could tell would easily lead to scolding if not properly explained, and the same reaction burst forth from her father as if chiming in to act like he wasn't interested prior.
"A fight?! Please tell me you felt the spark and fire of your initial confrontation that all good rivals should! Surely you two felt the gains of your win and loss, and your bond growing tighter from that day forward!" His prideful declaration was met with a jab of an elbow from his wife as she gave in a stern stare at her boisterous husband. "Kojuro, what did I tell you about tell you about your speeches?" The man fidgeted slightly at the garnered ire and was ready to plead his case before Saiko decided to speak up.
"Actually, it wasn't really a fight. It was more just...gauging our skills?" She responded, raising a brow towards Relena, not really sure if that was the proper answer. "Testing our abilities and all that. There wasn't any animosity." She wouldn't bother acknowledging her father's words for if she did, it would only egg him on more, but the response seemed satisfactory enough to her mother. "Well, that's good to her. I'm glad everything seems to be going good for you both and that you think so highly of our daughter."
"Yes! Let your kindred connection grow ever stronger!" Her father declared, which only made his wife roll her eyes and shake her head. To be completely honest, Saiko thought it a bit strange herself that Relena seemed attached to her, being that they rarely ever conversed aside from the occasional training session or passing greeting when travelling about. In fact, this was about the only time aside from their initial meeting that they really 'talked' aside from, again, training routines, and that was mostly for planning purposes.
All this talk about kindred connections and strong bonds was starting to feel a bit too much like a work of fiction. Next thing you know, an unbreakable declaration of friendship was going to be mentioned, and that was going to be strange. It started to seem a bit to much like the past, which also started to make Saiko realize how similar her father and the fellow student were in the words they used.
It seemed Relena picked up on this herself and laughed it off, bringing to light why she might have been acting odder than usual. Apparently, somebody had left UA that shared her dorm room and left a hole in its place that Relena seemed desperate in filling. This was news to Saiko, but there was little she kept track of regarding other students affairs. Aside from the happenings in the UA chatroom or major news that passed around the school, she typically stayed out of it. As it was, Saiko wasn't even sure what room Relena stayed at, so she wasn't even sure what student she might have meant.
"Sorry for your loss dear. It is never pleasant to lose a friend." As soon as the words left her mouth, she winced at recalling the matter regarding her daughter, but Saiko brushed it off, knowing her mother meant nothing disrespectful.
"Yeah. That sucks. I'm sure your friend had their reasons, but I know what it is like to be separated from someone you are close to. I'm sure you will get used to having the free space now though. I think most people would love to have a two person space for themselves." Saiko herself imagined what it would be like and knew she was one of those people. That would mean she could have a dedicated room for streaming while keeping the other for sleeping and general other use.
With a slight gesture of her hand, she gave a puzzled look to Relena. "If you are looking for company, you know you could just ask? I might keep to myself most of the time, but hanging out every once and a while wouldn't kill me other anything." She chuckled slightly. "I mean, at least I hope not. You just got to let me know. It isn't like I can read your mind or anything."
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208 Posts
0 EP
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17 Years
Female
Student-Rank Quirk:
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Post by Relena Tsuruya on Feb 18, 2019 19:38:08 GMT -4
❝You're showing me colours of the sky, But all I see is Grey❞ 464 w. kenjutsu-f | reinforcement-f | radiant dawn-e Relena bowed once again to Saiko's mother, giving a warm smile to the lady. It was nice to be able to talk with them so freely and it felt so great that they listened to her with such interest. It made the girl feel good about herself as she stood next to her friend.
"Thank you for your polite words, ma'am. It has truly been an honor fighting alongside your daughter."
Relena quickly raised her hands up defensively, feeling a bead of sweat roll down her forehead. She chuckled nervously as Kojuro let loose a mighty expression of camaraderie concerning the two girls. Wow, this guy has so much passion and fire. It's quite inspiring...if not a little terrifying. But sometimes people have so much love built up that it needs to be expressed in such a way.
"Yes, that is indeed correct." Relena confirmed Saiko's assessment with her own words. "It was more of a happy accident that led into a sparring session. No animosity was shared on either side, I assure you."
Up until this point, Relena hadn't been thinking of Kimiko or her current worries. Speaking with Saiko and her family had been a welcome distraction from her melancholy, but then the thoughts were coming back. Despite how much fun she was having, at the end of the day she would have to return to an empty dorm. Relena hadn't realized how much she would miss having a room mate.
She nodded to Saiko as she tilted her head to listen to what the other girl had to say. "Space has never been an issue for me. In fact, I grew up in a small residence so I actually prefer it. Large rooms are a luxury that makes me feel uncomfortable at best."
But at the offer that Saiko gave of hanging out...Relena was unsure. She didn't want to be a burden or anything and she worried that she'd try too hard or force something. There were several variables, but then again that was the risk that was required of friendship. So Relena gave a firm nod to Saiko, smiling warmly at her.
"Ara? Oh yes! I would very much enjoy that, Saiko! Perhaps after the festival? I've noticed you playing those games out in the common room. We could play together, mayhaps."
Relena tapped her chin quizzically as she pondered something. Her weight shifted from leg to leg until she finally decided to ask Saiko a question that could solve her problems.
"Actually, I noticed that you have one of the smaller rooms. If you were up to it, perhaps you could move in with me? Kimiko's old room is quite spacious and I mainly keep to myself in the study. You don't have to answer immediately, but I implore you to think on it. Let me know, okay?"
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81 Posts
0 EP
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16 Years
Female
Student-Rank Quirk:
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Post by Saiko Tachibana on Feb 19, 2019 23:19:14 GMT -4
"Oh, think nothing of it Relena. We are both just glad that Saiko has left a positive impression on her peers, and has started meeting such nice students. Right, Ko-"
As Saiko's mother turned her head to see her husband's response, the man had turned his attention to a passing group of students wearing different uniforms. Likely one of the rival schools that would be taking place during the various trials and competitions. Her expression lowered into a slight frown as Saiko simply shook her head. She was already becoming exhausted from both her parents personalities and her father's child like whimsy.
Saiko was curious as Relena had mentioned large rooms being rather uncomfortable for her, though she couldn't wrap her head about what inherently about them bothered her. Was it the emptiness, or did she she have the phobia that was the opposite of claustrophobia? Agoraphobia, she believed it was called. Either way, without knowing more about Relena, she couldn't say for sure. The mention of 'at best', did strike a cord of interest. What exactly was 'At worst' then?
"I mean, sure. Whenever is fine. Just note that I can often be rather silent when I am occupied, so don't expect much out of me in the mornings or at night when I stream. After the festival sounds alright." Saiko scratched her right brow gently, rather honest in her response. When her mind was focused, Saiko tended to hone in on whatever it might be, whether it be training or playing video games. Social skills were rather lacking, and was definitely something Saiko could probably improve upon, considering how often UA required teamwork.
"Games in the-" Saiko recollected what Relena might have been talking about, but then remembered that she was still in the process of sorting out her PC issues, which was hindering a great many things, from streaming to simply playing video games. Likely Relena spoke of one of the times she might have spotted her playing something in the dorm lobby. Saiko wondered what, considering it was mostly fighting games, but she supposed that wasn't really important.
"Right. Yeah, my pc decided to bork itself. Trying to find suitable replacement parts isn't going the way I hoped, so I mostly just go to the lobby when I want to blow off steam." Saiko said reluctantly with a shrug.
"Oh dear. The laptop we gave you stopped working?" Her mother spoke up with slight alarm, Saiko shaking her head in response. "Na, that is what I am currently using to stream. Unfortunately, it-" Saiko stopped herself, realizing that she might come off as rude to her mother to say that the family laptop wasn't exactly the most apt at playing games. It was a gift after all, a going away present if you will.
"Yeah, I had bought a separate computer to download and upload various files and video logs. It decided to stop working. I bought it because of the streaming I do." Saiko explained briefly, though the details seemed slightly out of her electronically inept mother. She simply smiled a distance smile and nodded slightly.
"O-Oh. I am sorry to hear about that Saiko. If you need anything-" Saiko rose a hand and gave a reassuring smile to her mother. "It's alright mom. I can handle it. Thanks for the concern though."
After the concerns over Saiko were covered, Relena had shifted the discussion to something Saiko hadn't quite understood the bearings of. Why all of a sudden was she asking her this, in front of her parents no less?
"A smaller room? You mean a single person room? Yeah, that is what I signed up for. Why of all people would you want to ask me? I have enough difficulties living alone, let alone with other people." Her mother rose her voice up to interject her daughter with a motherly tone.
"Saiko, no need to be rude. It was just a simple suggestion. She even said you could take you time with thinking it over." Saiko darted her eyes over to her mother, a tint of annoyance in her eyes.
"I am not being rude. I am trying to point out flaws in the offer. It doesn't matter to me either way with whom I stay with, whether I am alone or with another person, my quirk is a hassle for anyone to deal with. I mean, it bothers me, and I am the one that has had to manage living with it. You know it as well as I do mom, and I just don't want a classmate of mine or a friend to have to live with that."
Saiko wasn't quite sure where her tone of harshness came from, though she was thankful that she didn't raise her voice or speak with anger. It might have just been early nerves of the competition getting the best of her. Either way, Saiko looked down after speaking, unsure of how to respond after acting like she had.
"Sorry, I didn't-" Saiko started to speak, only stopping as she looked up to see something that made her words halt and her eyes widen.
"Dad! What are you doing?!" Saiko growled in frustration, though in a hushed voice as to not draw more attention than needed. Her father, now clutching a certain, familiar bokken, flourished it in the air with simple and fluid strokes, though slowly as to not club nearby passing visitors that gave the man strange looks. Like water, the man had grown calm and was almost in a meditative mind as he moved the training blade through the space around him before speaking in a oddly serious tone.
"You put too much force in your right step Relena. Additionally, your grip is slightly stronger on your left hand, likely a side effect of your mind trying to off-set your uneven steps." Saiko stared at her calm father with a glare, though the man seemed to be entirely focused on the student next to her. "See?" He extended the bokken back with an open palm towards Relena, pointing at two spots.
"The right edge of the blade is slightly dented, and you can feel the area where your left hand grips on the bokken in leaving an indentation on the hilt of the training katana. This is leaving your left side vulnerable, since most your pressure is being put on your right leg."
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208 Posts
0 EP
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17 Years
Female
Student-Rank Quirk:
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Post by Relena Tsuruya on Feb 20, 2019 8:43:49 GMT -4
❝You're showing me colours of the sky, But all I see is Grey❞ 614 w. kenjutsu-f | reinforcement-f | radiant dawn-e Relena nodded to Saiko as she spoke about her computer. She was quite inept when it came to technology, so she wasn't too sure what the girl was saying. "I have been meaning to get a proper computer myself. My phone is not particularly suitable for the UA chat and I am lacking in technical knowledge. Perhaps you could assist me sometime in picking out a unit sometime?"
She raised a worried brow at Saiko. The offer of sharing a dorm seemed to produce a flustered reaction from the other girl and Relena felt herself shake slightly at the offense that she had given to Saiko. The girl seemed very annoyed by her request, so Relena just kept silent as the other two went back and forth.
"Ah...forgive me, Saiko-san. I was...unsure who to ask. I don't particularly know many of the other girls. It was not my intention to-Ara?"
Relena turned her attention to Saiko's dad, Kojuro, as he had somehow managed to take the bokken away from the belted sheath on her waist. How did he? I wasn't even aware that it was gone! Just who is this guy?
Saiko, once again, was ready to yell at her Father. But Relena knew immediately what the elder man was doing. It was nothing nefarious and he was not mocking her. In fact, Kojuro was akin to her Uncle but much nicer and eccentric. She studied his movements as he performed a few practice swings with her wooden weapon.
"Yes, while performing Kenjutsu I tend to shift into a more practical form that is involved with classic shinai kendo style. It has been an infuriating stance error that I could not, for the life of me, figure out."
Relena rubbed at her chin as she continued to study Kojuro. My left hand? Hm, he just might be right indeed. I focus on my left hand because Uncle says it is my weaker hand. But that would also make sense, having to balance with my right side's balance issues.
The girl looked at the weapon where he had mentioned the weak spots. They coincided with his analysis and Relena's eyes widened at the sudden revelation. He was right! In her lone practice sessions, there would be no way for her to notice these flaws since there was no sparring partner to point this out. If anything, she was furthering her detriment by continuing to proceed with this tactic.
"I had assumed that using a powerful strike with my right side would bring the battle to a quicker end. Hm, but you propose that I offset my balance more properly. Yes, I see."
She took hold of the weapon carefully from the man and assumed her battle stance. Immediately she noticed her stance was similar to what Kojuro had said. So she loosened her left grip slightly and widened her stance. Her form felt more solid and the bokken, as she swung it carefully, felt more accessible in terms of both offense and defense. How had this man so casually determined a weakness in her form?
Relena bowed to the man with utmost respect. "Thank you, Kojuro-sama. You must be well versed in combat to know such things. Are you some sort of great warrior or-"
Wait. Is he a hero? A vigilante? Am I in the presence of a real, honest to life defender of the city?
Her eyes widened as she looked at Kojuro in a different light. She smiled widely at the man and a noise escaped her that could be described as akin to a squeal. "Thank you once again, sir!"
Relena leaned against Saiko, with her hand covering her mouth. "Hey, do you think your Dad would be willing to teach me some moves?"
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Post by Saiko Tachibana on Feb 22, 2019 1:05:52 GMT -4
Saiko stayed silent as she watched her father carefully maneuver the blade, though more interesting to her was that Relena, the one the blade was pilfered from, remained almost entranced by the man. It had both relieved and slightly infuriated that Relena was so lax on her father's antics, but she supposed that her father never meant harm. It's just...he tended to have trouble realizing when what he did could be perceived as 'too far'.
Kojuro gave a slow nod of understanding to Relena as she voiced her thoughts on what he had said, cupping his chin in deep thought. "Nothing wrong with that, Relena-chan. Errors in training are just a fancy way of saying that mastery has not been met." Leaning closer, he spoke softly with a sly smirk. "If I am completely honest, I don't feel anybody is a master at anything. Learning is the lifeblood of humans, and without it, the mind waste away. "
Standing up tall once again, and the bokken relieved from his possession to return back to it's rightful owner, he grinned widely, almost as if the man that had temporarily taken his place was gone, no trace of him to be seen.
"Ah, but you see Relena of the blade, decisive blows will only work if you can land the hit. Your over compensation and powerful right sided strikes might take down many a foe, but it lacks the finesse and accuracy that that will land the lesser strikes needed to weaken your foe first. If your opponent becomes aware of your strong side, then they will shift to target the weaker, or your left in this case, or perhaps even put their full attention into defending their own right side."
Watching Relena with an attentive gaze, he took note of how she altered her form to take his possibly forward advice. He seemed within his element and inspired by the student, smiling proudly before she gave her thanks to the mentor figure. For a brief moment, Kojuro almost seemed to beam with satisfaction with himself, puffing his chest slightly. It reminded Saiko far to much of their homeroom teachers over sized chicken companion,which was a tad unnerving to say the least.
"Well, I don't exactly like to toot my own horn-" He scoffed slightly, biting back the desire to go full on Ironclad Valor mode, thrusting his knuckles to his sides in a gallant showboat of a display. "I have been practicing and honing myself for many a years. As far back as I have had a quirk in fact! It has been an arduous and pain staking journey, and I wish not to see it end. A great warrior I am not, but I would be amiss if I had to say that I did everything I did for my loved ones!"
Suddenly, with a burst of inspiration, he broke out into a dramatic pose that seemed akin to something out of a sentai show, which made the hairs stand on end in fury from Saiko and her mother. "With armor glistening and iron at the ready, I best my foes with swift precise strikes!"
A shifted position into another exaggerated pose as he continued his valiant declaration. "A silver streak through the darkened night! With masamune, I triumph over evil! For I am-" Despite Kojuro being in prime, peak excitement levels, felt two pairs of heated glares from two particular nearby people that froze him in place. An unsettling amount of time was spent with no words spoken and the man petrified in place with an open jaw, prepared to finished his speech. However, through all the vim and vigor (And many outside spectators now), Kojuro gave a stiff cough and slowly lowered his form back to ground level.
Pushing his glasses up with a nervous grin, he gave a wide bow towards the infatuated student or had let out a girlish squeal of excitement that had received a disappointed roll of the eyes from Saiko. "I am but just a humble disciple of the blade myself. It is my pleasure to see a fellow student learn from my teachings."
Through all the unwanted attention and somber expression that Saiko now gave off like a beacon, Relena still managed to find the time to ask her if Kojuro would train her in an eager whisper. Leaning slightly too close for comfort for Saiko, she gave a gentle nudge to create space once again between the two.
"Yes, father would train you. With that I have no doubt." Saiko said with a dispirited tone of voice and a dull expression laid across her face. "In fact, he would probably be elated too."
With a soft sigh, and least the worst of her father's antics were hopefully out of his system. "Sorry if I came off as especially tilted before. I'm a bit on edge-" Her eyes shifted briefly towards her father before looking back towards Relena with a plain tone. "In case that wasn't a bit obvious, with the competitions coming up and all. It wasn't wrong for you to ask. I will ask you the same that you asked me though, to at least think it over, alright? My quirk can be a...chore if you will, and I wouldn't want to put that on someone without them being fully prepared to accept that."
With a simple shrug, Saiko shirked off most of the nerves she had garnered from her father's display moments ago. "And I would suggest seeking out the support studies if you want a pc build. The would probably know the ins and outs better than I. If you would rather not though, I wouldn't mind. Not like I exactly lack the knowledge. Just, whenever, you know?"
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Post by Relena Tsuruya on Feb 27, 2019 16:20:30 GMT -4
❝You're showing me colours of the sky, But all I see is Grey❞ 615 w. kenjutsu-f | reinforcement-f | radiant dawn-e She looked down at her wooden weapon with a newfound appreciation for the craft. All her life she had challenged herself to be better. To train harder and to go beyond her limit, but there was always a barrier that kept her from attaining new heights. Her Uncle had forced that barrier upon her...and she knew why. Because of her Father.
Deep down inside, she had the heart of a murderer. A quirk killer had raised her. Uncle lost his brother because of Relena and, even though he and Auntie expressed undying love to her, she knew that they would not teach her everything. Was that why he was so eager to send her to UA? In the hopes that she would definitely become a hero and forget her past?
Relena looked down at the ground with a grimace, tears building up and threatening to expel from her watery cerulean eyes. It's why she only was permitted to wield a bokken, after all. It's harder to kill someone with a stick, as opposed to a sword. Even Uncle's swordsmanship of Kenjutsu was a more defensive method of martial art. But you never gave me the chance, Uncle. Seeing first hand what my Father could do...of all people, I understand most how precious life can be. I've lost two families in one lifetime.
She sniffled slightly as she regarded Kojuro with a bright smile. Despite the momentary feeling of despair in concern to her familial history, this particular man inspired nothing but confidence in Relena. "Yes, Kojuro-sama! You are absolutely right!"
One's parents did not decide their fate. One could defy their fate and push forward to become whoever they wished to be. And this one would become a pro hero one day, defending the world from the dangers that lurked in the darkness. By shining light upon them!
Relena watch as he took on several poses, speaking prose in the most heroic way that the blonde had ever seen! She beamed intently while watching, stars glittering figuratively in her eyes. So cool! He's so cool!
She had heard of most of the pros who kept Japan safe, but she had also heard of certain vigilantes. Even run into a couple of them. Her encounter with G wasn't the ideal meeting, considering the circumstances, but she was already looking up to Nimue-sensei as an ideal role model! But this man, with the way he behaved and his sense of swordsmanship...could he be?
The girl just nodded to him with confidence. "Yes...just a humble swordsman. Someday I wish to become one as humble as you. Perhaps I could visit you sometime to seek further lessons?"
She tilted her head to regard Saiko with a warm smile. "I understand, Saiko-san. The festival has left me quite on edge myself. A certain meeting is coming up that I'm unsure of. Big groups tend to scare me...eh heh heh."
The thought of the oil quirk girl as her room mate rose to the surface of her mind as Relena rubbed at her chin. She was sure that Saiko was well aware of her quirk, weaknesses and strengths together. It must be tough, living with a quirk like that. I have no idea...so I shouldn't presume. But I will respect her by putting some thought to such a heavy decision.
Relena just nodded to Saiko, clapping her hands over Saiko's while looking her directly in the eye with a confident glare. "I shall put much thought into it! In return, please consider my proposal as well, because I want to get to know you better, Saiko-chan!"
Her eyes widened as she blurted out the honorific, but she kept a firm clutch on Saiko's hands. Please just go with it. Oh dear!
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Post by Saiko Tachibana on Mar 7, 2019 8:39:13 GMT -4
Saiko was rather worried that her father's questionable habits were rubbing off on her peer from 1-A, which was only further affirmed when she stared at Relena whom was very obviously awestruck by the man secretly...or perhaps not very well hidden, known as Ironclad Valor. Her temporary, sullen look, was quickly cast aside with twinkling eyes of fascination as her father struck poses and gave speeches.
Relena's confident words to her father only seemed to cause him to beam more with satisfaction and heroism as Kojuro crossed his arms with a wide grin. "But Relena-chan! You are already more than humble if you have decided to dedicate your life to saving the weak and helpless! As long as you never let your pride supersede your reason for fighting and your hope for the future never falter, you shall become a grand pro hero!"
With a enthusiastic thumbs up, his glasses reflected the sun, concealing the burning passion in his eyes. "This humble swordsman will always has his doors open for those willing to hone themselves and protect this great country, just like my beautiful flower Saiko. So you are free to drop by any time you wish!"
Blinking for a moment, Kojuro lowered his arm and went slack in realization. "Except between the hours of one PM and ten PM, otherwise my boss would reprimand me..." His disappointed tone was quickly swept under the rug as he smiled widely once again and stood back straight once more. "I, Kojuro Tachibana, will look forward to helping you surpass your limits! He might even...no no, that would be far to soon."
Saiko's father mumbled out the last part before brandishing his hand out to speak again, which caused his chopsticks to go flying. With a startled, surprised look, the man scratched his head nervously before excusing himself to go and fetch the utensils. As he passed Relena, a small, silver and red business card for a made up dojo and smithy joint operation was discretely slipped onto her person without a word or sound.
Letting out another weary sigh, Saiko just rolled her eyes and shrugged at her father's shenanigans like usual. "I'm glad I'm not the only one who is anxious about this whole event. I suppose it is good in a way. Just means I don't want to put on a lack luster performance, but still...I don't deal with large amounts of people well either."
Saiko was sure what Relena meant wasn't the exact same thing, nor was it likely the same reason for why the two didn't settle for large amounts of people. In the end, it didn't entirely matter, since at least Saiko didn't feel alone in at least being nervous around others.
Before Saiko could even say anything more or react, however, her hands were quickly clasped between Relena's in what she could only imagine was a overly eager method of agreement. Though perhaps it got a tad strange for the group as Relena decided to word herself...possibly a bit to direct and forward. Saiko rose a brow at the honorific and the awkward declaration, looking down at her cupped together hands which remained balled in Relena's as her deer in the headlights stare of realization froze her in place...again.
Does this happen often with this girl?
"Alright there jumpy, no need to get so emotional. I already mentioned thinking over the room thing, and uh-" Saiko slowly slipped her slightly oiled hands out of Relena's hold with little resistance and frowned. "As long as...you know..." Saiko slid her eyes over momentarily towards her deeply confused mother and now arriving again father whom started looking equally confused.
"-You don't start giving them the wrong impressions." She leaned in to whisper quietly to her fellow 1-A before moving herself back to her original spot. Saiko-chan? What the heck was up with that? If anything, Saiko should be saying that to Relena, considering Saiko was taller than the blonde. Tsk, nothing to get upset over. Probably just another of her father's antics ingraining itself into Relena.
"Oh! That reminds me!" Saiko's mother spoke up after the momentary lapse in judgement from Relena, giving her hands a gentle clap together with child like excitement. "Relena, I don't believe you have mentioned which of the events at the sports festival you will be taking a part in? Or perhaps any booths you are a part of that we could possibly visit?" She politely asked with wonder for the 1-A student.
"I figured since we are already here to spectate our daughter, we would be more than happy to see what her fellow classmates are capable of! If...that is alright with you? We can understand if that would make you too nervous. The two of us wouldn't want to hinder your performance or anything."
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Post by Relena Tsuruya on Mar 9, 2019 21:18:49 GMT -4
❝You're showing me colours of the sky, But all I see is Grey❞ 534 w. kenjutsu-f | reinforcement-f | radiant dawn-e To say that Kojiro was eccentric would be an understatement. Relena was not particularly used to interacting with someone such as this man, but the way he spoke and how he moved gave her so much inspiration. Once she became a hero, she would definitely incorporate some of his mannerisms into her persona. Maybe she could even do some during the rescue operation?
Relena nodded her head with enthusiasm at the passive comment from Saiko. It was a great relief that the other girl took the situation in stride with an air of coolness. It did happen often, in fact, but Relena would never openly mention how awkward she could be. At least I'm trying...
She looked down as Saiko slipped her hands free of Relena's. A slight gasp escaped her lips, but she let it go with ease. After all, she was the one being way too forward to her sapphire haired friend. Of course when Saiko's eyes were gesturing strangely toward her parents, Relena raised her brow in confusion.
"The...wrong impression? I don't quite-"
The girl felt Saiko's breath on her face for a moment as she had leaned in to whisper to her, which caused her to freeze up. Wait, impression? She doesn't mean like...
Relena's eyes widened at the implication, but she didn't say anything as both of the adults were now staring at them. Wait what? I-I wasn't even thinking that-oh god! Do I come off like that? Oh dear, I've made a mess of things!
The entire time that she was lost in thought, Relena was staring at the ground and she could feel her face growing hotter. She was most likely blushing, but didn't want to think too hard about that fact. Fortunately, Saiko's Mom had come to the rescue to change the subject! Thank god!
She blinked a few times at the query before it dawned on her. Oh right! The festival! I've been so caught up in my own head that I hadn't even mentioned what I was doing.
"Oh! Right, I'm still working out some club details so I'm not currently in any booths. However, I have registered for the rescue operations. I feel that a hero's greatest contribution to society should be the safety and protection of civilians above all else."
She smiled at the thought and was even more excited for the upcoming event from speaking about it. Who would she be working with? What kind of dangers would there be? It was all so very exciting! Relena quickly raised her hands up and shook them back in forth towards the woman with a wide grin at her offer to spectate.
"No, of course not! I would be more than thrilled if you were to observe my performance! In fact, none of my family is here to support me so having support would greatly boost my confidence!"
Relena bowed toward Saiko's Mom, lower lip trembling from the kindness emanating from the lady. "Thank you! Your offer is very much appreciated! I will do my absolute best knowing that you would be watching!"
After standing back up, she gave Saiko a thumbs up while still beaming with excitement. "Oh, Saiko-san!" She had remember the honorific this time. "What event are you going to be in?" |
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Post by Saiko Tachibana on Mar 11, 2019 5:29:00 GMT -4
Relena was flush with embarrassment after her poor phrasing from earlier, but it quickly faded when she was asked a easy going question by Saiko's mother. Saiko didn't really find it amusing or have much to think about it, instead opting to simply watch Relena with curiosity. The student was odd, that was for sure. Then again, so was she. Maybe that is why the two didn't really have a reason to not get along. Even if most of their encounters have been rather...awkward to say the least.
The question was answered easily enough, despite a temporary pause to recover, which got a nod of understanding from Saiko head. "Yeah, the clubs can be a little overwhelming at times. It seems more are showing up also, so there is no telling when something will draw your attention more." Saiko said plainly, opting not to even mention that she herself wasn't in any clubs. It probably wouldn't be long before her parents found out anyways, so the longer she could prolong it, the better...
"Rescue, huh? I would have thought you would have joined the combat, what with all your swordsmanship training." Saiko gave a lazy shrug and smiled faintly at the reason behind Relena's choice. "Honestly though, I think that it is cool. Having the compassion for saving others and protecting the innocent. Very hero like, which I suppose makes sense for a student at UA, but still..."
Relena's sense of urgency in making it clear to the two adults that they were invited got a light, masked chuckle from Saiko's mother. "That's wonderful news! We'll provide as much support for the two of you as possible then to make up for your family not being able to make it!" The motherly tone was met with an equally caring gaze as she cupped both her hands close to her chest. "We'd love to see what UA has been offering to Saiko, and to see what her friends are really capable of!"
Her enthusiasm oozed with tenderness as much as her words and personality as she spoke. Her mother had her own habits, and being a that Saiko hadn't had someone close to her in the mother's eyes in many years, it was unsurprising how intrigued and interested she was finding out more about Relena. Turning to face Saiko, Relena gave an oddly placed thumbs up which got another confused brow raise with crossed arms.
At least she didn't make more mistakes in phrasing. "Well...um..."
Saiko brushed her long aquatic colored hair with a hand, which because of the earlier time of day, hadn't nearly started producing as much of the quirk oil as it did normally. "I mean...I would have gone with Rescue myself, but...I don't really-" Saiko hadn't enough time to even properly explain why before Kojuro was already at her side with a wide, toothy grin as he pulled her closer to his side with a sheer gleaming sense of joy and pride.
"Because Saiko wishes to exhibit mine and UA's training of her quirk in it's most potential form! A perfect balance of both physical conditioning and adaptability! Her quirk shall allow her to flow past the competition like...swoosh. A current of impossibly slick oil that leaves foes dazed and confused, untouchable by the unprepared!"
A fatherly pat of Saiko's damp shoulders made the student frown slightly and sigh. "Yep, that's me." She responded with a deadpan tone, not caring much to go deeper with her father's rambling as she slacked her shoulders. "The untouchable Saiko. You caught me."
Sometimes he said the dumbest stuff...
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Post by Relena Tsuruya on Mar 13, 2019 23:07:45 GMT -4
❝You're showing me colours of the sky, But all I see is Grey❞ 542 w. kenjutsu-f | reinforcement-f | radiant dawn-e Saiko was taking her stupidity like a champ. It wasn't as if Relena was purposely behaving in such a manner! She just enjoyed the pleasure of Saiko's company and found her mentality quite grounded, as opposed to Relena's own fleeting persona.
"There's not a great deal of pressure to join a club, if you aren't interested. Though after Kirk-san and Darren-san needed help with football, I must say that I found the sport to be quite thrilling. I am strongly considering joining the team."
At the thought of the combat tournament, Relena merely shook her head politely. "Well, I've got thick skin but an elastic heart. I would much rather help others than showcase my skills for the amusement of others."
Relena folded her own arms as she glanced at Saiko. She had an idea of what the girl was about to say before getting cut off by Kojiro. You don't really like working with others...
As Saiko's Father pat her with enthusiasm, the girl had lost all semblance of care and had once again adopted her pensive attitude. Kojiro was making her quirk seem like a grand spectacle to be admired and awed upon. While Relena always tended toward the brighter side of life, the little she knew of Saiko was the opposite.
The 'untouchable' comment seemed especially harsh. Perhaps he hadn't realized what he was saying? Saiko looked a bit admonished by it though. So Relena snapped her fingers and approached the two, bowing to the elders.
"Ah, I just remembered! There was something I needed to show Saiko-san! Please excuse us!"
She took the girl by the hand, stealing her away from Kojiro. "Please do not think less of me. I shall return her in due haste!"
Relena pulled Saiko along with an exaggerated wink and sprinted away from the scene. She sharply turned a corner along the main street, bobbing and weaving past the crowd. There were so many who had arrived at UA and it was becoming slightly difficult to dodge through.
But she eventually found a spot that had a decent amount of shade under a large tree with which she could catch her breath. Relena just spun around to face her blue haired counterpart with a melancholy smile.
"Forgive my forwardness, Saiko-san. Your parents are wonderful and you must truly be blessed! But...it was becoming a tad stifling. I really do mean what I said earlier, though."
She lowered her head slightly to collect her thoughts. "It's a big school and we'll be spending a lot of time together and...well, I would very much like for us to get along better. Just please think about it, okay? I know it seems like I'm pressuring you and, well, I guess I am. So I'm sorry for that. Anyway, I better get going. Places to be, things to do, and food to eat. I hope I gave you some breathing room from your Father. He is a tad eccentric, yeah? Farewell!"
And with that, Relena spun on her heel and proceeded down the main street onward to the next wondrous thing that the festival had to offer. She really hoped that Saiko would take her up on the offer, but it was completely reasonable for her to deny the request. Regardless, the blonde could still see her during Homeroom. |
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Post by Saiko Tachibana on Mar 16, 2019 2:51:17 GMT -4
"Not a great deal of pressure? I suppose so, but..." Saiko understood what Relena meant, but it was always a struggle when you felt like you were letting somebody down or missing out by not doing so. Her eyes drifted over to her loving parents and felt a tad empty at the thought.
"Football, huh?" A sport that she frequently played as practice for her quirk when she was younger, though do to the limited number of participants, it was more just kicking a ball around with a goalie. Though Saiko hadn't met Darren herself, Kirk was a familiar...if not hard to forget, name for her. Interesting that Relena of all people would feel inclined to join the team.
"Unless you don't like the other members, I think you should." Saiko offered her suggestion with a simple shrug. "You seem to have the kind of energy required to keep up with sports and being on a team. Plus, you seem to enjoy the game, so I wouldn't see any harm in it." Aside from Relena's oddities and personality quirks, it was obvious that she was the time to fully commit herself to something once she became attached. Something that wasn't far off from herself, though she lacked the same kind of drive or energy anymore to feel compelled most of the time.
Thick skin and elastic heart...
What was an apt comparison for herself? Would she want to hear it even if someone could offer the answer? Probably not...
Saiko's somber and defeatist tone was snapped clear with a look of confusion as Relena suddenly pronounced a urgent request to show her something in person. Saiko's wide eyed gaze and tilted brow traced Relena as she stepped closer to the aqua haired student and her father, stealing her away with a clasp of her hand once more. "W-Wha-Relena-san? What are you-?" Saiko uttered in surprise, not having the readiness for the impulsive action.
"I trust my daughter will be in safe hands! Don't let us keep you two from having fun!" Kojuro Tachibana gave a pleased grin at Relena's enthusiasm and nodded his head in acceptance of the request.
"Yes. We'll see you during the events Relena, dear. Go do what you two wanna do. We won't hold you back!" Saiko looked back at her parents in with a dazed look of panic as she was towed away with Relena pulled her in a sprint. Saiko wanted to protest, but the words couldn't find their place as she merely stammered and watched as her parents shrunk into the distance with caring waves towards the two girls.
It took everything in Saiko's current level of energy to keep up with the student of boundless excitement, avoiding losing her footing from the sprint and dodging nearly crashing into many other festival goers that eyed them with surprise.
When Relena finally halted the journey, they found themselves under a shady tree, allowing Saiko to catch her breath, which was mostly lost from the unexpected nature of the trek. "Relena, what was that-" She stopped herself though when she looked up from her panting to see a pensive smile upon Relena's face.
"O-Oh, yeah...my parents." Saiko said as she looked away for a moment, thinking of the implied emotions or negativity that might have been brought on by them being...stifling as Relena put it. "They mean everything to me. I just don't want to let them down." It was the honest truth, which only made it harder when she couldn't believe in herself on most occasions. If it wasn't for her mother and father...she probably wouldn't be standing where she was now, or possibly standing at all...
"O-Of course. I sit behind you in class, you know?" Saiko still wasn't sure why Relena all of a sudden seemed to show so much interest in the sapphire haired student. "You could have always asked sooner." Then again, so could she, but Saiko would never have the courage or nerves to approach another, unlike her bokken wielding peer.
"Yeah, I will." Her voice didn't hold resentment or annoyance by Relena's constant offer, but it was still a difficult thing to grasp, wanting to even be together in the same dorm...or even want to spend time together. "Uh...yeah. Eccentric." Saiko repeated, rubbing her neck weakly. That was putting it mildly. At least Relena showing up when she did took a great deal of the pressure off of Saiko, and in turn helped her learn a bit more about the blond student. She was grateful, though she didn't exactly show it well.
"Hope you have fun. I guess I'll see you around." It was a plain farewell, but Relena seemed to want to see what the festival had to offer, which Saiko would likely have asked to join if she hadn't already planned to do the same with her parents. Spinning around, Relena trotted off, a similar look of joy upon her face that she showed when she was elated by Kojuro's earlier displays. "Relena, I-"
Saiko didn't get the quiet words out though as she meekly lowered her hand that she intended to use to wave towards her classmate. Not like she would see anyways...
Rapid footsteps alerted Saiko who jumped when a gust of wind blew past her, dropping something into her hands. Saiko looked up before even looking at what was in her hand to see her father rushing to catch up to Relena.
"Relena-chan!" He shouted out to catch her attention before winding a hand back to toss something small and chained to her, hoping she would catch it. A glint in his eyes as he beamed a grin towards the student. "Shine bright out there today, you crazy diamond! If you don't think you can go any further, just remember we will all be rooting for you! Give it your one hundred percent and then even further beyond that! Go...Go-" Kojuro stopped as he tried to think of what to properly say before an epiphany hit him with a excited gleam.
"Go Plus Ultra, Shining Force!" A dramatic thumbs up was thrust out towards the give and he held back the urge to weep tears of joy. Saiko simply watched the man with a slight...but happy, shake of head as she opened up her palm to reveal a metallic necklace that had a fine craftsmanship to it and reflected the light when it was hit by the sun that shown through the overhead branches and leave.
The thin and light necklace of silver sheen had a star and moon design to it, which Saiko only assumed Relena would have just been given the matching set that had a similar motif to it. Probably based on the sun...if she had to guess her father's predictable patterns in his sporadic decisions. A smile slowly etched onto her face, but hidden well, as Saiko slipped on the necklace that had plopped into her hands when the others weren't looking.
The necklace slipped under Saiko's heavier clothing, concealing it well as she watched her father waving wide towards the other 1-A student.
'Kojuro might say and do some pretty dumb things, but I wouldn't want any other father.'
[Thread Complete]
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