[hider= Kazumin’s Joyful Reunion][color=gray] [center][b][color=limegreen][h1]Kazumin Nagasa[/h1][/color][/b] [img]https://i.ibb.co/YX1sZZL/download.png[/img] [/center] [color=limegreen]Time: [/color] Evening [color=limegreen]Location: [/color] Castle Ballroom- Starry night ball [color=limegreen]Interactions:[/color] [@Potter] Olivia/Persephone, [color=limegreen]Mentions:[/color] [@princess] King Edin,, Calbert, Charlotte, Marina, Anatasia [@reusablesword] Roman [@silverspring] Ariella, [@remram] Nolan, [@citrusarms] Stratya, Ambrose, [@tae] Thea, [@HylianRose] Nora, Nik [@lava Alckon] Drake, [@Funnyguy] Duke Lorenzo [@oso] Cassius [center][hider=Mr. Kazoo, the skip meister][img] https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/960358978708209714/1497777712474095716/image.png?ex=69f164b2&is=69f01332&hm=7a039860d619f369ccaba0f3342e8e5cb651ccec5d1643d4d2010d248379b2a4&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=666&height=1332 [/img] (image credited by princess/na) [/hider][/center] [hr] The cowlick blonde had stood rooted in place as various hectic and insane things happened, the way King Edin barked at the gathered group to buzz off. Saved, if only by the lucky timing of royal dignitaries arriving soon. Yet, just as it seemed they were in the clear, Duke Lorenzo had chosen a different course of action. It left Kazumin in a mixture of stunned awe and scared fretting at the way Lorenzo jumped with an aimed punch at the king of all people. The man moved with the fury of a father unable to withstand such slander and insults to their children. An act he wasn’t sure to applaud or disapprove of, if merely for what it would have meant had it gone through, but in the sheer nick of time a sudden arrival had caught the blow intended for that obnoxious slug face. He was unsatisfied having to see Calbert’s face of all people, his hands slightly tensing around Olive, doubting she was none too pleased with this situation. Made worse by the fact it had to be Calby who stopped Lorenzo, hated but accepted it was the right choice in the end. It soured his tongue listening to the man prattle niceties and seeing him so effective at it. And, damn, did the guy bulk up. Kazu gave a begrudging nod of respect; props on the gains and defusing the situation. Just seeing that smug bastard face of his rankled him, however; detesting what he’s done to Char and Cass. And making his sweet Percy’s face a criminal, nothing irked him more than anyone insulting or making her unhappy. . He fumed with anger and concern as he watched Calby carry Lorenzo away. The idea of seeing that wonderfully brave man dragged by that viper did not sit well with him. Still, a catastrophe was prevented; gods could only know the terror Edin might have let loose. His heart still pounding with a held breath of fear that he finally let loose with a relieved sigh, the warmth of Olive against him comforted and eased his discomfort. Just then, Char had stepped down away from the chair Lorenzo had been only seconds ago; a look of impressed awe took his features, finally noticing the unexpectedly bold midnight blue dress she wore. There seemed to be a strange bit of spice to her he struggled to pin, but she looked like a gorgeous midnight sky. He gave an admiring nod, then glanced towards Cassius, his smile widening, seeing the way he stood protective of her the whole time. To think Calbert somehow disapproved of the beautiful pair. [color=#d0b4ec]“Come. We need to move somewhere beyond the King’s delicate line of sight.” [/color] Kazu frowned as the bitterness in her voice did not go unnoticed; seeing his friends in such a dour mood after finally catching up with them brought out a sad huff from his chest. He gave a simple nod, thankful this whole ordeal ended with little issue, how close a spark got to setting off such an explosive disaster. “ [color=limegreen]Whew…talk about a pretty perilous catastrophe we all narrowly avoided, heh…[/color]” An awkward chuckle as he turned, lowering his gaze to the lovely strawberry blonde beauty beside him; a nervous gasp as he quickly averted his eyes from her pretty face, nearly glimpsing those twinkling green jewels. A part of him warned not to look... at least not yet, even as his tummy rumbled softly with longing. “ [color=limegreen]G-guess we should follow as Char suggested; I doubt any of us are in a good mood after that. And I hope you’re holding up well too, my strawberry prettypie.[/color]” He gulped with a cherry tinting of the cheeks, unsure if she would be ok with the nickname, a bashful smile on his lips.” [color=limegreen]Some food and drink should do just the trick, ay-[/color]” Olivia’s cheeks burned at his comment. She avoided eye contact and bit her lip to keep from grinning ear-to-ear. She quickly followed after Lottie and Cassius to hide her grin and burning cheeks. A sweet, musical melody-like giggle then reached his ears; the enchanting sound made the tip of his ears burn with ache for more. Her soft, pink lips moved; a darkening of the cheeks was called her sunflower skipmeister. Her words hardly registered after that as his mind nearly short-circuited; an intense fluttery warmth bubbled with him, and he could feel it quickly threatening to drown him with the urge to hug and nuzzle her. It took all he had to stop the dopey smile fighting to overtake his flushed features while his legs nearly trembled. Feeling and fearing he was about to become a flustered mess, the blushing Kazu gave her a quick adoring squeeze.” [color=limegreen] Er..g-go on ahead, all this craziness has..has left me a bit befuddled so I’ll..need a minute.[/color]” He called out to her sweetly with a slight, giddy giggle in his voice.” [color=limegreen]Check on Char and Cass and enjoy some food. And I’ll be along shortly. It will help prep for our dance.[/color]” Kazu gulped with a playful smiling wink. With a reluctant teeth-gritting nod, the anxious blonde peeled himself away from the leafy green nature goddess and gave a little awkward wave. After she stepped away, he couldn’t help watching her depart with an admiring longing until he realized he was starting to stare and slapped himself, snapping him from the lovestruck stupor. Kazu spun around till the ball patrons were to his back. An antsy smack smack of his cheeks, the stings settled his trembling legs.” [color=limegreen]Phew…come on, Kaz, get it together…but..ugggh she called me her sunflower.[/color]” Pressing his hands against his flustered cheeks as his body slightly rocked in pure blissful delight and a muffled giggly bout. His mind started to wander back to his talk with Char during lunch and quickly shook his head before such cuddling thoughts infested his mind again; it would send him over in his frantic, anxious state. Trying to think of a distraction when his mind heard Olive’s precious giggling and felt a memory well up; a day he both detested and cherished. Again he tried smacking his cheek before he’d lose himself, but the rush of emotions spinning in him started to wash him away. His hands prepared a clap- [hider=Kazumin’s first day: Part 1][center][h3][b][Kazumin’s hoppy first day-][/b][/h3][/center] A clap of hands as the teacher, Mrs. Merryweather, called out to the classroom of rambunctious young kids; they were ages varying by a few years apart. With the small, rundown old Barnhouse lacking much funding and space, multiple class groups had been put together in the small, worn room. Walls painted in fading, peeling beige-green, old drawings and arts-and-crafts covered portions of the walls as the children were rowdily playing at their old, rusting desks. Some missing portions of their tops. A few were etched deeply by pocketknives by some current and previous students. They could be heard rattling and squeaking now and then. Mrs. Merryweather was standing at the side of her desk wearing a yellow polka-dotted white dress with her dark auburn hair rolled up into a bun. Her hands with yellow-painted nails rested impatiently at her hips as she studied the rowdy group with a disapproving glint of aqua blue eyes. Besides her, the old desk sat pitifully with cracked wood and a missing leg, propped up by a small bale of hay. Some paperwork and cheap pencils sat upon it, a mug holding various slightly wilting flowers and an apple with a missing bite gifted by some sweet, mindful kids. Behind her rested the worn chalkboard, its edges chipped and broken off. Across it, written in big white chalk letters. [b][center]- Welcome back, little sunshines! Happy orientation day- [/center][/b] A typical cheesy, friendly quote the sweet, bright Merryweather would often put up each morning. Feeling her patience had reached its limits with class meant to start three minutes ago. Again she clapped, more sharply.” [color=yellow]Now now, class, settle down![/color]” She called out sweetly with a raised voice just enough to be heard over the raucous laughter and playful chatter. Within seconds, the class quieted to a near whisper, a few still muttering lowly between them, a lone cough, another sniffling their nose. Once things had settled down, Mrs. Merrywhether folded her hands together with a motherly smile.” [color=yellow]There we are, much better. Hey, you best put that straw down, Asher! There will be no spitballs in my classroom![/color]” She warned with a wagging, pointing finger, then a gentle throat-clearing cough.” [color=yellow]Now I know you’re excited as I am to be back here with all you cuties, but we need to get class started. Before that, I have delightful news: we have a new student joining our class.[/color]” The woman beamed excitedly with a happy clap; she adored teaching kids, giving these less fortunate children a modicum of chance at learning, though their equipment and access to knowledge were frustratingly limited with worn and falling-apart books, with the nobility keeping most materials to themselves. With a curious hum, she looked around till he spotted the two figures at the back of the room standing off to the side beside the double-wide barn door. She gave a beaming smile.” [color=yellow]Ah, there you are. Little Kazumin Nagasa, won’t you please join me up here and introduce yourself?[/color]” She gave an encouraging little clap, motioning to the trembling, shy blonde who stood, hiding behind his momma’s leg, face partially buried in her faded forest-green sundress. A somewhat portly woman with dark brunette hair (the signature trait of the Nagasa family) curled into a neat braid that stopped midway down her back, stuck with sunflowers her precious son had picked for him along the way. She had bright, puffy rosy cheeks like bowls of sweet cherries and sugary pink lips curled into the happiest, prideful smile as her lilac blue eyes, swimming with motherly love, lowered to her hiding little boy A playful tittering giggle, finding it adorable how Kazu, who had been so hyper and excited on the walk, was all bashfully shy all of a sudden. Slowly bending down so as not to give him a start, the darling mother placed the gentlest tender hand atop his messy blonde hair, giggling, feeling that ever-persisting cowlick tickling her palm.” [color=00746b] There there, my precious Kazzypie, everything will be alright. Come out from hiding now, ok?[/color]” She spoke softly and adoringly, feeling Kazu shake his head in a shy, stubborn manner, bunching the fabric of her dress over his face. With a tsk and a humming, placing of hands on her hips.” [color=00746b] Now, my sweet Kazzypie, I thought you wanted to make a bunch of friends? Hop out of hiding and show them what we practiced, hm? They will love it, I’m sure.[/color]” Smiling as she leaned in and gave him a playful tickle, rustling the timid boy free of his hiding place.” [color=00746b] Besides, you got Froppy with you; just be your fun self, ok, my precious sunflower?[/color]” She beamed, giving him a sugary peck on the forehead, eliciting a quiet giggling from the boy, the springy cowlick bouncing. “ [color=limegreen]A-aye, ok Mama Naga,[/color]” Kazu responded in a meekly timid manner; amber chocolate brown eyes glimmered with a nervous, filmy sheen as the anxious six-year-old peered around his mother, sensing the eyes of the class on him. It made his freckled face flush, hating the focused attention; a part of him excited to hopefully meet and befriend them, however. His hands rose, clutching an old, dented metal candy tin in front of his face. The tin had been sloppily painted a light green with crudely shaped frog legs and hands placed into its sides. And a silly smiling frog face was etched on its top. After a long second of hesitating and a slight reassuring nudge at his back, the boy began walking with an almost awkward waddle, unable to muster the courage to do his usual upbeat skips. His well-worn hand-me-down overalls covered with dirt and a few holes sagged almost loosely on his thin, noodly frame. A size too big on the small child, though Kazu always enjoyed how unrestricted it felt. Slowly making his way to the front, trembling beneath the following gazes, their eyes like arrows chasing him like a bullseye. Upon reaching the front, he awkwardly turned and slid the rest of the way to Mrs. Merrywhether’s side, who gave a delighted clapping hum, nuzzling her hands to her cheeks, finding the little blonde adorable.” [color=yellow]Hello there, Kazumin, and I see you have a cute friend with you. Would you like to introduce him and yourself to the class?[/color]” A soft pat of his shoulder as the boy gave a quick, rapid nod, still hiding his face behind Froppy. His small free hand shakily lifted, offering the teacher a sunflower, which made Mrs. Merrywhether coo happily, taking the offered gift.” [color=yellow]Aw, well aren’t you a sweet one. Thank you, Kazumin. Please, go on, no need to be scared.[/color]” At first Kazumin simply stood there, peeking around his friend at the room full of children, a myriad of curious gazes and some eye-rolling tch at his timid slowness. “ [color=limegreen]Um..um..hello…I’m..[/color]” He trailed off with a tensing, trembling gulp. Pressing his friend against his forehead as he peeked towards his mother with an uncertain sniffle. She flashed him her most dazzling smile and gave a little go-on motion, mouthing You can do it, sweetie. The way she assured and smiled so proudly at him brought his shaking legs to a stop. A comforting squeeze of Froppy, and he gulped; standing motionless, thinking over real quick what he practiced. A tinny, upbeat hum and a light bounce of his knees, Kazu began bouncing and bending his knees, swaying side to side, moving like a dancing frog, and with a steadying inhale, pulled Froppy from his face, sporting a shy, cheeky, toothy grin; a missing upper right tooth stood starkly against his slightly tanned skin, dirt speckled his freckled cheeks. [b][center]“ ~[color=limegreen] H-Hello hello! Nice to meetcha, my name’s Kazumin![/color]~ -A hop to the left, a hop to the right- [color=limegreen]Here’s my tinny friend froppy who sings with a ribbiting spin![/color] -A playful spinning twirl- ~[color=limegreen]Here to share a fun song with a sunny grin![/color]~ -An arm uplifting hop, flashing a wide toothy smile- ~[color=limegreen]It’s swell to see ya, we hope you’d like to be our friend![/color]~ -An energetic forward hop- ~[color=limegreen]On this fun new day we can hop together with a can-do win![/color]~ -A wide-spread arm finishing ta-da with a metallic bouncing clink-[/center][/b] The boy finished his silly upbeat jingle, panting, holding his arms spread and Froppy aloft, anxiously waiting as the room remained silent. The kids were not exactly sure what to make of what just happened. Then a voice spoke up rudely.” [color=fdc68a]Ew, bet frog boy eats flies. Who’d want to see that bug-filled grin?![/color]” The unseen boy shouted in mocking jeer, and like a lit dynamite, the room exploded with a loud, thunderous sardonic laughter. Their mocking laughs left Kazu stumbling back and hiding his face, sniffling dejectedly, feeling stupid and foolish; a harsh pouting bite of his lips, ashamed of his smile. It took all his effort to keep from crying beneath the cruel laughing onslaught; something that was a joy to him now hurt and cut him deeply like jagged glass raining down on him. A harsh attention-grabbing clap rang out as the teacher pressed her hand against her desk with a chiding tsk.” [color=yellow]Enough of that. Kazumin put a lot of effort into this cute dance; there will be no more such rude laughter, understood.[/color]” She warned with a shake of her head before turning to the sniffling sad child and giving him a soft pat on the head.” [color=yellow]Ignore that outburst, ok sweetie? Your dance was lovely, and I’m sure you'll make great friends before long. Now go on and take your seat.[/color]” The teacher gave a sad smile, pitying the poor thing experiencing such humiliation. Unable to muster a word and fighting the urge to sprint out of the room, Kazu reluctantly made his way towards the desk. He wanted nothing more than to sit in the back and hide, but only the desk at the very front left row was vacant. A curse on his luck as he sat down, burying his head in his arms with Froppy; muffled whimpering sniffles could be heard. A slow clap sounded as soon as Kazumin sat down. Behind him sat a girl with unkempt dirty blonde braided messily, lanky body frame, crooked teeth and nose wearing a bouse tucked loosely into trousers with dirty boots sat behind him. [color=9BBB82]”That was amazing!”[/color] She whispered to him enthusiastically. [color=9BBB82]”You made all that yourself? Wow!”[/color] She watched as the teacher began teaching and ignored her. [color=9BBB82]”You’ve gotta teach me that stuff one day!”[/color] The sniffling blonde heard the clap, initially thinking it was to further mock him, making him bury deeper into his arms. Then he heard a whispered, unexpected praise that pulled him to lift his head just enough to peek back over his shoulder.” [color=limegreen]I..I..really?[/color]” He muttered shyly, barely a whisper with a tinting blush, as he saw and thought the person was a boy at first, the way she was dressed in boyish loose clothes similar to what he might wear. Then he saw the long blonde hair, unkempt like his, with a messy braid that reminded him of the golden wheatfields. As he studied her face, Kazu couldn’t help but find the crooked nose cute, but that crooked, toothy smile made his cheeks redden, which only darkened with burning ears at the way she complimented him. His eyes widened with surprise that she’d wanted him to teach her and shifted Froppy up so she could see it, blushing bashfully.”[b][i][color=limegreen] U-um…Kazu says thank you.[/color][/i][/b]” The boy spoke through the tin frog, too shy to speak directly to the pretty girl who was strangely nice to him.”[b] [i][color=limegreen]Froppy will..will happily teach ya, and..this froggy likes your pretty braided hair.[/color][/i][/b]” Kazu wanted to repay the compliments, but had little clue how to talk with girls and felt himself wincing, turning away with an awkward muffled groan. [color=lightblue]”Seph would like the frog boy,”[/color] Asher muttered, and his gang and admirers laughed. Persephone whipped around and glared at him. [color=9BBB82]”Need me to beat your ass again?”[/color] she snarled, not caring who heard her. The mean voice from earlier made another snarky jab, frowning with a sniffle at the frog boy nickname. Only to jerk up a bit, shocked at the unashamed foul retort from the girl and the way she said it again? He blinked, wondering if this Seph actually fought and won at that? An impressed smile crossed his lips. [color=yellow]”Miss Persephone! Don’t make me suspend you again! Your mother won’t be happy.”[/color] The teacher snapped. Her impatience began blossoming once more. Persephone rolled her eyes and patted Kazumin’s shoulder. Mrs. Merryweather stared the classroom down once more and then began teaching. Once her back was turned, Persephone whirled around once more and gave Asher and his gang the most menacing glare she could muster and made a “I’m watching you” motion with her hands. Asher returned the gesture. Then, once she ensured the teacher wasn’t looking, made a punching motion and turned back around. Kazu flinched at the way the teacher spoke impatiently at Persephone (so that was her name) and frowned at the thought of her getting suspended because of him. It sounded like she got into scraps from time to time as well. She looked so tough and strong, refusing to back down with a harsh glare that reminded him of the terrifying look his momma got whenever he got bullied. Even now he could feel Mama Naga hiding the fiercest glare behind her sweet smiling eyes, and might have rushed to hug him. But she saw no need, seeing the blonde-haired sweetie having his back and almost awed how cute they were. The pat to his shoulder had felt nice; why she seemed to protect this frog dork he had no clue. A part of him wanted to see her eyes, but he decided against it and turned back to his huddled arms holding Froppy.” [color=limegreen]D-did ya hear that, Froppy? She said we were amazing.[/color]” He whispered hushly to his metal friend with a faint, giddy blushing giggling.” [color=limegreen]And she can kick butt, isn’t she cool?[/color]” Nuzzling the tin to his forehead, hoping to be friends with her. Class carried on then with little issues save for some jeering snickers and pointing in his direction, and some he noticed flinched and avoided looking at Persephone with fearful gazes, but Kazu ignored them. Just happy he might have made a friend, his legs kicking playfully under him as he quietly played with Froppy. “ [color=yellow]Alright, everyone. Class is dismissed. I do hope we will have fewer interruptions next time. That goes for you two, Asher, Miss Persephone.[/color]” She gave the two a reprimanding pointed look, then smiled warmly.”[color=yellow] Have a wonderful day of sunny weather, my lovelies, until tomorrow![/color]” She hummed, raising her hands with a- [b][center][Part one End][/center][/b] [/hider] Clap Clap of his cheeks, finally jostling himself free of his reminiscing with a pained groan.”[color=limegreen] Nghn..I was such a dumb dork that day…darn it, Mama Naga.[/color]” He said with a small, annoyed puff of his cheeks, trying to be angry, but could never be mad at his dear mother, and it did help him meet Percy. He’d never forget the way she smiled enthusiastically and protected him. It nearly made him swoon all over again. Shaking his head and tapping at the sides of his forehead.” [color=limegreen]Ack, stop it. We’re just friends, don’t let it get to your head.[/color]” He mouthed to himself, not wanting to mess up their friendship on a fruitless hope, his brows furrowed sadly. Feeling that he had his composure under control, Kazu stood up, with some fixing adjustments to his suit and a nudging push of the hat settling it upon his head once more.” [color=limegreen]R-right. I’ve tarried long enough. Best not keep my friends waiting.[/color]” With a humming tug of his bowtie, the dapper-dressed blonde spun on his heels and began strolling his way with an upbeat swing of his arms and a bouncy pace, making the sunflowers atop his hat bounce as he went. In doing so, he would take notice of several pairs of beautifully and handsomely dressed folks who had broken away in the midst of enjoying their dance or finishing it. There was Sir Drake, in a nicely distinguished dark blue dress suit with golden-trimmed patterning, dancing with Lady Thea; he smiled at the way her dress matched his and how they embraced each other, lost in each other’s closeness. Reminded of the letter the man kindly sent him, how it eased some of the misery of this past week, knowing he and those at the tavern were ok. A need to thank him the next time he ran into him. Then he spotted General Stratya, dressed in a black dress with gold lining decorations and fur shoulder midriff that made her look like a graceful knight dancing with a matching dressed knightly handsome dark-haired man he didn’t know. The woman had left him with mixed opinions, the way she tried to forbid Olive from using her gift; despite it and her exhaustion, Olive healed her hand and hoped the hand had no lingering pain. He was a bit angry, though understood the woman was simply doing her job and helped cover for them when she had no reason to. A soft smile curled his lips, happy to see the two enjoying their casual, disciplined dance. And, ah! There was Sir Roman, a man hard to miss with the stylish and rather cool formal wear, dressed almost more like a soldier with the rich green fit lined with dark blue and a long matching green cloak that had him jealous, wanting to wear that; he had to admit. The armored pauldron upon his shoulder had a neatly detailed bird, a raven or a crow, perhaps. He beamed at the giant man; his kind gesture and permission to excuse himself were not forgotten; he hoped to amend with drinks and become good friends with the gentle gentleman. It delighted him to see him dancing as well with a lovely lady garbed entirely in a vibrant ruby-red flowing dress matching the cute rosy cheeks and lips, leaving her dark brunette hair to contrast nicely with the aesthetic. Their size difference was amusingly cute and soft, and gentle Roman was with her. A raise of the brow noticed the long, fluttering light purple dress Arialla wore, purple flowers decorated along parts of its fabric, and a matching flowery crown adorned her fire-red curly hair. He chuckled, thinking back to the silly and hyper drunk manner she had been at the tavern. A shame the invasion had to spoil the fun mood. She danced with another whose face he did not know, with a dark black suit lined with soft colored floral patterns. The way they danced almost appeared a bit clumsy, but the man danced with patience and smooth adjustments, avoiding stepping on each other as they circled with a fun, sweet closeness. Kazu let his eyes roam across the room a little more, searching for a familiar bubbly princess, only to frown, failing to find her. He hoped to see her dancing joyously, as they had, though after what she went through this morning, he could hardly blame the poor being anything but in a festive mood. His fist clenched in great disdain and distaste towards King Edin; how he cruelly forced his daughter to endure such a hell, and doubted the fugly bastard made any attempt to comfort or care for her. Duke Lorenzo was a real father and man willing to let the world burn to protect his daughter, while Edin would rather burn his wife to protect his world. It nauseated and sickened him to his core that such a man sat on the throne. Shaking his head with an agitated huff, detesting the rotten slug in his mouth as he caught sight of rich red wine hair folded into a neat bun. A curious raise of the brow, finding it felt familiar, with a brief warmth felt in his palm, though his poor view made it hard to get a good look. She wore a lovely black laced dress that accentuated and contrasted nicely with her soft pale skin and rich vibrant hair, dancing with a man garbed in an elegant white goldened buttoned shirt lined with golden intricate decorations, a dark-green decorated cloak draped and fluttered about his shoulder that made the fair pale skin stand out more, a peculiar light brown color he couldn’t name rustled gently. As he watched the pair who appeared to have had a small stumble, let out a small, amused, and impressed chuckle at the way the guy expertly maneuvered into a smooth dance. A strange sadness that felt all too familiar lingered about him, but the woman brought a fun atmosphere that seemed to put him at ease; the sight helped rid him of the sourness on his tongue. Both looked like someone he would most like to befriend soon. Having gotten his fill of checking the dance floor, each pair making his heart swim at all the sweet and romantic moments, a brief window into such flourishing bonds and love. It made his swelling heart grow more and more envious to feel Olive’s hands in his. A satisfied huff of his nose as the blonde turned his anxious gaze towards the table where his friends sat. There, he saw Cassius fixing Char’s laces, making him smile warmly, thinking back to his breakfast talk with Char, which brought a reminding heat to his cheeks. The love in even the tiniest of acts was felt and adored; it gave him all the more reason to want to be close friends with him. As Kazu observed the pair, he noticed a pair of glasses being slid over for them. His heart skipped even before looking to know whose hands they were. A caring and protective kindness he knew and witnessed all too well, and each time made him bounce with joy. [center][url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=giRhlc_8kNE]There you are![/url] [/center] His eyes roamed slowly along the leafy, forced-sleeved arm, a trace of the burn scar hinted beneath that made him ache with sadness, but he pushed on, unable to wait another second longer; expecting to see her smiling at him, but found himself coming to a momentary halt in his step. Standing in awe, the way she was smiling and blushing giddily at him stole the breath from his lungs. How her face lit up like a vibrant strawberry blending with her luscious, silky strawberry blonde that almost glittered beneath the starlight, her leafy crown nestled atop it as her leafy dress rustled like the morning forest dappled with dew. It was as if gazing at the beauty of Mother Nature herself. The way she looked at him, it didn’t feel like the gaze of an excited friend but more… He gulped with a bite of his lip, a nervous hat-tilting of his head, trying to shield himself from the blinding gem, wondering if... could she really? Welled-up eyes blinked with a sharp gasp, suddenly remembering how to breathe. How long had it been since he could truly breathe again? For so long, since she vanished, he had felt as if suffocating in darkness, trapped in an endless fiery nightmare. Every time he blinked, he would see her bright smiling face. Each time he inhaled, he’d smell her sweetly golden wheat and strawberry scent. Whenever a breeze tickled his ears, her giggling chimed like a wondrous melody. When he would reach out, the warmth of her hand was felt. Kazu stood afraid, fearing this all a dream like all the lonely nights, that she would disappear were he to look; another hallucination that ripped his heart into smaller pieces with each passing day, until the sun in his smile had left him. And the stars lost their glowing brilliance as he hugged himself to sleep atop the roof, wishing to feel the embrace of her fingers in his, just once more. Then she appeared, like magic, at that balcony that jarred him from his dark hell. Time and time again, she always managed to show up when he needed her, when he felt his life forfeit since he lost her. Slowly, lifting his head, waking from a dream to see her still sitting there, gleefully happy to see him with a crooked smile that lit up the sky. He had been content being friends; a silent, hopeless dream he pushed and buried deep bubbled and swam, breaking free from deep within his heart. He wanted to believe, to hope that the woman whose eyes stole his heart all those years ago shared in such feelings. His heart pounded furiously like a crescendoing orchestra, sweat stained his pits ceaselessly as if her glowing presence burned like a gentle fire, much to his annoyance. Freckled cheeks flushed red as cherries taking in her adoring visage. A pull of his chest that had never stopped persisting since as long as he could remember pulled at him with the intensity of a sun.. A tug he no longer wanted to resist, to deny, and it took every ounce of effort to fight, peering into her eyes, fearing once he did he would not be able to escape, yet he was tired of running away, wanted nothing more than to run towards her, to hold her, to spin her around till she was lost in a childlike giggling fit. Kazu gulped, swallowing the doubts that always held him back, and gave a dopey laugh and small finger-wiggling wave towards her with a side-tilting gush of his head. Raising a slick black dress shoe foot, he took the first step, feeling the ground begin to give way beneath him. [hider=Kazu’s first day: Part 2][h3][center]kazumin’s Perilous Quest [/center][/h3] His beaten, worn sandals crunched against the dirt road beneath the child who hopped and skipped with a gleeful childish laugh. His small hands swung the metal tin froggy with a whoosh and a whee.” [color=limegreen]Ha-ah! We must jump away from Froppy; we must make haste for our quest. Mama Naga has great need for the bread![/color]” Kazu giggled, hopping along. The misery of the class now put behind him, he was now off on his way to the bakery. A task only he could handle, given by his mama, sensing him still upset at the classroom ordeal, had permitted him to get bread; a first to do so alone, as his prior trips were with her or an older sibling. Nothing elated the boy more than getting to be helpful, to do things for others, and it was just the thing to uplift his spirit.”[color=limegreen] Kihehehehe we gonna get to enjoy Mama Naga’s yum soup when we get back! Think she will call us a good boy and give head pats?[/color]” He stopped turning the tin, asking his friend who gave a ribbiting.” [b][i][color=limegreen]Aye! Soup and head pats for us![/color][/i][/b]" Kazu hummed delightledly, then tilted his head side to side in a silly pondering, a snap of the fingers.” [color=limegreen] Oh! Maybe she will let us bring Percy some soup tomorrow? Would be fun eating lunch with our new friend, aye?[/color]” A croaking uplifting hop of his froggy friend.”[b][i] [color=limegreen]Froppy agrees, sharing is much fun! We must skip along and quick![/color][/i][/b]” Both nodded in agreement, a cherry tint to his giggling freckled cheeks. With a hum, he carried on until he came upon a wide puddle still freshly laid; leaves and a few bugs sat atop its surface. “ [color=limegreen] What ho? Look, Froppy! We happened upon a mighty pond. Think we might find treasure?[/color]” “[b][i] [color=limegreen] Ack, but what about the quest?![/color][/i][/b]” Froppy exclaimed with a disapproving croak. “ [color=limegreen]Aww, just a little splash and dive then we can carry on.[/color]” “[b][i] [color=limegreen]Hrm hrm, aye just a wee quick splashing is fine, let’s hop in![/color][/i][/b]” A jumping yippee as the pair hopped into the puddle with a playful splash, soaking the pants of his overalls, the puddle reaching nearly up to his knees as Kazu waded Froppy in the water.” [color=limegreen] Dive dive! Try to find treasure then a bugsy treat for my good Froppy kihehehehe.[/color]” He hummed carefree and unbothered at the watery mess he made. A quiet rushing whirl came from behind, a harsh thud smacking the back of Kazu’s messy blonde head. His hand shot up to the spot with a pained.”[color=limegreen]Owwww! What?[/color]” He turned around, still crouched in the puddle, rubbing the back of his head, seeing a rock clattering on the dirt road as sounds of vicious laughter rang out, three fingers pointing jeeringly at him. “ [color=fdc68a] Hah! Did you feel that, frog boy? What’s da matter? You gonna hop away to your mommy?[/color]” Asher’s voice called out with a mocking, cruel sneer as his two cronies, Jared and Kevin, laughed stupidly along with him. “ [color=limegreen]H-hey! What was that for?[/color]” He winced at the mommy remark and shook his head as he held up Froppy with a proud little grin.” [color=limegreen]N-no, if ya must know. Me and Froppy are on a grand quest, and it doesn’t involve mean nasty trolls like you.[/color]” Pushing up his frog friend with a tongue sticking out mlem. A derisive scoff while picking up another rock, lightly tossing it up above his palm with a snort.” [color=fdc68a] Oh, a quest is it? Where’s da wittle baby froggy going? Bet it's off to your slimy swamp nest. Us nasty trolls will help get you hopping along then, get him![/color]” Asher jeered in a mocking baby tone as he tossed his rock at him. A flinching, teeth-gritting ow as it struck his shoulder, sending him falling back onto his butt in the puddle. Before he could react, more rocks were flung at him by the other two; one nicked his cheek, the other dinged off Froppy.” [color=limegreen]H-hey! Quit that![/color]” He shouted with a whine. “ [color=fdc68a] What’s the matter, frog boy? Where’s all that jumping energy of yers go? Hop whittle froggy![/color]” The bully jeered again as the three moved to grab more rocks. A sniffling huff of his nose, Kazu glared at the trio, deciding to take their advice and sprang up onto his feet out of the puddle.” [color=limegreen]Hmph! Ya cheaters, I’ll show ya hopping![/color]” The blonde challenged, seeing another rock fly towards him and at the last second ducked to the right, narrowly avoiding it. Again, a rock flew, but being better prepared, Kazu dashed to the left, skimming past his shoulder, and another, but he bent and curved his body like a flexible noodle whirring past where his bendy arm was just prior. As rocks flew, Kazu continued dodging and hopping like the slippery frog they taunted him as, all the while finding himself giggling and sticking his tongue at them, all the while Asher gradually got more agitated.” [color=fdc68a] Quit wiggling around, you noodle frog freak![/color]” He spat out with increasing anger. As the next rock tossed by Jared flew, Kazu hopped and spun around, then bent forward, giving his butt a taunting wiggling slap at them.” [color=limegreen]Ha-ah! Ya missed me, buttface! Mleeeeem.[/color]” He teased in giggling jest, then jumped back up with a spinning twirl, hopping side to side with his raised frog.” [color=limegreen] Ya can’t get this slippery froggy and froppy. We can hop circles around ya, kiheheheheheh![/color]” A tongue sticking, right eyelid tugging taunt. Asher, his face burning red with embarrassed fury, grabbed a rock nearly as big as his palm and chucked it with aimed great force. [b][center]-Smack-[/center][/b] A fleshy smack, a crying yelp followed by a loud pained scream as the cowlicked blonde collapsed to his knees, Froppy tumbling to the ground with a soft metallic ting. Kazu knelt there with his damp, slightly muddy fingers clutching at his left eye, stinging horribly with an already swelling nasty bruise forcing the eye mostly shut.” [color=limegreen]Aaahh owwwwwie, n-no fairrrr…my eyeeeee.[/color]” The boy whimpered and sniffled with runny snot, trembling from the intense pain aching from his face. A burst of wicked, gleeful laughter broke out from the three.” [color=fdc68a] Hah! Nailed that cocky frog shit! Awwww, poor froggy gonna cry?[/color]” A mocking rub of his eyes mimicking tears as the three clapped and high-fived each other in cruel enjoyment.”[color=fdc68a] Now you got the puffy eye matching that ugly frog face of yers.[/color]” Asher returned the taunting mlem with a pbbhting laugh while pointing at him. “ [color=limegreen]S-stop it…it..its not funny….*sniffle* *whine* ya..ya caught me off-guard![/color]” Kazu tried to rebuke the bullies, but it only made them laugh harder at his pitiful, weak plea. “ [color=fdc68a] Awwww…too bad! Now go hop to yer mommy, or next I’ll make the other eye match. Hmph, once we’re done here, we should find Seph; maybe we’ll make that muddy-haired bitch’s crooked nose match her precious frog boy’s eye, not like she can’t get any uglier![/color].” A sneering guffaw as he mimed a rock hitting his nose. Kazu’s body tensed, his cowlick bounced rigidly, pulling his hands from his tear-spilling eyes as he felt his chest puffing with a sudden boiling rage; the pain of his eye went forgotten, overtaken by hot red fury the boy could not explain, but hearing the horrid jerk not only insult his new friend who had called him amazing and dared call her ugly? His sniffling nose wrinkled like an angry dog as he hastily searched and picked up the largest rock, fitting neatly in his sweaty palm.” [color=limegreen]D-don’t talk about my friend like that![/color]” Snarled Kazu with a contempt he had never felt before till this day, and with a wide winding, he chucked the rock with all his might with no real aim, just wanting to hit him. [b][center]-crack-[/center][/b] Pain howled out from Asher, who stumbled back a step with his dirty hands flying up to his nose, spewing a fresh bout of blood.”[color=fdc68a] Gaaah! My fuckin nobe! Yuh Fukin shibheath hith mah nobe![/color]” The wicked bully screamed out as his two friends moved to his sides trying to help, but he just shoved them away with a vicious snarl. All the while, Kazu watched with a bit of guilt and impressed awe at how well he threw the rock, feeling pleased he managed to stand up for his friend and threw his arms up with a victorious cheer before he could stop himself.” [color=limegreen]Aye! Hah! Take that Assy! That’s what ya get for mocking my friend, buttface! Kihehehehe, now we’re even![/color]” A smug chin-raising nod. Hearing the eye-bruised little shit mock his name and cheer so stupidly brought a dangerous glowering glare to his eyes.”[color=fdc68a] Even? Like hell we are![/color]” He snorted, pushing the blood from his nostrils, clearing the pathways and nose-cleaning wipe of his arm.”[color=fdc68a] Yer dead, you slimy frog shitstain. Jared, Kevin, hold him down. Time we taught this mouthy frog boy what happens when they run their trap![/color]” He barked the order with a punch of his fist against his palm. A shocked and panicked look overtook Kazu’s previous grinning, smug face as he waved his hands in a panic before him.” [color=limegreen] W-what? Wait, no..I..I didn’t mean..[/color]” He tried to plead while crawling back, but the two burly boys who were nearly twice his size were on him in seconds. He flinched and cried out, feeling their rough hands grab and tug his arms in an upward, outstretched pose as Kevin, on the right, grabbed a handful of his blonde hair, forcibly holding his head back. “ [color=fdc68a] Hmph, that’s it. Hold him like that; I want to see his expression as I kick his teeth in, yer gonna regret fightin back dweeby frog boy.[/color]” He approached the pinned child with a threatening gait and repeated fist punching palms, when his foot thunked against the fallen frog tin.” [color=fdc68a] Pfft, look at this dumb junk, like it was scrabbled together by a toddler. First I’ll deal with junky here, then you’re next, you wimpy little toad.[/color]” Asher goated as he gave a testing stomp, more to teasing torture, leaving a small dent on the tinny frog. A frantic cry.”[color=limegreen] Nooo![/color]” He wiggled and strained, trying to free himself to no avail; the grip on him was too strong, and he only felt it tighten with a bruising hold in his struggles.” [color=limegreen]No! Please! Leave Froppy alone *sniffle* beat me up, I don’t care just don’t hurt him![/color]” The boy screamed pleading, having accepted the beating was unavoidable; hardly the first time. But he couldn’t stand losing his only friend and flailed desperately, pulling his head free, leaving some tufts of hair behind, hardly feeling the pain; his fear of seeing Froppy crushed was all he could think about. Persephone came tearing around the bend, nearly out of breath from hearing the sudden scream. She took in the scene quickly and acted fast. [color=9BBB82]”Leave him alone you dirtbag.”[/color] She snapped at Asher. He laughed at her and ignored her, and raised his foot. Persephone’s fist collided with his face and knocked him backwards. She snatched Froppy from the ground and shoved it into Kazu’s hands and whirled around to face the boys holding Kazu down. The terrified cowlicked blond sat stunned on his knees, flinching initially at the voice suddenly speaking out. Next thing he knew, he saw the fluttering messy blonde braid and Asher stumbling back with a fresh bout of blood spilling from his nose. He blinked with confusion, having Froppy shoved against him as he lifted his head to see Percy scowling at the two brutes holding him down. [color=9BBB82]”Let him go.”[/color] They hesitated and stared at Asher for instructions. She didn't waste any time and kicked one of them in the groin and caused the other one to jump back before her foot collided with his knee. She pulled Kazu up. Just then, her hair was pulled, forcing her to go with it, and onto the ground. Asher began kicking her frantically with the other boys and Seph cried out in pain. She glanced around and found a stick–she managed to grab it and smack the nearest boy with it. He cried out, giving her an opportunity to roll out of the way and back onto her feet. Kazu could do little else but stand there on trembling legs which still felt numb from the shock and pain. He watched in stunned awe at the way she fought the bullies at him, hugging Froppy against his chest, wincing slightly at the groin shot, but found himself letting out a cheer.” [color=limegreen]w-wow…hey! S-stop that?![/color]” The boy timidly barked out angrily at the cruel bullies ganging up on her and tried to rush over to help, but his legs refused to listen. With a heavy nose huff, Kazu bent down, grabbed a rock, and flung it, hitting Jared at the back of his head. The jolting distraction gave Percy an opening. With blood pouring out of her nose and a fat lip, Perspehone ignored the pain and glared at them. [color=9BBB82]”We can do this all night or you can go.”[/color] She snapped at them and picked up another stick. [color=9BBB82]”Don’t make me shove this where the sun doesn’t shine.”[/color] The boys glowered at her. Asher hesitated, then took off with the other boys. Persephone huffed and sat down tiredly onto the ground and looked at Kazu. [color=9BBB82]”You two okay?”[/color] The blonde glared at the fleeing trio and held up Froppy, making a rude gesture with its wooden arm at them.” [color=limegreen]That’s what y’all get, buttface cowards.[/color]” He spat at them with a cheeky mlem. At the taunting words, Asher turned partially with an angry jerk of his head, aiming a venomous scowl at the pair still clutching his bleeding nose. A deadly glare that said this wasn’t over before turning to catch up after his cronies, his face red with rage and humiliation. Once they were gone and out of view, Kazu let his body sag, hugging Froppy close, surprised at himself for saying such bold things. Inside, he was terrified and trembling and barely holding back tears, which only made the bruised eye sting more. His head lifted up warily, hearing Percy asking if they were ok.”[color=limegreen] I..um..a-aye. We’re ok..t-thanks to you. I..that was..[/color]” He gulped, unsure where she came from or why she came to his defense, but he appreciated it immensely and thought it incredible the way she handled them. Kazu lifted his lowered eyes to the messy blond-haired girl to see her sitting exhausted. Then his heart dropped with a woeful gasp at the sight of her bleeding nose and busted lip. Tears welled up in his eyes, hating the sight of her being hurt because of him. Without thinking, Kazu had gently placed Froppy down on the ground, then with a testing jerk of his leg, had rushed over to her side.”[color=limegreen] Agh! Your cute nose! A-Are you ok?![/color]” Kazu exclaimed in fretting panic as he gingerly reached down, cupping her cheeks.”[color=limegreen] I..I’m sorry..you got hurt…and it…its cause of me.[/color]” He frowned, feeling awful. He sniffled guiltily, fighting back tears as he scrambled in his pocket till he found the napkin he kept on hand. Finding it partially damp from his tumble in the puddle, brushing his misgivings aside.”[color=limegreen] H-here, let me.[/color]” It was the least he could do after she saved him and his friend. Gingerly, Kazu dabbed at her busted lip first, then carefully rubbed the blood from her nose.”[color=limegreen] T-there, hope it feels a little better. I-[/color]” The blonde, trying to think of how to comfort Percy, would catch a glimpse of her deep green eyes and found himself staring, the blood-stained cloth slipping from his fingers. For a moment it almost felt as if he was falling; a strange, fluttering warm sensation bubbled in his tummy. A sensation that was foreign and almost scary, though he could not explain or put into words what it was he was feeling. Confusion etched his battered face, and for a moment he nearly smiled, but panic overtook his expression realizing what he was doing and quickly pulled his hands away. The panicked Kazu stumbled back a few steps, face tinting.”[color=limegreen] S-sorry, I didn’t mean…I was just worried and…and…[/color]” Suddenly feeling stupid and sheepish about touching her face the way he did, it was his first time being that close to a girl. Turning on his heels to rush over, picking up Froppy, he spun in place, holding the tin in front of his bashful face.” [color=limegreen]I..I didn’t mean to bother you like that…I um..should go ..finish my quest.[/color]” He started to turn, but caught himself biting his lip.” [color=limegreen]And…and Froppy wanted to say Thanks too…w-what you did to those bullies.[/color]” A shy nod, trying to get the words out and with a sobering airy huff of his nose.” What you did was... was [b][i]amazing![/i][/b]” Kazu had whispered till the last word, which he shouted bashfully in Froppy’s voice. Then, with an unintended frantic haste, the cowlicked blonde ran off down the dirt road, nearly stumbling and tripping a few times as he went. Struggling and grappling with what just happened, a part of him wanted to turn back as if something tugged at his back, though he felt nothing there; he could not help but hold a small, sad smile. As he ran, his sandaled feet struck the ground with a- [center][ Part 2: End][/center][/hider] Soft crunching thud against marble as Kazu blinked away the sentimental daze, befuddled at himself, wondering why these memories kept being dredged up. With the stressful and terrible morning and the near-scare with Edin and Lorenzo, he left feeling more shaken than he thought. Yet, the sight of Olive sitting only a few steps away from him now made the discomfort that memory’s day wrought dissipate. She had always brought him comfort in a way none other save for Mama Naga and Char could, but she was different. Special. Shaking his head to shake off the drowsiness, he caught sight of Char now in the midst of a hug with that smooth maneuvering gentleman. He blinked in surprise as he saw the way she hugged him, similar to how she hugged him, and it brought a warm smile to his antsy lips.*[b] [color=limegreen]Oh, is he friends with Char? All the more reason to be friends with him.[/color][/b]* Kazu thought fondly, hoping to meet with the guy soon. Though seeing Cassius seeming a bit amorous at the sight of him, almost as if a bit impatient at the interruptions, made him chuckle a bit. An impatience sentiment he shared with the man, figuring he was eager to dance with Char, which made him chuckle a bit as he gave the trio a bright, friendly wave with an apologetic nod. Much as he wanted to introduce himself and check on Char, her friend seemed to have it covered, with Char’s mood improving much to his relief. He made a mental promise to talk with them soon, but his own impatience reached its limits. A soft little thump to the front of his shoe pulled his attention forward. His eyes and face widened and lit up gleefully at the sight of Olive sitting before him. For a moment he paused with a nervous gulp; his shaking right hand started to reach towards his pocket, but he caught himself and decided against it. Not yet, Kazu thought with a dismissive head shake. Instead, lifting his left hand to grip the brim edge of his hat and, with a gentlemanly lift of the hat, he bowed low, crossing his left arm across his chest.” [color=limegreen]Ah, my dear Olive. You look divinely lovely, as if the nature goddess herself has graced these halls with her leafy radiance.[/color]” He spoke with a genuine hum, delight in his every word. Lifting his bowed head to look up at her with a wide, cheeky grin.” [color=limegreen] I do hope I didn’t keep you waiting too long, though I’m glad to see you enjoying the food. I’m disappointed I could not eat with you but…[/color]” Gazing up at her cute, blushing face, his belly rumbled with hunger.” [color=limegreen]The sight of your pretty, blushing face is a wondrous treat enough to fill me up.[/color]” A playful cheeky wink with a darkening of his freckled cheeks. Kazu wanted nothing more than to ask to join her and eat before they danced, though he feared that if he did, he would not want to get back up. No, he had a promise to keep; one that he couldn’t nor didn’t want to wait any longer. “[color=limegreen] Would you do me the honor of joining me in a dance?[/color]” The blonde asked, the springy cowlick bouncing joyfully as he gave a playful twirl of his right hand, plucking the largest sunflower saved just for her and held it aloft to her.” [color=limegreen] And for you, the prettiest sunflower for my sweet prettypie.[/color]” He offered with a small giddy kihehehehehe. Then, with a curious blink, noticed a loose strawberry blonde hanging over her ear.” [color=limegreen]Oh, ya a loose strawberry strand there, allow me.[/color]” With a featherlight lift of his finger, he delicately tucked the strand behind her ear and took this chance to tuck the sunflower between her ear.” [color=limegreen]Aye, there we ar-[/color]” [center][url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aXlSVw9RwAY] Starlight green eyes glimmer, Kazu in falling awe [/url][/center] Kazu pulled his hand back only to find how close his face had been to hers. Before he could stop it, his amber chocolate eyes met those glimmering green pools of starlight. All the peeking glances the two shared; Char’s words of the two stealing nervous glances. [b][center]Ba-bump[/center][/b] The way she always smiled at him, never made him feel dumb or ugly. [b][center]Ba-bump[/center][/b] How she came to his aid time and time again, even when he didn’t know her. [b][center]Ba-bump[/center][/b] How her face shone bright and warm as a strawberry, dazzled him like the star-lit night sky. [b][center]Ba-bump [/center][/b] How she would make him give chase in the golden fields, each day thriving to get closer to her side. [b][center]Ba-bump [/center][/b] How, since the moment she spoke to him, he longed to know and befriend her. [b][center]Ba-bump[/center][/b] How, since that day her eyes crossed his, had he felt like he was falling slowly, bit by bit, day by day, night by night. [b][center]Ba-bump [/center][/b] How she giggled like nature’s sweet melody made his heart bubble like a sunrise. [b][center]Ba-bump[/center][/b] How she carried herself proudly and fiercely, it made his chocolate eyes swoon like melting hot chocolate. [b][center]Ba-bump[/center][/b] How she carried and hid so much pain and sadness, it made him ache to help lift her shadowy shroud. To show her she was not alone. That he would always come to her side through high or low. That he would carry her when things became too difficult. The faint rustling thump of the hat dropping from his raised left hand; a gloved finger brushed at her heated cheek with an adoring soft touch. A tender little sliding stroke, tickling her small chin, gingerly lifting her face to have her gaze at him, eyes boiling with love.” [color=limegreen] Hey there…[/color]” He said with a shy gulp. A nervous little lick of the lips to ease the dryness of his mouth, feeling his face slowly fall, inching towards her. “ [color=limegreen] Are you ok, my cute sweetiepie? You gave me quite a scare the way you were stamping towards that vile slug king.[/color]” Biting his lip, momentary concern filled his eyes, but as he envisioned Olive stamping in reckless ferocity, it made his smile widen, picturing her punching that fat nose where Lorenzo nearly had. Just as she had to Asher, how it made his heart roar. How it frightened... and excited him to no end the way she always stepped up with fierce determination to protect innocents. To protect her friends. To protect…him, even when he never felt he deserved it, deserved her caring heart. His melting eyes welled up with admiring awe.” [color=limegreen]But, damn, I can’t help but find your fierce, unbending tenacity…unbelievably hot.[/color]” A voracious rumble of his tummy as his face sat inches from her, their nose almost touching.” [color=limegreen]And…I’m sorry…I lied….I’m…starving.[/color]” A slow inhale, her strawberry sweet scent tickling his nose with a fluttering rush in his drum-pounding chest. [b][center]Ba-bump[/center][/b] How last time, her face was filled with grief nearly breaking beneath the weight of her darkness, a kiss given in desperation, fearing losing her more than anything. Not again. Never would he let her be alone, to view her as a weapon, a monster. Because her gift was nothing more than a miracle that those envious coveted and the ignorant fearful ostracized. But to him, she was and always has been and always will be…. “ [color=limegreen]Gods….you’re magical.[/color]” He whispered with pure affection, unable to help himself. No longer caring where he was, who saw or who knew, for all that mattered was he loved her. And gently pressed his lips to her with the lightest, soft brushing touch. Just enough to feel the warmth, to sample a taste of those strawberry pink lips. The world exploded around him into a starry galaxy, lost, adrift in the sky. The ball patrons turned to fireflies, each with their own dazzling color and soulful dance. Before him sat the most dazzling, blinding sun that burned his lips. Pulled the air from his lungs and made his heart pound in exploding musical cacophony. A kiss that lasted but for a moment, filled with all his affection and adoration, but for him it was an eternity. And gods, he was still hungry. With a reluctant, happy sigh, Kazu pulled away just a little at first, his face burning as it had been near fire.” [color=limegreen] I..um…promise I won’t make this a habit…I just couldn’t…wait any longer.[/color]” A slightly guilty look in his swimming bright eyes and wide brimming toothy grin. Yet he did not regret it. A satisfied rumble in agreement. Inevitable. Char’s voice echoed in his frazzled mind, nearing the verge of shortcircuiting. Slowly, he pulled back, bending to pick up the hat, gave it a dusting pat, then nestled it atop his hat with a settling tap tap. An extending of his right hand towards her in anxious, excited waiting.” S-shall we..t-that is if you’re..still up for it?” Kazu tilted and turned his head in a nervous, bashful manner, his feet shifting and rubbing together shyly. [/color] [/hider]