[ He already said he would deal with it if that ever comes up. Although if that's an expectation that comes with the sex stuff, then maybe he will avoid it altogether. Who cares about the stupid game. It really is far more complicated than what he expected. Then again, if it involves producing products, he shouldn't be surprised. That's not a feeling that lingers. It's quickly replaced by irritation over the whole matter. ] But I am not saving anything. There is nothing for me to save.
Right. You people do that. It's like your partner, right? A wife or something.
[ He is ready to dismiss the topic of lips touching. Aside from his past childish aversion, it's now coupled with a sensation of feeling lost and unsteady. It's a flood of confusion that only one person can cause. He already doesn't get enough sleep to be triggered back into trauma. He is good with never touching lips again. He can live the rest of his life without having to think about it. Yet inevitably, he does think about it—a lot. And with what little knowledge he has gleaned, it leaves him in a daze. He will never understand that frustrating guy, and he will continue to lose sleep over him.
That topic leaves him distracted enough that he doesn't fully consider the next thing he says. ]
Unless it's you? I guess you have that kind of look. If it is appearance alone, and since you can make crying sounds, then I bet you would get good results on Alien Stage.
[ He had already made up his mind to avoid those two. That means there are no plans to ever speak to them. Of course, it's already too late in the case of one and he can't spend his days eternally vigilant. It would mean he would miss out on a lot of things that are now at his disposal. A good example is that he has yet to set foot again in the conservatory all on his own. ]
Shouldn't I have found you suspicious? [ Because who offers advice so freely and readily to someone they only just met. Or is that supposed to be normal? He knows of people who would help but it's too early to say what kind of person Hiyori is, despite his amicable smile. ]
Maybe I will just spend most of my time in this room. [ That way he doesn't have to keep track of anything or deal with any sort of strangeness. Again it's him avoiding things, like having to explain what's off-limits. Actually, this whole conversation is starting to feel like it should be off-limits. ]
So we're not making products?
I guess if that were the point, it would be better to collect samples. Instead of you know. Whatever that other stuff involves. But then why bother with it? This is senseless.
[ It would seem that Hiyori will continue to struggle with whatever he has to stay, leading to Till casting another confused look at him. ]
Do you mean taking care of myself to ensure I am healthy? What are you talking about? I touch myself all the time, like when I bathe and stuff. Don't you? Are we going to talk about the game or hygiene? Do you not want to talk about it? Just tell me what happens if I don't play.
[That "nothing to save" comment gives him a sense of foreboding, his brain snagging onto the implication that Till's first kiss was stolen from him. Though he supposes that's jumping to conclusions—maybe Till tried to experiment with another kid and just didn't like it. Or maybe he hasn't been kissed, and he just meant that kissing means "nothing" in his view. Whatever the case may be, Hiyori won't pry into things.]
Your Garden didn't have marriage, huh?
[Another depressing factoid, though it isn't wholly a surprise. Idols don't usually get married until after retirement, and if those who lose the Alien Stage die, there goes the possibility of marriage. Still, he wonders, what happens to those who do win? It doesn't seem like the time to ask, so he files that question away for some other time. This isn't an interrogation. He came here to do life coaching!
He did not, however, come here to give The Talk. So, that makes this super awkward.
He raises an eyebrow at one of the comments Till makes—]
I don't know what you mean by "crying sounds," but I'm glad we both agree I'm cute! ♪
[—before deciding to shrug it off, even though it sounded faintly ominous. As for the matter of him being suspicious, well... Till's not wrong, tbh. Even Hiyori has to admit it.]
You do have a point. You can't trust everyone who offers to teach you things, sadly. But I can promise I'll try not to lead you astray. And I certainly won't expect payment, the way that some people might. I'm simply doing this out of the goodness of my noble heart. That's all there is to it~♪
[But again: he didn't think "this" would include giving The Talk!
As far as Till spending time in his room goes:]
You shouldn't stay cooped up all the time. If you want a list of locations I'd recommend, I'd be happy to give some! And if you need help getting around, you can always check that digital map thing! This place is much too huge, so I'd be horribly lost without it.
[Especially he has no sense of direction, not that he'll admit it. And as for "We're not making products?", he emphatically responds:]
Nope! We're not! This is what you call an "adults only" zone!
[Though he's definitely met a few people under the age of adulthood here, to say nothing of the previous Spades game where he met the child version of someone he knows. He makes a bit of a face at the "collecting samples" comment, since he's a priss who doesn't like to think about sperm in test tubes. At least this implies Till knows how reproduction works? One last thing he has to teach!
But there's still a lot Till doesn't know, as he learns the hard way. (Pun unintended.)
The second Till makes it clear he has no idea what he meant by "touch yourself," Hiyori's face falls even more. With disappointment, and with resignation. This spells the end of things: he has absolutely no intention of explaining how to masturbate. No talking about which parts are involved, no describing techniques. No crude gestures, and no illustrations! It's not happening! Sure, he'll gyrate around onstage and sing about drowning oneself in pleasure. And sure, he and Jun are planning to give sex shows! But that is not the same as this! There are some things he can't handle! He's not a health teacher!
[He sets the marker down, slings his tote bag more firmly over his shoulder, and starts to head for the door.]
It's time for the special school event known as a "field trip"! We'll head on over to the library, where they have all sorts of books meant to explain this stuff!
[He motions for Till to follow him, his smile fixed firmly back on.]
I know you prefer staying in your room, but I'm afraid it can't be helped. We can come back here after our field trip. Or, perhaps we'll grab lunch somewhere first, since studying can work up an appetite! But for now, let's head on over that way.
Anakt Garden is a place to create Alien Stage winners.
[ A pause follows as he reconsiders Hiyori's question. He has not directly given him an answer, but there is something of a hint in his reply. If all the pet humans attending that music kindergarten were sent to become participants in a competition where there could only be a single winner (only one could make it out alive), then it was impossible. ]
Marriage. That's not something for pet humans. Segyein, they do that.
[ He won't elaborate on what it means to make crying sounds since Hiyori seems satisfied that he agreed with him. It's true. Every word he spoke felt true. It's a genuine compliment, even if it is a little skewed. Hiyori may be someone who could make it far. However, reconsidering his words, he realizes they are the same ones he had scribbled for Sua once. That felt so long ago, and yet it wasn't. His sense of time feels off. ]
That's all?
[ A nod follows. He had already accepted the help that was offered to him. Hiyori is in his room. And, though rare, some people are like this. They are warm, kind, and exceedingly radiant. Notable is Hiyori's enthusiasm, despite becoming aware that he says things that upset him. This is someone who shows him patience beyond what he ever expects to receive. ]
I'll accept your recommendations.
[ It's far easier to ignore a list than a person attempting to drag him off to visit different places. And if he ever feels inclined, he can explore those places. He's aware of the map, which has been shared with him, and that's why he doesn't ask about it. Now, as for navigating the resort, utilizing the map at his disposal is a different story. That is an area in which he is clueless. It will be trial and error. ]
Yeah. That makes sense.
[ An adult only zone. Sure. Whatever Hiyori says.
And just when he thinks these lessons are coming to an abrupt end, and he can be disappointed that he does not get to finish his drawing of Anakt Garden to show Hiyori, it seems that there are plans made. Plans that cause his eyes to glaze over with dull boredom, that only the idea of studying can cause. The library? That doesn't sound like fun! He knows about books. He knows what it means. It means reading. And reading is hardly something that can keep his attention for long. ] We do not have to do that. I know what it is. You told me. You explained it. Sex. I get that. It's mating. But not to create products. It's just because.
[ The beckoning feels like he must follow even if reluctantly. ]
Can we grab lunch before the library? [ Anything to delay setting foot in a realm of books. Hiyori doesn't need to know about his poor study habits. ]
[How utterly depressing. And here he thought Reimei's cutthroat environment was sad. But it gets even worse, as Till implies that marriage wasn't even possible among humans. Because they're considered "pets," right?]
You weren't allowed any human rights at all, hm?
[Hiyori's shoulders sag, and he shakes his head in disgust.]
Marriage is hardly the most important thing here, but that still sounds awfully sad. And you said the aliens got married to each other? Who wants to watch two of them wed? Normally I'd say everyone deserves love, but not in this case!
[Though that's hardly important, either.
It does no good to keep shaking his head over Till's tragic life story, so he'll stop there. He's grateful Till trusts his recommendations, anyway. That he's human and not an alien probably makes all the difference, but it must surely be hard for him to trust other human beings, too. After all, he was trained to see them as rivals in a life-or-death competition. Did he have many people he could trust back in that garden? Was there anyone like that?
Those are questions he'll save for some other time. Here, death isn't the most pressing concern; turning to stone is, and in order to avoid that, you'll need to "play the game" at least a little bit. Till says he already knows all about sex and that there's no need for a field trip, but Hiyori isn't about to budge, and he tells him such.]
You're giving us both too much credit. I haven't explained much to you, and you don't seem to know a whole lot. Which isn't your fault, but since you weren't even sure what I meant by "finish"...
[He trails off rather than complete the thought. If Till only ever wants to have penetrative sex in the missionary position with girls, why, that's perfectly fine. (Didn't his Mating Season After Dark profile say something about "the most beautiful woman in the universe," come to think of it?). But if he thinks that's all there is to sex because all he was ever taught was about making "products," then that's a recipe for confusion in this place. That, or a recipe for being taken advantage of by people who do know better.
He is willing to budge on one point, however. He looks at Till for a moment, then nods.]
Feeling hungry? In that case, I know just the place we can go.
[He's in no rush. They don't need to get to the library right this second, so he accepts the suggestion with no issue!]
Actually, I know a few places. But first, let's hear what you want to eat! What are some of your favorite foods?
[Hopefully this will be a safe question. Everyone has favorite foods! Surely he wasn't just fed gruel by the aliens, right?]
What else would a music-specialized kindergarten be for?
[ The education system not only fostered musical skill, but it was meant to act as an agency promoting pet humans. Not everyone was afforded that benefit. There is a disparity based on how much a guardian was willing to invest in their pets. That's also why the stages in the competition vastly differed in size and complexity. Till's very nature worked against him, no matter how talented he is deemed. He can scrutinize his faults. There is endless time for that. Of course, this is not going to make him give a damn about what the segyein thought. His music could speak for itself. That's enough.
Retracting steps lead nowhere. Till cannot consider any possibility of a past in which he controlled his anger. There could never be a him who would model himself after the ruler of the stage, no matter how many times he was made to observe Luka's promotional material. That is not him. It's pointless. However, there is another possibility that haunts.
This is not a time for regret.
The mention of human rights only serves to instill confusion. It's an unknown concept. If perhaps he asks about it, can he delay what he senses will be an inevitable trip to the library? ]
I've never seen it. I don't even know what it means, just that it happens.
[ The more Hiyori speaks, the more he knows he cannot escape that trip. He is going to end up falling asleep. No. Worse. He is going to start spacing out, then Hiyori will think he's stupid. He is kind of is, but Hiyori doesn't need to know that!!! ]
That stuff, mating, right? It's something humans figure out on their own. I can figure it out on my own.
[ The truth is he is not hungry. Not even close. That tactic was intended to divert them from taking a direct trip to the library. They're not even supposed to go there at all if he had his way. ]
I'll eat.
[ A pause follows. Right. There are choices here. Too many. ]
Social skills, arts and crafts, basic writing, all that stuff! There's nothing wrong with specializing in music per se, but it's best to get a well-rounded education. Both of my high school programs specialized in idol lessons, but we did learn other things, too.
[But he wasn't a "pet," so there's the difference there.
As for Till never having seen a wedding before:]
If you're curious about what happens at weddings, you could ask Charlie what his was like. He's from an older era, and traditions vary from country to country, but some of them should still hold up.
[And as for the statement about mating...
It does get him to hesitate for a moment. Till isn't wrong; in a perfect world, or even just a normal one, Till would be able to figure out sex on his own and move at his own pace. Even if he stumbled through it or had an awkward first time, it might just be something to laugh about later. A folly of youth.
But they don't have that kind of time here. After more than a month with no sex, people's suits can go haywire, and they can start turning to stone. And so Hiyori thinks his approach is still the right one, for better or worse.]
You don't have to rush out and do anything now [although he will need to have sex within the month], and you don't have to know everything. But let's at least learn some things, alright? That way you'll know what your options are in terms of collecting cards, and you'll be harder to confuse.
[Or take advantage of, but he doesn't say that part.
But first: food!
It's not like Hiyori wants to fixate on sex. He's happy to move away from the subject and learn some new things about Till, such as his favorite foods! But instead of answering his question, Till pauses, then asks what he wants to eat. Hiyori gives a small frown at that.]
That depends on where we're going. You didn't have anything in mind, huh?
[He wants Till to make his own decisions. He didn't have much freedom back home, so now's his time to exercise some! But maybe it's best to start smaller—an "A or B" kind of decision.]
Let me rephrase, then: would you rather get a full meal, or eat some light snacks and sweets? If it's a full meal, we could go to the Red Cardinal. The atmosphere there is nice, and the proprietress is a lovely person. But if you'd prefer the latter, we can go to one of the tea shops. I'll show you my favorite food, which is salmon quiche, and we can sip tea daintily! Which sounds best?
[Sorry, Till. You're not getting out of giving some opinion!]
[ The name itself implies compulsory and not something Till could opt out of participating in. His voice lacks enmity. This would be as close to fondness as Hiyori may hear in his tone. Till takes a moment to collect his memory. While there is freedom in that allotted time, there is only so much they could do within a box that's meant to simulate Earth. ] Unless you were required to take remedial classes.
But I could draw or make new songs. When we were younger, some of the others liked to play games. And everyone was making crowns out of the Anakt Flowers. But there is no reason to learn anything else. I told you that it is a place designed to create Alien Stage winners.
[ There is no other choice. There is a singular path that either leads to the pinnacle of success or veers off. A loser cannot even hope to be something different. A pet cannot make choices of their own. Struggle as they may against restraints. The clarity of that fact is also rather ironic, as he conceptually understands it, yet he has always fought against expectation. It also means recalling advice that would lead to freedom from a collar. He cannot help but touch his neck at the memory, a single hand around his throat, index finger pressed against raised metallic letters. ]
I'll consider that...
[ No promises will be made to reach out to Charlie, especially knowing his interest. Their conversation had begun due to a singular subject that Till is avoidant of after learning what the word means. He has made his decision. At least, he feels clear about that particular act. ]
I'm not rushing.
I'm not doing it now.
[ He is being taken to a library!
As for being confused and what his options are. That's something he's beginning to suspect Hiyori won't be entirely clear about. This conversation is evolving into something almost as awkward as interacting with Sua in any capacity. Till is very willing to forego this conversation if it will spare them both. ]
About food. Why is it so difficult?
[ These options are making it next to impossible for him to eat. He spends more time trying to comprehend a menu than actually eating. Sometimes, it is just easier to skip a meal instead of giving himself a headache. Or that's why he ends up with a headache. He ends up sighing and giving Hiyori a critical look as he lowers his hand. ] Are you trying to figure out my food preferences?
["Mandatory" feels like a strange word to stick in front of "playtime," but it's less strange than the rest of Till's story, so he rolls with it.]
That's good, I suppose. Children that age need playtime. Adults need playtime too, which is why I worry about workaholics like Anzu-chan. And Miss Topaz, who said she only sleeps a few hours a night, and uses her dreams to plan out her work!
[Does Till know who either of those people are? Definitely not the first one, anyway.
He smiles a bit at the mention of flower crowns and interjects,]
Now there's a nice pastime~♪ I used to do that with Nagisa-kun back when we were kids. We made some lovely flower crowns.
[But then Till reiterates that the place is designed to create Alien Stage winners. And, well. There's a depressing reminder. Not that he'd forgotten anytime in the last few minutes.
Till says he's not rushing because he's not actively collecting cards right at this particular moment, a statement which causes Hiyori to remark:]
You take things very literally, huh?
[Not that there's anything wrong with that. It's another thing that reminds him of how adorably clueless Nagisa used to be. Some people might find that sort of thing frustrating, and he definitely did too when he was younger. But he's no longer a child, and he's learned patience. You can't rush someone's education, and people will always have different communication styles. That's what makes them unique!
In addition to their own unique communication styles, people also have their own food preferences! Till asks if Hiyori's trying to learn his and he says,]
Yes!
[Because what's the point in hiding it?
It's possible Till has yet to discover his own preferences, though. An idea which has some depressing implications (did the aliens just feed him gruel every day?). But if Hiyori tries to put a positive spin on things, as he so often does, then doesn't that mean there's a whole wide world of food out there, just waiting to be discovered by Till? If he doesn't know what he likes yet, then Hiyori will just have to help him.]
Do let me know what those are. But if you're not sure what you want to eat, then I guess we'll just have to sample lots of things. Now let's go! ♪
[Off he skips. Hopefully he knows where he's going.]
Humans require an adequate amount of rest. Something close to seven hours. That's what's suggested.
[ Clueless about who those people are, that's what Till opts to say. All the while, never getting a proper amount of sleep himself. He understands on a fundamental level all the requirements for proper health, but it doesn't translate into him putting that into practice. It's a smaller part of his studies (lessons crafted by segyein, which also leads to some skewed understanding), but it's irrelevant if results are achieved. ]
Did you two exchange them?
[ The fact that they shared a common interest sparks his attention despite the looming threat of a library trip in his immediate future. It's something of an affection currency system, and while he wouldn't describe it as such, flower crowns are a means of expressing fondness. ]
We're talking about that stuff, and you mentioned consequences.
[ Which Hiyori has yet to tell him. It only elevates his suspicion that there really must be some corporal punishment room somewhere in the resort. It just happens that Hiyori is far too squeamish and reluctant to speak about some subjects, which prompts him to curtail his language. And while Till doesn't entirely recognize all avoidance tactics, he does comprehend that further education will be relegated to books. Books that he is unlikely to read. However, something about Hiyori's words makes him feel embarrassed, and he rubs his face. Maybe he is far too simple for this place. If things had gone the way they should, someone else would be here—a better student. ]
Saying it like that feels weird.
[ In all honesty, choice is a struggle very much for the reason Hiyori suspects. Meals were prepared to provide adequate nutrition to pet humans, nothing more. There were times when their taste preferences were tested, but it turned out that even two options became overwhelming for Till. Imagine what the endless array of menu items does to him. Ultimately, he appears to be reconsidering the choice to have a meal. ]
I can't sample a lot of things.
[ He still follows along despite his protest, trusting that Hiyori knows the way. ]
You're absolutely right! So if you see a girl with short silver hair and a red streak in it, you should tell her that.
[As for the question about him and Nagisa, he nods again.]
We did indeed! He looked adorable wearing his. Then I was a cute child, too, of course. ♪
[He's got a big smile on his face. Though that fades at Till's next comment.]
For not collecting cards, you mean? Right, I did say we'd talk about those... I'm not sure now is the best time, though. Maybe in the library after lunch, when we're back to talking about the 52 game.
[It's a bit of an appetite-killer. Hearing about the suit activation and the way that people turn to stone as punishment here. He doesn't intend to keep Till in the dark, but there's a time and place for these discussions. ... though he was in an erotic bakery himself when he learned from Rinne about people turning to stone here himself, so that was rather unfitting.
He looks over his shoulder and sees Till rub his face in apparent embarrassment. It's cute, but he's not sure what there is to be self-conscious about. It reminds him a little of Jun, back in the early days. How he wasn't accustomed to giving his own opinion or being listened to, so he pretty much went along with whatever. Hiyori can be quite bossy, and of course he doesn't mind choosing where they go to eat. But he thought this was a good opportunity to learn about Till, or perhaps to help Till learn about himself!
He guesses it still can be, however, even if he chooses what they order. He hasn't given up!]
No? Then how about sampling only a few things? Some savory, some sweet! Any objections to that?
Why is Hiyori assuming he would say that to someone he just met? Maybe it's time for Hiyori to take his life coaching and guide insomniacs. Wait a minute. Anyway! The numerous people at the resort would make it impossible for him to cross paths with that person. And who knows how many girls with those physical traits can be found at the resort! Initially, Till thought some hair colors were uncommon, rare even, but it turns out he is wrong here.
Remaining silent, his expression suggests he won't be imparting that knowledge onward. It's up to Hiyori.
The confirmation that flower crowns were exchanged causes him to nod slowly. Finding things in common is preferable to focusing on differences or thinking about them. Of course, he wouldn't openly speak about adoration or much less describe himself as cute. People like Hiyori can do that; they can do that easily. He is just not the same, and as he looks at Hiyori's fading smile, he realizes he will always end up saying something unpleasant. He wants an answer. Books are a waste of time, he isn't hungry, and the quicker he knows, the better. However, he would much rather sit with a plate of food in front of him than a book. ]
Am I going to have to read about this?
[ His voice is already dripping with disappointment and frustration.
The only real punishment he is going to experience is this trip to the library. Because reading! Dropping his hand away from his face, Till rubs at his arm and still holds on to the belief that Hiyori deserved that better student. That person was also much more deserving of this opportunity. And his choice had not been allowed. He had waned, he faded, and loss should have been the correct outcome. ]
Fine.
[ There is no reason for him to object. Aside from the fact that he isn't hungry, he is using this as an excuse to delay going to the library. ]
But I don't understand why this isn't the best time to get an answer.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
winterfish
no subject
Date: 2025-06-04 04:36 am (UTC)[ He already said he would deal with it if that ever comes up. Although if that's an expectation that comes with the sex stuff, then maybe he will avoid it altogether. Who cares about the stupid game. It really is far more complicated than what he expected. Then again, if it involves producing products, he shouldn't be surprised. That's not a feeling that lingers. It's quickly replaced by irritation over the whole matter. ] But I am not saving anything. There is nothing for me to save.
Right. You people do that. It's like your partner, right? A wife or something.
[ He is ready to dismiss the topic of lips touching. Aside from his past childish aversion, it's now coupled with a sensation of feeling lost and unsteady. It's a flood of confusion that only one person can cause. He already doesn't get enough sleep to be triggered back into trauma. He is good with never touching lips again. He can live the rest of his life without having to think about it. Yet inevitably, he does think about it—a lot. And with what little knowledge he has gleaned, it leaves him in a daze. He will never understand that frustrating guy, and he will continue to lose sleep over him.
That topic leaves him distracted enough that he doesn't fully consider the next thing he says. ]
Unless it's you? I guess you have that kind of look. If it is appearance alone, and since you can make crying sounds, then I bet you would get good results on Alien Stage.
[ He had already made up his mind to avoid those two. That means there are no plans to ever speak to them. Of course, it's already too late in the case of one and he can't spend his days eternally vigilant. It would mean he would miss out on a lot of things that are now at his disposal. A good example is that he has yet to set foot again in the conservatory all on his own. ]
Shouldn't I have found you suspicious? [ Because who offers advice so freely and readily to someone they only just met. Or is that supposed to be normal? He knows of people who would help but it's too early to say what kind of person Hiyori is, despite his amicable smile. ]
Maybe I will just spend most of my time in this room. [ That way he doesn't have to keep track of anything or deal with any sort of strangeness. Again it's him avoiding things, like having to explain what's off-limits. Actually, this whole conversation is starting to feel like it should be off-limits. ]
So we're not making products?
I guess if that were the point, it would be better to collect samples. Instead of you know. Whatever that other stuff involves. But then why bother with it? This is senseless.
[ It would seem that Hiyori will continue to struggle with whatever he has to stay, leading to Till casting another confused look at him. ]
Do you mean taking care of myself to ensure I am healthy? What are you talking about? I touch myself all the time, like when I bathe and stuff. Don't you? Are we going to talk about the game or hygiene? Do you not want to talk about it? Just tell me what happens if I don't play.
1/2
Date: 2025-06-06 02:37 pm (UTC)Your Garden didn't have marriage, huh?
[Another depressing factoid, though it isn't wholly a surprise. Idols don't usually get married until after retirement, and if those who lose the Alien Stage die, there goes the possibility of marriage. Still, he wonders, what happens to those who do win? It doesn't seem like the time to ask, so he files that question away for some other time. This isn't an interrogation. He came here to do life coaching!
He did not, however, come here to give The Talk. So, that makes this super awkward.
He raises an eyebrow at one of the comments Till makes—]
I don't know what you mean by "crying sounds," but I'm glad we both agree I'm cute! ♪
[—before deciding to shrug it off, even though it sounded faintly ominous. As for the matter of him being suspicious, well... Till's not wrong, tbh. Even Hiyori has to admit it.]
You do have a point. You can't trust everyone who offers to teach you things, sadly. But I can promise I'll try not to lead you astray. And I certainly won't expect payment, the way that some people might. I'm simply doing this out of the goodness of my noble heart. That's all there is to it~♪
[But again: he didn't think "this" would include giving The Talk!
As far as Till spending time in his room goes:]
You shouldn't stay cooped up all the time. If you want a list of locations I'd recommend, I'd be happy to give some! And if you need help getting around, you can always check that digital map thing! This place is much too huge, so I'd be horribly lost without it.
[Especially he has no sense of direction, not that he'll admit it. And as for "We're not making products?", he emphatically responds:]
Nope! We're not! This is what you call an "adults only" zone!
[Though he's definitely met a few people under the age of adulthood here, to say nothing of the previous Spades game where he met the child version of someone he knows. He makes a bit of a face at the "collecting samples" comment, since he's a priss who doesn't like to think about sperm in test tubes. At least this implies Till knows how reproduction works? One last thing he has to teach!
But there's still a lot Till doesn't know, as he learns the hard way. (Pun unintended.)
The second Till makes it clear he has no idea what he meant by "touch yourself," Hiyori's face falls even more. With disappointment, and with resignation. This spells the end of things: he has absolutely no intention of explaining how to masturbate. No talking about which parts are involved, no describing techniques. No crude gestures, and no illustrations! It's not happening! Sure, he'll gyrate around onstage and sing about drowning oneself in pleasure. And sure, he and Jun are planning to give sex shows! But that is not the same as this! There are some things he can't handle! He's not a health teacher!
There's only one thing to do.]
2/2
Date: 2025-06-06 02:39 pm (UTC)[He sets the marker down, slings his tote bag more firmly over his shoulder, and starts to head for the door.]
It's time for the special school event known as a "field trip"! We'll head on over to the library, where they have all sorts of books meant to explain this stuff!
[He motions for Till to follow him, his smile fixed firmly back on.]
I know you prefer staying in your room, but I'm afraid it can't be helped. We can come back here after our field trip. Or, perhaps we'll grab lunch somewhere first, since studying can work up an appetite! But for now, let's head on over that way.
no subject
Date: 2025-06-10 07:40 am (UTC)[ A pause follows as he reconsiders Hiyori's question. He has not directly given him an answer, but there is something of a hint in his reply. If all the pet humans attending that music kindergarten were sent to become participants in a competition where there could only be a single winner (only one could make it out alive), then it was impossible. ]
Marriage. That's not something for pet humans. Segyein, they do that.
[ He won't elaborate on what it means to make crying sounds since Hiyori seems satisfied that he agreed with him. It's true. Every word he spoke felt true. It's a genuine compliment, even if it is a little skewed. Hiyori may be someone who could make it far. However, reconsidering his words, he realizes they are the same ones he had scribbled for Sua once. That felt so long ago, and yet it wasn't. His sense of time feels off. ]
That's all?
[ A nod follows. He had already accepted the help that was offered to him. Hiyori is in his room. And, though rare, some people are like this. They are warm, kind, and exceedingly radiant. Notable is Hiyori's enthusiasm, despite becoming aware that he says things that upset him. This is someone who shows him patience beyond what he ever expects to receive. ]
I'll accept your recommendations.
[ It's far easier to ignore a list than a person attempting to drag him off to visit different places. And if he ever feels inclined, he can explore those places. He's aware of the map, which has been shared with him, and that's why he doesn't ask about it. Now, as for navigating the resort, utilizing the map at his disposal is a different story. That is an area in which he is clueless. It will be trial and error. ]
Yeah. That makes sense.
[ An adult only zone. Sure. Whatever Hiyori says.
And just when he thinks these lessons are coming to an abrupt end, and he can be disappointed that he does not get to finish his drawing of Anakt Garden to show Hiyori, it seems that there are plans made. Plans that cause his eyes to glaze over with dull boredom, that only the idea of studying can cause. The library? That doesn't sound like fun! He knows about books. He knows what it means. It means reading. And reading is hardly something that can keep his attention for long. ] We do not have to do that. I know what it is. You told me. You explained it. Sex. I get that. It's mating. But not to create products. It's just because.
[ The beckoning feels like he must follow even if reluctantly. ]
Can we grab lunch before the library? [ Anything to delay setting foot in a realm of books. Hiyori doesn't need to know about his poor study habits. ]
no subject
Date: 2025-06-15 08:45 pm (UTC)[How utterly depressing. And here he thought Reimei's cutthroat environment was sad. But it gets even worse, as Till implies that marriage wasn't even possible among humans. Because they're considered "pets," right?]
You weren't allowed any human rights at all, hm?
[Hiyori's shoulders sag, and he shakes his head in disgust.]
Marriage is hardly the most important thing here, but that still sounds awfully sad. And you said the aliens got married to each other? Who wants to watch two of them wed? Normally I'd say everyone deserves love, but not in this case!
[Though that's hardly important, either.
It does no good to keep shaking his head over Till's tragic life story, so he'll stop there. He's grateful Till trusts his recommendations, anyway. That he's human and not an alien probably makes all the difference, but it must surely be hard for him to trust other human beings, too. After all, he was trained to see them as rivals in a life-or-death competition. Did he have many people he could trust back in that garden? Was there anyone like that?
Those are questions he'll save for some other time. Here, death isn't the most pressing concern; turning to stone is, and in order to avoid that, you'll need to "play the game" at least a little bit. Till says he already knows all about sex and that there's no need for a field trip, but Hiyori isn't about to budge, and he tells him such.]
You're giving us both too much credit. I haven't explained much to you, and you don't seem to know a whole lot. Which isn't your fault, but since you weren't even sure what I meant by "finish"...
[He trails off rather than complete the thought. If Till only ever wants to have penetrative sex in the missionary position with girls, why, that's perfectly fine. (Didn't his Mating Season After Dark profile say something about "the most beautiful woman in the universe," come to think of it?). But if he thinks that's all there is to sex because all he was ever taught was about making "products," then that's a recipe for confusion in this place. That, or a recipe for being taken advantage of by people who do know better.
He is willing to budge on one point, however. He looks at Till for a moment, then nods.]
Feeling hungry? In that case, I know just the place we can go.
[He's in no rush. They don't need to get to the library right this second, so he accepts the suggestion with no issue!]
Actually, I know a few places. But first, let's hear what you want to eat! What are some of your favorite foods?
[Hopefully this will be a safe question. Everyone has favorite foods! Surely he wasn't just fed gruel by the aliens, right?]
no subject
Date: 2025-06-20 11:58 am (UTC)[ The education system not only fostered musical skill, but it was meant to act as an agency promoting pet humans. Not everyone was afforded that benefit. There is a disparity based on how much a guardian was willing to invest in their pets. That's also why the stages in the competition vastly differed in size and complexity. Till's very nature worked against him, no matter how talented he is deemed. He can scrutinize his faults. There is endless time for that. Of course, this is not going to make him give a damn about what the segyein thought. His music could speak for itself. That's enough.
Retracting steps lead nowhere. Till cannot consider any possibility of a past in which he controlled his anger. There could never be a him who would model himself after the ruler of the stage, no matter how many times he was made to observe Luka's promotional material. That is not him. It's pointless. However, there is another possibility that haunts.
This is not a time for regret.
The mention of human rights only serves to instill confusion. It's an unknown concept. If perhaps he asks about it, can he delay what he senses will be an inevitable trip to the library? ]
I've never seen it. I don't even know what it means, just that it happens.
[ The more Hiyori speaks, the more he knows he cannot escape that trip. He is going to end up falling asleep. No. Worse. He is going to start spacing out, then Hiyori will think he's stupid. He is kind of is, but Hiyori doesn't need to know that!!! ]
That stuff, mating, right? It's something humans figure out on their own. I can figure it out on my own.
[ The truth is he is not hungry. Not even close. That tactic was intended to divert them from taking a direct trip to the library. They're not even supposed to go there at all if he had his way. ]
I'll eat.
[ A pause follows. Right. There are choices here. Too many. ]
What are you going to eat? I'll eat that.
no subject
Date: 2025-06-24 11:12 am (UTC)[But he wasn't a "pet," so there's the difference there.
As for Till never having seen a wedding before:]
If you're curious about what happens at weddings, you could ask Charlie what his was like. He's from an older era, and traditions vary from country to country, but some of them should still hold up.
[And as for the statement about mating...
It does get him to hesitate for a moment. Till isn't wrong; in a perfect world, or even just a normal one, Till would be able to figure out sex on his own and move at his own pace. Even if he stumbled through it or had an awkward first time, it might just be something to laugh about later. A folly of youth.
But they don't have that kind of time here. After more than a month with no sex, people's suits can go haywire, and they can start turning to stone. And so Hiyori thinks his approach is still the right one, for better or worse.]
You don't have to rush out and do anything now [although he will need to have sex within the month], and you don't have to know everything. But let's at least learn some things, alright? That way you'll know what your options are in terms of collecting cards, and you'll be harder to confuse.
[Or take advantage of, but he doesn't say that part.
But first: food!
It's not like Hiyori wants to fixate on sex. He's happy to move away from the subject and learn some new things about Till, such as his favorite foods! But instead of answering his question, Till pauses, then asks what he wants to eat. Hiyori gives a small frown at that.]
That depends on where we're going. You didn't have anything in mind, huh?
[He wants Till to make his own decisions. He didn't have much freedom back home, so now's his time to exercise some! But maybe it's best to start smaller—an "A or B" kind of decision.]
Let me rephrase, then: would you rather get a full meal, or eat some light snacks and sweets? If it's a full meal, we could go to the Red Cardinal. The atmosphere there is nice, and the proprietress is a lovely person. But if you'd prefer the latter, we can go to one of the tea shops. I'll show you my favorite food, which is salmon quiche, and we can sip tea daintily! Which sounds best?
[Sorry, Till. You're not getting out of giving some opinion!]
no subject
Date: 2025-07-05 02:54 pm (UTC)[ The name itself implies compulsory and not something Till could opt out of participating in. His voice lacks enmity. This would be as close to fondness as Hiyori may hear in his tone. Till takes a moment to collect his memory. While there is freedom in that allotted time, there is only so much they could do within a box that's meant to simulate Earth. ] Unless you were required to take remedial classes.
But I could draw or make new songs. When we were younger, some of the others liked to play games. And everyone was making crowns out of the Anakt Flowers. But there is no reason to learn anything else. I told you that it is a place designed to create Alien Stage winners.
[ There is no other choice. There is a singular path that either leads to the pinnacle of success or veers off. A loser cannot even hope to be something different. A pet cannot make choices of their own. Struggle as they may against restraints. The clarity of that fact is also rather ironic, as he conceptually understands it, yet he has always fought against expectation. It also means recalling advice that would lead to freedom from a collar. He cannot help but touch his neck at the memory, a single hand around his throat, index finger pressed against raised metallic letters. ]
I'll consider that...
[ No promises will be made to reach out to Charlie, especially knowing his interest. Their conversation had begun due to a singular subject that Till is avoidant of after learning what the word means. He has made his decision. At least, he feels clear about that particular act. ]
I'm not rushing.
I'm not doing it now.
[ He is being taken to a library!
As for being confused and what his options are. That's something he's beginning to suspect Hiyori won't be entirely clear about. This conversation is evolving into something almost as awkward as interacting with Sua in any capacity. Till is very willing to forego this conversation if it will spare them both. ]
About food. Why is it so difficult?
[ These options are making it next to impossible for him to eat. He spends more time trying to comprehend a menu than actually eating. Sometimes, it is just easier to skip a meal instead of giving himself a headache. Or that's why he ends up with a headache. He ends up sighing and giving Hiyori a critical look as he lowers his hand. ] Are you trying to figure out my food preferences?
no subject
Date: 2025-07-06 06:21 pm (UTC)That's good, I suppose. Children that age need playtime. Adults need playtime too, which is why I worry about workaholics like Anzu-chan. And Miss Topaz, who said she only sleeps a few hours a night, and uses her dreams to plan out her work!
[Does Till know who either of those people are? Definitely not the first one, anyway.
He smiles a bit at the mention of flower crowns and interjects,]
Now there's a nice pastime~♪ I used to do that with Nagisa-kun back when we were kids. We made some lovely flower crowns.
[But then Till reiterates that the place is designed to create Alien Stage winners. And, well. There's a depressing reminder. Not that he'd forgotten anytime in the last few minutes.
Till says he's not rushing because he's not actively collecting cards right at this particular moment, a statement which causes Hiyori to remark:]
You take things very literally, huh?
[Not that there's anything wrong with that. It's another thing that reminds him of how adorably clueless Nagisa used to be. Some people might find that sort of thing frustrating, and he definitely did too when he was younger. But he's no longer a child, and he's learned patience. You can't rush someone's education, and people will always have different communication styles. That's what makes them unique!
In addition to their own unique communication styles, people also have their own food preferences! Till asks if Hiyori's trying to learn his and he says,]
Yes!
[Because what's the point in hiding it?
It's possible Till has yet to discover his own preferences, though. An idea which has some depressing implications (did the aliens just feed him gruel every day?). But if Hiyori tries to put a positive spin on things, as he so often does, then doesn't that mean there's a whole wide world of food out there, just waiting to be discovered by Till? If he doesn't know what he likes yet, then Hiyori will just have to help him.]
Do let me know what those are. But if you're not sure what you want to eat, then I guess we'll just have to sample lots of things. Now let's go! ♪
[Off he skips. Hopefully he knows where he's going.]
no subject
Date: 2025-07-10 05:08 pm (UTC)[ Clueless about who those people are, that's what Till opts to say. All the while, never getting a proper amount of sleep himself. He understands on a fundamental level all the requirements for proper health, but it doesn't translate into him putting that into practice. It's a smaller part of his studies (lessons crafted by segyein, which also leads to some skewed understanding), but it's irrelevant if results are achieved. ]
Did you two exchange them?
[ The fact that they shared a common interest sparks his attention despite the looming threat of a library trip in his immediate future. It's something of an affection currency system, and while he wouldn't describe it as such, flower crowns are a means of expressing fondness. ]
We're talking about that stuff, and you mentioned consequences.
[ Which Hiyori has yet to tell him. It only elevates his suspicion that there really must be some corporal punishment room somewhere in the resort. It just happens that Hiyori is far too squeamish and reluctant to speak about some subjects, which prompts him to curtail his language. And while Till doesn't entirely recognize all avoidance tactics, he does comprehend that further education will be relegated to books. Books that he is unlikely to read. However, something about Hiyori's words makes him feel embarrassed, and he rubs his face. Maybe he is far too simple for this place. If things had gone the way they should, someone else would be here—a better student. ]
Saying it like that feels weird.
[ In all honesty, choice is a struggle very much for the reason Hiyori suspects. Meals were prepared to provide adequate nutrition to pet humans, nothing more. There were times when their taste preferences were tested, but it turned out that even two options became overwhelming for Till. Imagine what the endless array of menu items does to him. Ultimately, he appears to be reconsidering the choice to have a meal. ]
I can't sample a lot of things.
[ He still follows along despite his protest, trusting that Hiyori knows the way. ]
no subject
Date: 2025-07-14 03:18 pm (UTC)You're absolutely right! So if you see a girl with short silver hair and a red streak in it, you should tell her that.
[As for the question about him and Nagisa, he nods again.]
We did indeed! He looked adorable wearing his. Then I was a cute child, too, of course. ♪
[He's got a big smile on his face. Though that fades at Till's next comment.]
For not collecting cards, you mean? Right, I did say we'd talk about those... I'm not sure now is the best time, though. Maybe in the library after lunch, when we're back to talking about the 52 game.
[It's a bit of an appetite-killer. Hearing about the suit activation and the way that people turn to stone as punishment here. He doesn't intend to keep Till in the dark, but there's a time and place for these discussions. ... though he was in an erotic bakery himself when he learned from Rinne about people turning to stone here himself, so that was rather unfitting.
He looks over his shoulder and sees Till rub his face in apparent embarrassment. It's cute, but he's not sure what there is to be self-conscious about. It reminds him a little of Jun, back in the early days. How he wasn't accustomed to giving his own opinion or being listened to, so he pretty much went along with whatever. Hiyori can be quite bossy, and of course he doesn't mind choosing where they go to eat. But he thought this was a good opportunity to learn about Till, or perhaps to help Till learn about himself!
He guesses it still can be, however, even if he chooses what they order. He hasn't given up!]
No? Then how about sampling only a few things? Some savory, some sweet! Any objections to that?
no subject
Date: 2025-07-26 03:56 am (UTC)Why is Hiyori assuming he would say that to someone he just met? Maybe it's time for Hiyori to take his life coaching and guide insomniacs. Wait a minute. Anyway! The numerous people at the resort would make it impossible for him to cross paths with that person. And who knows how many girls with those physical traits can be found at the resort! Initially, Till thought some hair colors were uncommon, rare even, but it turns out he is wrong here.
Remaining silent, his expression suggests he won't be imparting that knowledge onward. It's up to Hiyori.
The confirmation that flower crowns were exchanged causes him to nod slowly. Finding things in common is preferable to focusing on differences or thinking about them. Of course, he wouldn't openly speak about adoration or much less describe himself as cute. People like Hiyori can do that; they can do that easily. He is just not the same, and as he looks at Hiyori's fading smile, he realizes he will always end up saying something unpleasant. He wants an answer. Books are a waste of time, he isn't hungry, and the quicker he knows, the better. However, he would much rather sit with a plate of food in front of him than a book. ]
Am I going to have to read about this?
[ His voice is already dripping with disappointment and frustration.
The only real punishment he is going to experience is this trip to the library. Because reading! Dropping his hand away from his face, Till rubs at his arm and still holds on to the belief that Hiyori deserved that better student. That person was also much more deserving of this opportunity. And his choice had not been allowed. He had waned, he faded, and loss should have been the correct outcome. ]
Fine.
[ There is no reason for him to object. Aside from the fact that he isn't hungry, he is using this as an excuse to delay going to the library. ]
But I don't understand why this isn't the best time to get an answer.