[Open RL - Issei's birthday party.]

[unknownrival]

The temple had a large room with tables and chairs, usually used for meetings between the monks. Right now it had been appropriated for Issei's birthday party, and was full of food and streamers. Guests were milling about, talking to each other and waiting for Issei to arrive.

Which he did, dropping his jaw at the sight. "Wh-what is all this?"

((Feel free to talk to each other and to Issei! Enjoy~))

Comments

[tyki-tock.livejournal.com]

[The smile falters a little] Well, I'm sure Saguru organized the party because he wanted you to be happy, and see how much we all appreciate you, Issei. Would you have preferred we didn't?

[stripping.livejournal.com]

No, no! I'm glad that we get along so well. I'm just... not used to having such a fuss made over me, that's all.

[tyki-tock.livejournal.com]

[He smiles] Enjoy it. We wouldn't be here if we didn't want to be.

[stripping.livejournal.com]

I am enjoying it. Really, I am... [He wipes his eyes, although he isn't crying yet.] ...truly grateful.

[tyki-tock.livejournal.com]

[He's a little startled by that, too, and watches Issei curiously for signs of tears] Are you all right?

[stripping.livejournal.com]

I'm fine. I just get emotional at times like these... a few years ago, I'd have been lucky to have one friend show up at a party like this.

[tyki-tock.livejournal.com]

[Hair ruffle] The community isn't all bad, is it.

[stripping.livejournal.com]

[He leans into the touch, always a very tactile person.] No, it's not. I quite like it at times like these, for example.

[tyki-tock.livejournal.com]

[Tyki caresses, enjoying the touch, too] However frustrating and dangerous it is, I will always be thankful for the friends I've made here.

[stripping.livejournal.com]

Likewise. That's what keeps me here, even through all of the community's insanity.

[tyki-tock.livejournal.com]

[Slow nod] Likewise, though I doubt the community would let me go easily anyway.

[stripping.livejournal.com]

We could make more of an effort, at least.

[tyki-tock.livejournal.com]

I think we'd just be asking the community to take revenge...

[stripping.livejournal.com]

[He shudders.] A truly frightening proposition.

[tyki-tock.livejournal.com]

[He nods solemnly] I agree...

[stripping.livejournal.com]

If I ever consider attempting to leave, would you kindly convince me not to?

[tyki-tock.livejournal.com]

[A raised eyebrow, and a smile] Of course, if you wish. I wouldn't want to see you go, frankly. You're one of the few really decent people here, but at the same time, you're not irritating or self-righteous.

[stripping.livejournal.com]

[Predictably, that makes Issei blush.] A-ah, really? I wouldn't say I was much more goodhearted than anyone else here, but... thank you. I-I appreciate hearing such words from you.

[tyki-tock.livejournal.com]

[Wry] I can guarantee you are.

[stripping.livejournal.com]

You flatter me too much. If you're not careful, my ego will swell.

[tyki-tock.livejournal.com]

[Chuckles] It's not flattery it's true. And your ego could use a little swelling.

[stripping.livejournal.com]

I don't have self-esteem problems. ...Much. [He seems a bit unsure of himself.] But I thank you for the concern.

[tyki-tock.livejournal.com]

[Tyki just gives a snort of disbelief]

[stripping.livejournal.com]

And what is that supposed to mean?

[tyki-tock.livejournal.com]

You know very well what I think, my dear Issei.