[Oh! Well! The girl didn't expect this boy to be a demon summoner, but the giant tiger should have tipped her off in the moment. Regardless she follows his instructions to keep up in the air as he casts the flame spell at the demons, while she herself moves further away from any stray sparks.]
I... I think you got them all!
[It's almost one shot aside from one or two who's HP probably hasn't completely drained.]
Can your demon take care of the rest? I'll set us on the ground when it's all clear!
[He'll reach into his pocket to grab his phone and focuses some of his spiritual power into it. Blue energy sparks and crackles from his arm and into the phone as Byakko glows with energy.]
Got it! Take us home with Mazio, Byakko! Fry 'em to a crisp!
[There's a mighty roar from the beast as his fur crackles with electricity before he sends it all surges towards the remaining demons that were running towards him in a desperate attempt. There's a pair of loud death cries as they're killed off in the sea of lightning. Byakko decides to roar out in triumph! And his Master follows suit in his own way... Compared to other demon summoners, this human-demon pair appeared to be unusually in sync.]
It's all completely clear of enemy demons now. With a sigh of relief, Ai Thao sets down the boy gently on his feet. She remains floating in the air looking grateful, but conflicted.]
Thanks... For your help. You definitely have a lot more control for a demon summoner than the others.
[JPs maybe? She knows that the organization is prioritizing capable individuals to help keep the tide of chaos at bay.]
[It's a weird gray area that he was in... Helping out JPs, but not truly working for them. Technically, Hiro was still a regular civilian. But their leader saw something special in him and his friends. Once he's on his feet, Hiro gives a rather proud smile as he flicks one of his shaggy hair bangs. Perhaps you could see a shoujo-esque sparkle to follow from her praise.]
Oh... It's nothing special~! Some summoners treat their demons like tools or weapons, but I treat my demons like they're my friends. Some just come with an extra set of eyes, arms and stuff like that.
[That response gets Byakko to lean in to lick his cheek which gets Hiro to softly nuzzle up against him. For him, bonds weren't just limited to humans... And Byakko hasn't really gone in to eat him or anything. He's a good demon kitty!]
Haha, hey... Quit it! I'm trying to look cool here. You should save the PDA for later!
No. I don't work for 'em. Those outfits aren't my style!
[It's a little joke he says to try and lighten the tension... She sounded pretty uneasy about JPs in general. And Hiro doesn't blame her, he has some suspicions about how they operate as well. Was her case like the Anguished One? As sinister as he looked, he did offer him some valuable information... As vague as it was. He still wasn't sure if he was an ally or an enemy, though.
But Ai looks very human despite her powers being clearly not. Hiro offers her a gentle and sympathetic smile. If she wanted to kill him, then she could've done it much eariler.]
I'm just a regular high school student... Or I was until all of this happened. [A beat.] To be honest... I'm still trying to figure out what JPs is really up to myself, but I do have some connections there. If anyone asks, I'll just say that we never met and you can stay undercover.
[He's trying to choose his words carefully. It's clear from his expectant and hopeful eyes that he really wants to form a bond with her. He'd feel bad to lie to her out right...]
[Although the power she displayed made her appear terrifying, when she speaks face to face with Hiro, the girl just seems pretty normal. She even looks surprised by his answer instead of suspicious.]
Really? You'd do that?
[Hopeful trust appears in her eyes; a good sign?]
Even if I might be a threat??
[she just has to check; as good as her intentions are, Ai would be considered an individual with dangerous potential.]
Weeell... You technically saved my life, so think of that as me paying things forward.
[He gives her a little shrug before flashing her a playful wink. Everyone had their secrets to keep and while he sees JPs reliable in the sense that they're protecting humanity, Hiro couldn't say that was one hundred percent okay with how they handled things. He wasn't the only person who shared that sentiment like Ronaldo... As much of an extremist as he was.
Ai was someone with power and she's choosing to use it help others. It'd be bad to just restrict her from doing what she wanted to do. He might've had the power of demons at his hands, but he wants to do good with it too. They might've been similar in that sense...]
I might still be a little miffed over the fact that I couldn't treat myself to a sweet drink, but getting the chance to speak to a cute girl is all the more sweeter.
[a;ldskfdafd did she hear him right? He called her a cute girl?? Hello??? What is she supposed to do with that????? She turns red in the face VERY BRIEFLY]
[Hm... Was that a blush? Or a trick of the light? Either way, Hiro looks rather enthusiastic as he takes a bold step over and offers her his hand.]
The name's Hiro! Hiro Kageyama! Put her there! I'll show you one of my secret handshakes.
[What a passionate boy! Byakko gives Hiro a very subtle side-eye as if he's saying "Oh, you're doing THIS again..." The demon sensed no danger coming from Ai, so he doesn't need to hold his Master back from her.]
I know over one hundred of 'em. They're important whenever you're forming bonds and making all kinds of communication.
[But it looks like she's willing to give it a go and takes the hand in both of hers and gives it. A very vigorous and probably too hard shake. THIS IS HOW IT WORKS RIGHT?]
[Does she not have experience with handshakes?! Hiro is caught off guard as he pulls his hand away from hers. Does he have to educate someone on how to handshake? This might be a first for him...]
Okay, okay... I like your energy, but you gotta calm down a bit! Just use one hand and grasp it gently with the person you're shaking with. Try to match their energy without overwhelming them.
[But she follows his lead and gently shakes his hand this time. The first handshake was done out of confusion, but this touch was more characteristic of her.]
See? That's way better! It feels more natural from you.
[Hiro laughs a little as he returns her handshake with the same energy to match. Quietly, he notes that her hand was smaller than his... It made him feel a little self-conscious as he hopes his own hand wasn't too dirty from all that he's been doing today. Did one girl really contain that much power from earlier? It was definitely something to think about.]
... Ai, huh? [Hm... He goes quiet as if he's processing something.] I just met you and Ai love you~! ♥
[He can't resist puns if he sees them! With a rather breezy, if not, airheaded tone... Hiro just says that with a vacant smile on his face.]
[Wow... Not even a pity laugh?! Hm... He should probably work on his comedic jabs more. Byakko is bowing his head in quiet shame as even he thought that was painful.]
Actually, I was planning on doing the same thing! There's probably some more people out there that we can help. Two sets of eyes will be better than one set!
[Not to mention...]
And I think your powers are gonna be a big help too. I'm a little jealous that I can't float in the air like you.
[Maybe he should practice using Force spells in a similar way? Zan was a small ball of wind, but that could be used in as a cushion if he ends up falling from a high place. Not to mention, he'd have to think about looking into summoning a demon with wings potentially... His survivalist brain cells were feeling really inspired right now!]
[Byakko and Ai are in sync it seems... In response to his remark about her powers, she shrugs, but seems bashful about it by the way she puts her hands behind her back.]
It's just what I'm born with. You seem to have a good rapport with your demon which is still commendable.
... If we're going to be doing the same thing, then maybe... Would you like to come along with me? I don't know the city layout as well.
Awww... It's no biggie. I think anyone can bond with a demon as long as they're both on the same page.
[He's looking quite confident as he says this. Hiro was a firm believer of bonds transcending anything... Even forming friendships between different species. He's not naive enough to believe that most demons were going to become friends with humans, but he has seen that not all demons were bloodthirsty monsters. That was enough for him to summon them and use them to help him survive. In worst case scenario, he'd beat them to pulp until they listened... It worked out for him in the subway.
For a moment, him and Byakko exchange glances before Hiro walks over to hop onto the demonic tiger's back. Then he extends a hand out to Ai as an offer for her to climb on.]
Sure! Hop abroad the Byakko Express! [A beat.] And while I'm giving you a tour around, I can introduce you to the King of the Street too. The King is an ally to everyone even in harsh times like this.
[Byakko gives an approving growl! Hiro feels that he understands this demon's social cues. All of them were different with how they interacted...]
Hehe... He says "It's cool, my girl. You ain't too short to ride!"
[Probably not word from word what Byakko said, but the intent was clear his enough.]
And if you're on the run, then it's better that you keep your head low then up!
[His quirky way of saying that she should be more discreet about her powers. He gives Byakko a pat and the tiger starts to walk forward down the street. He's not running at full speed out of consideration for Ai. He knows Hiro can handle it (even if he complains a little).]
He's got a specific smell that we should be looking out for. I definitely know it and Byakko has grown to know it. Our king should be hiding in one of the shopping districts nearby. [Hm? Was he really talking about a person?] If you want, you can keep an eye out for any stray demons that try to get the jump on us.
[Even if he's sounding relaxed, Hiro's still alert to everything in his own way. Byakko sniffs the ground before he starts picking up his pace. He's definitely locked onto a scent!]
[Hiro Kageyama... He sure is a goof, thinks Ai to herself. But he definitely isn't a bad guy. And she can't really complain about how this situation has turned out; she gets to ride on a cool demon tiger!
She listens to Hiro's explanation, nodding along and holds on as Byakko picks up the pace.]
Um! Is this king a demon or something else? I just wanted to clarify.
[She'll keep an eye out for demons in the meanwhile, but it seems clear so far!]
Oh! Something else! Though it makes me wonder what demon meat would taste like. Would you get stomachaches? Maybe it might depend on the type of demon...
[In the midst of his weird musing, Hiro vaguely answers her question. It's hard to say if he's being evasive on purpose or if he's seriously got his head in the clouds. Byakko turns around a corner and notices a older man running a takoyaki stand. There's a subtle sigh of relief from Hiro...
The stand looked a little busted at some angles, but it's clear that this guy has been hard at work with repairing it and keeping things in business. It just reminded Hiro that humans really were strong in times of crisis. Byakko's walk slows down as he approaches the stand and finally comes to a stop.]
Yooo, old timer! I'm glad you're still running shop. Plenty of people have probably asked for your services, huh?
Haha... It's been more than busy, Kageyama-kun! I see you're as energetic as ever. First you've found a tiger friend and now you've gained another friend? [A beat.] Or have you've been dating someone and haven't introduce her to me?
[As he hops off Byakko, Hiro starts to feel mischievous with what takoyaki man is thinking. Hmm...]
Yes. We've been going steady for five years now! Please come visit our wedding ceremony when we pass out the cards.
[Casually, he lifts up a victory sign with his fingers and his face carries an unflinching smile to boot. If there was an opening for comedy, he was going to take it!]
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no subject
I... I think you got them all!
[It's almost one shot aside from one or two who's HP probably hasn't completely drained.]
Can your demon take care of the rest? I'll set us on the ground when it's all clear!
no subject
Got it! Take us home with Mazio, Byakko! Fry 'em to a crisp!
[There's a mighty roar from the beast as his fur crackles with electricity before he sends it all surges towards the remaining demons that were running towards him in a desperate attempt. There's a pair of loud death cries as they're killed off in the sea of lightning. Byakko decides to roar out in triumph! And his Master follows suit in his own way... Compared to other demon summoners, this human-demon pair appeared to be unusually in sync.]
AWWWWWW YEAAAAH!!!
no subject
It's all completely clear of enemy demons now. With a sigh of relief, Ai Thao sets down the boy gently on his feet. She remains floating in the air looking grateful, but conflicted.]
Thanks... For your help. You definitely have a lot more control for a demon summoner than the others.
[JPs maybe? She knows that the organization is prioritizing capable individuals to help keep the tide of chaos at bay.]
no subject
Oh... It's nothing special~! Some summoners treat their demons like tools or weapons, but I treat my demons like they're my friends. Some just come with an extra set of eyes, arms and stuff like that.
[That response gets Byakko to lean in to lick his cheek which gets Hiro to softly nuzzle up against him. For him, bonds weren't just limited to humans... And Byakko hasn't really gone in to eat him or anything. He's a good demon kitty!]
Haha, hey... Quit it! I'm trying to look cool here. You should save the PDA for later!
no subject
Um... You're not with JPs right?
[Ai decides to land on her feet so she can talk to the boy normally and be on the level. Basically, less intimidating.]
I won't be surprised if I was already on their radar, but I'd rather not be brought in for questioning. I'm just trying to help like you are.
no subject
[It's a little joke he says to try and lighten the tension... She sounded pretty uneasy about JPs in general. And Hiro doesn't blame her, he has some suspicions about how they operate as well. Was her case like the Anguished One? As sinister as he looked, he did offer him some valuable information... As vague as it was. He still wasn't sure if he was an ally or an enemy, though.
But Ai looks very human despite her powers being clearly not. Hiro offers her a gentle and sympathetic smile. If she wanted to kill him, then she could've done it much eariler.]
I'm just a regular high school student... Or I was until all of this happened. [A beat.] To be honest... I'm still trying to figure out what JPs is really up to myself, but I do have some connections there. If anyone asks, I'll just say that we never met and you can stay undercover.
[He's trying to choose his words carefully. It's clear from his expectant and hopeful eyes that he really wants to form a bond with her. He'd feel bad to lie to her out right...]
no subject
Really? You'd do that?
[Hopeful trust appears in her eyes; a good sign?]
Even if I might be a threat??
[she just has to check; as good as her intentions are, Ai would be considered an individual with dangerous potential.]
no subject
[He gives her a little shrug before flashing her a playful wink. Everyone had their secrets to keep and while he sees JPs reliable in the sense that they're protecting humanity, Hiro couldn't say that was one hundred percent okay with how they handled things. He wasn't the only person who shared that sentiment like Ronaldo... As much of an extremist as he was.
Ai was someone with power and she's choosing to use it help others. It'd be bad to just restrict her from doing what she wanted to do. He might've had the power of demons at his hands, but he wants to do good with it too. They might've been similar in that sense...]
I might still be a little miffed over the fact that I couldn't treat myself to a sweet drink, but getting the chance to speak to a cute girl is all the more sweeter.
1/3
If you're sure... I don't want you to get in trouble with them because of me so maybe—
no subject
no subject
N-Never mind that! Um!! What's your name?? I'm Ai Thao Kha, Ai or Thao for short if you'd like!!
no subject
The name's Hiro! Hiro Kageyama! Put her there! I'll show you one of my secret handshakes.
[What a passionate boy! Byakko gives Hiro a very subtle side-eye as if he's saying "Oh, you're doing THIS again..." The demon sensed no danger coming from Ai, so he doesn't need to hold his Master back from her.]
I know over one hundred of 'em. They're important whenever you're forming bonds and making all kinds of communication.
no subject
How can there be that many handshakes...??
[But it looks like she's willing to give it a go and takes the hand in both of hers and gives it. A very vigorous and probably too hard shake. THIS IS HOW IT WORKS RIGHT?]
no subject
[Does she not have experience with handshakes?! Hiro is caught off guard as he pulls his hand away from hers. Does he have to educate someone on how to handshake? This might be a first for him...]
Okay, okay... I like your energy, but you gotta calm down a bit! Just use one hand and grasp it gently with the person you're shaking with. Try to match their energy without overwhelming them.
[He'll extend his hand out again.]
... Now let's try that again.
no subject
[But she follows his lead and gently shakes his hand this time. The first handshake was done out of confusion, but this touch was more characteristic of her.]
It's nice to meet you... Ah. Well.
[She lets go, putting her hands behind her back.]
I'm Ai Thao Kha. Ai for short is fine.
no subject
[Hiro laughs a little as he returns her handshake with the same energy to match. Quietly, he notes that her hand was smaller than his... It made him feel a little self-conscious as he hopes his own hand wasn't too dirty from all that he's been doing today. Did one girl really contain that much power from earlier? It was definitely something to think about.]
... Ai, huh? [Hm... He goes quiet as if he's processing something.] I just met you and Ai love you~! ♥
[He can't resist puns if he sees them! With a rather breezy, if not, airheaded tone... Hiro just says that with a vacant smile on his face.]
1/2
no subject
R...Right. That's funny?
[MAYBE??]
Um. So, you're Kageyama-san then. Right. That's proper? Yes.
[Nodding mostly to herself.]
Do you have to be anywhere soon? I'll just be patrolling the city for the rest of the day.
no subject
Actually, I was planning on doing the same thing! There's probably some more people out there that we can help. Two sets of eyes will be better than one set!
[Not to mention...]
And I think your powers are gonna be a big help too. I'm a little jealous that I can't float in the air like you.
[Maybe he should practice using Force spells in a similar way? Zan was a small ball of wind, but that could be used in as a cushion if he ends up falling from a high place. Not to mention, he'd have to think about looking into summoning a demon with wings potentially... His survivalist brain cells were feeling really inspired right now!]
no subject
It's just what I'm born with. You seem to have a good rapport with your demon which is still commendable.
... If we're going to be doing the same thing, then maybe... Would you like to come along with me? I don't know the city layout as well.
no subject
[He's looking quite confident as he says this. Hiro was a firm believer of bonds transcending anything... Even forming friendships between different species. He's not naive enough to believe that most demons were going to become friends with humans, but he has seen that not all demons were bloodthirsty monsters. That was enough for him to summon them and use them to help him survive. In worst case scenario, he'd beat them to pulp until they listened... It worked out for him in the subway.
For a moment, him and Byakko exchange glances before Hiro walks over to hop onto the demonic tiger's back. Then he extends a hand out to Ai as an offer for her to climb on.]
Sure! Hop abroad the Byakko Express! [A beat.] And while I'm giving you a tour around, I can introduce you to the King of the Street too. The King is an ally to everyone even in harsh times like this.
no subject
[But Byakko does look extremely fluffy... Ai accepts Hiro's hand regardless and tries to settle in.]
I-I'll give this a try if... Byakko? If Byakko doesn't mind.
[also who...]
King of the Street? That's definitely the first I've heard of him.
no subject
Hehe... He says "It's cool, my girl. You ain't too short to ride!"
[Probably not word from word what Byakko said, but the intent was clear his enough.]
And if you're on the run, then it's better that you keep your head low then up!
[His quirky way of saying that she should be more discreet about her powers. He gives Byakko a pat and the tiger starts to walk forward down the street. He's not running at full speed out of consideration for Ai. He knows Hiro can handle it (even if he complains a little).]
He's got a specific smell that we should be looking out for. I definitely know it and Byakko has grown to know it. Our king should be hiding in one of the shopping districts nearby. [Hm? Was he really talking about a person?] If you want, you can keep an eye out for any stray demons that try to get the jump on us.
[Even if he's sounding relaxed, Hiro's still alert to everything in his own way. Byakko sniffs the ground before he starts picking up his pace. He's definitely locked onto a scent!]
no subject
She listens to Hiro's explanation, nodding along and holds on as Byakko picks up the pace.]
Um! Is this king a demon or something else? I just wanted to clarify.
[She'll keep an eye out for demons in the meanwhile, but it seems clear so far!]
no subject
[In the midst of his weird musing, Hiro vaguely answers her question. It's hard to say if he's being evasive on purpose or if he's seriously got his head in the clouds. Byakko turns around a corner and notices a older man running a takoyaki stand. There's a subtle sigh of relief from Hiro...
The stand looked a little busted at some angles, but it's clear that this guy has been hard at work with repairing it and keeping things in business. It just reminded Hiro that humans really were strong in times of crisis. Byakko's walk slows down as he approaches the stand and finally comes to a stop.]
Yooo, old timer! I'm glad you're still running shop. Plenty of people have probably asked for your services, huh?
Haha... It's been more than busy, Kageyama-kun! I see you're as energetic as ever. First you've found a tiger friend and now you've gained another friend? [A beat.] Or have you've been dating someone and haven't introduce her to me?
[As he hops off Byakko, Hiro starts to feel mischievous with what takoyaki man is thinking. Hmm...]
Yes. We've been going steady for five years now! Please come visit our wedding ceremony when we pass out the cards.
[Casually, he lifts up a victory sign with his fingers and his face carries an unflinching smile to boot. If there was an opening for comedy, he was going to take it!]