Thread: Dawn Of A New Era (Yuna & Frogger's 1x1)

Hitomi Fukuyama Riku Kotabe It was rare for women to take up the art of sword wielding...Riku knew that much. Men usually fought, brought food to the table...and provided for the family, while the women stayed at home, and took care of things there. A barbaric way of thinking, in her opinion...an old tradition, which gave women no opportunities...no chance at equality. Riku took a sip of her sake, using the moment to consider her words carefully. Not many know of her gift with swords...for she knew many would look at her with contempt or disdain upon knowing...but this stranger was but a wanderer, so it did not matter if he knew or not. I am well trained with the wakazashi and the katana...however, I find myself...partial to the Katate-uchi, or the Uchigatana. I grew up with these blades, and I must say... I probably will not be so familiar with any other. Hitomi tensed upon hearing, having not expected the conversation to revolve around swords. Her face pale, she kept her head down, and absently brought small morsels of food onto her plate. Appetite gone, she knew it would draw attention onto herself...and so, chose the lesser of the two evils. Arctic blue eyes lifted, gazing at the young man for a long moment before lowering. Usually, Riku could tell what a person is thinking, based upon what expression they wear -whether it be fake or otherwise-, but this man concealed his emotions well. Takeda Hitsuki was an ideal guest, polite, courteous...at least, on the surface he is. What thoughts lurk underneath the man's exterior however, was a mystery. It is...quite pleasing to hear such words coming from one such as you. Not many men would agree with you, that much is certain, or women, for that matter. Riku tasted a tiny piece of grilled meat...its flavor exploding on her tongue, leaving it tingling and wanting more. Of course, she gave no indication of how good it was, merely taking another bite before continuing on with the conversation. My mother did not want my sisters and I to be taught in the ways of the sword...yet my father thought it best if we learned how to defend ourselves. There was a tense silence following the words...mostly from Hitomis end, but that was to be expected. It was unnerving, hearing all this...especially from who it was speaking. Her dark golden eyes intent on her plate, merely playing with the food on it...it was difficult to find any appetite whatsoever, much less pretend. Shadows dancing along her features, keeping her hidden, at least from Rikus attention...she tried not to play too much with the food, or else give herself away. When Hitsuki mentioned her culinary skills...it was then that she finally lifted her eyes, curiosity and surprise obvious on the girls face. Was...that a compliment? Ive never received a compliment, about my food...or about anything I do. Its certainly nice Finding herself blushing, Hitomi quickly diverted her gaze from his, dropping it back onto the plate in front of her. Th-Thank you she managed to answer, the words a little breathless...not to mention there was still a note of surprise hidden among the words. Black strands of hair fell forward, concealing Hitomis eyes, and the pleasure she felt at his words. Riku shot her a glance, a long look following...one that was studying, critical even. It wasnt long before those icy blue eyes narrowed...which was a silent warning, in any case. Nothing had to be said...nor did a gesture have to be made. Of course, most of the time...none was required. Hitomi felt the cold stare, and immediately sat up straighter, her shoulders stiffening while she fought to breathe past the lump in her throat. I, ah I plan on bringing out takenoko gohanmiso soup, and tsukemono next Hitomi found herself saying, finally working up the nerve to say something. Takenoko gohan was just a fancy term for white rice, with bamboo shoots, and as for tsukemono it was a small assortment of pickled vegetables. What sort of vegetables, though...she has yet to decide. Perhaps a bit of takuan...and umeboshi? Riku didnt bother making a comment, and instead just sipped her sake yet again...using it as a distraction. It will only last for so long...but at least it is working. Light pink spreading along pale, porcelain skin, Hitomi realized that she must sound like a fool...and bit her lip, nibbling on the flesh. The soft, rosy pink gradually turning into a more rosy red, the girl couldnt figure out where to keep her gaze...much less what to say next. Of course, such confusion persuaded the blush to turn darker...to spread to unexplored territory. If you...If you like, I can also prepare us dessert perhaps sorbet...or fresh fruit? There is no need, Riku snapped, the words like a sharp knife. I am sure...this is more than plenty. You must not over-extend yourself If we require dessert, I believe we can take care of it ourselves. Hitomi immediately shut up, her jaw closing with an audible click, and a subdued look in her eyes. Her hands shaking, she quickly dropped her gaze back onto her plate. A faint smile playing along her lips, Riku tilted her head, black falling over her shoulder while she did so. I hope you...are enjoying the meal, Takeda Hitsuki. Here in a little while, Hitomi will go ahead and prepare your room for the night. Hitomi gave a silent nod to confirm the words, not even bothering to speak up.