You look, like, good and stuff

Summer 2021, Week 5

Tuesday midday

Sunrise Zoo, Museum District

Storyteller

It was the summer holidays so of course there were kids dragging around their parents from one exhibit to another. “Look mom! Monkeys!” One child would say trying to drag their mother one direction while their sibling would say “No let’s go see the lions!” This process repeated it’s way through the park. Tired parents, excited kids, bored teens.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

Aloy managed to make his way through the gates pretty quickly. He was coming in rather late with a bottle of water and looked like he had woken up about half an hour ago and lazily got dressed on an impulse visit to clear his head.   It wasn’t working.   It didn’t work as he looked at the gorilla’s or the alligators, or the snakes, monkeys or meercats. He kept reliving Sorin getting shot over and over. Until he made his way to a lion enclosure and stared at them with a weak smile. His black hair messily resting on his face. “I wonder how you guys cope with this stuff…like losing someone but they are still there….”  

Yūki Mizuki

While it was no doubt a time when all sorts of people might've had time off for such idle pursuits, it was above all the perfect time of year to take one's mind out of all the stress brought on by school. Substantial enough by itself, not to mention when combined with the underworld power struggles which left little room for concepts such as a summer break. That being said, any reprieve was more than welcome to Yūki.   As her casual clothing suggested, the occasion was a purely leisurely one. Having originally planned to spend a few hours with some of the friendlier faces from school, one had been forced to leave early due to some family emergency or another and the resr had agreed to reschedule. Not one to dismiss the opportunity altogether, Yūki had remained behind to check out the exhibits at her own pace. She preferred to take her time, after all.   Even if the big cats held here were almost closer to plushies than predators for the most part - or so it often seemed - watching them was still a fine way to pass the time, bringing a faint smile to her face as she leaned against a wall close to the enclosure. And the cubs were admittedly rather cute.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

Aloy was barely able to enjoy this moment of rest between nights of vigilantism. His brain whirled around the events of Bush hill and Rostand. His training with Victory.   Its weird for someone to be proud of me. Even weirder it’s him… Aloy scanned around where he was almost instinctually, he’d slowly been gaining more of those long term survival instincts or paranoia. It was too early to tell. Until he looked to a face with a faint smile, she seemed familiar. Aloy slowly made his way through recent people he had helped.   Nope. Not on that list? Maybe school? Oh yeah she’s Yūki! Huh didn’t know she liked the zoo. Then again I beat people up at night so I’m not really one to judge.  

Yūki Mizuki

Still oblivious to any of the people around her - well, as oblivious as someone in her line of work could reasonably get - she simply kept her eyes on the felines, some of them playing and others simply lazing about. Maybe it wasn't an interest she'd made apparent, but hardly anything out of the ordinary.   Breaking the monotony, she was briefly distracted by a couple of children running past her. As her gaze followed them, it went right over Aloy - without stopping, though it almost seemed like she was close to recognising him as well - and then right back to the enclosure. The changes he'd gone through during the summer had clearly been substantial to the outside observer.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

He was wearing rather loose clothing there were hints of where his face was less defined but it was quite a change. From 5’8 and skeletal to 6’5 and built like a bodybuilder.   Oh shit she’s looking at me. Uuuuuhhhhh is it her? What do I do if someone stares at me again? Punch? No wait that’s if they’ve got a weapon or are being a cunt….I’ve got it.   Aloysius awkwardly smiled and waved at Yūki quickly looking away and back into the lion inclosure. Yeah! That should be fine and save any awkwardness.  

Yūki Mizuki

She tried to relax and simply focus on what was ahead of her, but the feeling of being watched was getting distracting. Once again she took a quick glance at the tall man, using her power to get a good look without showing that she was staring back.   Why is that guy staring? Is he some rival thug, or just trying to hit on me? I would've noticed if he was following me... He looks so familiar but I don't even know anyone who looks like that. Oh well, better just find out. It's not like he can try anything in broad daylight. And don't think I won't stab you if you do.   Her expression had grown a bit more wary, but she likewise waved in his direction. Or was she just fixing her hair? He would have to find out for himself.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

He caught the movement in the side of his vision and quickly and as subtly as he could looked back over.   Wait is she staring? She knows I'm a vigilant- No you idiot maybe she I dunno is she waving? He awkwardly gave a goofy weak smile and waved again before slowly looking away and shaking his head. It was the first time he was having this awkward wave off with a random person.  

Yūki Mizuki

Now this is just getting ridiculous... Fine, I'll bite.   She rolled her eyes, then turned to actually look at him without any pretense of randomness - assuming she wasn't looking at someone behind him, which was quite unlikely given his height. She had clearly noticed and was now urging him to make his intentions clear with a questioning look and a nod. At least it wasn't a hostile gesture, though she didn't seem sure who he was or what he wanted.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

Okay Aloy this is ridiculous just ask if you know her. Simple as that. Wait that could been seen as a pickup line try and clarify as your do.   He awkwardly looked down at her before looking around. He was the only person that was 6’5 in sight. A hand raised to awkwardly scratch his neck. “Hey Uhm. Do…..Do I know you? Y-you kinda seem familiar uhm Yūki right? Or I could be totally wrong.”  

Yūki Mizuki

"Mm-hmm. Who's asking?" She responded with a nod to confirm his suspicions, but wasn't offering much more than that before she knew what this was about. Judging by the way she looked at him, she at least had her suspicions.   Sounds familiar, too... Someone from school? There's that one guy, but there's no way... Some relative, maybe?  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“You don’t kn- oh wait no fair, uhm Aloysius Fumi .” His voice had considerably deepened as he gestured to himself then to about 5’8. His hands had a few scars on them and upon closer inspection so did his face. Considering how much he fought at school and got beat down it seems appropriate.   “Always got a black eye. Lots of fighting super thin. Shoved that one jock into a garbage can, uh that help? Or maybe in this will. Don’t touch me or I’ll slam you into a locker?” the last part wasn’t said as a threat more a general quote that almost the entire school had heard at this point.  

Yūki Mizuki

She seemed quite skeptical, but the details aside of his appearance seemed to match well enough when she thought of it. And if nothing else, it did catch her attention enough for her to give him the benefit of the doubt for a moment.   "No way, you're kidding... So puberty finally hit you, huh?" She retorted as a friendly jab to at least not seem too taken aback. "Seriously though, what the hell? You looked nothing like that a couple of months ago."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Well uh it hit me and I hit back harder I guess.” He shrugged his broad shoulders raising and lowering casually as he looked to her with a bit more attention.   “Oh well I Uhm fasted and went on a diet, s-started going to the gym I-instead of uh just MMA. Kinda focused and stuff. B-but I mean uh look at you . You look like good and stuff. Guess summers been good to both of us huh?”  

Yūki Mizuki

I'd like to see you try to hit me back... Whatever hormones or steroids you're using, muscle only helps so much.   She gave a small smile at her thoughts as she listened. It was rather obvious that she wasn't buying his explanation, but let the issue rest for the time being.   "Thanks, I guess. You too. Having some time to relax never hurts, but what are you up to here?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

She isn’t buying it double down. Should I say I take steroids? What no that’s not cool dipshit don’t say photosynthesis again you don’t know what that means.   “Yeah I took some weird pre-workout that helped bulk felt like ants. It was weird. Oh Uhm I’m just here to take a lil break. Clear my head.” With a smile Aloy looked around and his head followed a child that was sprinting past and screaming “Monkeys now monkeys now!”   “Well I didn’t think there’d be so many kids and stuff, but y’know need something to uh do between volunteering and uh trying to help a friend seemed like a uh nice break.”   Pfft yeah right me and a break. What even is that.   He wasn’t lying when he talked about a friend but to Yūki hearing Aloy have a friend probably felt like he was trying to make a joke. He was rather antisocial.  

Yūki Mizuki

She gave a slow nod at his explanation, not quite sure whether it was the truth, a lie, simply a joke or some strange mixture of all three. She wasn't entirely sure she even wanted to know, but fortunately it was no concern of hers.   "I'm not so sure you should take anything that you can best describe as something weird... But you do you. It's only doping if you get caught, right?" She joked to try and ease his apparent nervousness. "Fair enough, nothing wrong with a bit variety. Sounds like you've been busy, too."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Well I wasn’t doping up it was to help me with like proteins and stuff build muscle. It’s just a thing in the body makes it itchy I think we’ll that or I’m allergic..,”   Aloy awkwardly chuckled and shrugged. “Well yeah I’ve been pretty busy. Uhm what about you what have you been up to? I’m sure you’ve been hanging out with friends and stuff.”  

Yūki Mizuki

Just drop it already, every excuse is only making it worse...   "Yeah, I was supposed to see some friends here but there was a change in plans. Already paid the fee so might as well have a look around, though. Still, having more time on my hands is mostly an excuse for my family to have me slave away even more than usual. I almost can't wait to be back at school."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

I am a horrible liar. God I suck at this.   “oh well that sucks but hey what can you do besides enjoy what you can? You can like join me if you want. I was gonna move to another spot though, I kinda just got here so I’ve still gotta see everything.”   He awkwardly chuckled and looked at a nearby pole that gave directions around the zoo. “No pressure or anything so uh feel like you have to y’know?”  

Yūki Mizuki

She considered the offer for a moment, then gave a shrug and a hint of a smile. "Might as well, I suppose. Just don't go inspiring any rumors, I doubt people would expect to see you with someone for no good reason. No offense. Then again, I guess others might not recognise you either, huh?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

He gave a weak smile and shrugged. “None taken. I don’t really care about what people say. If they say anything I’ll deal with it, but they probably won’t notice me besides the summer school kids. So where do you wanna go first?”  

Yūki Mizuki

"As long 'dealing with it' doesn't mean punching it... Not the best way to avoid attention." She joked and stretched for a bit after standing still for such a lengthy while. "Let's see... I've mostly been right around here, though I did take a look at some of the other outdoor enclosures. The reptile house, maybe?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“What? C’mon how else am I meant to deal with issues? If I can punch it it works usually…sometimes…mostly.” He smiled at his own joke and nodded at the idea.   “Yeah sure, I’m down for that. Though after I might need to grab lunch. I’m super hungry and stuff.” He began to walk in the general direction of the reptile house resting his hands in his pockets.  

Yūki Mizuki

"Alright, just let me know when. I could use a bit of company, I suppose." She hurried to keep up with his far longer paces; using her power for anything more than observation here was out of the question. "Do you have any plans for the rest of the day. Just figuring out whether we're in any hurry."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Will do. You can just leave me whenever you want.” He shrugged and slowed down his stride a bit. He was still getting used to the fact is was more then a foot taller then some people as they walked their way to the reptile house.   “Nah no hurry. I mean I’ve gotta do some stuff to my car and got volunteering tonight but those can wait til later. How bout you?”  

Yūki Mizuki

"I'm sure my parents might come up with some odd job if I show up early, but I don't have an actual shift or anything like that. Not before the evening, at least, so I have time." She occasionally took a moment to check out whatever they happened to pass by on their way to their destination, but mostly kept to a reasonable pace. "What kind of volunteering do you do, exactly? I'm not sure I've heard that one before."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“guess that’s another reason to hang out with me and avoid chores. So you uh work with your parents?” Aloy smiled and shrugged looking at a few animals as they passed. “I do Uhm general help in the churches, their soup kitchens when I can, and the orphanage in Henry. They’re all good work even if I’m not religious.”  

Yūki Mizuki

"I suppose it's good to help where you can if you have the time. Probably better than the street crime everyone thinks you're part of, if a bit less exciting." She commented somewhat humorously. The more casually she spoke of the topic, the easier it was to keep her own connections implausible.   "Yeah, they're happy to have reliable help, and it's a convenient arrangement for me as well. Plus we don't know who'll eventually take over the business so that's another reason for me and my siblings get familiar with it."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“I never said I didn’t do street crime.” Aloy pulled a serious expression as he maintained eye contact with Yūki before he collapsed in with a chuckle after a few seconds of silence. “I’m kidding. I heard your parents run a business, is that what you wanna do or do you wanna do something else? I know how parents and expectations can be.” They had finally made their way to the entrance of the reptile house.  

Yūki Mizuki

The way she looked at him might've seemed strangely serious for the situation and while her chuckle sounded natural enough, it was also somewhat delayed. "I suppose I'm keeping my options open, but at least it's a good way to make a living until I'm done with studying... Even if it's pretty demanding at times. Wouldn't really mind a bit of a change though, at least for the sake of knowing what it's like."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

Okay that’s a serious stare….did I fuck up? Does she know I’m a vigilante? Aloy stop being an idiot and always presuming that. Maybe she does street crime, wait then I could have beaten her up oh man now I feel bad. But she’s not arrested so no I haven’t! Unless she was that knight in armour but she isn’t tall enough for that.   The thoughts racked and raced through his mind as he slowly entered the reptile house looking at the nearest snake and smiling.   “Well it’s always good to keep your options open and money is never bad but y’know. Change is also good sometimes. If you want I can talk to Tobias and you can help me at the orphanage see if you like it, or just y’know I know an MMA chick before I quit if that’s more your speed or whatever.”   Aloy shrugged before looking back over. “So what kinda work does your parents have you do? I mean I haven’t seen my parents in a while so I dunno if chores are normally paid for or something.”  

Yūki Mizuki

It's not that I wouldn't be able to fight well, but I doubt I'd manage to avoid cheating... Hard to let someone punch you in the face when you know you could easily avoid it.   "I'm not sure I like the idea of potentially getting my ass kicked even if it pays well, though being able to defend yourself is always good. I know a thing or two, but it'd definitely take some training. My schedule can be a bit wonky, but we can think about those offers later."   She responded with a shrug, also observing the serpents with much interest.   "It's mostly centered around cuisine with other stuff on the side, so the main place is basically a restaurant. A bit on the fancy side, but worth a visit if you behave yourself."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Fair enough guess not everyone finds getting hit every day. The pay isn’t that good when you’re allowed to do matches at our age. Need to get a parental consent form which is annoying.”   Aloy was casually reading about them. Not that he understood what a single word meant. He stopped caring what they meant after the Latin terms.   “Eh I’m not too into fancy. I eat too much for a nice restaurant. Though it would be a nice break from instant ramen and fast food. Since I’ve stopped bulking since I’m at where I want to be body wise…..so do you like snakes?”  

Yūki Mizuki

She gave another nod of acknowledgement as she peered into one of the terrariums. "In a way, yeah... There's something interesting about the mixture of calmness and danger... Though I do like animals in general. I only have a cat at home, so it's nice seeing all the different sorts."   She took a moment to locate one of the particularly well camouflaged specimens before turning back to him. "Speaking of families, what do yours think about your interest in fighting, whether as a hobby or a career?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

Sounds like me during a fight. Not Henry though. Or Rostand. More when I broke up that ring in bush hill.   “Always wanted a cat or a dog. Never could afford one though. That or my parents didn’t want one. It’s nice to know you like animals I mean they are pretty fun and stuff. Less destructive then the cats I like.”   When asked about that he awkwardly closed his body language off a bit and rubbed his neck. “Oh well…I don’t uh really keep in touch with my parents that much. God knows where my dad is and my mother moved into an apartment for work so I’ve been alone for a while. Last time she made an appearance was when they were threatening to suspend me for fighting.”  

Yūki Mizuki

"Oh, right. Sorry about that. Guess I'll take that as 'none too thrilled'." She responded, sounding sympathetic enough but not letting the tone of conversation deterioriate. "Still, I guess it won't be too long before you'll be able to go ahead with those plans anyway? Assuming you want to?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Rather not be associated with a money hungry bigot anyway, she doesn’t really care what I do.” Probably just waiting for me to give up on everything.   “Uh I dunno. I mean I was planning to try and get my way into like the UFC and stuff but I dunno turns out I’m a pretty decent car mechanic might do something about that. Don’t really know. What about you? Going into anything with animals?”  

Yūki Mizuki

...Is he just curious, or is he trying to deflect the question?   "I haven't really thought about the specifics as much as I probably should've... Then again I suppose it doesn't have to be so urgent for me when I always have a backup job ready. And wouldn't my parents be just so glad if I stayed around with nothing else to focus on...   "I could probably manage with further studies if I had the time for it, so it's really a matter of making arrangements. Once I figure out what interests me, anyway."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Well I would normally say don’t worry we’ve got plenty of time but end of summers approaching next thing ya know it’s the school dance then exams then we’re done. But y’know no pressure.” Another small awkward chuckled emerged from his throat as he looked to another thing.   “I’m sure you’ve got plenty of time in like summer and stuff, what do you like? Or maybe just more familiar stuff would be better I dunno I don’t have a job.”  

Yūki Mizuki

"I know, I know... It's never so simple with such big choices, especially with all the personal circumstances to consider, but I'll make up my mind in time." While there might've been a hint of annoyance in her voice, it didn't seem to be directed at him. "And how have studies in general been on your end? Got any high ambitions, or just looking to make it through?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“I’ll drop it but yeah the things that are worth it are never easy.” His words rung even truer to himself. No one else was going to say it to him so he had to.   “Oh me well I’m trying to just not fail, trying to get at least a passing grade but I’m not too hopeful. Probably just work some stupid job I hate for the rest of my life.”  

Yūki Mizuki

She gave a shrug at his words, being in no good position to disclose any specifics, then steered the topic further away. "Come now, a career in martial arts could bring fame and fortune as long as you don't have to retire too early... After making a name for yourself there, you could always become a discount movie star or something." She joked in order to further bury the reference to her own possible issues. "Anyway, how good of a fighter are you actually?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Yeah no thanks. I dunno if I wanna keep doing martial arts. If I try and make a profit off of it I’ll probably end up hating it however I’ll take a shitty b-grade action movie star. I mean imagine how many copies of Sharknado 42 this face would sell.”   He gestured to his face with a very forced very fake smile plastered across it. “I’m good. Sure I lost a few times at school but I was always outnumbered, eh anyway that’s probably ego talking and I’m probably trash.”  

Yūki Mizuki

She rolled her eyes at the remark but was clearly amused enough. "I hear you always put up an impressive fight before, so I can only imagine how much better you could be now with all that extra muscle. Unless the higher weight class and whatnot is more trouble than it's worth, I wouldn't know."   She gave another shrug as she gave more consideration to the thought. "It's interesting to think about, even if I've never really considered that kind of a lifestyle. I guess a regular life is too dull for fights like that to really be a factor."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Say that to the dipshit I shoved into a locker and a trashcan.” Aloy mumbled under his breath to himself before looking over again.   “Well the extra muscle helps me win fights quicker and do more drops just means I’m on level with the people I’m fighting now. When I was thinner it was unfair.”   “It’d get monotonous. Sure every fight is different but at one point you’ve seen it all. Reached the top of your game only way to go is down. I dunno what I’m gonna do but I’ll just improvise.”  

Yūki Mizuki

"Then again, isn't that the case with every career when you think about it? Except most of the time reaching the top isn't realistic to begin with." She challenged his interpretation with a hint of a smile.   "It's fine to do what you enjoy, of course, but doing what you do best is always worth considering. Not that I know what that's for you, but I guess we all know what you're known for best."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Maybe you’re right on that front. Maybe no matter what I do I’ll hate it but whatever I do end up doing. I’m gonna get up to the top. Hey! Just Cus I fight a lot doesn’t mean I’m the best or I enjoy it…..I mean I do….and I am but that’s besides the point!”  

Yūki Mizuki

"Just thinking out loud here..." She responded with an innocent look and another shrug. "Still, I imagine there's a bunch of jobs where skills like that come in handy, not just fighting for fighting's sake." Like cops, guards, soldiers... Yeah, don't encourage him.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

I suck at fighting I lost so badly at Henry. I lost to Victory. Hell I almost lost to some random dude with gravity powers. “Well I mean yeah probably but I dunno if I wanna fight my whole life. I definitely don’t wanna y’know become a soldier for a corrupt system that hurts people for being different so many I’ll try being a club bouncer or something maybe an instructor I dunno Yūki. Hell I could just go to Japan and see if that gives me a spiritual awakening as I explore abroad!” There was a heavy lacing of sarcasm on the end of his comment as he shrugged.  

Yūki Mizuki

Guess I'll count that as a disaster averted. "If some people look at you weirdly here, then over there... Well, maybe I'd better not crush your dreams." She joked before reassuming a more serious tone.   "Fair enough, better have a long term plan unless you're sure you can afford to keep the career short. Not that it's really something we should be worrying about. But hey, at least you have some options for odd jobs, right?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

"Well they'd probably treat me the same. Not good enough here. Not good enough there. Yeah I guess. I'm sure I'll manage just be nice to have more options to choose from and stuff..."  

Yūki Mizuki

"True, better safe than sorry. Never hurts to have a backup plan or two in times like these." She turned her attention to some skinks, occasionally glancing at him. "Speaking of which... Not to make this all political, but what do you think about the way things have been going in the city lately?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“I guess but it’s not like it’ll matter I think.” He shrugged and looked back before giving a sigh at the new question.   “It’s a fuckin’ mess is my opinion. Evo’s just wanna he treated like people but as per usual people are scared. AERI failing their first fight, then rumours spreading they are taking credit for work they didn’t do. It’s a mess, I feel it’s gonna get worse and people are gonna give the useless EHEA more power then they need.”  

Yūki Mizuki

"Yeah, the bigwigs might be biting a bit more than they can chew. Doesn't really seem like all those formal organisations are making much of a difference in the end, whether they're for evos against them. And welcoming all of them here before they have public support or even an actual policy on how to deal with them... It's a powderkeg." She explained, seemingly lost in thought staring at the lizards. "Not that I'm personally opposed, I just don't really see much point in making a fuss about it either way."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Mayor really jumped the gun and since when could the government here do anything right anyway. We’re one spark away from exploding into a bad case of civil war and blood bolt lit the fuse.” Aloy looked over to her with a soft smile.   “Uhm yeah same. I don’t really care if people are evo’s or not. Unless I’m fighting them in the ring because then it’s kind of unfair y’know?”  

Yūki Mizuki

Probably should've thought about that before getting involved with whatever gave you that growth spurt, no? She raised an eyebrow at his insight but didn't comment on the discrepancy. "Things aren't even that bad yet. The city could get much, much worse, and it very well might. Guess it'll be interesting until to see how things turn out."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

Arent even that bad yet? Our cities golden boy almost fucking died. I had to try and resuscitate him. I watched peoples heads explode, I broke bones, watched my friend get shot, saved evo’s…..but wait she wasn’t there for that. No one was. Guess it isn’t as bad from other perspectives. God I’m going to be broken someday arent I?   “Yeah I guess but, just hoped it wouldn’t. Not anything I can really do about it except support those I care about. What do you think about how this stuff going on?”  

Yūki Mizuki

"Doubt there's anything most of us can do about these things. Better just keep our heads down and see what happens, as hard as it may be for you." She responded, taking advantage of the unintetional pun.   "As for me, I'm not really sure. There's always going to be some chaos behind the scenes, but that Blood Bolt doesn't really seem to know what he's after. Sooner or later he'll annoy someone too powerful and that'll be the end of it. The bigger issue is how others react to all of this."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

Oh you’d be suprised Yūki I’ve done plenty to try and help everyone.   “Okay that’s a bit much I can’t keep my head down look at me I’m a walking street post just waiting for a bad cover band to staple a flyer on me.” Aloy chuckled a bit as they both slowly made their way through the rest of the reptile house.   “He’s in prison already. EHEA grabbed him. He wanted chaos I think. I also think he’s done a good job. Everyone is going to overreact each other. Just hope it isn’t as bad as it can be.”  

Yūki Mizuki

"You never know whether that really was the end when it comes to people like him. Point is, he was a small fry in the grand scheme of things, and people know that." She stated somewhat somberly. Clearly she'd given it some thought. "Anyway, where to next?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“It won’t be. I’ve been told enough about comics by people I’ve helped with bullies. The first villain always makes a return. Normally I wouldn’t listen to them but I mean. We live in a world where people can summon lightning, fly, carry tonnes, Deflect bullets so comics seem to be the best source but I think you’re right. Though I have no clue who would work with him.” Aloy shrugged and looked around. He’d clearly thought about it too.   “Uhh I dunno. You eaten today? I kinda have. If you count y’know a mouthful of count chocula.” Mixed with milk. Never forget the milk.  

Yūki Mizuki

"I haven't had lunch yet if that's what you're asking. Feel free to pick a place you like, I'm sure there'll at least be something different from home." As they exited the building, she eyed some of the larger animals outside.   "Life isn't some comic book story... But I wouldn't be surprised if some people did want to work with him, at least if he grows up a little. No point in working with someone who respects no one, no point in working for someone like that if they're losing to others. Or something like that."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

"Well, if you're hungry I'm down to grab stuff but I usually eat crappy fast food." He shrugged nonchalantly as he looked around. The zoo probably had somewhere to eat.   "I dunno. Maybe they were using him for just the chaos? Like a fake punch to hide the real move."  

Yūki Mizuki

"Any place is fine, really. Even if I'm used to pretty high quality, that doesn't mean I won't touch anything that's 'below my standards'." She said encouragingly. I hope this isn't a mistake...   "Well, can't say I know what that real move would be then. Still, no point in being paranoid as long as we're prepared."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Well. Are the tickets still good for re-entry, I think there’s a Mickey D’s down the road. It’ll taste bad but it’s quick easy and cheap." Well misdirection. Easier to hit it people suspect it from somewhere else.   “We aren’t is the issue. Not as well as we could be but let’s drop that for now.Probably just gonna make it worse.”  

Yūki Mizuki

"Yeah, not much point in worrying about something that's beyond our control. As fun as it is to complain about the system from time to time." She accepted with a sly smile. "Could be worse, I suppose. At least there's quantity, I'll see if there's any quality hidden inbetween."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“It’s been handed down every generation why should we stop complaining about adults right?” He shrugged and started walking towards the exit spinning his car keys in his hand.   “There isn’t. Trust me. You wanna walk it or do you want to go in my car?” Aloy didn’t want to make her uncomfortable and he thought he was doing a good job so far. It was safer for him to directly ask what she felt comfortable with instead of him assuming.  

Yūki Mizuki

It was hard to tell whether there was suspicion in her glance, but she didn't object. "If it's faster than walking, why not. As long as it's in decent condition, anyway." He doesn't have it in him to try anything... And even if he did, he'd be missing fingers before anything came of it.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Well. It’s faster then walking and I mean. It’s clean and I care about it alot. Just has one minor engine issue I’m fixing besides that she’s as good as new.” Cool cool. She’s comfortable enough to hop into your car that’s good! I think. Wait did I clear out the trash? Yeah I did. I do every day. Oh wait but I do have the baseball bat in the boot for self defence oh but you can really see the boot.   He walked towards a black 1987 C4 corvette. An older car that was in surprisingly good condition considering it was in a shed for years and he had done most of the work to make it pretty in his garage with YouTube as his helper. “Whatcha think? She’s gorgeous isn’t she?”  

Yūki Mizuki

The way she looked at the car made it rather clear that she had little no expertise in the field, but she seemed to at least find it pleasant enough aesthetically. So he's one of these guys. Next he'll tell me 'her' name or something. "Looks like you've kept it in pretty good shape, at least. I assume it was used, but have you had to do much work on it?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

Aloy had in fact not named it. He felt that was a bit to weird. There were a few spots he had to add new crime or rubber too.   “Oh yeah. It was a mess to fix her. Needed new spark plugs, a full interior clean, the last owner somehow broke the intake manifold and that needed replacing. New tires I’m trying to salvage as much of the original car as I can. The interior needed the deepest clean to get the cigarette smell and other stuff out, this is what I spent the other half of my summer doing if I wasn’t working out. Now she’s mostly just general maintenance thank god I took that shop class and had the internet.” He smiled and made his way over unlocking the car and opening the passenger door to pull the toolbox from that seat and move it to the boot leaving the door open in a half assed act of being nice. “Gotta keep the tools close and stuff.”  

Yūki Mizuki

It was a 'yes or no' question, you know...? Well, can't complain, I suppose.   She rolled her eyes at the gesture but gave a nod in thanks, then deftly slipped into the seat. Already she was scanning the interior for any extra hints regarding the car's owner. "I see... Must've been a lot of work. So you only just got it this summer?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“A week or so before actually.” Aloy closed the boot and entered in the drivers seat. The interior told that the car was his but it didn’t seem to have a chance to make it ‘his own.’ There was an air freshener that gave a calm smell of vanilla into the car, a small bobble head on the dash that was reminiscent of a mechanic wearing a welding mask. It seemed empty like he only really decorated it for other people and not himself.   “It’s not much at the moment but she’s mine y’know.” He out the seatbelt on and once Yūki had hers on made his way out of the parking lot. His control over the acceleration was smooth same over the breaks and the shifting of gears even the small drift he pulled to get onto the road felt like it was something he had been doing often.   “Oh and there’s a cord for your phone if you wanna do music.” There was also a blank Polaroid frame in the sun visor that read “Ur mom.” in sharpie is Yūki looked at it.  

Yūki Mizuki

Oh, great. Juvenile humor, my favourite... said no one ever. "It's fine, thanks. Have you been driving with it much yet, or still ironing it out first?" She continued the small talk while giving a strange look at the decorations. Maybe it was best to just let it be.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

I don’t care if she brings up the photo I drew on. It’s funny and I’ll die on this hill if I have too. “Oh yeah nearly every day. I’m always needing to go somewhere, do something. I’ve gotten used to it’s style, I still need to figure out what else is wrong with the engine but besides that I’m fine.” He confidently shifted lanes and plugged his phone into the car and the speakers began to play a “Witches” by Good kid. A pretty safe song choice.  

Yūki Mizuki

She nodded and shifted to a more casual position as she tapped her finger against the edge of her seat. Maybe it was a decent sign of approval. "Guess I'll just have to take your word that it's not going to blow up. Is it the first one you've fixed?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Kind of. Like we work on cars in shop class all the time but it’s not the same as at home. I’ve fixed cars before it but I’ve always had a teacher or other people around. This is my first solo work.” He tapped his finger on the steering wheel to the beat. “So we doing drive thru or walk in?”  

Yūki Mizuki

She nodded in acknowledgement and took out her phone to see if she could find anything tolerable on the menu. "Your call, I suppose. I can keep things clean so no need to worry about the car if that's what you're thinking. Yeah, it's probably best to take the food out anyhow."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Well. You don’t want rumours so drive thru it is, I wouldn’t want people to talk about the Lowly social peasant Aloy getting lunch with the important formal Yūki-Dono.” The last comment was laced with sarcasm so thick you could taste it as he pulled closer to the place thinking quickly about what he wasn’t going to order. “I don’t care if it gets dirty. I’ll clean it.”  

Yūki Mizuki

"Very funny, Aroyishiyusu-kun." The way she made every possible effort to butcher his name clearly evidenced that she found the remark at least somewhat amusing. Soon enough she settled on a chicken sandwich meal, then allowed him to sort out the orders.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Awh thanks. If you think it’s funny I could become the driest comedian on the planet.” He chuckled, turned the music down and stared his order. It was the meal with the most amount of calories, largest fries, a large slushie and nuggets plus her meal he paid for it and looked over to her. “What? When I fasted I missed out on eating A lot and now while I can I will.”  

Yūki Mizuki

Her expression did confirm that she found his choice somewhat baffling. Either it's a one-off thing or he somehow works out enough to use it up... He'd better not be trying to grow even further than that, at least. "I'm not sure that's how it works... But you do you. Planning to park somewhere in particular?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Well. Muscle mass is harder to keep them to loose. I have to eat so many calories a day or I lose it in energy and this helps boost me up to what I need in my intake. I didn’t really plan to park anywhere I was just gotta go back to the zoo and keep doing our trip.”  

Yūki Mizuki

I guess he has a point. Bodybuilders and their problems, huh. "Sounds good, you're the one behind the steering wheel. Right, remind me to pay you back once we have that sorted out." As promised, she made no mess and handled the food more delicately than it probably deserved. Apparently she'd been raised with proper etiquette.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

"Eh it's fine I've got a bit saved up." Aloy shoved some nuggets into his mouth beginning the drive back to the zoo. Huh this was kind of fun. Maybe I should stop with the walls...I mean hanging out with Clyde is fun too but....  

Yūki Mizuki

"I'd rather not owe any favors..." She protested half-heartedly but decided not to press the matter for now. It wasn't really worth arguing, anyway. "So... Do you often drive around with people like this, or am I special somehow?" She jokingly shifted the topic, glancing outside before focusing on the food.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“well you’re not making a mess so you’ve done the favour.” More good jammed into his mouth the nuggets at this point were almost gone as he slowly worked a burger open with one hand. “I’ve done it with a friend once or twice. Not that you’d know them since they’re new. You’re one of few who’ve gotten the luxury.”  

Yūki Mizuki

"Good for me, I suppose. At least it's not too awkward this way." She gave a shifty glance at his eating habits but once again made no comment. Maybe it was more a matter of simple observation than disapproval. "Still, it sounds like you've changed in more ways than one this summer, pretty radically too. Or maybe I just never really heard about it before."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Yeah. It’s all good. Saved me half an hour at the end of the day.” He shrugged still rushing the burger into his mouth he looked like he hadn’t eaten in years with how he ate. It was a habit he’d recently developed trying to get through as much food as possible given his healing and strength ruined his metabolism. “Heh. Well you only saw one angry destructive side of the story. I ain’t normally this chatty but you caught me trying to be less….Aloy.”  

Yūki Mizuki

What a strange public mask. I wonder what the reason is? Nothing like mine, that's safe to say. "Yeah, I doubt I would've stayed to talk if I'd walked into some fight you'd ended up in. Maybe you should try the talking approach more often. Usually ends up causing less trouble." It was hard to tell whether she was being sarcastic or not, but at least her point seemed valid enough.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Hey’ I only fight people who deserve it. Bullies, assholes, people who use power over others to harm people. If they happen to try and use it on someone I know or me they get them same result.” Another shrug trying to play off it as something that he casually did almost as casually as the burger being jammed into his mouth. There was somthing off with his eyes about it though. More of a calm seriousness. It was in his nature to do this.  

Yūki Mizuki

"Sending a message that way is all well and good if they actually listen. Even if they're assholes, doesn't mean they can all be persuaded with the same means." She commented half-seriously, but seemed to catch on to his expression. After a brief pause she took a more joking tone. "Besides, how do you define one? Just someone who disagrees with you?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“It usually works, if it doesn’t I just double down. That usually works. I’ve gotten no complaints…..okay well maybe a few…..mainly the people I fought……and their parents…….and the principle……besides that none.” The burger was finished and fries were now being jammed into his mouth as he looked over. “I….I just know. People can disagree with me I don’t care, unless they are actively being y’know harmful.”  

Yūki Mizuki

"The problem with sending a message that way is that everyone knows who did it, some won't like it and a rare few might even do something about it." Her approach to a topic like this seemed quite casual, though whether she just found his attitude amusing or knew more than she showed was unclear. "And a double negative makes a positive?" She challenged him before dismissing the point with a wave of her hand. "I have no issue with that. You can't solve all problems by being nice, everyone learns that sooner or later." Even if it's too late.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“They can come at me for all I care, not like I’m popular, sure my suddenly good looks might help that but eh.” He chuckled and awkwardly shrugged before giving her a look that said obviously about the negatives. “Uh I think maths says that. So yes a bully plus my fist equals positive…..I think I’m failing maths.” There was humour in that comment like he was trying to make someone laugh but failing miserably.   “Never had a problem where being nice was the solution.” Holding back sure. Not ripping that asshole who shot Sorin limb from limb and making his skull an art piece by Picasso. But not nice.  

Yūki Mizuki

She was about to make some snarky comment, but ultimately hesitated. Maybe it wasn't a good idea to poke at what might very well be a sensitive spot. "I've been trying to steer clear from those incidents so I don't rightly know what the long term results have been. But who knows, maybe you've managed to knock some sense into a few of them." At least she wasn't complaining about his logic, even if he wasn't necessarily presenting it in the most convincing way.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“I get a few returns but y’know not as many as it could be so I consider it a success. I guess.” He shrugged again it felt like so long since he won a fight and didn’t collapse in a pile of exhaustion and broken bones when he got home.   “So why did you decide to hang out with me today, just coincidence or did you wanna give the angry kid a chance to not be angry or what?”  

Yūki Mizuki

She gave a shrug and sipped on her drink to give herself some time to think. "I mean, you sneaking up on me was a coincidence as far as I'm concerned. Sure, I didn't have any other plans so I had no reason to say no, though I guess I was also curious to see if you're as bad as they say. Especially with your transformation and all."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Me sneaking up on you? You snuck up on me. I mean look at me I do not scream sneaky. Handsome? Maybe. Tall? certainly but not sneaky.” He chuckled a bit and looked over his tone a bit more serious.   “And am I? As bad as they say?”  

Yūki Mizuki

"Well, people tend to exaggerate in good and bad, and they don't exactly praise you. At least you're not unremarkable." She joked, then also continued somewhat more seriously. "Don't worry about that, Aloy. You're all right." Perhaps not high praise in itself, but she seemed reserved when it came to more extreme statements. And most importantly the statement seemed sincere.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

"Huh. Well I guess I got what I was going for then." He chuckled and looked over finishing his food. "huh even got an All right. You ain't half bad yourself Yūki, Hell you might even be nice to be around. Don't let it go to your head."  

Yūki Mizuki

"No need to stroke my ego, I have friends for that already." She joked in the usual tone, but seemed pleased by the notion.   "What you were going for, huh. I'm not sure you ever mentioned what exactly it was. Probably not just practice for pickup artistry if I had to guess."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“oh so you want the opposite?” He joked back shrugging at the question.   “If I was trying to pick you up for a date you’d either have slapped me or we’d have a date scheduled. I don’t see either of those. Do you? And I’m going for just. Fine. Not amazing or great. Just okay.”  

Yūki Mizuki

Slapped or stabbed, either or. "Nah, best not to push your luck. Good thing you didn't, 'do I know you from somewhere' is probably one of those things that never actually."   Soon enough, she was more or less done with the food as well. "Still, maybe it was just a coincidence that you spotted me, and you wanted to make an impression. Maybe everyone doesn't need a reason for something like that, but it seems a little out of character here, you know. Not that it's a bad thing, but still."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“I’m sure it’s worked in someone at least one time right? Otherwise no one would use it.”   He shrugged as they pulled over back at the zoo. “It was a coincidence I saw you. I’m trying to be more….what’s the word….hospitable? Why you wanna know the reasons. It ain’t impossible for people to try and be nice without any motive.”  

Yūki Mizuki

Maybe it's true... for simple people in simple times. "Fair enough, I'm not saying there needs to be a reason. Just that it's not the way I've seen you act before, and I'm wondering what's changed. Maybe it's just personal growth, nothing wrong with that."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Well that’s because I usually show what I want you to think, clearly it’s worked at least a bit.” He smiled looking over with a confident smile. “I’m more then anger. Just like I know that you’re more then a girl that keeps to her friend circle.”  

Yūki Mizuki

Better not get more nosy than what's good for you... Why does something feel off here? "Sure, there's more to anyone than what a stranger can see. But I probably won't be the only one to ask about these mixed signals compared to before. If you're not careful, some will think you're just trying to lull them to a false sense of security." She added as a joke to see if it'd get a more telling response out of him.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

He simply responded to that with a shrug before getting out of the car. “It’s either bold or odd of you to assume I’m that smart. Because I’m not.” He chuckled awkwardly. His intelligence was always an insecurity but laughing it off always seemed to make it better.   “You hear about that fight in Rostand a while ago? Pretty insane how evo activity jumped up.”  

Yūki Mizuki

Kind of a strange thing to bring up all of a sudden, but okay. Is he just trying to change the topic? "Uh... Yeah? Though I don't really know the specifics that well." She followed him out and gave him a questioning look. "What about that?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Oh I know the specifics somewhat well. At least as far as the cops know. Victory showed up so did inferno. One was arrested the other evo made it away. I uh know Cus my friend got shot during it.” He casually flossed over that fact continuing to speak with a shrug. “I just think it’s weird this summer that suddenly evo crimes and activity jump up. Then again we have been declared a safe haven for evo’s.”  

Yūki Mizuki

Well, at least that's a reason to be interested if he's not lying. And why would he, right? "Yeah, I don't really know the legal side of it but I guess they expect to get away with it more easily or something. Or is this some conspiracy theory?"   Right, a bit of sympathy. Got it. "Sorry about your friend. Did they make it through?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“They’ll live. It’s whatever.” It was not whatever. It was something that ate away at his very being but the casual tone and shrugs would perfectly hide that. At least to someone like Yūki who didn’t know him as well as others.   “Well. I think one is getting arrested for assault with intent to harm and the other has disappeared. I don’t think they’d get away any easier and I’m not a conspiracy nut but you gotta admit it’s weird. Didn’t happen last summer. Why the sudden uptick?”  

Yūki Mizuki

Well, guess the friend will be all right. Probably someone I don't know, anyway. "Could also be that it hasn't scaled up as much as you'd think based on the news, but it gets reported more than before. Crime's always happening but most of it isn't newsworthy."   She gave a shrug, not really one to needlessly speculate. "Still, I guess there didn't use to be incidents quite that big. Any theories?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Maybe it’s just the monopolised media using its power to fearmonger us into voting against evo’s again but I dunno. Just giving me weird vibes.” Aloy shook his head softly to help remove that feeling.   “I dunno could always be the government trying to make a war on evo’s or EHEA trying for another power grab or a crime lord realising man. Having people who can fly is good for business,”  

Yūki Mizuki

"Who knows? Could be anything, though it'd be a little weird if they were willing to watch one of their biggest cities burn just to have an excuse to crack down on people they have issues with. Like, come on, even the nazis didn't go that far. Then again I guess they didn't need such good excuses back then." She said with a shrug. A bit of an edgy take, sure, but she didn't seem bothered.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Uh I’m like 90% sure the nazi’s did some pretty messed up in Berlin. They literally made area’s of cities specifically for hordeing the people they considered ‘bad’. So….y’know. Don’t underestimate the evil stuff people with power will do.” He shrugged awkwardly looking to the zoo and then the time.   “So you wanna go back in or you gonna head home? I’ll give a lift if you want….long as your dad doesn’t go full Yakuza on me with a katana.” His lips curled up into a joking smirk a small low chuckle bellowing from his throat,  

Yūki Mizuki

She shrugged at his initial response; what exactly happened 80 years wasn't exactly the best comparison to the situation anyway. Hopefully. It was his second remark that seemed to catch her somewhat off guard and brought a bit of actual laughter from her.   Oh, if only you knew... You're only half wrong there. "No need to worry about that, I wouldn't let them. It's bad for business, you know. But yeah, it doesn't look like they need me back yet so I don't mind staying a bit longer. If you're not too bored yet, at least."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“You sure? I heard dad’s get real jealous when suddenly a handsome reckless teenager with a car enters their daughters life and I’d love to keep my pinkies.” He smiled and moved his pinkies. It wasn’t often people laughed around him but he liked it. Even if he didn’t know that he’d father was actually linked to the Yakuza.   “I’m not too bored just running outta topics. Uh let’s see there was a concert the other week did you go?”  

Yūki Mizuki

"Pfft, you're giving yourself too much credit. And at least you're half Japanese, that's got to count for something."   She stretched her limbs as they planned their next move. "Nope, too busy with work. I was worried that might happen so I wasn't really on the lookout for tickets anyway. You?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“hey I’ve had three girls our age give me ‘the look’ today, or they were just staring at how tall I was….Either way! Alright my ego needs this. Probably does maybe he’ll let me have a head start or give me a katana so I don’t instantly die.” Pfft like an old guy with a katana could kill me. I’ve been literally shot twice. Which is too many times…   He sat on the hood and rested his hands on his neck. “Yeah I went. It was pretty good had to wear a hoodie though been enjoying what little peace I get in this new form from the glares of our peers.”  

Yūki Mizuki

He'd probably just have you shot in an alley... I tend to do most of the bladework. "Maybe I should try to make it some other time. Though now that you mention it... How much do people actually stare? You're tall and in great shape, sure, but not a giant or anything. Or is just with people our age?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Eh they won’t be back for a while…” Aloy awkwardly shrugged. It felt like everyone was watching him. Hell the whole world at points. His mind went through the list. Victory, Ari, Cuervo, No-name, Inferno, Sloane, but that wasn’t what the question was about.   “Well. By societies standards I’m pretty handsome as well plus the height. So I guess a lot more then you or I’d think. It’s weird to have a girl you know go from looking at you like a freak to her hitting on you or a dude who tried to bash your skull in look up and feel weaker.”  

Yūki Mizuki

Almost like putting on a metal mask, though I can't say I've tried that in regular crowds. Well, mostly the intimidation part, anyway. "I guess that's true... Though the way you describe it, doesn't sound too awful. Better to be admired or feared than resented, right?" ...I hope he doesn't think I'm meaning more than I'm saying there. "Still, I guess I can't really relate. I haven't really changed that much aside of the usual growing up."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

Luckily for Yūki Aloy wouldn’t be able to read more then what she was saying considering the fact he could barely read it when people came to talking to him. Unbreakable was different he was in a fighting headspace not a casual one. “I dunno. I’m used to resentment and I ain’t really someone to be admired. People already feared me before so.” He shrugged awkwardly before looking over. “Yeah you just got the normal summer glow up. I got the shitty school film wow he’s so hot treatment and I don’t like it.”  

Yūki Mizuki

"Don't be so gloomy, you'll love it when they start making moves rather than just giving you looks." She teased and gave him a sly look. "You'll get used to it and so will the others. Worst come to worst, you can still turn a new leaf once you're done with school, right?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Make moves? On me pffft. No one would ever do that. I’m too….” The silenced finally reached a noise best described as disgusted disapproval at himself as he quickly looked away blushing the idea of people hitting on him was new.   “Maybe. Sometimes it feels like I won’t, and Pfft I dunno if I’m ever gonna be done with school or if I’m just gonna quit but I guess I can try.”  

Yūki Mizuki

His plan a got a nod of acknowledgement from her. Meanwhile her smile only grew wider as she watched him squirm, wondering if she should push the matter. She settled on a bit of a compromise.   "You'll have to work on that confidence or they'll catch you off guard before long." It didn't really sound like she was making fun of him now, even if the situation was somewhat amusing to her.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“I’ll destroy them before that happ- oh wait you mean… I what no shut up. No one would even d-do that.” His body language shifted to a bit more closed off for a second as the thoughts-raced. Gotta get this topic off me. Uhhh shit shit shit fuck shit uh Vigilantes! No idiot to obvious Uhh just throw it back at her? Uh yeah that should work.   He was still blushing as he looked over a deep breath for calm composure fronting as confidently and casually as possible. “Oh so is that what you like? Confident tall half-Japanese guys?” Okay it’s off me thank god.  

Yūki Mizuki

She watched his struggle with glee until giving a puzzled look at his intention of 'destroying' anyone who might dare to make a move on him. Just as she was about to ask what he was going on about, his desperate retort usurped her attention.   "Hey, no fair! This has nothing to do with my preferences... Besides, you're-" Oh, is that what this is all about? How silly, but I guess I should fix it. "...Fine, I wasn't serious when I said you don't look that good. And no, that's not me admitting to what you're suggesting, let's just give it a rest."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

Aloy let out a deep chuckle it was working for about two seconds before it was spun around again and thrown onto him. “Huh w-what? This wasn’t a-about that I-I was just getting it off t-that topic….Uhm…” Okay Aloy last ditch attempt to change the topic something that’ll catch her attention and bore her at the same time.   “Hey did you know that this uses a V8 LT1 that was in a tonne of cars. It’s a good mix of strong, reasonably priced and fast. Not to mention the aftermarket support, the Uhm Corvette C4 was actually produced between 1983 and 1996 with six different engine options!” He mumbled his way through letting his passion try and overtake the awkwardness and blushing as he pointed at the hood he was sitting on. I am a genius this will make her drop the topic! I am a smooth criminal….well not liter- well no I am a vigilante…  

Yūki Mizuki

His increasingly suspicious behavior wasn't exactly helping his case, and she was quite obviously wondering what was so difficult about this topic. Once he tried to change the topic again, she was unable to hide her baffled expression. What the...? What does that have to do with anything? Can't you at least speak English? "Uhh... Okay?"   For a little while she couldn't come up with a more composed response, and pretending to be even slightly interested was taking much of her focus. "And you're telling me this because...?" No, you idiot! Don't give him an excuse! "...Right, that reminds me. Did you want to check out anything else?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Yeah it’s really interesting! I’m telling you this because” I need to change topics. “I thought it’s something you’d like but it’s Uhm stupid it’s fine. Sorry I haven’t really had anyone to tell about it. I spitball to myself and sorry.” Okay shut up now Aloy.   He awkwardly chuckled and sat up keeping an awkward silence for a few seconds as he looked at the zoo. “I didn’t get to see the bird thing. You know w-what I uh mean rught. It’s like kind of a big net with birds and stuff.” You idiot not knowing words isn’t helping your case. You just let bad things happen over and over.  

Yūki Mizuki

"...Bird thing?" Clearly she had no idea what he was talking about, at least initially. After giving it a moment of thought, it seemed to dawn to her. "Oh, you mean the aviaries? Yeah, that sounds good. There's plenty to see there, let's go."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“That’s the fucking word. Tip of my tongue I swear.” It was not on the top of his tongue as a matter of fact he was going to default to ‘photosynthesis’ again but she caught him just before. He stood up locked the car and waited for Yūki before beginning to make his way towards it. “Yeah it’s used to be really pretty too, let’s hope it still is. Otherwise I’d feel bad for the birds.”  

Yūki Mizuki

"I caught a quick glance earlier today, didn't seem too bad at least. Freedom's probably better and all, but everything being provided to you just like that? Could be worse, even if the screaming kids almost make it not worth it." She joked as she caught up alongside him. The earlier exchange was little more than a memory by now, even if it might leave some underlying suspicions.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Yeah it sucks that they are kinda stuck but then again some of them couldn’t survive in the wild and stuff. It would be nice to have things provided to you.” He chuckled a bit as they got closer and closer to the aviary. “Screaming kids aren’t that bad….or maybe I’m used to them from volunteering the screaming and yelling that is.”  

Yūki Mizuki

She hummed in agreement as they walked toward their destination. "Damn, you almost had me interested but I might have to reconsider now that screaming's involved." She joked and glanced at him with a hint of curiosity. "Seriously though, that's a surprise. Wouldn't have guessed you're good with kids. Or do you just power through it despite the trouble?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

He waited for a good moment with the group in front of him all the way through so no birds would escape before he opened the door for Yūki. “Awh it’s not that bad usually. Mostly millions of questions at once. Real pain when you just woken up and got a headache.” While he was clearly joking the tone implied that he had been in this situation before. “It’s a mix. I’m pretty good with the kids and sometimes I just power through.”  

Yūki Mizuki

"I guess it's that way with most people, and worse for some. I don't really have that kind of experience myself, though I'm not sure I'd have the patience for it." Once again she seemed more relaxed as she could focus on taking in the surroundings. "Is that all you do there, or is that just the task they handed to you? Sounds like you've done it quite a lot."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“I’m sure you would. There’s a little voice that reminds you they are children so just bite your tongue and stuff.” He smiled and shrugged as he walked in.   “Well, I kinda do any heavy lifting or whatever they need. Sometimes pulling weeds, or getting the kids to lunch….cooked once and burnt it so I’m off that duty.”  

Yūki Mizuki

"Yeah, it would've been a bit implausible if you were also a good cook on top of everything else. Or even a passable one." She quipped while browsing the branches for anything particularly interesting.   "Still, I suppose that's true. Some kids can be real devils, but most are probably tolerable, maybe even nice at times. Then again, maybe the best ones leave first if it's an orphanage."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Heh I can cook…instant ramen….that’s uh it. Unless you count protein powder and stuff.” He shrugged again and watched the birds fly around. It was weird, they seemed so free yet when he flew he was a mess slamming into walls, billboards but now that he thought about it, when a victory showed him that small trick to stabilise himself he felt…..free? No he wasn’t sure what it was. His worries just melted away for the few seconds he was able to fly without thinking. “Oh yeah there’s one. Fucking Alec who is a real devil, but it’s still nice sometimes.”  

Yūki Mizuki

"Huh, maybe I'll even consider it myself at some point." She gave a nod as she followed a bird with her gaze, then seemed to notice something about his expression.   "Something on your mind?" She seemed simply curious rather than suspicious or concerned, maybe he'd just made a funny face while distracted by the thoughts.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Always welcome to join coild use an extra hand I’m sure old Tobias won’t complain and stuff.” He smiled as the calm thoughts of that feeling collected before Yūki broke whatever spell was happening on him. His gaze returned down towards her from the birds he was following. “Hmmm? Oh I was just wondering what it would be like to fly and stuff.”  

Yūki Mizuki

Well, he seems like a bit of an airhead, thinking of things like that. No harm in daydreaming, I suppose. "I guess there's not much more to it on your end before I decide, at least. Doubt they're too picky with the specifics. No promises yet, but you can always bring it up again later if there's a greater need for help or it seems I've forgotten."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Not really you just let me know and I tell Tobias someone wants to help. I’m sure he’d like the help and I wouldn’t mind some company of y’know someone my age.” Aloy shrugged and pulled out his non-Unbreakable phone.   “Yeah, I’ll uh give you my number just incase you wanna talk about it or hang out again or y’know forget it.”  

Yūki Mizuki

Under different circumstances the gesture might've come as a surprise, but given the excuse, seemed harmless enough so she did the same. "Oh? Right, I suppose it'd be a little awkward to forget that. I suppose you'd like to have mine in return?" This time she saw no reason to tease him any further about any implications the suggestion might have. After all, he'd seemed genuinely stressed by the notion last time, and avoiding such episodes for now was probably for the best.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Nah you can just call me if you’re interested unless you want me to have your number there’s also no pressure or anything.” I’m truth the topic before didn’t stress him out, it was a lot of confusion of meanings that he wasn’t the best with.  

Yūki Mizuki

"No point in not making it an exchange, I think. In case you're the one who wants or needs to reach out. Don't worry, I'll just ghost you if I get second thoughts." She added and offered to swap their phones to get the matter over with quickly.  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Fair enough. I would say don’t feel bad about it but when you ghost people you don’t.” He handed her his phone and quickly put his info in hers naming the contact simply ‘Aloy’ working for ‘Tall Incorperated’.  

Yūki Mizuki

She gave an approving nod and entered 'Yūki' as the name... and had an idea that was either brilliant in its unwarranted daring or insane in its unnecessary risk. ...Yep, this is way too funny for me to pass by. Might regret it either way, but whatever.   After a moment she had them swap the phones again, he could see the work info 'local yakuza', accompanied with a self-satisfied look from her. "Alright, just try not to spam me for no reason."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

She got a chuckle from him as they swapped phones back. He slid the phone into his pocket with a smooth finesse. “Only if you promise the same. Anyway I’m done here do you want a lift home or are you gonna find your own way back?” He started to make his way out of the aviary. His hands casually sitting in his pockets enjoying the birds for as long as he could.  

Yūki Mizuki

"Fair's fair, I guess. Since you're offering, I guess I might as well take you up on it." She took one more moment to try and locate anything she might've missed before heading after him. "I'm guessing you don't know the place?"  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Nope. If you didn’t tell me I would’ve just started driving to random Japanese restaurants til I guessed right.” He shrugged quickly spinning the keys around his finger again a small chain hung off of it. “I’ve got a baseball bat incase your dad still grabs a katana.” He joked badly and awkwardly as he walked. Idiot.  

Yūki Mizuki

She playfully rolled her eyes at the remark. As if a baseball bat would do him any good against swords not to mention guns. "Might've taken a bit since it's a bit more broadly oriental rather than all Japanese. Easier to bring in people when they know there's the Chinese backup people are more familiar with, I guess."   Once they were closer to the car, she turned to him again. "If it scares you too much, you can always drop me off a little ways off and hope no one notices. But it'll be fine either way."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

I wouldn’t need a baseball bat to kick her dad’s shit in. He quickly threw the intrusive thought to the side, his mental well-being was a mess at the moment it was the beginning of a spiral. “Oh yeah fair enough I guess. Kinda sucks though.”   He shrugged again before chuckling and looking over. “It’s just a joke. Not to mention I’d be curious how long I’d last between someone with a sword….probably not long but y’know still wanna know. Hopefully I won’t have to test it but if you wanna avoid rumors I’ll drop you off a bit away.”  

Yūki Mizuki

"It's no big deal, I doubt anyone will pay much attention and it's not like I'd be in trouble or anything like that either way." She seemed at least slightly curious with the notion, too.   "Probably not in most cases, strength only helps so much. But you've got the reach as well, that's always helpful if you're careful."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Yeah but I thought you didn’t want anyone getting the wrong idea.” He shrugged opening the car door and getting in.   “You haven’t seen me fight have you? I’m not just strong, I’m quick too I’ve fought like the dude’s with the model gun in Krav Maga and stuff.”  

Yūki Mizuki

"I never really thought to watch your brawls, no. But I can imagine it, could be interesting to see something that isn't just a spontaneous fist fight." She got in beside him and waved her hand at his concerns. "It'll be fine. But I'll leave it up to you, I won't be offended if I have to walk a few dozen yards."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“If I’ve ever got a match lined up I’m sure I can get your a nice seat to watch me get beat up.” He smiled and started the car before peeling out and heading whatever way Yūki told him. “I’ll just drop you at the front.”  

Yūki Mizuki

"Sounds good, wouldn't miss it." She said with a chuckle and gave him directions as needed. "Still, have some ambition. You're worth more than just the fodder they need for the low ranks."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Eh it’s not like that. Most of us are like, comrades even though we beat the shit outta each other. Y’know we bleed together sometimes but we train together and sometimes try and meal prep….but I can’t cook.” He chuckled as the music played his fingers tapping the steering wheel as he pulled up to her place. “Well here’s you.”  

Yūki Mizuki

She hummed in agreement as they arrived at her neighborhood. "Guess you're right, but don't let that stop you from aiming for more. And if it's good food you're after, stop by some day."   Once the car had stopped outside the Jade Dragon, she opened the door but leaned back for one more quick word. "Thanks for a great time, Aloy."  

Aloysius ‘Aloy’ Fumi

“Maybe. I’m aiming to just make it through the week. Maybe after that I’ll do something different.” He smiled and blushed as she said that a quick smile coming back as he shut the door and rolled down the window. “Oh and hey Yūki. Try not to spam call me. I know it’ll be hard since I’m your type. Ciao.” Before she could respond the car had taken off.  

Yūki Mizuki

Whether he could see it or not, she rolled her eyes and quickly flashed a middle finger at him, though the corners of her mouth curled upwards enough to show it was all in good fun. Once it was clear he was on his way for good, she headed inside to find out what the rest of the day would hold. All things considered, Aloy seemed an odd fellow but certainly not boring company... Maybe even worth seeing around some more.