Crimson Dawn [Aiko/Akira]

AKIRA TAIRITSU

It was a rather brisk morning within the confines of Japan, another restless eve for the man though it did not deter him from an obligation he had promised to the soul called Aiko. There was no doubt in his mind that conquering such a feat as Mt.Fuji for a woman who felt helpless would inspire confidence, another to be helped that brought a smile to the corners of his lips. After the usual routine of morning check ins and a little brisk reading within leatherbound tomes,

Following this, donned a rather usual attire within his gigai until eventually just on que did he turn the golden doorknob, unclasping the lock to reveal the usual gentle smile. To be candid? There was the briefest moment of feeling underdressed, white overcoat clinging to his form with a plasting bag being held by digits, within holding the necessary sandwich snacks for the future. Glorious. It was a brief moment of adoration until he finally broke the silence whilst locking his door.

."Aha. Now I feel a little underdressed Miss Aiko, though I must be frank and say you look rather lovely. I took the liberty of acquiring an assortment of snacks and drinks though it dawned upon me I’m a little unaware of what you enjoy. We could swing by the local shop?”

The inquiry followed by him beginning to walk and gesture with a right hand for her to begin walking beside him, it would be a killer on the legs for most but it would be worth the reward.

AKIRA TAIRITSU

The man glanced down at his attire as they began to traverse the morning streets, a small bustle of locale offering the pair and gentle nods. Akira had been here for a long time, many knew him as a pillar of the community though it was easy to tell some muttering between themselves with playful and mischievous intent. Who knows what rumors would spring forth from this?! His gold iris shifted to Aiko, a soft chuckle leaving those lips as he knew exactly the place.

."Very well, I shall be certain your taste buds are completely taken offguard! Your concern is thoughtful though I shall survive, part of me does believe if I get a cold from this outing you I’ll never be able to live it down.”

A matched playfulness was evident, moving with her now to a small corner shop that already had steam emanating from within. The banners read: Iraka Ramen! Even as they got closer, a misty wave of meaty scent scurried into their nostrils as the quaint yet homely establishment came to view, Akira swiftly taking the door and holding it for Aiko.

."Iraka’s family has been refining ramen dishes for generations, It’s honestly better than alot of larger brands. Everything is made by hand and I can’t help but admire the tenacity him and his wife put into their food.”

The statement was followed by an elderly gentleman who boasted a bright smile, a look of shock to Aiko then a grin forming.

."Usual for me, Iraka. Medium bowl of steak ramen, six dumplings to go. I would hate to be disrespectful and order for you, Miss Aiko but if you’re fond of meat, their juices and ramen I can wholeheartedly suggest this dish.”

AKIRA TAIRITSU

Akira blinked a little at Aiko’s bold statement to him, eliciting a soft chuckle as the man for the briefest moment forgot the dynamic he had placed on this outing. There was an idle exhale, shifting a bit to sit down and await their culinary delight as she inquired about the bill. It lacked hesitation, as if second nature and not entirely without reason. He made certain that his gaze locked with her own, it was a natural confidence that consistently radiated from the man.

."I’m footing the bill of course, Miss Aiko. You’ve spent alot of your time seemingly pleasing others so rest that instinct for a while, hm?”

It was not long until their food arrived, each hand clasping together in gratitude before moving to begin eating the flavorful noodles. It was homemade, a level of affection given to each of the doughy and succulent delights alongside a meaty texture from the chunks of meat that were entangled in the web of ramen. A delightful hum radiating from his throat in satisfaction.

."Are you a morning person? We could have scheduled this a little later if you felt inclined too…As you have seemingly missed breakfast.”

AKIRA TAIRITSU

The man tensed ever so minutely at the pat on his back though blinked at Aiko, a sparkle of gratification twinkling in those eyes as she began to gorge herself on the food which elicited a soft laughter from the man. He did feel like this was one of those trick situations, though it was an outing he suggested afterall. It was going to be a long treck ahead so, gorge away!

He tried not to be a sloppy eater but some of the juice did drip down his chin as he let out a soft curse, looking for something to dab at the droplets out of his chin only to shake the head. A glance followed to the circlet above her head, too curious for his own good.

."You know, I am curious. What does the circlet do? You do not need to answer if it is uncomfortable but you have a mesmerizing uniqueness to your form.”

She wasn’t aware that his eyes could see beyond the shackled perception of usual oculars. Instead they saw the movement of reiyroku among other forms of energy on a minute level.

."I’m glad you enjoy the food though, all handmade so there is something special to it. You actually feel the warmth comparatively to a lot of other places which rely on artificial ingredients and the likes.”

AKIRA TAIRITSU

It was a focus then?

Fascinating. She could tell that with her elaboration the man before her was even more fascinated by the skills, tilting his head as a slight shimmer of energy radiated from the iris, watching it all course with an entertained form of stimulation only to finally return to the outing at hand! Once she was absolutely finished, Akira dabbed the corner of his lips with a handkerchief before moving to stand.

."Right! I believe we’ve a mountain to hike, much to the dismay of our legs.”

A soft cackle following, money placed down as a tip and offering a respectful bow to the owner who offered one in return. They all knew each other and Akira had done much for the locals by these small interactions. Eventually Aiko and Akira would find themselves at a bus stop, waiting for it to take them near a local pathway that was used.

."It slips my mind but if you do need a place to stay whilst in Japan or to lay low due to an incident, you’re always welcome to my estate. Those with your abilities would be sought after by many organizations I feel.”