talta | closed to hoperulesdespairdrools

[She doesn't pay much attention as the welcome ceremony progresses. Topping her current score in Gala Omega is a lot more important, and that'll be a lot less likely of a success if she's listening to her introduction to the school.

It doesn't really matter that much, after all, does it? Nanami knows it's a special school for people with great talents. She supposes she has to fall into that category since she's never lost to anyone, but she herself is not particularly special or anything. She just likes games a lot and is good with them, and they're a lot easier to understand than people.

Things have probably winded down now, though, because she can pick up the sound of multiple footsteps around her. It must be over, then. Nanami waits a moment as other students bustle around her, waiting for the perfect timing to pause... There. Finally, she glances up-

It's chance, perhaps, that her eyes meet the young man's. Later, after she knows, perhaps it's more fitting to call it luck. But her breath catches in her throat - she feels a warmth spreading along the inside of her wrist, and when her gaze flicks down, she sees it.

The star shaped mark that's been there since she was born... It's glowing. And she knows what that means.

Shyly, she raises her gaze to his.]

You're...

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[How privileged he feels, how honoured he feels - being allowed to come to Hope's Peak Academy and meet all the wonderful symbols of hope here! Of course, Komaeda still oes not have the foggiest idea why the school scouted him or is interested in his talent, even though he eventually accepted their invitation. However, the idea he would spend time with such glorious people gives him such joy.

What challenges will his classmates face? Will they be able to overcome them, Komaeda wonders as he listens to the introductions.

And then it comes to her introduction. And then realisation hits him.

It cannot be.....

A warm feeling on his hand. And the mark begins to glow.

Komaeda has had the mark for as long as he can remember and has had mixed feelings about it. On the one hand, he was really sceptical that someone as lowly as him was destined for someone. On the other, deep down, remembering that he has this mark has given him a tiny bit of hope throughout his pointless life.

That maybe....possibly....he might find someone.....who valued him.

However, an Ultimate? He is destined to be bonded to someone far superior to him? There must be a mistake.

Komaeda covers his hand instinctively so that nobody can see it. After the ceremony ends, he glances around to see where everyone is going and his eyes land on one specific person.

She has spotted him. And it looks like...

Komaeda is filled with confusion and uncertainty. However, he manages to clamp it down with a nonchalant smile.]

Ah, Nanami Chiaki, right? They said that you were the Ultimate Gamer. What a marvellous talent! I cannot wait to witness it!

...That's me, yes. I'm sorry, I didn't hear anybody's names because I was playing a game, but... [It feels terrible that's the first thing she has to say. She's never felt so bad about being distracted by her games the way she feels now.] It's nice to meet you.

[She feels herself flush. Usually, Nanami doesn't mind one way or another if she gets praise; any skill she has with games is just fact to her, and not something she gets worked up over.

But hearing it from him is a totally different feeling altogether. Her heart beats just a little faster.]

It... really isn't a big deal, though... [Her eyes dart away, embarrassed, before returning.] It might be boring for you, but I'd be glad to show you, if you want.

Ahahahaha don’t worry about it! We’re going to the classroom soon so I’m sure you’ll learn their names then.

Besides, your talent is far from boring! You’ve probably faced tons of trials, trying overcoming challenges in video games that require tons of skills. I’d love to see it! Anyway, it’s far more interesting than my own talent. If you want to find something boring you only have to look at that.

I'm sure your talent isn't something boring. It's something they picked you for, after all. And besides... [She hums a little, glances down thoughtfully at the console in her hands.] Maybe it's just like how games are for me, you know? Playing games just feels fun and natural to me, so... If it's something that's just natural for you, it makes sense it wouldn't feel like a big deal.

...I think. [After a pause, it's tacked on at the end almost sheepishly. Nanami isn't used to talking so much, but it... doesn't feel bad. Not with him.] Anyway... If you want to see I can show you later, after we meet with the others. But... [And this is the part that'll be embarrassing to admit, more than anything.] Can I ask for your name, too? I didn't hear it earlier either...

[Missing the one name she shouldn't miss above all others, good job Nanami.]

Well, I was actually invited to come because I won their lottery system. I did refuse at first because why would they want a disappointing talent like mine? However, supposedly my talent was something they didn't understand and so they really wanted me to come. So here I am.

And I wouldn't call it so much natural as it's something that just happens. It's not something you can enhance with hard work. [Hmm...she does seem shy about talking, doesn't she? And it is awkward for him because is he really destined to meet this girl? A girl who is far worthier than him?]

Me? I am unworthy but I would certainly love to! Seeing how someone like you manages to put into action. I'd like.....nothing more, actually. [He's a little hesitant when he says this and his face turns a little red. He would not only want to see how her talent works but he would like....to get to know here more. That would be such a presumptuous thing to ask though, would it not?

Ah wait. He's going red. Crap. She might notice and then probably want nothing to do with him. Ok he needs to draw away from the fact. Oh wait...]

Ah....hahahaha sorry, I got a little overwhelmed by all that's going on. [By being nervous of her but he's not going to mention that.] Er....my apologies but what did you ask me again?

[It occurs to Nanami, just then and quite suddenly, that maybe she isn't the only one that's nervous about this encounter. And that's what actually makes her smile brighten, still small but very warm.]

If you feel overwhelmed, then we can slow down a little. There's nothing wrong with talking slowly. [She nods at this, almost a solemn little thing.] I just wanted to know your name, since I didn't hear it before.

[She should maybe say something about the rest - she wants to protest, even, because it actually hurts a little bit to hear him talk about himself that way, even though they've only just met.

But waiting and listening... Those are things she's good at. And for him, she really wants to try. So for now, she leaves him with those simple words and her simple smile.]

closed to hoperulesdespairdrools

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i'm sorry Em i'm using dwtools for icons like a cheater

No worries! And real tag this time.

it's been three months and I'm still laughing about that joketag

I am glad to have entertained

you're the best Em