Script Log: Tezuka & Ryoma (with a special guest appearance by Aoi!)
Date: Friday (2/23)
Rating: G
Summary: Tezuka and Ryoma go out to dinner. :D; Conversation is both serious and stupid~ After-dinner stupidity also ensues. :D; (Like, real, honest-to-goodness physical DUMB. XD;)
Ryoma: ::is finally done getting ready, after a couple of minutes of trying to choose something good to wear, and heads downstairs to wait in the kitchen. it's almost the time that tezuka wanted to meet, so he sits at the table and watches the clock tick, waiting for the other, whom he figures will be exactly on time, if not a little early. there's still a few minutes to go::
Tezuka: *after some deliberation settles on an outfit that he thinks doesn't quite look like every other outfit and switches his contacts for his glasses. He checks his watch - still about five minutes to go - and heads down to the kitchen to find that Ryoma beat him down there. For a moment he wonders if his watch is running slow* Am I late? *clearly confused*
Ryoma: ::glances up, shaking his head:: Huh? No, not at all... ::small grin:: Sorry, didn't think I'd beat'cha down here, but you're still early. Don't worry about it. ::tezuka looks... mostly like normal, because he always looks nice, but the outfit isn't one that ryoma's seen recently, if he has at all, and it looks nice, though he doesn't want to stare or anything:: You wanna head out?
Tezuka: *gives a small nod of affirmation* I'm ready. Are we walking? *settles his hands in his pockets, turning back toward the door and expecting Ryoma to follow*
Ryoma: ::thinks a moment:: Yeah, sure. We're both athletes, right? ::he likes walking, and besides, maybe the cameras will give them a bit of distance. maybe:: M'pretty sure between the two of us we won't get lost, right? ::follows tezuka out the door, keeping close but not invading personal space::
Tezuka: *looks down at Ryoma, giving a tiny smile* One of us is bound to have a sense of direction. *tries to judge how close the cameras are following - maybe they'll start to trail behind once they've been walking for a while* You look nice.
Ryoma: Heh. Yeah, hopefully. Pretty sure I know where we're goin', though. ::blinks a little at the compliment, but smiles softly, glad at least that tezuka thinks he looks all right:: Thanks. ::nods to the other:: You too. Haven't seen that before. ::then again, it's not like he's really been in tezuka's room here::
Tezuka: Thank you. *looks back ahead - it's a nice night for a walk, barring any other freak rain storms like the last time he and Ryoma tried to go out and do something together* I take it you have been to this place before?
Ryoma: Actually, no - looked it up before, when... when I was takin' Dan out to dinner, before. Looked really good, though. Seemed like the kinda place you'd like, too. ::keeps up alongside tezuka; even though the pace is fine for them, the cameramen are falling back just a little, with their equipment:: Can't be too bad.
Tezuka: Hm. *glances off to the other side to examine a house as they pass* How is Dan?
Ryoma: ::tenses, but doesn't let that stop him from answering:: He's.... good. I mean... I don't get to see him much. I was gonna... talk to him. You know. About stuff. ::looks the other way::
Tezuka: ... *walks just a bit closer, nudging Ryoma with his elbow* It is difficult to be apart; but I am sure it pleases him to see your smiling face.
Ryoma: ::glances over at tezuka, but after a minute a small smile does break through his frown:: I guess. Yeah. I mean... I miss him. I miss... I miss living with... you know. ::sighs a little, runs a hand through his hair - this is all so complicated::
Tezuka: Him. *tilts his head a bit, trying to look supportive rather than stern, though the two expressions are often very similar on his face*
Ryoma: Well, yeah... ::glances back at the cameras, not wanting to talk about something like this in front of them because it'd likely get back to dan:: It's just... ::sighs again:: I can't talk about it here. But I do miss him. I do... I gotta talk to him. Momo... ::trails off::
Tezuka: Yes. *gives another slight nod, speaks much more quietly* I do not mean to upset you, Ryoma.
Ryoma: ::takes a breath, shakes his head:: No. S'fine. I didn't mean to... Nevermind. It's fine. ::figures this is not the time and place to talk to anyone about that situation, and especially not tezuka, for more than one reason, not the least of which includes respecting tezuka's wishes:: Think we turn here. ::points down the street they're coming up on,
Tezuka: *glances up at the marker on the street and nods* Alright. *backs away from Ryoma, again, falling back into a comfortable gait that would apparently lap the poor cameramen* Do you suppose we ought to let them catch up?
Ryoma: ::glances back over his shoulder, making a slight face:: I guess we should. Or we'll get yelled at. Don't want *that*. ::forces himself to slow down a bit, hanging back and waiting for tezuka to do the same:: S'not much farther, another block or two, anyway. S'close, for my never having been there.
Tezuka: *slows down to match Ryoma's pace* Close enough that it would have been silly to hop the bus. *tilts his head up, looking at Ryoma smugly through the corner of his glasses* Unless you're getting out of shape. *not that he, of all people, would ever believe that*
Ryoma: ::practically snorts at the sheer idea:: Riiight, Buchou. About as likely as it is that you are, in your old age. ::feels a little silly making that joke at buchou, when he usually makes it at momo, but there it is, nonetheless::
Tezuka: *hmpfs, straightening his shoulders* You kids these days. Must I teach you respect for your elders?
Ryoma: ::snickers quietly behind one hand:: No, no, that won't be necessary. Buchou. ::sketches out a quick bow to the other, though it doesn't mean much, while walking and snickering at the same time::
Tezuka: *turns to hide his own smile and motions ahead of them* Is that it?
Ryoma: ::glances to where tezuka's pointing, and nods:: Yeah, that's it. Shouldn't be too busy, this time of day. ::it's a little early for dinner, yet, but that's not a problem. they approach the restaurant and step in through the sliding doors, and while the waitress looks both confused and possibly a little starstruck, she's demure enough as she leads them to their table::
Tezuka: *sits as the waitress leaves them with menus* Thank you. *it seems that she recognizes them... no small wonder, really, but thankfully it is relatively quiet in the restaurant. The first thing he notices once she is gone is the extensive list of teas on the menu... and finds himself feeling just a little impressed*
Ryoma: ::can guess just where buchou is looking on the menu, and can't help a small smile - this place did have a large selection of teas, he remembered. along with quite a bit of culinary variety - he had been trying to impress dan, after all:: They gotta ton of stuff. You know. Other than tea. ::glances at the cameramen as they are seated only a few tables away::
Tezuka: *startles a bit and hides behind his menu* Hm.
Ryoma: ::chuckles quietly, but thinks he'll order some of the green tea for himself, for once. he doesn't like ponta with traditional food:: Well. Take your time. ::somehow feels like he's the one taking tezuka out, instead of the other way around. of course, he's not sure there's any way around at all, so...::
Tezuka: ... *finally selects a tea, ignoring that he is being teased, and goes through the proper part of the menu* Do you suppose the young lady who sat us recognized us?
Ryoma: ::glances over at the waitress, who is mostly trying to go about her job, but definitely keeps glancing their way every so often:: Looks like it. But I guess it could be worse - last time Dan an' I went out, we got... pretty much fangirled. ::cocks his head to the approaching waitress:: She's much better. ::now has to pick his meal so he'll be ready to order::
Tezuka: *chooses what he wants, as well, keeping the tea in mind* You're popular with the women, as always. *wryly* Somehow, I seem to appeal more to the male crowd.
Ryoma: ::glances over, but chuckles a little:: Really? I never thought about it. I wonder what the difference is... ::the thought is cut off as the waitress finally comes over and takes their orders, only staying a moment longer than necessary after taking their menus. ryoma watches her go before turning back to tezuka:: You really sure it's not your charm that she's after? ::small grin::
Tezuka: *adjusts his glasses* As I understand it, it is the brats that have all the charm.
Ryoma: ::sits back in his chair a little, folding his arms over his chest:: Well. S'a different kinda charm, is all. Guess it's better with the girls than with the guys... ::makes a face, though::
Tezuka: ...? *also sits back, folding his hands over his napkin in his lap* That's quite a face, Echizen.
Ryoma: ::sticks out his tongue, but stops making a face:: S'a brat skill. ::sighs, wants to lean on his elbows on the table but even he knows that would be impolite:: Guess I'm stuck with it.
Tezuka: When you make a face, it sticks that way. *glances around the restaurant* It's strange to think the season will be up in just a few weeks. It's all gone by so quickly.
Ryoma: Suuuure. ::glances off to the side too, though he's listening:: Yeah. I guess so - hard to believe I've been there two whole seasons. I mean, that place is starting to feel like home. Scary. ::the waitress comes back with their tea::
Tezuka: *accepts the tea and thanks the waitress... she lingers a bit longer than natural, again. She definitely recognizes them* Have you given any thought to what comes next?
Ryoma: ::watches her leave, then looks back to tezuka:: Eh? Well... just the usual, I guess. Back to the overseas tournaments. I'll give the Olympic team a shot, f'you think that's best.
Tezuka: ...I am not your manager. *fingers tighten a bit on the napkin* I admit a great deal of bias... it would... be unfavorable to me for you to drop out of my life, entirely, again.
Ryoma: Well, no, but... ::leaves the rest of the sentence unspoken, which would've been "but you're Buchou.":: I mean... well, yeah. I can't just, y'know. Drop off the face of the earth again. ::small chuckle:: Or, at least, to the rest of my team, again. Don't wanna do that to you guys.
Tezuka: It isn't just you. *sighs, forcing his muscles to relax and looking away* At the least, you'll be able to see more of freeloaders like Kikumaru.
Ryoma: Well... still. I don't gotta be part of the problem. ::pauses, wondering... :: S'not your fault or anything, you know.
Tezuka: ...Hm? *looks back at Ryoma*
Ryoma: Just... y'know. F'you think it's your fault or anything that we all lost touch... s'not.
Tezuka: ...*takes a sip of his tea, now ignoring how Ryoma saw right though him* No. We have all gone our different ways.
Ryoma: ::still studying buchou for a moment, thinking he must be brushing this off, but figures it's better not to pursue it right now:: Yeah.... well. We're still all friends.
Tezuka: Yes. *the tea lingers near his lips for a moment and he takes in the warm aroma for just long enough to take comfort before replacing it on the table. When he speaks, it is certain and buchou-like* I expect you to try out for the team.
Ryoma: ::blinks at the sudden change in tone, but this he's used to, this he can deal with, and he has no desire to disagree:: Yes, Buchou. ::realizes he sounds just like he did when he was twelve, and has to hide a little self-derisive chuckle behind his own mug of tea:: I mean, yeah, of course. You know I will.
Tezuka: *nods* Good. *flashes a playful half-smile* I would miss our practices.
Ryoma: Heh. Yeah, me too.... ::quietly:: 'cept maybe we better keep an eye out for rain.
Tezuka: *also speaks a bit lower* A bit of carelessness is good for the soul. *glances up as their server returns with the food and moves out of her way so she can place the meals in front of them*
Ryoma: ::glances at buchou, a little surprised, a little questioning, but then their food arrives, so he turns his attention to that for a moment, waiting for tezuka to take the first bite out of respect:: How is it?
Tezuka: Quite good. *takes a sip of his tea, waiting on Ryoma before resuming eating* And yours?
Ryoma: ::starts in on his own meal, pleasantly impressed:: Yeah... s'really good. Knew this place got good reviews for a reason. ::takes another few bites, eating in silence for a moment.:: This's... nice, y'know.
Tezuka: Hm? *pauses from his meal once more to pour himself a bit more tea and regard Ryoma curiously*
Ryoma: ::takes a drink of his own, then shrugs:: I dunno... goin' out to dinner or something. I mean, I never... we never did stuff like this, before. Y'know what I mean... like Momo an' I used to get burgers all the time. An' Eiji-sempai too.... just... well. You know.
Tezuka: ... *goes back to eating, thinking about it a bit - he had definitely felt like there was lots of lost time to make up doing things like this* I used to wonder why you never asked, to tell the truth. I thought perhaps you were simply more comfortable with Momoshiro and Kikumaru.
Ryoma: ::pauses, thinking that he never *asked* because he was pretty sure there was no way tezuka would *agree*:: I... guess... you never... Heh. I never thought you'd... wanna do stuff like that. With me.
Tezuka: Hm. *looks quite stern, closing his eyes* Well, you were obnoxious, bratty, self-important...
Ryoma: ::a little startled and then ashamed on the inside, and it may show for a second or two, but outwardly just smirks and shrugs:: Yeah, and?
Tezuka: ...And you never listened to me, gave me quite a headache...
Ryoma: ... I listened to you, Buchou.
Tezuka: *opens his eyes, giving Ryoma a warm look, though he does not quite smile*
Ryoma: ::still a little indignant, though now he's pretty sure he's being teased:: An' you know it.
Tezuka: Did you really believe I would object?
Ryoma: ... I... well, yeah. You didn't... seem interested in that kinda stuff. ::he did used to think tezuka wasn't, but by high school the truth was he was too intimidated to ever think of asking him to do anything::
Tezuka: ... *goes back to eating, thinking over this. Perhaps it really is his fault...*
Ryoma: ::takes another few bites, figuring this really isn't buchou's fault either and he should know it:: I was prolly just bein' a dumb kid, you know.
Tezuka: We both were. *sets aside his chopsticks - he'll take the rest back with him* How did those last two years at Seigaku go? I assume the club rejoiced when I was no longer there to assign them laps.
Ryoma: ::laughs a little:: Well... I mean, they were good. But you did more'n just assign laps, y'know. ::glances at tezuka, wanting to tell him he was a good leader - he still *is* a good leader - but that just... isn't the right thing to say right now:: We did fine. I kinda miss school, sometimes.
Tezuka: Would you do it all over again?
Ryoma: Eh? ::pauses a moment::: Well... most of it, sure. ::grins a little:: Maybe I woulda made you take me out for burgers a coupla times, f'I could do it again.
Tezuka: Hm~? *wry smile* Maybe I would have... *shakes his head* You would have freeloader to add to that already exasperating list of your characteristics.
Ryoma: ::shrugs innocently, sitting back a little, though he's still contemplating taking a few more bites:: Well, what's one more, f'you're listing?
Tezuka: Hm... freeloader, then. *voice softens a bit* Motivated... sometimes. Passionate, talented. Occasionally even prompt, when it suited you - usually so fashionably late you made the rest of us look bad.
Ryoma: ::glances away, first with a little bit of (gasp!) modesty, though glances back at that last bit:: Hey... you know I hate mornings... ::makes another face::
Tezuka: Unfortunately, that is when the day begins.
Ryoma: Not f'you're a college student.
Tezuka: *shakes his head* You're hopeless.
Ryoma: ::shrugs, grinning a little, though it fades:: Never tried to get anyone else in trouble for it, though. ::hopes tezuka knows that:::
Tezuka: You did not. *lying, flat out, but Ryoma doesn't need to know that*
Ryoma: Yeah... ::shrugs:: Still don't know how you get up that early. Every *day*.
Tezuka: Nor do I know how you sleep in so late - I have attempted it so I could... *frowns a bit, correcting himself* So that we could practice together. It makes the day feel short.
Ryoma: ::blinks, both flattered and... kind of really amused:: Well... not f'you stay up 'till three in the morning. But... well, you know I'll get up earlier sometimes f'you wanna practice.
Tezuka: *looks somewhere between appalled and fascinated* How can you possibly stay up that late?
Ryoma: ... ::laughs:: it's not that hard, Buchou. Didn't you ever hafta pull all-nighters?
Tezuka: ...Well, no. I am on top of my schedule and deadlines.
Ryoma: ... Never? ::blinks:: Well.. shoulda guessed, heh. ::leans forward to take another bite:: Well, trust me. It's possible.
Tezuka: But on *purpose*... *boggles a bit at this, watching Ryoma eat* Echizen, I am now far more impressed by your stamina in the mornings.
Ryoma: ::can't help but snicker a little:: It's no big deal.... I like staying up late. Just not getting up early.
Tezuka: ...Let's do it together, then. Tonight. I am curious what there is to do that keeps you up at three in the morning.
Ryoma: ... I.... if you want. Sure. ::is a little confused, but it's not like he exactly minds:: F'you wanna try, I'm game. ::is secretly... really amused::
Tezuka: *nods, smiling just a bit* Alright. *the server returns, and he asks for the check and a box*
Ryoma: You want help with the check? ::brought his wallet, because he isn't exactly sure what kind of outing this is, and he doesn't want buchou to have to pay for the whole thing::
Tezuka: It's alright. I asked you out, I would not ask you to pay. *already has his wallet in his hands and is flipping through yen notes*
Ryoma: ... Yeah, well, okay... F'you say so... ::doesn't mind a free meal, though he's still a little... unsure:: ... Thanks, then.
Tezuka: *shrugs, setting out the total due on the table* If this were burgers ten years ago, would you not have expected your senpai to pay?
Ryoma: ... Well... sure, but this's not quite burgers, s'all. ::grins a little, though::
Tezuka: This is not quite high school, either. *the server returns with the box and takes the cash from Tezuka - he boxes up what he has left*
Ryoma: ::watches, done with his meal now:: Yeah... well. Guess it's not. So I guess it evens out. ::watches the server leave:: Well, still. Thanks. It was good.
Tezuka: Thanks for joining me. *glances over his shoulder to confirm that the camera men are still with them and paying attention* Are you ready?
Ryoma: ::nods, and stands:: Yeah, we c'n go. ::almost managed to forget the cameras, for a few minutes::
Tezuka: *gives him a devious look as they leave, murmuring just as they reach the doors* I'll race you back.
Ryoma: .... You're on. ::bolts out the doors, and if tezuka was joking, he'll... figure out some way to get him back::
Tezuka: *was not joking in the least - breaking into a sprint right along with Ryoma - his strides are much longer and it is easy for him to catch up - he can tell the camera men aren't even sort of going to be able to keep up with them*
Ryoma: ::glances to the side, knowing buchou is taller, but that doesn't mean he'll win::
Tezuka: *isn't about to loose to -Echizen- of all people, feeling himself grinning for the first time... possibly ever, but he can't help it as they tear around the corner and down the final stretch to the house*
Ryoma: ::sees buchou actually grin and nearly laughs at how silly this is, but he can't let buchou beat him - by much, if at all, so he keeps going:: Where's - the end?
Tezuka: Tag the door! *might just win by the virtue of having longer arms if they keep the same pace*
Ryoma: ::would nod but that's too distracting, knowing he's at a disadvantage but trying to put on a last burst of speed up the walk::
Tezuka: *closes his eyes, getting the last burst of speed out and feels his fingers brush the door that he knows he's about to slam into bodily... but it swings out of the way and he goes stumbling into the entry hall, slips, and falls flat on his face gracelessly*
Aoi: Uwaaa! *stands there blinking at them, holding the door* Um... Echizen-kun... Tezuka-san... are you guys okay?
Ryoma: ::knew he was going to lose in the last few steps, but couldn't give up or stop - and suddenly the door's not there anymore and he goes sprawling into the entryway, just barely avoiding body-slamming tezuka:: ... Ow. ::glances up at aoi, groaning:: .... Just fine.
Aoi: *frowns* It's dangerous to come running like that at the door - is there something out there? *goes to investigate outside*
Tezuka: Ugh... *rubs his head* How is it that I always end up falling on my face when you're around?
Ryoma: No... it's fine... we were... nevermind... ::pulls himself into a sitting position, groaning, though tezuka does seem to be right:: ... Sorry, Buchou.
Tezuka: *pushes himself up to sit cross-legged* ...*is quiet for a moment before bursting out laughing quite suddenly*
Ryoma: ::jumps, then stares at tezuka... but it's contagious, and he ends up snickering behind one hand:: S-sorry, though....
Tezuka: No. *laughter dies down into a light chuckle* It was my idea...
Ryoma: ... I guess... still... ::kind of wonders if this wouldn'tve happened, anyway, even if the door had been shut - they would've slammed into it anyway:: We need safer hobbies.
Tezuka: I'll have you know all my other hobbies are quite safe barring boating accidents and mountain lions. You're the only big risk.
Ryoma: Oh, well.... ::tries to pick himself up off the floor, a little bruised, but he'll be fine:: Maybe I oughta get you some padding, then f'r the next time we hang out. ::slowly bends over to offer tezuka a hand::
Tezuka: *takes Ryoma's offer for the hand up, and hesitates a moment before letting go of his hand* I'll dress in full plate mail, next time.
Ryoma: ::grins softly:: Good plan. Make sure you wear that, tonight. In case we fall down the stairs gettin' food at 2am.
Tezuka: It may be wise to pad the base of the stairs with pillows. *reaches out to toss Ryoma's hair a bit* I'll meet up with you in a bit, then. Echizen.
Ryoma: Oh, so you can slip on 'em.... Right. ::nods feeling silly and stupid but good all at once:: I'll seeya later. ::totters off to his room::
Rating: G
Summary: Tezuka and Ryoma go out to dinner. :D; Conversation is both serious and stupid~ After-dinner stupidity also ensues. :D; (Like, real, honest-to-goodness physical DUMB. XD;)
Ryoma: ::is finally done getting ready, after a couple of minutes of trying to choose something good to wear, and heads downstairs to wait in the kitchen. it's almost the time that tezuka wanted to meet, so he sits at the table and watches the clock tick, waiting for the other, whom he figures will be exactly on time, if not a little early. there's still a few minutes to go::
Tezuka: *after some deliberation settles on an outfit that he thinks doesn't quite look like every other outfit and switches his contacts for his glasses. He checks his watch - still about five minutes to go - and heads down to the kitchen to find that Ryoma beat him down there. For a moment he wonders if his watch is running slow* Am I late? *clearly confused*
Ryoma: ::glances up, shaking his head:: Huh? No, not at all... ::small grin:: Sorry, didn't think I'd beat'cha down here, but you're still early. Don't worry about it. ::tezuka looks... mostly like normal, because he always looks nice, but the outfit isn't one that ryoma's seen recently, if he has at all, and it looks nice, though he doesn't want to stare or anything:: You wanna head out?
Tezuka: *gives a small nod of affirmation* I'm ready. Are we walking? *settles his hands in his pockets, turning back toward the door and expecting Ryoma to follow*
Ryoma: ::thinks a moment:: Yeah, sure. We're both athletes, right? ::he likes walking, and besides, maybe the cameras will give them a bit of distance. maybe:: M'pretty sure between the two of us we won't get lost, right? ::follows tezuka out the door, keeping close but not invading personal space::
Tezuka: *looks down at Ryoma, giving a tiny smile* One of us is bound to have a sense of direction. *tries to judge how close the cameras are following - maybe they'll start to trail behind once they've been walking for a while* You look nice.
Ryoma: Heh. Yeah, hopefully. Pretty sure I know where we're goin', though. ::blinks a little at the compliment, but smiles softly, glad at least that tezuka thinks he looks all right:: Thanks. ::nods to the other:: You too. Haven't seen that before. ::then again, it's not like he's really been in tezuka's room here::
Tezuka: Thank you. *looks back ahead - it's a nice night for a walk, barring any other freak rain storms like the last time he and Ryoma tried to go out and do something together* I take it you have been to this place before?
Ryoma: Actually, no - looked it up before, when... when I was takin' Dan out to dinner, before. Looked really good, though. Seemed like the kinda place you'd like, too. ::keeps up alongside tezuka; even though the pace is fine for them, the cameramen are falling back just a little, with their equipment:: Can't be too bad.
Tezuka: Hm. *glances off to the other side to examine a house as they pass* How is Dan?
Ryoma: ::tenses, but doesn't let that stop him from answering:: He's.... good. I mean... I don't get to see him much. I was gonna... talk to him. You know. About stuff. ::looks the other way::
Tezuka: ... *walks just a bit closer, nudging Ryoma with his elbow* It is difficult to be apart; but I am sure it pleases him to see your smiling face.
Ryoma: ::glances over at tezuka, but after a minute a small smile does break through his frown:: I guess. Yeah. I mean... I miss him. I miss... I miss living with... you know. ::sighs a little, runs a hand through his hair - this is all so complicated::
Tezuka: Him. *tilts his head a bit, trying to look supportive rather than stern, though the two expressions are often very similar on his face*
Ryoma: Well, yeah... ::glances back at the cameras, not wanting to talk about something like this in front of them because it'd likely get back to dan:: It's just... ::sighs again:: I can't talk about it here. But I do miss him. I do... I gotta talk to him. Momo... ::trails off::
Tezuka: Yes. *gives another slight nod, speaks much more quietly* I do not mean to upset you, Ryoma.
Ryoma: ::takes a breath, shakes his head:: No. S'fine. I didn't mean to... Nevermind. It's fine. ::figures this is not the time and place to talk to anyone about that situation, and especially not tezuka, for more than one reason, not the least of which includes respecting tezuka's wishes:: Think we turn here. ::points down the street they're coming up on,
Tezuka: *glances up at the marker on the street and nods* Alright. *backs away from Ryoma, again, falling back into a comfortable gait that would apparently lap the poor cameramen* Do you suppose we ought to let them catch up?
Ryoma: ::glances back over his shoulder, making a slight face:: I guess we should. Or we'll get yelled at. Don't want *that*. ::forces himself to slow down a bit, hanging back and waiting for tezuka to do the same:: S'not much farther, another block or two, anyway. S'close, for my never having been there.
Tezuka: *slows down to match Ryoma's pace* Close enough that it would have been silly to hop the bus. *tilts his head up, looking at Ryoma smugly through the corner of his glasses* Unless you're getting out of shape. *not that he, of all people, would ever believe that*
Ryoma: ::practically snorts at the sheer idea:: Riiight, Buchou. About as likely as it is that you are, in your old age. ::feels a little silly making that joke at buchou, when he usually makes it at momo, but there it is, nonetheless::
Tezuka: *hmpfs, straightening his shoulders* You kids these days. Must I teach you respect for your elders?
Ryoma: ::snickers quietly behind one hand:: No, no, that won't be necessary. Buchou. ::sketches out a quick bow to the other, though it doesn't mean much, while walking and snickering at the same time::
Tezuka: *turns to hide his own smile and motions ahead of them* Is that it?
Ryoma: ::glances to where tezuka's pointing, and nods:: Yeah, that's it. Shouldn't be too busy, this time of day. ::it's a little early for dinner, yet, but that's not a problem. they approach the restaurant and step in through the sliding doors, and while the waitress looks both confused and possibly a little starstruck, she's demure enough as she leads them to their table::
Tezuka: *sits as the waitress leaves them with menus* Thank you. *it seems that she recognizes them... no small wonder, really, but thankfully it is relatively quiet in the restaurant. The first thing he notices once she is gone is the extensive list of teas on the menu... and finds himself feeling just a little impressed*
Ryoma: ::can guess just where buchou is looking on the menu, and can't help a small smile - this place did have a large selection of teas, he remembered. along with quite a bit of culinary variety - he had been trying to impress dan, after all:: They gotta ton of stuff. You know. Other than tea. ::glances at the cameramen as they are seated only a few tables away::
Tezuka: *startles a bit and hides behind his menu* Hm.
Ryoma: ::chuckles quietly, but thinks he'll order some of the green tea for himself, for once. he doesn't like ponta with traditional food:: Well. Take your time. ::somehow feels like he's the one taking tezuka out, instead of the other way around. of course, he's not sure there's any way around at all, so...::
Tezuka: ... *finally selects a tea, ignoring that he is being teased, and goes through the proper part of the menu* Do you suppose the young lady who sat us recognized us?
Ryoma: ::glances over at the waitress, who is mostly trying to go about her job, but definitely keeps glancing their way every so often:: Looks like it. But I guess it could be worse - last time Dan an' I went out, we got... pretty much fangirled. ::cocks his head to the approaching waitress:: She's much better. ::now has to pick his meal so he'll be ready to order::
Tezuka: *chooses what he wants, as well, keeping the tea in mind* You're popular with the women, as always. *wryly* Somehow, I seem to appeal more to the male crowd.
Ryoma: ::glances over, but chuckles a little:: Really? I never thought about it. I wonder what the difference is... ::the thought is cut off as the waitress finally comes over and takes their orders, only staying a moment longer than necessary after taking their menus. ryoma watches her go before turning back to tezuka:: You really sure it's not your charm that she's after? ::small grin::
Tezuka: *adjusts his glasses* As I understand it, it is the brats that have all the charm.
Ryoma: ::sits back in his chair a little, folding his arms over his chest:: Well. S'a different kinda charm, is all. Guess it's better with the girls than with the guys... ::makes a face, though::
Tezuka: ...? *also sits back, folding his hands over his napkin in his lap* That's quite a face, Echizen.
Ryoma: ::sticks out his tongue, but stops making a face:: S'a brat skill. ::sighs, wants to lean on his elbows on the table but even he knows that would be impolite:: Guess I'm stuck with it.
Tezuka: When you make a face, it sticks that way. *glances around the restaurant* It's strange to think the season will be up in just a few weeks. It's all gone by so quickly.
Ryoma: Suuuure. ::glances off to the side too, though he's listening:: Yeah. I guess so - hard to believe I've been there two whole seasons. I mean, that place is starting to feel like home. Scary. ::the waitress comes back with their tea::
Tezuka: *accepts the tea and thanks the waitress... she lingers a bit longer than natural, again. She definitely recognizes them* Have you given any thought to what comes next?
Ryoma: ::watches her leave, then looks back to tezuka:: Eh? Well... just the usual, I guess. Back to the overseas tournaments. I'll give the Olympic team a shot, f'you think that's best.
Tezuka: ...I am not your manager. *fingers tighten a bit on the napkin* I admit a great deal of bias... it would... be unfavorable to me for you to drop out of my life, entirely, again.
Ryoma: Well, no, but... ::leaves the rest of the sentence unspoken, which would've been "but you're Buchou.":: I mean... well, yeah. I can't just, y'know. Drop off the face of the earth again. ::small chuckle:: Or, at least, to the rest of my team, again. Don't wanna do that to you guys.
Tezuka: It isn't just you. *sighs, forcing his muscles to relax and looking away* At the least, you'll be able to see more of freeloaders like Kikumaru.
Ryoma: Well... still. I don't gotta be part of the problem. ::pauses, wondering... :: S'not your fault or anything, you know.
Tezuka: ...Hm? *looks back at Ryoma*
Ryoma: Just... y'know. F'you think it's your fault or anything that we all lost touch... s'not.
Tezuka: ...*takes a sip of his tea, now ignoring how Ryoma saw right though him* No. We have all gone our different ways.
Ryoma: ::still studying buchou for a moment, thinking he must be brushing this off, but figures it's better not to pursue it right now:: Yeah.... well. We're still all friends.
Tezuka: Yes. *the tea lingers near his lips for a moment and he takes in the warm aroma for just long enough to take comfort before replacing it on the table. When he speaks, it is certain and buchou-like* I expect you to try out for the team.
Ryoma: ::blinks at the sudden change in tone, but this he's used to, this he can deal with, and he has no desire to disagree:: Yes, Buchou. ::realizes he sounds just like he did when he was twelve, and has to hide a little self-derisive chuckle behind his own mug of tea:: I mean, yeah, of course. You know I will.
Tezuka: *nods* Good. *flashes a playful half-smile* I would miss our practices.
Ryoma: Heh. Yeah, me too.... ::quietly:: 'cept maybe we better keep an eye out for rain.
Tezuka: *also speaks a bit lower* A bit of carelessness is good for the soul. *glances up as their server returns with the food and moves out of her way so she can place the meals in front of them*
Ryoma: ::glances at buchou, a little surprised, a little questioning, but then their food arrives, so he turns his attention to that for a moment, waiting for tezuka to take the first bite out of respect:: How is it?
Tezuka: Quite good. *takes a sip of his tea, waiting on Ryoma before resuming eating* And yours?
Ryoma: ::starts in on his own meal, pleasantly impressed:: Yeah... s'really good. Knew this place got good reviews for a reason. ::takes another few bites, eating in silence for a moment.:: This's... nice, y'know.
Tezuka: Hm? *pauses from his meal once more to pour himself a bit more tea and regard Ryoma curiously*
Ryoma: ::takes a drink of his own, then shrugs:: I dunno... goin' out to dinner or something. I mean, I never... we never did stuff like this, before. Y'know what I mean... like Momo an' I used to get burgers all the time. An' Eiji-sempai too.... just... well. You know.
Tezuka: ... *goes back to eating, thinking about it a bit - he had definitely felt like there was lots of lost time to make up doing things like this* I used to wonder why you never asked, to tell the truth. I thought perhaps you were simply more comfortable with Momoshiro and Kikumaru.
Ryoma: ::pauses, thinking that he never *asked* because he was pretty sure there was no way tezuka would *agree*:: I... guess... you never... Heh. I never thought you'd... wanna do stuff like that. With me.
Tezuka: Hm. *looks quite stern, closing his eyes* Well, you were obnoxious, bratty, self-important...
Ryoma: ::a little startled and then ashamed on the inside, and it may show for a second or two, but outwardly just smirks and shrugs:: Yeah, and?
Tezuka: ...And you never listened to me, gave me quite a headache...
Ryoma: ... I listened to you, Buchou.
Tezuka: *opens his eyes, giving Ryoma a warm look, though he does not quite smile*
Ryoma: ::still a little indignant, though now he's pretty sure he's being teased:: An' you know it.
Tezuka: Did you really believe I would object?
Ryoma: ... I... well, yeah. You didn't... seem interested in that kinda stuff. ::he did used to think tezuka wasn't, but by high school the truth was he was too intimidated to ever think of asking him to do anything::
Tezuka: ... *goes back to eating, thinking over this. Perhaps it really is his fault...*
Ryoma: ::takes another few bites, figuring this really isn't buchou's fault either and he should know it:: I was prolly just bein' a dumb kid, you know.
Tezuka: We both were. *sets aside his chopsticks - he'll take the rest back with him* How did those last two years at Seigaku go? I assume the club rejoiced when I was no longer there to assign them laps.
Ryoma: ::laughs a little:: Well... I mean, they were good. But you did more'n just assign laps, y'know. ::glances at tezuka, wanting to tell him he was a good leader - he still *is* a good leader - but that just... isn't the right thing to say right now:: We did fine. I kinda miss school, sometimes.
Tezuka: Would you do it all over again?
Ryoma: Eh? ::pauses a moment::: Well... most of it, sure. ::grins a little:: Maybe I woulda made you take me out for burgers a coupla times, f'I could do it again.
Tezuka: Hm~? *wry smile* Maybe I would have... *shakes his head* You would have freeloader to add to that already exasperating list of your characteristics.
Ryoma: ::shrugs innocently, sitting back a little, though he's still contemplating taking a few more bites:: Well, what's one more, f'you're listing?
Tezuka: Hm... freeloader, then. *voice softens a bit* Motivated... sometimes. Passionate, talented. Occasionally even prompt, when it suited you - usually so fashionably late you made the rest of us look bad.
Ryoma: ::glances away, first with a little bit of (gasp!) modesty, though glances back at that last bit:: Hey... you know I hate mornings... ::makes another face::
Tezuka: Unfortunately, that is when the day begins.
Ryoma: Not f'you're a college student.
Tezuka: *shakes his head* You're hopeless.
Ryoma: ::shrugs, grinning a little, though it fades:: Never tried to get anyone else in trouble for it, though. ::hopes tezuka knows that:::
Tezuka: You did not. *lying, flat out, but Ryoma doesn't need to know that*
Ryoma: Yeah... ::shrugs:: Still don't know how you get up that early. Every *day*.
Tezuka: Nor do I know how you sleep in so late - I have attempted it so I could... *frowns a bit, correcting himself* So that we could practice together. It makes the day feel short.
Ryoma: ::blinks, both flattered and... kind of really amused:: Well... not f'you stay up 'till three in the morning. But... well, you know I'll get up earlier sometimes f'you wanna practice.
Tezuka: *looks somewhere between appalled and fascinated* How can you possibly stay up that late?
Ryoma: ... ::laughs:: it's not that hard, Buchou. Didn't you ever hafta pull all-nighters?
Tezuka: ...Well, no. I am on top of my schedule and deadlines.
Ryoma: ... Never? ::blinks:: Well.. shoulda guessed, heh. ::leans forward to take another bite:: Well, trust me. It's possible.
Tezuka: But on *purpose*... *boggles a bit at this, watching Ryoma eat* Echizen, I am now far more impressed by your stamina in the mornings.
Ryoma: ::can't help but snicker a little:: It's no big deal.... I like staying up late. Just not getting up early.
Tezuka: ...Let's do it together, then. Tonight. I am curious what there is to do that keeps you up at three in the morning.
Ryoma: ... I.... if you want. Sure. ::is a little confused, but it's not like he exactly minds:: F'you wanna try, I'm game. ::is secretly... really amused::
Tezuka: *nods, smiling just a bit* Alright. *the server returns, and he asks for the check and a box*
Ryoma: You want help with the check? ::brought his wallet, because he isn't exactly sure what kind of outing this is, and he doesn't want buchou to have to pay for the whole thing::
Tezuka: It's alright. I asked you out, I would not ask you to pay. *already has his wallet in his hands and is flipping through yen notes*
Ryoma: ... Yeah, well, okay... F'you say so... ::doesn't mind a free meal, though he's still a little... unsure:: ... Thanks, then.
Tezuka: *shrugs, setting out the total due on the table* If this were burgers ten years ago, would you not have expected your senpai to pay?
Ryoma: ... Well... sure, but this's not quite burgers, s'all. ::grins a little, though::
Tezuka: This is not quite high school, either. *the server returns with the box and takes the cash from Tezuka - he boxes up what he has left*
Ryoma: ::watches, done with his meal now:: Yeah... well. Guess it's not. So I guess it evens out. ::watches the server leave:: Well, still. Thanks. It was good.
Tezuka: Thanks for joining me. *glances over his shoulder to confirm that the camera men are still with them and paying attention* Are you ready?
Ryoma: ::nods, and stands:: Yeah, we c'n go. ::almost managed to forget the cameras, for a few minutes::
Tezuka: *gives him a devious look as they leave, murmuring just as they reach the doors* I'll race you back.
Ryoma: .... You're on. ::bolts out the doors, and if tezuka was joking, he'll... figure out some way to get him back::
Tezuka: *was not joking in the least - breaking into a sprint right along with Ryoma - his strides are much longer and it is easy for him to catch up - he can tell the camera men aren't even sort of going to be able to keep up with them*
Ryoma: ::glances to the side, knowing buchou is taller, but that doesn't mean he'll win::
Tezuka: *isn't about to loose to -Echizen- of all people, feeling himself grinning for the first time... possibly ever, but he can't help it as they tear around the corner and down the final stretch to the house*
Ryoma: ::sees buchou actually grin and nearly laughs at how silly this is, but he can't let buchou beat him - by much, if at all, so he keeps going:: Where's - the end?
Tezuka: Tag the door! *might just win by the virtue of having longer arms if they keep the same pace*
Ryoma: ::would nod but that's too distracting, knowing he's at a disadvantage but trying to put on a last burst of speed up the walk::
Tezuka: *closes his eyes, getting the last burst of speed out and feels his fingers brush the door that he knows he's about to slam into bodily... but it swings out of the way and he goes stumbling into the entry hall, slips, and falls flat on his face gracelessly*
Aoi: Uwaaa! *stands there blinking at them, holding the door* Um... Echizen-kun... Tezuka-san... are you guys okay?
Ryoma: ::knew he was going to lose in the last few steps, but couldn't give up or stop - and suddenly the door's not there anymore and he goes sprawling into the entryway, just barely avoiding body-slamming tezuka:: ... Ow. ::glances up at aoi, groaning:: .... Just fine.
Aoi: *frowns* It's dangerous to come running like that at the door - is there something out there? *goes to investigate outside*
Tezuka: Ugh... *rubs his head* How is it that I always end up falling on my face when you're around?
Ryoma: No... it's fine... we were... nevermind... ::pulls himself into a sitting position, groaning, though tezuka does seem to be right:: ... Sorry, Buchou.
Tezuka: *pushes himself up to sit cross-legged* ...*is quiet for a moment before bursting out laughing quite suddenly*
Ryoma: ::jumps, then stares at tezuka... but it's contagious, and he ends up snickering behind one hand:: S-sorry, though....
Tezuka: No. *laughter dies down into a light chuckle* It was my idea...
Ryoma: ... I guess... still... ::kind of wonders if this wouldn'tve happened, anyway, even if the door had been shut - they would've slammed into it anyway:: We need safer hobbies.
Tezuka: I'll have you know all my other hobbies are quite safe barring boating accidents and mountain lions. You're the only big risk.
Ryoma: Oh, well.... ::tries to pick himself up off the floor, a little bruised, but he'll be fine:: Maybe I oughta get you some padding, then f'r the next time we hang out. ::slowly bends over to offer tezuka a hand::
Tezuka: *takes Ryoma's offer for the hand up, and hesitates a moment before letting go of his hand* I'll dress in full plate mail, next time.
Ryoma: ::grins softly:: Good plan. Make sure you wear that, tonight. In case we fall down the stairs gettin' food at 2am.
Tezuka: It may be wise to pad the base of the stairs with pillows. *reaches out to toss Ryoma's hair a bit* I'll meet up with you in a bit, then. Echizen.
Ryoma: Oh, so you can slip on 'em.... Right. ::nods feeling silly and stupid but good all at once:: I'll seeya later. ::totters off to his room::