Difference between revisions of "5887/Tour of Ga-rei Tokyo"

From Multiverse Crisis MUSH
Jump to: navigation, search
(Created page with "{{Log Header |Date of Scene=2018/05/31 |Location=Ga-Rei Tokyo |Synopsis=Yomi shows Lexicon a little of her Tokyo. |Cast of Characters=Yomi Isayama, Lexicon }} {{Poses}}")
 
 
Line 3: Line 3:
 
|Location=Ga-Rei Tokyo
 
|Location=Ga-Rei Tokyo
 
|Synopsis=Yomi shows Lexicon a little of her Tokyo.
 
|Synopsis=Yomi shows Lexicon a little of her Tokyo.
|Cast of Characters=Yomi Isayama, Lexicon
+
|Cast of Characters=1098, 998
 +
|pretty=yes
 +
}}
 +
{{Poses
 +
|Poses=:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>Not long after the call, Yomi is waiting on the train platform. Instead of her school uniform, she's dressed more casually, with a ruffled top, shorts, and stockings. Her fingers idly toy with a lock of hair as she watches and waits for Lexicon to arrive. No, she's not anxious. Why would she be? Just because she's never really shown Lexi around Tokyo before.<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:998|Lexicon (998)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It's not long before the next train arrives. A handful of various, rather ordinary people disembark and shuffle about their business. There's no distinct flash of white and brown as might be expected of the Britannica DCC, though. Yomi is approached by a bob-haired brunette in a tan blazer and plaid skirt, sporting a beret. While she looks ordinary, she's obviously not from around here-- "Yomi, I made it."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oh it's just Lexicon in a different outfit from usual.<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>This is the first time that she's asked the DCC to her hometown when there wasn't some haunting or otherwise youkai-related threat, so Yomi wasn't quite sure what she was expecting... except probably not Silver Soul. She doesn't notice the brunette immediately, but as soon as she gets a look at the girl's face, the exorcist grins. "You did make it! You look great, Lexi... didn't really expect this look, but I think it suits you. Come on." Yomi reaches for the DCC's hand and leads her out toward the street. "So, you can expect about seventy percent fewer screams than last time. The rest of the Agency is out doing their thing, but no major threats have been reported in town tonight. You've got me all to yourself."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:998|Lexicon (998)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"You think so?" Lex tucks her hands down her sides, turning to show herself in profile, "I did a lot of research on what girls in contemporary Japan wore, and tailored it to my color preferences." Of course it's based on a school uniform. Did this 'research' just involve binging on manga?<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When her hand is seized, Lexicon staggers a bit before she matches Yomi's pace, following along at the taller girl's side, "I'd hope so. It'd be nice to show a side of myself that isn't already resorting to violence." An eyebrow lowers as she glances down at interlocked hands, and she lifts Yomi's in her own, "Afraid I'll get lost?"<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>Tilting her head slightly, Yomi looks down at the DCC. "Mm hmm. It looks super cute on you." She can't help but smile at mention of research, though. "Looks a bit more like a school uniform than something casual, but you won't stand out. Only reason I'm not still in mine is I had time to stop by at home." <br><br>The exorcist clicks her tongue in amusement. "Let's hope there's no violence." She glances down toward their hands and shrugs a bit. "Well, I did ask you out. Besides, you haven't seen how busy it gets in the train station sometimes." Once they're on the road, at least, she loosens her hold. "Besides, if you do get lost, you have my number."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:998|Lexicon (998)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lexicon closes her eyes, "It's casual enough." This simple logic seems to be all she needs. She permits the hand-hold until the sidewalk, at least, though once loosened she reclaims her digits so she can fold her arms behind her back. Still keeping pace with the taller girl, she hums, "I still have my inventory if things go that way, but yes, let's hope not."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Her eyes wander up, looking down the street and towards the sky, framed by Tokyo's famously tall buildings, "It's rather a bit like Cadenza. But less annoying. I can't quite place my finger on why, though." Glancing aside, she asks, "So, where to? It's your town, this time."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>"An inventory like that must be so convenient... I couldn't bring Shishiou with me tonight." There is definitely no room to conceal a full-sized katana in the outfit Yomi has on right now. "I've got a backup in here just in case, but..." She shakes her purse a bit. "I don't really expect trouble anyway."<br><br>Yomi tilts her head a bit. "I don't think I had the chance to visit Cadenza, so I can't really help with the comparison. Glad to hear it's not annoying, though." She gives Lexicon a bit of a smirk as she comes to a crosswalk. "Well, I had been promising you I'd show you a local bookstore. So that's our first stop."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:998|Lexicon (998)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"There are some things that are commonplace in the System," Lexicon comments with a shrug, "That don't exist in other worlds. And to be honest they're often things I couldn't imagine getting by without." Eyes closing, she hums thoughtfully, "Though you also don't have to deal with some of the problems the System has, like virus infestations and crazy bitches from the past trying to eat you or whatever."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Okay so she's still slightly bitter about Artifex.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Ah?" Eyes opening again, she glances up at the crossing signal, "Well, this should be interesting, then."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A sidelong glance, "Oh, Tokyo's fine. I don't find towns annoying in general. There's just...something about Cadenza that gives me a headache." When a car covered in neon lights passes through the intersection, bass thumping through closed windows, Lexicon's eyes form a straight flat line, "Oh, there it is."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>"I guess I feel the same way sometimes. I can't imagine being without my phone. I'd have no way of knowing if an emergency happens." Yomi glances to the side. "How... is Artifex, anyway? I can't really trust her yet, but I hope she's at least been behaving." She briefly makes a face. "Here, there's no coming back from being possessed. Best you can do is put an end to their suffering." After a moment's pause, Yomi shakes her head. "Sorry, tonight's not for talking shop."<br><br>The car drives past, and although the exorcist has a look of distaste on her face, she can't help but laugh at Lexicon's reaction. "Lots of music in Cadenza, then?" As the light turns, she steps out into the intersection. "I should visit more of the places there. But I suppose some parts of Tokyo are just as foreign to you. I don't think you're ready for Akihabara just yet, for instance."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:998|Lexicon (998)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Glancing up, Lexicon notes the signal and follows with quick steps through the crosswalk, "She hasn't invaded anyone or tried to kill anyone, that I know of. She's mostly busy trying to rebuild Gallery, I think." The results of possession are noted, but when Yomi discards the subject, Lexicon doesn't pursue it beyond making a mental note how the two situations are similar, but seem to be fundamentally different.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Instead, she lifts an eyebrow towards Yomi, "Not ready? Is that a challenge?" The taller girl gets a light elbow in the side, "I should subject you to Saltavi's city just for that. Maybe next time." Glancing ahead, she adds, "But yes. It's the City of Songs. The noise never stops."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>"Well, you let me know if she tries anything..." Yomi did give her a fair warning, though she never told Lexicon what she whispered to Artifex that day.<br><br>"Oh, hey!" With a laugh, Yomi is shaken from her thoughts. "I'm not even ready for Akibahara and I've been there before! It's a pretty crazy place. Hard to tell the youkai from the humans sometimes..." She gives Lexicon a playful poke in the shoulder. "I'm sure I'll survive it, somehow. Unless all the music is off key." Besides, she can withstand a short visit.<br><br>"And here we are." Yomi stops in front of a bookstore that seems to be privately owned, rather than part of a chain. She pulls open the door and gestures inside. "I figure someplace like this might be the most fun for you." The store seems to be split into sections. Off on one side are all the newest manga and light novels. The other wall has magazines with news and fashion trends. And the center few aisles are a pretty mixed bag, shelves full of used books.<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:998|Lexicon (998)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At least it's clear that Lexicon isn't actually annoyed or anything. Just some playful ribbing, "Oh, is that all? A virus lives in Britannica, you know." Eyes closing, she thumbs her own nose, "I can handle myself." Eyes open when the storefront is presented, and she glances up the face of the building. The rather small, corner store nature is noted. Curiosity written all over her face, she steps in when the door is held.<br> <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pausing inside, Lexicon closes her eyes and breathes in deeply. The unique, unmistakable smell of old books. When she exhales, it's in a satisfied sigh, and a small smile crosses her face, "Well, I certainly can't complain about a store that specializes in well-loved books." Glancing back, she asks, "Am I that transparent?"<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>The checkout counter is manned by a single person, an older gentleman, and Yomi gives him a wave. She came by to check the place out the other day, so he recognizes her at least. She turns to watch Lexicon's reaction and pulls out her phone, clicking a picture. "Used book Lexicon face, into the collection~!" Yomi gives an innocent grin and shrugs. "Mmm... only a bit. I cast a pretty wide net here." It was the only place she could find with both used books and newer manga. "But I'm glad you approve."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:998|Lexicon (998)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Snap! Lexicon's caught off guard by the camera, her expression captured perfectly. It's only afterward that she leans forward, mock-angry, "Just what's that supposed to mean!" Eyes closing, she folds her arms with that sort of puffed up frustrated look about her, "Jeez..." Turning back, she ventures amidst the shelves down the center, "Sorry for the commotion," is directed to the proprieter, as she sets about browsing what's actually here.<br> <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"The manga and novels here are very different, though. I don't recognize any of these authors." One used manga is pulled out, turned around to examine the back, "...Is this one written by a virus?"<br> <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The author just draws a dog above his endpage commentary.<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>The pout just means Yomi snaps another picture, humming cheerfully. "I'm starting a collection of Lexicon faces. Don't worry, nobody else gets to see it." Violet eyes shift aside to the owner, who just waves vaguely. "Ah.. he probably gets worse in here right after class is out for the day. But I'll behave." She pauses and murmurs with a smirk, "Mostly."<br><br>Following after Lexicon, she leans over a bit to better see the back cover. "A virus? Oh, that's just the author's self-insert. He uses it to talk about things in the commentary pages in the back. A lot of manga authors have a persona like that."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:998|Lexicon (998)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;... "Oh, right. An author avatar, of course," Lexicon tries to pass it off as if she just forgot about such a practice. Glancing back down, she skims the pitch on the back cover, then tucks the volume under her arm and collects the first of the series as well, "This one seems like a lot of fun. Index and Codex will probably get a kick out of it. And the rating looks safe enough."<br> <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pausing, she glances back, "But that's a souvenier for my sisters. I'll let you recommend something for me. Like last time, but reversed." Her head tilts, "So, Yomi, what would you suggest? Anything you're following?"<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>"Do authors in the System do that?" Yomi seems geuinely curious, since she hasn't looked up much in the matter of multiversal manga authors. "Oh for those two?" She takes another look at the cover and nods. "Should be good for their age, yeah." Yomi isn't sure how old they -actually- are, but the twins do seem to act their appearance, at least.<br><br>"What I'm following? Ah..." Yomi scans over the shelves for a moment, looking for anything familiar. "..oh. Here's one. I...I'm not actually sure what you think of slice of life stuff, but..." She pulls down a volume and hands it to Lexicon. It's volume two of a series, so she keeps looking for the first. A quick glance will show that it's slice of life romance with a mostly female cast of characters.<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:998|Lexicon (998)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Ah?" Lexicon blinks, then closes her eyes thoughtfully, "I suppose some do, though when you have such a wide range of body forms, it's not as common. A pseudonym is a lot more likely, honestly." Lifting the volumes she's already acquired, she hums, "There's one up and coming writer who goes by the name Weiss. Pretty good material, but the name's obviously fake and nobody knows what they look like."<br> <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The recommendation is provided, and Lexicon accepts it with one hand, the other holding her purchases already, "Hmm? Slice of life have some very relaxing stories to it." The cover is glanced over, then she flips it to read the back cover pitch.<br> <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;After a moment, she lowers the book just enough to peer flat-eyed at Yomi over the binding. It's not the bemused look she cast at the car earlier, though. It's the 'I know something' kind of amused expression, the book hiding her mouth and nose.<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>"Oh, that makes sense. I suppose there are some authors who really are dogs, then." Yomi taps her chin thoughtfully. "Weiss? Are you a fan of her work, then?" She glances back down from poring over the shelves. "Send me a copy sometime. I'd love to check it out." Why would she be suspicious of this suspicious name. Really, now.<br><br>"It is pretty relaxing. I have to hide it from Noriyuki, though. He makes fun of me for reading stuff like this." After a few more moments of scanning the shelf, Yomi finally finds the first volume. "Ah, here it is! It was put in the wrong..." She turns back toward Lexicon, holding out the book. "...place. What are you making that face for, Lexi?"<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:998|Lexicon (998)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lexicon holds that expression for a while, at least until she's noticed. Only then does she let out a teasing sort of laugh, lowering the book and putting on a more neutral expression, "Oh, nothing. I suppose being into this kind of romance is rather normal?" She tucks the second volume under her arm and holds out that same hand for the first volume, "It seems interesting, it's just a surprising pick from you."<br> <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;An eye closes, "Just, probably something to keep to myself. I don't think I need Index reading this and getting ideas of her own at such a young age."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>Once she's passed the book over, Yomi crosses her arms. "It's... you know. Maybe not standard, but not that strange." She shrugs a bit and pokes out her tongue. "I am allowed to like reading about a cute girl getting swept off her feet. Just because I cut up youkai with a sword doesn't mean I can't like this stuff, you know." <br><br>She pauses a moment and shakes her head. "Your sisters are almost certainly too young for this. I don't even let Kagura see it, and she's not -that- much younger than me." Of course, Kagura has probably managed to sneak looks without Yomi knowing. "...I'll let you look at my shelves at home later, okay? You might find something else interesting."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:998|Lexicon (998)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I'm just teasing," Lexicon admits, "Honestly, whatever you enjoy isn't going to bother me. Source knows I've seen enough fan-fiction shipping me with the other DCCs floating around the System network." She closes her eyes, tucking the first volume with the other three books under her left arm, "If that bothered me, Britannica wouldn't be nearly as nice a place as it is."<br> <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;With a hum, she admits, "I think this is enough souveniers for the visit. Let me pay for this and we can move on." She's already making her way to the shopkeeper's counter..!<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>As Lexicon turns away, Yomi glances back toward the shelves. "I'll be up in just a minute." The shopkeeper does not judge. He just gives Lexicon a kind smile and tells her the total. It's in yen, but that's such a common conversion that most moneychangers know what it's worth.<br><br>While the DCC is paying, Yomi walks down the aisle and around to the other side, humming softly as she looks for something. After a few moments, she walks up to the counter with a book in her hand and places it on the counter, along with some money. Once she's paid for it, she puts it into Lexicon's bag. "From me. I figure it might help next time you're here. It's... at least sixty percent accurate." The book happens to be a collection of information on youkai, written in the classic sense. "Ready to go eat?"<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:998|Lexicon (998)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Yen. Lexicon pauses when the total is presented such, and she works it out in her head. After a moment, she lifts up her hand and projects a screen above her hand. 'Cr' in her inventory converts over to 'Y' until it achieves the proper total, plus an exchange rate tax. This is produced from her inventory as yen notes and coins, which she pays with. A surprisingly involved process when she can't just pay electronically.<br> <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It takes a bit, as such that Yomi's caught up by the time Lexicon's finished, tucking her purchases away. An extra book is shoved in, and she glances down at the cover, "Hm? Ah, a book on the monsters you deal with. This'll be very handy, thanks." She closes the bag, glancing aside as she steps out of the bookshop, "What did you have in mind? I'll let you choose, like I picked for you last time."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>"There might even be some similarities with your viruses. Just remember, that book was written by a historian, not an exorcist. Some things have changed." Yomi gives the store owner a smile and a wave as she walks toward the door. "But I figured you might find it interesting."<br><br>Once they're back out in the street, Yomi places a hand on her hip. "Well, I was thinking ramen..." She glances back to Lexicon. "Real ramen, not the cheap covenience store stuff. If you're in Tokyo, you can't leave without trying some." She may have scouted out places a few days ago, since she seems to know where she's going. Like the bookstore, the place seems privately owned... and pretty small. In fact, it's one of those rare ramen storefronts with only a curtain to push aside to reveal some stools at a counter.<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:998|Lexicon (998)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Noted," Lexicon nods once, "Like a book about animals written by someone who isn't a biologist. Some of the information might be incorrect. I'll be careful." When ramen is brought up, she lowers an eyebrow, but holds off until Yomi explains the difference. The fact that there IS a difference seems to surprise the DCC.<br> <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Oh, well then," The expression neutralizes and she follows along, "To be honest, I'd only known of the convenience store noodles. So this should be an experience." She probably has a bunch of the cheap junk at home. It's a writer thing.<br> <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When Yomi stops at a little curtain'd stall, though, Lexicon seems puzzled. At least until the curtain is pulled back and the shop is on display inside. "...Huh." After a pause, she slips through and assumes a seat, lowering her bag to the ground between her stool and the counter, "This is unexpected."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>Like Yomi would make a guest eat instant ramen. "Hey, it's me again!" She gives a smile to the cook, then leans over a bit to speak with Lexicon. "No menu here, but the shoyu is probably best for someone who's never had really good ramen before. Or shio if you feel like something salty."<br><br>She looks up again and calls to the cook, "I'll have a miso special." He gives her a nod of acknowledgement as he turns to stir some pots of broth.<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:998|Lexicon (998)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Huh," The lack of a menu catches Lexicon off guard, and she glances Yomi's way when options are presented. A hand lifts, cradling her chin in thought for a moment. With a nod, she turns back to the chef behind the counter, "I believe I will take your recommendation. Sir, I would like the shoyu, please."<br> <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Eyes closing, she remarks, "I'm woefully under-educated in the ways of true ramen, I think."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>"Well then it's a good thing you have a personal tutor, isn't it?" Yomi grins sidelong at the DCC, giving her a brief poke in the arm. "You can call me Yomi-sensei if you want." The owner seems to overhear that, as he lets out a laugh.<br><br>It really doesn't take very long, as the cook has a few pots of broth already cooking. A few minutes later, he places a very large bowl down in front of each of the girls, with a set of chopsticks next to each. "Looks great, thanks." Yomi smiles and claps her hands together once. "Itadakimasu~." She lifts up the bowl in both hands and brings it to her lips to get a taste of the broth, then takes up her chopsticks. "I'll let you taste mine, too, but miso is a bit strong for some people." By now, the owner is watching Lexicon, who is obviously a first timer at this. He's curious to see what a foreigner thinks!<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:998|Lexicon (998)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When poked, Lexicon glances aside, "Don't count on it." Just flat declined the sensei claim right in front of the chef and everyone. Feeling rather smug, Lexicon dips her head to the chef, collecting the chopsticks provided. Gripping them with both hands, she repeats her own version of that cultural Japanese ritual, "Itadakimasu." And then punctuates it by splitting the chopsticks apart for use.<br> <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I'll pass on the miso for now, though," She takes a moment to examine the bowl in front of her as she speaks, "I'd like to experience this fully, without scrambling my impression of how it tastes by sampling other dishes at the same time."<br> <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lexicon doesn't lift her bowl. Rather, she dips the tips of her chopsticks in the broth and then tastes that. After a moment, her expression softens as she gets right to eating without further commentary.<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>"Spoilsport." Yomi doesn't seem too bothered by the rejection, though. "Mmm, fair enough!" She pauses for a moment to watch Lexicon's reaction as well, then nods, pleased, as she sees that the broth seems to have the DCC's approval. Not wanting to let her own ramen sit for too long, Yomi snags some noodles with her chopstick and slurps them up. She'll refrain from giving any more advice unless it's needed. Or if she sees Lexicon being too gentle with the stuff, but something tells her that's probably not going to be an issue. "This place has the best ramen I've had in town. Ever since Iwahata took me here on my first day with the Agency, I've been a regular."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:998|Lexicon (998)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sampling the noodles next, Lexicon hums thoughtfully. Despite how she fights, she's rather meticulous with her food, by the look of it. Though at least she has the urgency to enjoy it while it's still hot. The DCC listens intently while sampling the various ingredients of her ramen bowl. Once she's back to noodles, she comments, "It's rather good." A glance up to the chef, and she dips her head once more, "You really know your stuff. Thank you."<br> <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Back to her meal, she considers, "You've mentioned a Kagura before, and Iwahata now, but I don't think I've actually met anyone from your agency. Are they also exorcists?"<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>The owner dips his head with a grin. "As long as my customers are happy, I know I'm doing my job!"<br><br>After taking some time to slurp down a few more bunches of noodles, Yomi nods toward the DCC. "Everyone in my division is. Iwahata's the oldest one. He's our driver and up-close specialist. Kagura's my little sister." Yomi pauses for a moment. "Well, not -actually- my sister. She's an only child, and the youngest one there, so I sibling-adopted her. Her father is usually so busy with work out of town that she gets lonely pretty easily." <br><br>Another slurp of ramen noodles, and Yomi lifts her brows slightly. "Oh! And sometime I should introduce your sisters to Nabuu. They're twins, too. I'll introduce you to the whole office sometime. There's Kagura and Iwahata and Nabuu. Noriyuki. Sakuraba. Then Jinguji is Minister of the Environment, and Nikaido is her personal aide."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:998|Lexicon (998)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lexicon's head tilts as she eats, indicating she's listening even if she's focused on her meal for the moment. After another mouthful of noodles, she nods once, "Similar to Theurgus adopting Arcana, then." An eye closes, and she asks, "How'd she like that hat you got for her in Britannica, by the way?"<br> <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The rundown of agency members is noted carefully in her head. The two rookies, the old goat, two -- probably senior-- agents, and then what she presumes to be the boss and secretary. A light nod, "You almost sound like a detective agency, with that number of members. It's a bit inspiring, actually." Glancing up, she hums, "Paranormal police... No, a private eye. There's a story to that..."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>Yomi gestures vaguely and nods. "A bit, yeah. Kagura still lives with her father, but she lost her mother a few years ago... I was assigned as her bodyguard back then, since we're only a few years apart in age. She really needed a friend back then." Yomi glances up and sniffs, dramatically. "But now my little Kagura is all grown up." The exorcist glances aside at Lexicon. "I... suppose, though we are officially part of the government. Ministry of the Environment, all very formal. Everyone has a suit, except me and Kagura, since we're usually in our school uniforms."<br><br>Yomi pauses again and squints. "And which role are you thinking up for me then, hm?" Nevermind that some of Lexicon's assumptions are a bit off. She'll learn when she meets them.<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:998|Lexicon (998)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Not every story is about you," Lexicon teases. Without skipping a beat, she gestures with her chopsticks, "The mysterious transfer student with an unknown heritage and a mysterious paranormal power. You're approached by a shady elder man one day who seems really suspicious at first, but eventually winds up being a very helpful sort interested only in seeing you learn and master your mysterious powers, and maybe do some good with them along the way."<br> <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;An eye opens, head tilting, "Not very accurate, but it makes for good storytelling."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>Yomi playfully pokes out her tongue again. "Sounds like you already have a lot of the story written in your head." She pauses again. "...maybe Master Michael is in town, too. He'd be interesting to meet. Ah, he's the one who built most of the weapons we have in our armory." <br><br>By now, she's nearly finished with her ramen, lifting the bowl to drink the last of the broth. "It's great as always," she says to the owner before turning to smile at the DCC. "So what do you think of your first real ramen, Lexi?"<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:998|Lexicon (998)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Paranormal investigation is a good medium for a mind-oriented story," Lexicon comments, "Pun intended." She finally sets her chopsticks down and empties the broth of her own bowl in one long, slow draft. Any professional drinker would be impressed-- but she cheats. Lexicon doesn't actually breathe. Once done, she sets the bowl down, nodding once more to the chef, "That was the first time I've had real ramen. Thank you again for such a good experience."<br> <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She holds up her hand, projecting her inventory screen once again, "It really was quite good, Yomi. Certainly different from blue clams."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>Yomi gives a soft tsk, tsk at the pun. So terrible. "Well, if you do end up writing this, I'll look forward to reading it." She watches the draining of the bowl with amusement, waiting until the DCC is done before putting payment for the both of them on the counter. "Thanks again. I'll probably see you in a few days." With a grin anda wave to the owner, Yomi slips off the stool and holds the curtain for Lexicon.<br><br>"I could probably keep you up all night showing you around, but the city is such a big place. Can't give you everything the first time, can I?" She grins, letting the curtain fall back once Lexi is through it. "So I think it might be better to head home, have a nice bath... and I wanted to see what you think of that manga."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:998|Lexicon (998)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Even though Yomi pays, Lexicon still pulls a few notes from her inventory and places them as a tip to the chef. In her mind, he's more than earned it. Collecting her bag after standing, the DCC steps out onto the sidewalk again, "I've got a good number of manuscripts in the works, so it might be a while before that particular one is ready." Eyes closing, she adds, "It's just a hobby I do in my free time, after all. Hardly something I can devote my full time to."<br> <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Shifting the bag to both hands, she pauses, "Ah, if you're going to head home, than I'll do the same." With a dip of her head, she adds, "It's been nice visiting Japan without running from monsters at the same time, for a change."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>When she sees the extra money, Yomi blinks in surprise. So does the owner. "Ah... hold on a moment." She disappears back behind the curtain and has a few quick exhanges with the owner. A moment later, she slips back out. "You surprised me there... Most people don't do that here." The intricacies of cultural differences can wait for another time, but Yomi's expression says that she got the owner to understand. "Mm, well... I'll still look forward to reading any of them one they're finished enough you can show them to me."<br><br>The exorcist pauses, resting a hand on her hip. "Ah, well.... I was hoping I could convince you to stay over tonight. But I suppose if you're needed back home, I can let you go this time."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:998|Lexicon (998)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lexicon blinks, standing still while Yomi handles some kind of situation. When she returns, Lexicon leans forward a bit, "I wasn't trying to be rude. Was there a problem?" Given how European-based Britannica is, it's no wonder she's accustomed to tipping. Cultures collide at full speed, here. With a bit of a pensive look, she folds her hands in front of herself, but lets it go on the assumption that there isn't a problem.<br> <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Well, I guess I could use you as a test market," Lexicon admits, closing her eyes. When the exorcist makes her request clear, though, an eye opens, "Wait, really? Isn't that something high school girls do in cliche slice of life stories?" Eye closing again, the program sighs, "Well I'm not playing truth or dare and I refuse to giggle about Boy A or whatever. If you're spending the night with a Drive Core Controller, than there's only one form of entertainment to truly test our friendship."<br> <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There's a flicker of pixellated light as she brings her hand up. Something twirls, like a Wild West gunman's revolver, until she tightens her grip--around a game controller, "It's time for Dario Kart."<br> <br>
 +
 
 +
:'''{{#var:1098|Yomi Isayama (1098)}} has posed:'''<br>Yomi gives a vague wave. "Tipping isn't really done here. But he knows you're a foreigner, so it wasn't hard to clear up." She places a hand on Lexicon's shoulder and gives her a gentle squeeze. "Don't worry too much about it."<br><br>With an amused smirk on her face, Yomi crosses her arms. "I -am- a high school girl, you know. But no, I didn't expect that sort of thing" She pauses and tilts her head. "Test?" <br><br>The controller appears, and Yomi blinks a few times... then laughs. "Okay, okay. I'll take your challenge. But not too late, okay? I don't want the noise keeping father up."<br> <br>
 
}}
 
}}
{{Poses}}
 

Latest revision as of 05:25, 1 June 2018

Tour of Ga-rei Tokyo
Date of Scene: 31 May 2018
Location: Ga-Rei Tokyo
Synopsis: Yomi shows Lexicon a little of her Tokyo.
Cast of Characters: Yomi Isayama, Lexicon


Yomi Isayama has posed:
Not long after the call, Yomi is waiting on the train platform. Instead of her school uniform, she's dressed more casually, with a ruffled top, shorts, and stockings. Her fingers idly toy with a lock of hair as she watches and waits for Lexicon to arrive. No, she's not anxious. Why would she be? Just because she's never really shown Lexi around Tokyo before.

Lexicon has posed:
    It's not long before the next train arrives. A handful of various, rather ordinary people disembark and shuffle about their business. There's no distinct flash of white and brown as might be expected of the Britannica DCC, though. Yomi is approached by a bob-haired brunette in a tan blazer and plaid skirt, sporting a beret. While she looks ordinary, she's obviously not from around here-- "Yomi, I made it."
    Oh it's just Lexicon in a different outfit from usual.

Yomi Isayama has posed:
This is the first time that she's asked the DCC to her hometown when there wasn't some haunting or otherwise youkai-related threat, so Yomi wasn't quite sure what she was expecting... except probably not Silver Soul. She doesn't notice the brunette immediately, but as soon as she gets a look at the girl's face, the exorcist grins. "You did make it! You look great, Lexi... didn't really expect this look, but I think it suits you. Come on." Yomi reaches for the DCC's hand and leads her out toward the street. "So, you can expect about seventy percent fewer screams than last time. The rest of the Agency is out doing their thing, but no major threats have been reported in town tonight. You've got me all to yourself."

Lexicon has posed:
    "You think so?" Lex tucks her hands down her sides, turning to show herself in profile, "I did a lot of research on what girls in contemporary Japan wore, and tailored it to my color preferences." Of course it's based on a school uniform. Did this 'research' just involve binging on manga?
    When her hand is seized, Lexicon staggers a bit before she matches Yomi's pace, following along at the taller girl's side, "I'd hope so. It'd be nice to show a side of myself that isn't already resorting to violence." An eyebrow lowers as she glances down at interlocked hands, and she lifts Yomi's in her own, "Afraid I'll get lost?"

Yomi Isayama has posed:
Tilting her head slightly, Yomi looks down at the DCC. "Mm hmm. It looks super cute on you." She can't help but smile at mention of research, though. "Looks a bit more like a school uniform than something casual, but you won't stand out. Only reason I'm not still in mine is I had time to stop by at home."

The exorcist clicks her tongue in amusement. "Let's hope there's no violence." She glances down toward their hands and shrugs a bit. "Well, I did ask you out. Besides, you haven't seen how busy it gets in the train station sometimes." Once they're on the road, at least, she loosens her hold. "Besides, if you do get lost, you have my number."

Lexicon has posed:
    Lexicon closes her eyes, "It's casual enough." This simple logic seems to be all she needs. She permits the hand-hold until the sidewalk, at least, though once loosened she reclaims her digits so she can fold her arms behind her back. Still keeping pace with the taller girl, she hums, "I still have my inventory if things go that way, but yes, let's hope not."
    Her eyes wander up, looking down the street and towards the sky, framed by Tokyo's famously tall buildings, "It's rather a bit like Cadenza. But less annoying. I can't quite place my finger on why, though." Glancing aside, she asks, "So, where to? It's your town, this time."

Yomi Isayama has posed:
"An inventory like that must be so convenient... I couldn't bring Shishiou with me tonight." There is definitely no room to conceal a full-sized katana in the outfit Yomi has on right now. "I've got a backup in here just in case, but..." She shakes her purse a bit. "I don't really expect trouble anyway."

Yomi tilts her head a bit. "I don't think I had the chance to visit Cadenza, so I can't really help with the comparison. Glad to hear it's not annoying, though." She gives Lexicon a bit of a smirk as she comes to a crosswalk. "Well, I had been promising you I'd show you a local bookstore. So that's our first stop."

Lexicon has posed:
    "There are some things that are commonplace in the System," Lexicon comments with a shrug, "That don't exist in other worlds. And to be honest they're often things I couldn't imagine getting by without." Eyes closing, she hums thoughtfully, "Though you also don't have to deal with some of the problems the System has, like virus infestations and crazy bitches from the past trying to eat you or whatever."
    Okay so she's still slightly bitter about Artifex.
    "Ah?" Eyes opening again, she glances up at the crossing signal, "Well, this should be interesting, then."
    A sidelong glance, "Oh, Tokyo's fine. I don't find towns annoying in general. There's just...something about Cadenza that gives me a headache." When a car covered in neon lights passes through the intersection, bass thumping through closed windows, Lexicon's eyes form a straight flat line, "Oh, there it is."

Yomi Isayama has posed:
"I guess I feel the same way sometimes. I can't imagine being without my phone. I'd have no way of knowing if an emergency happens." Yomi glances to the side. "How... is Artifex, anyway? I can't really trust her yet, but I hope she's at least been behaving." She briefly makes a face. "Here, there's no coming back from being possessed. Best you can do is put an end to their suffering." After a moment's pause, Yomi shakes her head. "Sorry, tonight's not for talking shop."

The car drives past, and although the exorcist has a look of distaste on her face, she can't help but laugh at Lexicon's reaction. "Lots of music in Cadenza, then?" As the light turns, she steps out into the intersection. "I should visit more of the places there. But I suppose some parts of Tokyo are just as foreign to you. I don't think you're ready for Akihabara just yet, for instance."

Lexicon has posed:
    Glancing up, Lexicon notes the signal and follows with quick steps through the crosswalk, "She hasn't invaded anyone or tried to kill anyone, that I know of. She's mostly busy trying to rebuild Gallery, I think." The results of possession are noted, but when Yomi discards the subject, Lexicon doesn't pursue it beyond making a mental note how the two situations are similar, but seem to be fundamentally different.
    Instead, she lifts an eyebrow towards Yomi, "Not ready? Is that a challenge?" The taller girl gets a light elbow in the side, "I should subject you to Saltavi's city just for that. Maybe next time." Glancing ahead, she adds, "But yes. It's the City of Songs. The noise never stops."

Yomi Isayama has posed:
"Well, you let me know if she tries anything..." Yomi did give her a fair warning, though she never told Lexicon what she whispered to Artifex that day.

"Oh, hey!" With a laugh, Yomi is shaken from her thoughts. "I'm not even ready for Akibahara and I've been there before! It's a pretty crazy place. Hard to tell the youkai from the humans sometimes..." She gives Lexicon a playful poke in the shoulder. "I'm sure I'll survive it, somehow. Unless all the music is off key." Besides, she can withstand a short visit.

"And here we are." Yomi stops in front of a bookstore that seems to be privately owned, rather than part of a chain. She pulls open the door and gestures inside. "I figure someplace like this might be the most fun for you." The store seems to be split into sections. Off on one side are all the newest manga and light novels. The other wall has magazines with news and fashion trends. And the center few aisles are a pretty mixed bag, shelves full of used books.

Lexicon has posed:
    At least it's clear that Lexicon isn't actually annoyed or anything. Just some playful ribbing, "Oh, is that all? A virus lives in Britannica, you know." Eyes closing, she thumbs her own nose, "I can handle myself." Eyes open when the storefront is presented, and she glances up the face of the building. The rather small, corner store nature is noted. Curiosity written all over her face, she steps in when the door is held.

    Pausing inside, Lexicon closes her eyes and breathes in deeply. The unique, unmistakable smell of old books. When she exhales, it's in a satisfied sigh, and a small smile crosses her face, "Well, I certainly can't complain about a store that specializes in well-loved books." Glancing back, she asks, "Am I that transparent?"

Yomi Isayama has posed:
The checkout counter is manned by a single person, an older gentleman, and Yomi gives him a wave. She came by to check the place out the other day, so he recognizes her at least. She turns to watch Lexicon's reaction and pulls out her phone, clicking a picture. "Used book Lexicon face, into the collection~!" Yomi gives an innocent grin and shrugs. "Mmm... only a bit. I cast a pretty wide net here." It was the only place she could find with both used books and newer manga. "But I'm glad you approve."

Lexicon has posed:
    Snap! Lexicon's caught off guard by the camera, her expression captured perfectly. It's only afterward that she leans forward, mock-angry, "Just what's that supposed to mean!" Eyes closing, she folds her arms with that sort of puffed up frustrated look about her, "Jeez..." Turning back, she ventures amidst the shelves down the center, "Sorry for the commotion," is directed to the proprieter, as she sets about browsing what's actually here.

    "The manga and novels here are very different, though. I don't recognize any of these authors." One used manga is pulled out, turned around to examine the back, "...Is this one written by a virus?"

    The author just draws a dog above his endpage commentary.

Yomi Isayama has posed:
The pout just means Yomi snaps another picture, humming cheerfully. "I'm starting a collection of Lexicon faces. Don't worry, nobody else gets to see it." Violet eyes shift aside to the owner, who just waves vaguely. "Ah.. he probably gets worse in here right after class is out for the day. But I'll behave." She pauses and murmurs with a smirk, "Mostly."

Following after Lexicon, she leans over a bit to better see the back cover. "A virus? Oh, that's just the author's self-insert. He uses it to talk about things in the commentary pages in the back. A lot of manga authors have a persona like that."

Lexicon has posed:
    ... "Oh, right. An author avatar, of course," Lexicon tries to pass it off as if she just forgot about such a practice. Glancing back down, she skims the pitch on the back cover, then tucks the volume under her arm and collects the first of the series as well, "This one seems like a lot of fun. Index and Codex will probably get a kick out of it. And the rating looks safe enough."

    Pausing, she glances back, "But that's a souvenier for my sisters. I'll let you recommend something for me. Like last time, but reversed." Her head tilts, "So, Yomi, what would you suggest? Anything you're following?"

Yomi Isayama has posed:
"Do authors in the System do that?" Yomi seems geuinely curious, since she hasn't looked up much in the matter of multiversal manga authors. "Oh for those two?" She takes another look at the cover and nods. "Should be good for their age, yeah." Yomi isn't sure how old they -actually- are, but the twins do seem to act their appearance, at least.

"What I'm following? Ah..." Yomi scans over the shelves for a moment, looking for anything familiar. "..oh. Here's one. I...I'm not actually sure what you think of slice of life stuff, but..." She pulls down a volume and hands it to Lexicon. It's volume two of a series, so she keeps looking for the first. A quick glance will show that it's slice of life romance with a mostly female cast of characters.

Lexicon has posed:
    "Ah?" Lexicon blinks, then closes her eyes thoughtfully, "I suppose some do, though when you have such a wide range of body forms, it's not as common. A pseudonym is a lot more likely, honestly." Lifting the volumes she's already acquired, she hums, "There's one up and coming writer who goes by the name Weiss. Pretty good material, but the name's obviously fake and nobody knows what they look like."

    The recommendation is provided, and Lexicon accepts it with one hand, the other holding her purchases already, "Hmm? Slice of life have some very relaxing stories to it." The cover is glanced over, then she flips it to read the back cover pitch.

    After a moment, she lowers the book just enough to peer flat-eyed at Yomi over the binding. It's not the bemused look she cast at the car earlier, though. It's the 'I know something' kind of amused expression, the book hiding her mouth and nose.

Yomi Isayama has posed:
"Oh, that makes sense. I suppose there are some authors who really are dogs, then." Yomi taps her chin thoughtfully. "Weiss? Are you a fan of her work, then?" She glances back down from poring over the shelves. "Send me a copy sometime. I'd love to check it out." Why would she be suspicious of this suspicious name. Really, now.

"It is pretty relaxing. I have to hide it from Noriyuki, though. He makes fun of me for reading stuff like this." After a few more moments of scanning the shelf, Yomi finally finds the first volume. "Ah, here it is! It was put in the wrong..." She turns back toward Lexicon, holding out the book. "...place. What are you making that face for, Lexi?"

Lexicon has posed:
    Lexicon holds that expression for a while, at least until she's noticed. Only then does she let out a teasing sort of laugh, lowering the book and putting on a more neutral expression, "Oh, nothing. I suppose being into this kind of romance is rather normal?" She tucks the second volume under her arm and holds out that same hand for the first volume, "It seems interesting, it's just a surprising pick from you."

    An eye closes, "Just, probably something to keep to myself. I don't think I need Index reading this and getting ideas of her own at such a young age."

Yomi Isayama has posed:
Once she's passed the book over, Yomi crosses her arms. "It's... you know. Maybe not standard, but not that strange." She shrugs a bit and pokes out her tongue. "I am allowed to like reading about a cute girl getting swept off her feet. Just because I cut up youkai with a sword doesn't mean I can't like this stuff, you know."

She pauses a moment and shakes her head. "Your sisters are almost certainly too young for this. I don't even let Kagura see it, and she's not -that- much younger than me." Of course, Kagura has probably managed to sneak looks without Yomi knowing. "...I'll let you look at my shelves at home later, okay? You might find something else interesting."

Lexicon has posed:
    "I'm just teasing," Lexicon admits, "Honestly, whatever you enjoy isn't going to bother me. Source knows I've seen enough fan-fiction shipping me with the other DCCs floating around the System network." She closes her eyes, tucking the first volume with the other three books under her left arm, "If that bothered me, Britannica wouldn't be nearly as nice a place as it is."

    With a hum, she admits, "I think this is enough souveniers for the visit. Let me pay for this and we can move on." She's already making her way to the shopkeeper's counter..!

Yomi Isayama has posed:
As Lexicon turns away, Yomi glances back toward the shelves. "I'll be up in just a minute." The shopkeeper does not judge. He just gives Lexicon a kind smile and tells her the total. It's in yen, but that's such a common conversion that most moneychangers know what it's worth.

While the DCC is paying, Yomi walks down the aisle and around to the other side, humming softly as she looks for something. After a few moments, she walks up to the counter with a book in her hand and places it on the counter, along with some money. Once she's paid for it, she puts it into Lexicon's bag. "From me. I figure it might help next time you're here. It's... at least sixty percent accurate." The book happens to be a collection of information on youkai, written in the classic sense. "Ready to go eat?"

Lexicon has posed:
    Yen. Lexicon pauses when the total is presented such, and she works it out in her head. After a moment, she lifts up her hand and projects a screen above her hand. 'Cr' in her inventory converts over to 'Y' until it achieves the proper total, plus an exchange rate tax. This is produced from her inventory as yen notes and coins, which she pays with. A surprisingly involved process when she can't just pay electronically.

    It takes a bit, as such that Yomi's caught up by the time Lexicon's finished, tucking her purchases away. An extra book is shoved in, and she glances down at the cover, "Hm? Ah, a book on the monsters you deal with. This'll be very handy, thanks." She closes the bag, glancing aside as she steps out of the bookshop, "What did you have in mind? I'll let you choose, like I picked for you last time."

Yomi Isayama has posed:
"There might even be some similarities with your viruses. Just remember, that book was written by a historian, not an exorcist. Some things have changed." Yomi gives the store owner a smile and a wave as she walks toward the door. "But I figured you might find it interesting."

Once they're back out in the street, Yomi places a hand on her hip. "Well, I was thinking ramen..." She glances back to Lexicon. "Real ramen, not the cheap covenience store stuff. If you're in Tokyo, you can't leave without trying some." She may have scouted out places a few days ago, since she seems to know where she's going. Like the bookstore, the place seems privately owned... and pretty small. In fact, it's one of those rare ramen storefronts with only a curtain to push aside to reveal some stools at a counter.

Lexicon has posed:
    "Noted," Lexicon nods once, "Like a book about animals written by someone who isn't a biologist. Some of the information might be incorrect. I'll be careful." When ramen is brought up, she lowers an eyebrow, but holds off until Yomi explains the difference. The fact that there IS a difference seems to surprise the DCC.

    "Oh, well then," The expression neutralizes and she follows along, "To be honest, I'd only known of the convenience store noodles. So this should be an experience." She probably has a bunch of the cheap junk at home. It's a writer thing.

    When Yomi stops at a little curtain'd stall, though, Lexicon seems puzzled. At least until the curtain is pulled back and the shop is on display inside. "...Huh." After a pause, she slips through and assumes a seat, lowering her bag to the ground between her stool and the counter, "This is unexpected."

Yomi Isayama has posed:
Like Yomi would make a guest eat instant ramen. "Hey, it's me again!" She gives a smile to the cook, then leans over a bit to speak with Lexicon. "No menu here, but the shoyu is probably best for someone who's never had really good ramen before. Or shio if you feel like something salty."

She looks up again and calls to the cook, "I'll have a miso special." He gives her a nod of acknowledgement as he turns to stir some pots of broth.

Lexicon has posed:
    "Huh," The lack of a menu catches Lexicon off guard, and she glances Yomi's way when options are presented. A hand lifts, cradling her chin in thought for a moment. With a nod, she turns back to the chef behind the counter, "I believe I will take your recommendation. Sir, I would like the shoyu, please."

    Eyes closing, she remarks, "I'm woefully under-educated in the ways of true ramen, I think."

Yomi Isayama has posed:
"Well then it's a good thing you have a personal tutor, isn't it?" Yomi grins sidelong at the DCC, giving her a brief poke in the arm. "You can call me Yomi-sensei if you want." The owner seems to overhear that, as he lets out a laugh.

It really doesn't take very long, as the cook has a few pots of broth already cooking. A few minutes later, he places a very large bowl down in front of each of the girls, with a set of chopsticks next to each. "Looks great, thanks." Yomi smiles and claps her hands together once. "Itadakimasu~." She lifts up the bowl in both hands and brings it to her lips to get a taste of the broth, then takes up her chopsticks. "I'll let you taste mine, too, but miso is a bit strong for some people." By now, the owner is watching Lexicon, who is obviously a first timer at this. He's curious to see what a foreigner thinks!

Lexicon has posed:
    When poked, Lexicon glances aside, "Don't count on it." Just flat declined the sensei claim right in front of the chef and everyone. Feeling rather smug, Lexicon dips her head to the chef, collecting the chopsticks provided. Gripping them with both hands, she repeats her own version of that cultural Japanese ritual, "Itadakimasu." And then punctuates it by splitting the chopsticks apart for use.

    "I'll pass on the miso for now, though," She takes a moment to examine the bowl in front of her as she speaks, "I'd like to experience this fully, without scrambling my impression of how it tastes by sampling other dishes at the same time."

    Lexicon doesn't lift her bowl. Rather, she dips the tips of her chopsticks in the broth and then tastes that. After a moment, her expression softens as she gets right to eating without further commentary.

Yomi Isayama has posed:
"Spoilsport." Yomi doesn't seem too bothered by the rejection, though. "Mmm, fair enough!" She pauses for a moment to watch Lexicon's reaction as well, then nods, pleased, as she sees that the broth seems to have the DCC's approval. Not wanting to let her own ramen sit for too long, Yomi snags some noodles with her chopstick and slurps them up. She'll refrain from giving any more advice unless it's needed. Or if she sees Lexicon being too gentle with the stuff, but something tells her that's probably not going to be an issue. "This place has the best ramen I've had in town. Ever since Iwahata took me here on my first day with the Agency, I've been a regular."

Lexicon has posed:
    Sampling the noodles next, Lexicon hums thoughtfully. Despite how she fights, she's rather meticulous with her food, by the look of it. Though at least she has the urgency to enjoy it while it's still hot. The DCC listens intently while sampling the various ingredients of her ramen bowl. Once she's back to noodles, she comments, "It's rather good." A glance up to the chef, and she dips her head once more, "You really know your stuff. Thank you."

    Back to her meal, she considers, "You've mentioned a Kagura before, and Iwahata now, but I don't think I've actually met anyone from your agency. Are they also exorcists?"

Yomi Isayama has posed:
The owner dips his head with a grin. "As long as my customers are happy, I know I'm doing my job!"

After taking some time to slurp down a few more bunches of noodles, Yomi nods toward the DCC. "Everyone in my division is. Iwahata's the oldest one. He's our driver and up-close specialist. Kagura's my little sister." Yomi pauses for a moment. "Well, not -actually- my sister. She's an only child, and the youngest one there, so I sibling-adopted her. Her father is usually so busy with work out of town that she gets lonely pretty easily."

Another slurp of ramen noodles, and Yomi lifts her brows slightly. "Oh! And sometime I should introduce your sisters to Nabuu. They're twins, too. I'll introduce you to the whole office sometime. There's Kagura and Iwahata and Nabuu. Noriyuki. Sakuraba. Then Jinguji is Minister of the Environment, and Nikaido is her personal aide."

Lexicon has posed:
    Lexicon's head tilts as she eats, indicating she's listening even if she's focused on her meal for the moment. After another mouthful of noodles, she nods once, "Similar to Theurgus adopting Arcana, then." An eye closes, and she asks, "How'd she like that hat you got for her in Britannica, by the way?"

    The rundown of agency members is noted carefully in her head. The two rookies, the old goat, two -- probably senior-- agents, and then what she presumes to be the boss and secretary. A light nod, "You almost sound like a detective agency, with that number of members. It's a bit inspiring, actually." Glancing up, she hums, "Paranormal police... No, a private eye. There's a story to that..."

Yomi Isayama has posed:
Yomi gestures vaguely and nods. "A bit, yeah. Kagura still lives with her father, but she lost her mother a few years ago... I was assigned as her bodyguard back then, since we're only a few years apart in age. She really needed a friend back then." Yomi glances up and sniffs, dramatically. "But now my little Kagura is all grown up." The exorcist glances aside at Lexicon. "I... suppose, though we are officially part of the government. Ministry of the Environment, all very formal. Everyone has a suit, except me and Kagura, since we're usually in our school uniforms."

Yomi pauses again and squints. "And which role are you thinking up for me then, hm?" Nevermind that some of Lexicon's assumptions are a bit off. She'll learn when she meets them.

Lexicon has posed:
    "Not every story is about you," Lexicon teases. Without skipping a beat, she gestures with her chopsticks, "The mysterious transfer student with an unknown heritage and a mysterious paranormal power. You're approached by a shady elder man one day who seems really suspicious at first, but eventually winds up being a very helpful sort interested only in seeing you learn and master your mysterious powers, and maybe do some good with them along the way."

    An eye opens, head tilting, "Not very accurate, but it makes for good storytelling."

Yomi Isayama has posed:
Yomi playfully pokes out her tongue again. "Sounds like you already have a lot of the story written in your head." She pauses again. "...maybe Master Michael is in town, too. He'd be interesting to meet. Ah, he's the one who built most of the weapons we have in our armory."

By now, she's nearly finished with her ramen, lifting the bowl to drink the last of the broth. "It's great as always," she says to the owner before turning to smile at the DCC. "So what do you think of your first real ramen, Lexi?"

Lexicon has posed:
    "Paranormal investigation is a good medium for a mind-oriented story," Lexicon comments, "Pun intended." She finally sets her chopsticks down and empties the broth of her own bowl in one long, slow draft. Any professional drinker would be impressed-- but she cheats. Lexicon doesn't actually breathe. Once done, she sets the bowl down, nodding once more to the chef, "That was the first time I've had real ramen. Thank you again for such a good experience."

    She holds up her hand, projecting her inventory screen once again, "It really was quite good, Yomi. Certainly different from blue clams."

Yomi Isayama has posed:
Yomi gives a soft tsk, tsk at the pun. So terrible. "Well, if you do end up writing this, I'll look forward to reading it." She watches the draining of the bowl with amusement, waiting until the DCC is done before putting payment for the both of them on the counter. "Thanks again. I'll probably see you in a few days." With a grin anda wave to the owner, Yomi slips off the stool and holds the curtain for Lexicon.

"I could probably keep you up all night showing you around, but the city is such a big place. Can't give you everything the first time, can I?" She grins, letting the curtain fall back once Lexi is through it. "So I think it might be better to head home, have a nice bath... and I wanted to see what you think of that manga."

Lexicon has posed:
    Even though Yomi pays, Lexicon still pulls a few notes from her inventory and places them as a tip to the chef. In her mind, he's more than earned it. Collecting her bag after standing, the DCC steps out onto the sidewalk again, "I've got a good number of manuscripts in the works, so it might be a while before that particular one is ready." Eyes closing, she adds, "It's just a hobby I do in my free time, after all. Hardly something I can devote my full time to."

    Shifting the bag to both hands, she pauses, "Ah, if you're going to head home, than I'll do the same." With a dip of her head, she adds, "It's been nice visiting Japan without running from monsters at the same time, for a change."

Yomi Isayama has posed:
When she sees the extra money, Yomi blinks in surprise. So does the owner. "Ah... hold on a moment." She disappears back behind the curtain and has a few quick exhanges with the owner. A moment later, she slips back out. "You surprised me there... Most people don't do that here." The intricacies of cultural differences can wait for another time, but Yomi's expression says that she got the owner to understand. "Mm, well... I'll still look forward to reading any of them one they're finished enough you can show them to me."

The exorcist pauses, resting a hand on her hip. "Ah, well.... I was hoping I could convince you to stay over tonight. But I suppose if you're needed back home, I can let you go this time."

Lexicon has posed:
    Lexicon blinks, standing still while Yomi handles some kind of situation. When she returns, Lexicon leans forward a bit, "I wasn't trying to be rude. Was there a problem?" Given how European-based Britannica is, it's no wonder she's accustomed to tipping. Cultures collide at full speed, here. With a bit of a pensive look, she folds her hands in front of herself, but lets it go on the assumption that there isn't a problem.

    "Well, I guess I could use you as a test market," Lexicon admits, closing her eyes. When the exorcist makes her request clear, though, an eye opens, "Wait, really? Isn't that something high school girls do in cliche slice of life stories?" Eye closing again, the program sighs, "Well I'm not playing truth or dare and I refuse to giggle about Boy A or whatever. If you're spending the night with a Drive Core Controller, than there's only one form of entertainment to truly test our friendship."

    There's a flicker of pixellated light as she brings her hand up. Something twirls, like a Wild West gunman's revolver, until she tightens her grip--around a game controller, "It's time for Dario Kart."

Yomi Isayama has posed:
Yomi gives a vague wave. "Tipping isn't really done here. But he knows you're a foreigner, so it wasn't hard to clear up." She places a hand on Lexicon's shoulder and gives her a gentle squeeze. "Don't worry too much about it."

With an amused smirk on her face, Yomi crosses her arms. "I -am- a high school girl, you know. But no, I didn't expect that sort of thing" She pauses and tilts her head. "Test?"

The controller appears, and Yomi blinks a few times... then laughs. "Okay, okay. I'll take your challenge. But not too late, okay? I don't want the noise keeping father up."