Toge Inumaki

[ Xenk is wildly surprised to find his Shellphone displaying new words, and that the words actually come in multiple messages! Words that are from Toge, no less? (They aren't signed, but he assumes "cursedwords" must indeed be Toge.) What do the dots mean? Xenk probably had no idea what he was doing when they swapped info, but he's never one to back down from a challenge!

Thus, he "pens" his own response. Very slowly. ]

Toge,
I was unaware of the capabilities of these devices. I heard some explanation as to their uses, but the words used largely perplexed me. What use is there for instant communication via text, when one could speak face-to-face? I see now that there is some value to it, though I hope you'll forgive the delay in my response.
You are wise to have opted to regain your abilities. I agree that we must not take whatever strengths we have for granted. A known danger makes a finer friend than an unknown one.
I am glad to hear you have settled in well among them. A desire for the unknown is a healthy pursuit. Though I am not your guardian and should therefore hold no sway over you, please kindly make sure you take care if ever you are asked to take any unscrupulous actions. The ways of dishonesty are a dark path, and I would much hate to see you stray thus.
My thanks for your response,
Xenk Yendar

[ Yeah, he sent that all as ONE MASSIVE text. ]

Edited (typo) Date: 2023-09-07 11:47 pm (UTC)

From:

cursedwords

[ Okay well a giant text is much better than getting a paper letter. Still makes Toge smile, but all the same. Easier to talk to him that way. ]

Okay, well this is texting, it's like the phones I had at home. I talked to my classmates a lot this way. Much easier than carrying pen and paper around.

Mine also does text to voice? I can make my shell phone talk for me if I need to.

I get it too. I hate texting people when I'm talking to them face to face.

Not having it doesn't mean I can speak, obviously, so there's nothing to be gained by giving it up. At least this way I can protect myself, if I need to. And my friends.

What do you consider to be unscrupulous actions?

Mm, hard for me to lie and hard for me to tell the truth, obviously.

[ Nope, he's a text spammer. Quick. Short texts. ]

From:

[ Another twenty minutes later, his response reads: ]

Toge,
The Shellphone speaks? How curious. I can understand how this would be a boon for you given your condition. The written word is at times far better suited for conversation, but this must be especially so when your voice carries the ability to compel others.
As for unscrupulous actions, these include, but are not limited to, actions that go against the law, as well as selfish acts that may cause harm to others. Dishonesty and theft come to mind as the most likely offenders.
Of course I understand that you must fulfill your duties, but I hope the Corsair leaders would at the very least provide someone so young with alternatives that do not lead down this path.
With care,
Xenk Yendar

From:

cursedwords

It's an AI voice, but I'm guessing you don't know what that is. It doesn't sound quite human, but it will make the words I type audible.

At home I text my best friend because he's overseas and far away from me, but for the most part I don't actually text that much between me and my classmates. They all know what I mean when I talk. It takes time to figure it out but I guess they had nothing better to do.

I've never been interested in stealing at least, and I'm not planning on going on a murder spree, but I won't hesitate to do what I have to to protect my friends. Is that moral enough?

So far the only job I've worked on for them is delivering a box. So nothing too shady.

[ It was probably very shady. ]

From:

[ Ok, he's getting that he doesn't need to address him in every one of these. That's progress! ]

Indeed, I do not know what this "AI" means. Is it a manner of spell that reads your messages? I am glad to hear your curse does not transfer in this manner.
I see. An ocean of distance would indeed make instant messages that much more enviable. Even a sending stone has its limits. But I am relieved that communication is not a problem between you and your friends. I should think your code of speech is not so difficult that it should pose a problem to anyone with an interest.
Good. See that it remains this way. Protecting one's companions is a worthy goal, you have nothing to fear of morals so long as you act selflessly.

[ He's not gonna ask what was in the box because he worries he'll regret it, so that sounds good enough for him!! ]

From:

cursedwords

Not a spell, but rather a machine, kind of like the idea of a shell phone. It's a called a program really.

Yes, a lot of ocean separated us, but fortunately aside from timezone issues, we could still talk. Sometimes we did video calls too, where we could see each other and just speak. Technology is cool like that.

There's no worry there. I would always protect my friends. It's the least I can do since they're friends with me.

From:

[ Oops I forgot to sign the last text, please know that he definitely signed it, Xenk is gonna sign ALL his texts. ]

You use yet more words I have no context for. Machines are not nearly as advanced in Faerun, we use magic for many of life's conveniences. One can use a scrying spell to connect with friends from afar, but it is a high level spell that not many are skilled enough to practice.

That is heartening to hear, my young friend. One should always seek to guard those close to oneself. In this life there is no greater sorrow than being alone.

Sincerely,
Xenk Yendar

From:

cursedwords

Guess you've got me there, since I don't know much about magic. Cursed energy, yes, but magic is different, I think. Then again I have this ice thing working, that's more magic like.

I know all about that. My friends are all I have.

From:

Exactly what do you mean when you say "cursed energy"? We have a great deal of curses in our world, but I have never heard the term.

And I am glad you have them. I am sorry that you must be separated from them, while here. Would you describe them to me, if you wish to share their stories with me?

--
Xenk Yendar

Edited (html whoops) Date: 2023-09-09 10:29 pm (UTC)

From:

cursedwords

Someone like me is born with a different brain construction, that allows for me to have a reserve of energy. It's called curse energy, but it's more like spirits and ghosts, that kind of energy. It's primarily used by curses when they attack people so people like me have access to some to defend against them.

On top of the ability to have cursed energy and use it, I have my specific technique. I'm the only one in the world with it. The last cursed speech user has long since died.

I don't mind. My best friend is Yuta, and actually he showed up here which is great because he was overseas a long time. He got really tall, which is totally not fair. He's really kind, but very overprotective.

I'm also good friends with Panda, who is a stuffed panda. He's more like a construct, body-wise, but he has his own will. He's fun to hang out with and he and I train together sometimes.

And our last classmate is Maki. She and I mostly tease each other and bicker, but we're close too. Kind of comes with the whole dangerous situations thing. The underclassmen are pretty cool too, but I don't know them as well.

From:

How curious, to be born with cursed energy. It sounds akin to magic in my world, yet clearly not.

Your friend arrived with you? How fortuitous that you should meet after much time apart. I am happy for you, Toge. The days are surely brighter with a friend by your side.

[ Xenk has no idea what a panda is, so he's picturing like... a construct? But those are things that exist in DND so it's chill. ]

It gladdens me to hear of your friends, certainly considering your otherwise strange circumstances. Friendship comes in may forms, but it sounds as though you are blessed with several good ones. I hope you are not kept from them for long and both you and your friend Yuta are able to return ere long.

Xenk Yendar

From:

cursedwords

Yeah, kind of weirds me out too, but I just have to live with it or whatever.

Yuta showed up, that's pretty cool. I'm glad he's here because it's been way too long and yeah I like my friends but I'll manage with just Yuta.

This place might be really fun, so it's okay if it takes time to get back.

From:

Understandably. A curse quickly becomes a part of who one is, after long.

Godsspeed then, my young friend. I wish you the best of luck in your journey with the Corsairs. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me should you require any aid. I would extend this offer towards your friend Yuta as well.

Warmly,
Xenk Yendar

From:

yuezun

[Depending on if the door is locked or not, Dongfang Qingcang is either going to walk right inside, or teleport inside during the middle of a day when he can feel Toge's spiritual presence inside his room.

He does, however, show up with an almost smile on his lips and a box that could be described as 'shoebox-sized' by someone like Toge in one hand.]

Toge Inumaki, this venerable one has brought your reward.

[Isn't he magnanimous? Praise him for ~~being a jerk and not understanding that a closed door means he should knock~~ bringing a gift!]

From:

cursedwords

[ Well that's nice, fortunately Toge is not doing anything particularly incriminating or too private. Nothing embarrassing. He's dangling a string over the side of his bunk and his new cat Thornprick is playing with it.

He tilts his head a little bit upward to look at him and he smiles just a little bit.

He wonders just how strange this person is. ]

Tuna mayo. [ Toge does thank him, rather than complaining about his presence uninvited. He needs to sit upright, despite Thornprick's mildly annoyed flick of the tail. ]

From:

yuezun

[When Toge sits up and Dongfang notices the cat, he inclines his head respectfully towards what he recognized as a warrior cat fellow to Deathstar.

Then he moves to stand in front of Toge. He waited until Toge was sitting up properly before he began a very formal (if impromptu) award ceremony.]

Toge Inumaki, for your service in aiding this venerable one, the Moon Supreme of the Moon Tribe, Dongfang Qingcang, upon his arrival to this world that lays beyond the River of Stars and in the vastness of the Destruction of Ten Thousand Heavens, which saw this venerable one's power sealed and his understanding of mortals tested, this venerable one presents you with this reward.

[He extended the hand with the box to display it, and with the other lifted the lid off to reveal a fall themed cornucopia filled with various small bags of tea blends.]

This venerable one was asked to provide tea as Toge Inumaki's reward. As such, this venerable one has acquired for Toge Inumaki, an ever-full 'cornucopia' of seasonal tea blends.

[Because Daqiang had promised to get the 'best box of tea possible' and what was better than a box of tea that never ran out?

He looked very proud of himself.]

From:

cursedwords

[ Toge is beyond impressed - he's familiar with the cornucopia idea, he's gotten himself one for those fruits and vegetables and now he's getting one with tea. His eyebrows shoot up, but the formality, while a bit off putting to him personally for many reasons - is not something he's unfamiliar with.

Despite the fact that Toge has given no indication of this, he does in fact know how to stand on ceremony.

He rises to his feet and accepts the gift, before gracefully lowering himself into seiza, setting the gift in front of him and offering him a probably far more appropriate and familiar formal bow. ]

Tuna mayo. [ Thank you Daqiang, he appreciates his thoughtful reward. ]

[ Although really don't get used to this, if he wanted to be formal he'd still be with his clan. ]

From:

yuezun

[He had not been expecting Toge to prostrate himself, much less recognize the appropriate protocol to even accept the reward in a proper manner. So many of the people in this world - Toge included - were very casual in their manner and speech. And Daqiang had no true objection to most of it. Much of the pomp and circumstance of formal affairs were pointless to worry about in day to day life.

Still, it left Dongfang Qingcang impressed anew by Toge's actions.]

You may rise.

[He offered relatively quickly so that Toge did not feel he had to continue. Since, well... Daqiang really hadn't been expecting anything like that out of him.]

Edited Date: 2023-11-27 09:22 pm (UTC)

From:

cursedwords

Salmon. [ He agrees, and thanks him all the same and then shifts to a far more relaxed position, stretching out his legs, like the formality is something he just does not like.

Because he doesn't. It reminds him of home, but he does know when to use it and Daqiang probably appreciated it. ]

From:

There's no way in hell that Todoroki is going to leave out Toge in his gifting. He may not know many people here. They may not know every nook and cranny about each other's life but it feels like he knows a lot. Toge is on his mind all day randomly, things remind him all the time.

It's why he tries to wrap Toge's gift, too, and it's... it's not good. It's not good at all. It's got at least two layers to it, a couple patches because he's definitely held it too hard and his finger went through. The first year he went about this there were people to help him and he thought he had the understanding, turns out it's the jist that he understood. With no videos to watch while he does this here, he's SOL. Kind of. He made it.

Once the ship mail comes in, Toge will find himself the owner of a temperature conductive metal plating. Very similar to the one that he wore during that goose fight. There's a small A5 style book in there, all the pages aren't used, but a lot of them in the front are. They're hand drawn schematics of the regulator. Aside the very concise very to the point writing, at the first page resides his letter:

Good morning, or evening, Inumaki. I'm not sure which this will reach you in.
It is Christmas and so Merry Christmas. This support gear will help you regulate your body's temperature safely to a very, very low temperature so you can test some of your ice abilities safely. It mainly centers on your core body for hot or cold, but isn't perfect without something to balance it out. Please don't go too far, too fast with your ice powers, you could do damage very easily.

I included schematics, but can help you at any time with repairs or questions. I hope this helps you as much as it used to help me. I'm eager to see you use it one day, if you'd let me.

From,
Shoto Todoroki

From:

cursedwords

It's a thoughtful gift, it really is and Toge is very pleased to see it, even if he doesn't celebrate holidays. He's never giving Christmas much thought, although he's appreciated the aesthetic of the season - they're always working. His family never gave him the time of day, and now that they're not he hadn't even thought about gift giving. So he's baffled when he gets a gift. Baffled and charmed, but in exchange it means he should bring Shoto something in return. That, and ask him how to use his very nice gift.

He's much less polite, he doesn't ask, he just sneaks onto the Paladin ship one afternoon like he's some kind of ruffian and knocks on Shoto's door.

If he's not home, he will leave his two gifts behind with a note, but if he is that's even better so he can ask questions.

From:

To be fair, Shoto would've welcomed him into his home if he wasn't playing Mission Impossible to get over to his living quarters. Shoto doesn't really go out that often, he's delivered his gifts and he's wondering who it is at his door until he opens said door. The usual resting bitch face that he has lights up, even if only a little, it's very visible and very much a lot for him.

"Inumaki..." He's happy to see him. It breaks through the fog if being happy to see him enough that he should probably move out of his doorway. "Do you want to come in?"

From:

cursedwords

Toge smiles brightly and waves as he steps inside as he's invited. Toge waits for the door to close before he holds out his gifts.

They're not wrapped, unfortunately, he's really not a holiday kind of guy, but one is a plain looking purple mug and the other is a bento with cold soba inside as well as some egg rolls and sausage octopi.

He's a little sorry it's not much, but it was short notice for him.

Edited Date: 2023-12-28 03:35 am (UTC)

From:

Shoto steps out of the way, giving him as much room as the doorway will allow. The door does get closed, not locked, but his eyes are busy ticking down to the gifts being held out toward him. Even if they're not wrapped, he wears the same look of a bit of surprise, looking from the man's face and then back down to the offered items.

"For me?" he asks, assuming considering they're being held out and takes them. He looks into the bento and the earlier raise of his eyebrows is even more severe and obvious. "You made it..." Or got it, he doesn't care which, "Come, sit down, have you eaten?" Because Shoto is about to share this. "I like this colour, too, thank you for thinking of me." The mug he means.

From:

cursedwords

Toge smiles brightly and nods at him enthusiastically. Yes, they are for him, and he watches him look them over.

He also gets a nod when he comments about him making it, Toge definitely did that, and a head shake. He hasn't eaten, but he's not that hungry right now. He brought that for Shoto.

He follows him wherever he settles and gets out his phone.

I didn't tell you the BEST part yet. If you hold the mug and think that you want a drink, it fills with hot chocolate. It never runs out!

From:

Shoto does settle in on the couch with him, on the way there he's grabbed his phone preemptively. He's excited to talk to him and this is how, so, of course he's got his phone.

Shoto's brain kicks in and he has to get back up, getting something to eat this with. He looks at his phone as he comes back to settle in with the bento box and the mug on the table in front of him. "Ah?" He picks the mug up, thinking just as he was told and his eyebrows raise again. "Inumaki... This is all very thoughtful. My power makes it easy for me to heat things, but it's nice to not have to use my quirk." He can't help the smile that creeps onto his face, offering him the mug. "Want some?"

From:

cursedwords

It takes a moment for him to watch Shoto work it out and since it's nice and full of hot chocolate, and he knows how great this mug is - he got one himself, and he accepts with a nod. Toge takes a little sip and then offers the mug back.

It's really good.

You surprised me. I wasn't thinking of the holiday. I like your gift, I just don't know how to use it. Maybe you can show me?

From:

Shoto gladly lets him have his fill, even if it weren't all, he wouldn't mind doing things in any way shape or form specifically and only for Toge. Even if it's meant for himself.

He has no qualms about taking a small drink after, looking down at his phone as he does before setting it on the table. "Oh." he hadn't thought about surprising him, but he doesn't understand that part of the context. "I can teach you to use it. It's the one I had just before the one I arrived with." Which, if Toge gets that good with ice, Shoto will gladly hand over. "What do you mean surprised you, though?" He picks up some of the soba, dipping it and of course offering it to his company first. At least a bite or two so that they can both enjoy it. Toge makes him want to do things for him, more than Shoto wants to do them normally.

From:

cursedwords

He's a total novice and he'll have to learn to wield his power, but the regulator should help. Toge did want to answer, but he paused to lower his mask so he could accept a bite in between responses.

It makes him blush lightly, but it's very kind of Shoto to do that for him.

Holidays are pretty bad for people so there's a lot of curses and a lot of work. So I never really celebrated them. I mean, I assume my friends would do something like that. My clan wouldn't.

From:

Lucky for him he's got an expert wielder willing to help. Probably others who could but at least one where the regulator is concerned.

Shoto doesn't mind helping, trying the food next while his guest types and he looks pleased by it. It's so good. It's been so long since he's had this and it's the last place in the world he thought he'd ever get it. He picks his phone up to look at it, turning his eyes back. "Oh, I see. You didn't think I'd get you something." That kind of surprised. "I wanted to. I couldn't celebrate either, not until around last year." Not to the fullest, at least. "This is so good." He comments on a little happier things for both of them, but he has to ask:

"Inumaki, what is a curse? I have a friend who uses them constantly, but I don't think he's got any creatures following him." Unless you count Mineta once in a while. He does offer another bite to his guest, if he wants more, Shoto will share until he tells him no thank you.

From:

cursedwords

Toge nods. That's correct, he wasn't expecting it.

I wasn't, but I can plan ahead next time and get you something better.

He's not against gift giving, just surprised.

His eyebrows raise because he's met a lot of people, but he hasn't encountered any curses or shikigami for that reason.

What kind of curses does he use?

From:

Shoto pauses, giving him an odd look. "What better than this?" He really likes it. The mug is perfect, the food takes him back home where he desperately misses. The company? Seeing his smiling face in his doorway was a full year, every day, worth of gifts.

"Ah..." he looks a little uncomfortable. He used to be a little more loose with letting the words fly as he required, maybe still not as bad as Bakugo. "They're crass. It's just how he is, he usually doesn't mean anything by it, but it's a lot of cursing."

From:

cursedwords

Well this was something I made up because you asked me if I could make cold soba. I can, so I did. I'm really glad you like it.

He tried to be thoughtful with his gifts, at least and he's really happy to know he hit the mark correctly.

Ah, that's what he means.

Curse words aren't the same as curses. They're kind of more like a release I think for most people. That's why I have a word I use for it too. Sometimes things are so frustrating I can't help myself, even if I can't say the normal ones. Like if you got hurt or something you could feel frustrated enough to curse.

From:

He gives a soft, small smile, "You did..." make it, "I'm thankful." Considering the dent he's made in it? Yeah. He's really enjoyed it and enjoyed sharing it while they chat as much as they can where chatting is concerned.

Reading over the whole thing he 'ohh's as he starts to understand, but just as if the words were coming from his guest's mouth, he doesn't say anything really until he's done reading. "I understand. Then what do you mean that there are more curses around the holiday?" Is his understanding. Excuse him as he chews away after speaking of course, offering up some of the last bits before Toge can start typing and it isn't annoying him in the midst of it.

From:

cursedwords

It's kind of really cute, and Toge leans forward to accept the bites as they're offered. He doesn't see anything too strange about it. It's a bit intimate for friends, but they're not just friends are they? At least, that's what they're exploring. So far, so good.

The curses I fight are like monsters. They're born from people's negative feelings. Holidays...school exams...those are times when we are really busy. Curses get born, they start hurting people and it's our job to stop them.

From:

Shoto would be horrified to hear they're not friends until things were explained to him a little more flatly, but he's engrossed in learning about curses and his frown says a lot about his mindset. "You'd never be able to sleep in my world, you'd have to work every day all day." He can't imagine what kind of horrors are birthed from the negative feelings of the horrors of his own world. Maybe ones of his own, too.

"I understand a little more." He doesn't know if he could fight monsters. "It must have been frightening learning to deal with monsters."

From:

cursedwords

Yeah don't give the Elders idea. I'm sure they'd like nothing more if we didn't sleep. As it is, we do get nights like that. Last Christmas we were dealing with a whole night of curses. Hours of fighting.

Toge hesitates a moment and shakes his head.

No, I've always been able to see them. I'm used to them so it's not that scary to learn about it. It's more scary when you're outclassed. That's happened to me before.

From:

Shoto hopes the Elders aren't listening, or if they are he can bend their ear on the importance of proper sleep for their soldiers. Let him give them a damn good talking to as to how to properly treat the bodies of their warriors if there isn't so many of them. He'll pull rank, son of the number one if he has to. ...Or they're not here and can't listen and he just will be upset about hearing that would be a possibility on the constant. He can understand sometimes, but not always.

He takes all of this in, noting at approximately what the head shake was for and then continues to read.

"I'd hope they were smarter than that, that it isn't more than a few days. Sometimes people who can protect others might have to. There's no reason to work you to actual death."

Which brings him to the idea of Toge being outclassed? "After seeing you fight, after seeing how you move... It isn't easy to think you'd be outclassed by anything. I was remarking to one of my friends how fluidly and easy it was to work with you."

From:

cursedwords

They aren't, and Toge doesn't want them to be listening either. They can stay far, far away from this place as far as he's concerned.

I've never been on a mission longer than a week, but I did get sleep during the mission.

He smiles a little bit at that.

I'm only a first grade. Well, almost. Waiting for promotion, but I passed my test. So I'm at the level of a first grade. There are special grade curses and a couple of sorcerers that would give me a hard time. I got what you were doing, it was a great idea. I'm used to working around people. I saw a chance and I took it.

From:

Alright that's better than working him tirelessly. A week is a long time, not unheard of in his world but also not ideal. Then again, once more, they're short staffed essentially. He's had instances like this.

"A week is still a long time." He has taken to picking up the cup again, sipping from one side silently while he reads the other part of the message. He remembers this but all the same.

That smile makes him falter, the words leave him for the chance to see him do it. Eventually he remembers to complete what he's saying. "All this but it's still surprising, Inumaki. I'm sure there are pro heroes back home that wouldn't be able to successfully walk into a fight with you. Myself included. I'm not a pro hero." He offers over the drink while he's speaking. "There are very few I can think of. A man by the hero name of Edgeshot maybe. That's only maybe. Perhaps if someone had regeneration, or if there were a way to dodge. I don't even think my teacher could." He finishes with an easy remark of: "I guess I'm saying you're impressive, but I wanted to elaborate." There may be a few other heroes maybe? Some villains that he knows of that might be able to withstand.

While Shoto is playing fantasy sports in his head, he notes, specifically that above the conversation, he's just happy for the company. For this particular company.

From:

cursedwords

Shoto is rewarded again with Toge's warmest smile. He hasn't put his mask back up, since he doesn't really need to at the moment and he accepts the hot chocolate so he an sip some of it too. It's alright, if it gets empty, they can just refill it like magic. It's a great item.

Thank you. I think that's what scares people about me. But I have a best friend, he's special grade. He can take my cursed speech and just shake it off. Can you imagine after seeing it? Shrugging and it's gone? Most people around here though, they'd fall under my spell so to speak.

From:

There it is again. Distracting and pretty to see on an equally pretty face. The marks that he knows are there aren't ever anything but just present. Nothing more, nothing less. Besides... It's kind of like smile marks if he thinks about it.

And he is thinking about it. His phone actually chimes at him again before he looks away, surprised at the noise and fumbles his phone to be able to read it once he does get it onto the message. Alright, message.

"No, I can't imagine that." he says at first, answering as he's reading. "After seeing what I saw and knowing that he... your world has some incredibly strong people, Inumaki. It makes me want to train harder." He will never be able to withstand it, he's certain, but he doesn't let things beat him that easily. His eyes come up off his screen. "I'd like to hear more about him, if you'll tell me more. I like hearing about you."

From:

cursedwords

He cannot help but brighten when he asks about Yuta.

His name is Yuta and he's the biggest dork I've ever met. He was so shy when he came to school which was kind of like me before? So I really felt for him and he didn't have control of his power but it's alright we could handle him anyway. He's stronger than me, but he didn't know how to use that.

He's really really kind. He and I didn't get along at first because I think he found me a little intimidating. A lot of people find it uncomfortable to be in silence all the time which I mostly am. They think that I'm thinking one thing or another when really? I'm thinking the same things anyone else is.

So Yuta and I worked together and he and I got an understanding of each other and after that he was all too happy to talk to me. We talk all the time. He was gone on a one year long mission though, he went to Africa. But we text all the time and video call sometimes.

From:

Normally when the guy you're crushing on ~~if you know it or not~~ sends you an essay that you've been able to finish up some food and re-fill that drink-length, you should be jealous, right?

Maybe if you weren't Shoto Todoroki.

All of these words make him happy to see. That Toge has someone so precious to him, that can take every bit of what he dishes out by accident even maybe. He says 'talk', and Shoto does have to wonder if he means with actual words sometimes. That part makes him a little sad, that he will never be able to do that for him, but jealous? How could he be? Not when it makes Toge this happy.

"I should hope that one day I would be able to meet him, he seems kind hearted. He seems like someone I would like to know. Especially with your kind words about him." Any friend of Toge is a friend of Shoto's now.

From:

cursedwords

Toge did love Yuta, Yuta was his best friend and he's never had one before. It's not an essay professing an undying, unending romantic relationship. Shoto has nothing to worry about. He's happy to have his friends and he's happy to gush about them because they are that great. They're his friends after all.

He doesn't mean talk like Shoto would. When his powers were sealed, he tried. He just couldn't do it. Toge's muscles are not developed enough. No one would think about their throat muscles, obviously, because when they're toddlers, they make noise. They make sounds. Toge couldn't do that.

He works within his limits.

He is. My other friends are great too, but Yuta is definitely the kindest of us all. I think that's nice.

From:

Shoto would listen, too. Gladly listen. Even if it was a litany about actual romantic feelings. If that's something that Toge wanted to talk about, Shoto is over his angsty teenage years. However, he's gotten nothing but the fond and kind memories of it and it's only left his heart warm and it's only left him happy to know that even if... No, when. They leave this place, even with all that he knows, Toge will be in good hands with this Yuta and their friends. He'll ignore all the ideas that he could die any moment, just because he would never want to think of that.

"Nice?" He asks, "I think having friends that close is the best thing in the world. Until I got to UA last year." ish. "I hadn't had a friend. I wasn't allowed to have friends and by the time I maybe was more independent, I wasn't a nice person." Not like Yuta, or Midoriya, and that's something he will always keep in mind when trying to better himself. Just how he was treated, too. Or for that matter, nice like Toge. "I have had great examples to help me understand who I want to be. Present company included."

From:

cursedwords

Toge's tilting his head slightly, showing he's listening. They might leave someday, that's true, but Toge's not worried about that. He's living a short life, he knows it's a short life, he's going to enjoy what he can.

He smiled at the correction, he agrees. Having friends is the best thing in the world, he wouldn't argue against that.

I understand what that's like. I've always been like this, but maybe not as outgoing. A little more meek. Shy. I tease Yuta for being shy but I was just as shy when I went to school too. Panda, Maki and Yuta are my first friends. I would do anything for them.

I'm really flattered that you think so highly of me. Really.

From:

No this is so different from when Bakugo is around, or Midoriya, or anyone else. It's these small things like the way he's tilting his head to listen. It's almost something that makes Shoto have to pause what he's saying to let his brain catch up.

Again it takes his eyes a little while to go to the screen, they're focused on his guest and trying to feel out the difference in why this isn't like sitting with his friends. He has kissed a different friend, twice, so ??

It takes him a moment or two, he's distracted in his mind, but he's dedicated to the conversation. There's more names of friends and they are instantly packed into his head. More things to learn about Toge that he's happy to know. "Your friends and other sorcerers?" He's almost certain that it's a yes, but he has to ask. There are people he knows that know the very rarest of quirkless people who have remained quirkless unlike some.

"It's alright if you feel flattered, but it's just the truth. If you didn't make me feel that way, I wouldn't say so." Maybe he can just... maybe Toge has more information about anything than Bakugo? Probably not but, a shot to shoot so. "You make me feel a lot of things, all good things." He assures.

From:

cursedwords

Yeah, we're all sorcerers. We're not really supposed to interact with outsiders, but no one's here to get me in trouble. I can do what I want.

Toge grins, pleased about that and also if his tone is being read it's more teasing than anything. He shouldn't talk to Shoto, but he will. He wants to.

Well thanks. I don't know if I'm that good about how I feel but I can try. I'm kinda...I don't know. I'm a sorcerer. We're big about not feeling things too strongly.

From:

It does read a little teasing, maybe a might bit bratty, and it's nothing that's offsetting. Shoto thinks he really should do what he wants in that regard. Maybe it's selfish, because that means he can enjoy his company, but it's how he feels.

"I'm glad you are." Are what, brain? "Doing what you want." Nice save.

He's looking down again, at the text. He can hear Bakugo's words echoing in his damn head, not just because the man is that loud that it still echoes. So... again he's going to try to feel this out, whatever a 'this' is. "Does that mean you feel strongly, or that you don't want to, but do?"

From:

cursedwords

Toge smiles and nods at what he says. He's enjoying himself. It's freedom like he's never seen before and he's relishing in it. Is that so bad?

He considers that, tilting his head again.

I think it depends on the context. There are some things I feel strongly about, like you and my friends that sometimes surprises me. I'm okay with those feelings. I like them. I don't feel strongly about things I deal with, like people dying. It's...it doesn't register. I know that most people feel sad but I don't feel that. I feel kind of numb. I don't know how to explain it.

From:

It's not bad in the least. Where this is concerned? Even better. He will continue to be selfish in that way.

With the screen to allow him the time to not have to look at the object of his question line, it makes it easier to collect his thoughts. He feels too selfish when the idea of feeling strongly regarding people dying, in what context he doesn't know, not affecting Toge anymore... or maybe ever? He's not ready to reveal the darker demons of his story, not ready to see what face Toge makes over them. Not when all he really wants is that smile back.

"Maybe that's a way to feel about it, all the same." Shoto offers, "There have been a lot of people die in my life. My own brother died in a fire before I really, really knew him." There are things extenuating there, but he foregoes them. "I feel sad it happened, but I don't feel the same way my mother or my siblings do. So maybe that's a way that you do feel, that it does register. Just differently than other people."

Edited (I did a dumb @_@ ) Date: 2023-12-28 09:32 am (UTC)

From:

cursedwords

Toge nods, listening and it's a bit strange but he can imagine that Shoto must be concerned about he feels. How his brother died and he reaches out to squeeze his arm. Gentle support. Touch to offer him acceptance, even if it might seem strange to Shoto how he feels.

Maybe it's like that. The people that die, are not people I know. They're people I was too late to save, or people I couldn't help. People who got attacked before we found out about it. People die a lot and I guess it's sad that they're not alive, but it's not really my place to mourn them. I didn't know them.

From:

The touch is kindly and he's reminded all over again just how...? Sweet. Toge can be. It's not that it didn't affect him at all, but certainly just as stated, not as much as the people who grew up loving him. Shoto nods his head as he reads, they've gotten onto a heavier topic than he intended and in an opposite way of the intentions. He agrees specifically with the sentiment and lets a long moment of quiet pass between them. Speaking up soon after it.

"I pulled us somewhere unkind, Inumaki." he admits, "I'm not good at communicating." He tries, he really does but sometimes it goes awry. "I meant that I felt strongly toward you as well." As he had, amongst the heavier talk, mentioned Shoto in there with people he cares about very obviously.

From:

cursedwords

It might not hurt him as much as others, but it still affects him. When Shoto tries to correct, Toge just smiles at him anyway. That, at least, he can explain.

It's okay, Todoroki. You're communicating just fine. I think it's okay to talk about stuff that's not always nice because it lets me learn more about you. We don't know each other well yet, but I would like to.

Even if he's not the best at offering feedback.

I'm really glad, because I still really like you and kissing you was really great. I'd do it again in a heartbeat. Although if I'm going to kiss you all the time, I might have to make you my boyfriend.

From:

The smile is distracting, but he honestly needs to see what's been typed. It's the rock and the hard place. He misses out on part of the smile but he also can't not look down and-- okay well he can't do both so he's definitely reading. The first of it is very reassuring, it's the better part of this really. The statement after he's nodding his head, gathering his thoughts as he reads.

The third part, a small pinkening falls over his cheeks, even if he's not really looking shy for it. He contemplates foregoing speaking to kiss him instead. He has been wanting to since he opened that door- except his brain shuts down for another moment or two. His eyebrows come together and he tries to parse what he's read.

He looks upward toward Toge, then back down and reads the last line, then back up to its author. Make him? Oh god is there a ritual? He should've asked Bakugo-- oh god, is he even?? Can Shoto even be that for someone? How do you be that? How-- There's definitely a ritual it's 'make'.

From:

His heart is thumping out of his chest and his jaw looks like it's going to try to word. "Tone is very difficult sometimes still. I'm doing my best to learn. Are you teasing, or being sincere? Either is fine but I..." He looks back down at it, not sure how to say everything he wants to say. "If you aren't... teasing." This is fast right? Is he trying to rationalize himself out of something he actually wants? Why is he doing that? Why is his brain doing that? "I would learn whatever ritual is required." Oh thank god his mouth isn't blue-screening like his brain. "Even without the formal title, I don't think I could change how I feel. I don't want to change it."

From:

cursedwords

Shoto has a really adorable blush, frankly. It suits him, and Toge wonders if he can find ways to make him do it again. He waits, patiently, while he seems to process what he said. Toge isn't exactly sure what he said that is making him think it over, well aside from the comment, but he hadn't meant it to be taken that way.

Either he'd see it as a serious option, or he'd think Toge was kidding. He was fine either way. It's not that it's too soon, it's just if they're going to keep exploring things that are tangentially romantic, maybe they should try that. It's one thing to remain friends, it's quite another to try romance and Toge hasn't had the latter experience. He kind of wants to.

What he's expecting is not...that. It makes him blush in turn, but he's already in this. He's not going to back down from the odd question.

Yeah, sorry, tone is very hard. What I said can be taken seriously, or it can be taken as a joke. That's intentional because you might not think it's something I should say. So it's kind of both. If it seems out of place, or something you're not interested in, we can treat it as just a joke. Something we can revisit later, or not.

But if you do want to go in that direction, it's something we could consider exploring. I'm attracted to you. I would enjoy a romantic relationship. If you want that.

There's no ritual really. It's just...talking about things. Making decisions. You could say that you just want to be friends, or that it's too soon to consider this, or maybe you're interested...

I don't know what you're thinking exactly. But no answer you give me is going to make me stop being your friend. You should know that.

From:

Shoto has been in a lot of do or die situations. A lot of life or death, and a lot of life or death that has ended in the death part more than life. But never has he been so nervous in his entire life. He lacks the words to say what he wants, he lacks the ability to act. He's never lacked the ability to act and the idea of sitting on this precipice that he keeps trying to rationalize when all the smart parts of him are saying not to.

In fact, he's so focused he doesn't see that Toge is typing, and he almost doesn't hear his phone. Instinct to turn it upward is what has him reading. And there's no way he's read the whole thing, not a chance in hell. He's really only gotten to 'Yeah, sorry, tone is very hard. What I said can be taken seriously...' and he's turning his head up, nodding. At first it's only a little nod, and then it's a little larger. "Seriously." he says, resolute in his voice, "I-want-to-take-it-seriously. I'm sorry I didn't read the rest. I will read it, I promise I will." Taking in a deep breath and letting it out in a small shudder, Shoto calms himself down.

He sets his phone to the side, he promised, but give him a second. It's easier to take Toge's hands to express sincerity. He's better with action than words. "I don't know how, why or what, but I know it isn't bats that has you on my mind all day. I know that I don't know much about this, I can make no flashy promises, but I'm taking it seriously." Again more resolute, more calm, more focused. "I'll read the rest." he says as he takes the phone up to read it.

A tiny smile pulls at one of his lips, "I should've read first." he apologizes, "If there's no harm in trying, then what's the harm in trying? I think I'd like to learn. I'm going to make a lot of mistakes." This is his 'you can back out now', "I know I will, but I will do my best to not repeat them."

Edited Date: 2023-12-28 10:47 am (UTC)

From:

cursedwords

He's surprised that Shoto's barely looked it before he's taking his hands. Toge could stop him, of course he can. He doesn't It's fine. He doesn't need his hands right now does he? Shoto can have them.

It's helpful. He understands. It's not the bats, not at all. It was their first kiss, but it's the second kisses, the night he spent sleeping against Shoto that Toge remembers and thinks about. It's his calm presence, his gentle, kind outlook. His patience with him. Those are the traits he considers. He wants to do something, but Shoto's already reading it again.

His smile and words make Toge laugh just a little bit. It's still silent but the light gasping, the trembling of his shoulders and his bright wide smile.

It's okay. I think about you a lot too. Not so much the bats although wow - what a way to meet someone. But mostly the time we spent together after that. You're so sweet, kind and patient. You looked after me. You're also really cute and I would love to try and date you.

Don't feel bad. I've never done it either. I'm pretty sure we'll both make mistakes. It's fine. They're probably not gonna be that dire.

But if you agree to this, you, Todoroki Shoto are going to be referred to as my boyfriend.

From:

Not just a happy smile, that bright smile that hits him straight in his chest. The little laugh that has his own smile creeping wider and this time. This. Time. He turns his eyes down, one hand free from having to give back the hand needed to type. His mismatched eyes turn down to the screen and he reads every word of it. His nerves are starting to ebb away, the concern ebbing away, and the only thing left in his mind is the single worry easily answered: Heroes can be targets, so can anyone they attach themselves to. It's just as simple as remembering the crush of that goose to throw that out of his mind. Look how patient he's being with Shoto, how direct so he can't misunderstand... He would be stupid to say no to this.

"As long as I can say the same about you." because let's be real he didn't include that, and Shoto wants that permission. He really should've told Izuku about any of this, he's going to feel bad only momentarily. "I agree to your terms, let's learn and make mistakes together and if we need to, the pact include not losing each other as friends."

You fed him, Toge. That's basically never going to have a 'never getting rid of him' scenario as it is.

From:

cursedwords

His eyes are still bright with his mirth and he nods at what Shoto says and offers him a hand to shake. Shaking on it, that's the best way to cement such a pact isn't it?

Whether Shoto does shake his hand or not, when he's done and he has it back he'll agree properly.

Deal. No matter what we'll still be friends. Besides, I think you should be really close friends with your boyfriend. I think it's important.

From:

He does shake Toge's hand. Is that a thing they should be doing? It is proper and it is the way to solidify a verbal contract. Holy shit. This is really happening.

Letting him have his hand back, Shoto takes the opportunity to lean against him, testing the comfort of both of them being a little closer. Something he'd learned first hand that he enjoyed with Toge. After reading he contemplates. "That's true... In that case you should call me by my first name if you feel comfortable with it. I tried to call a friend by their first name and it was awkward."

From:

cursedwords

That's really cute actually, him leaning against him and Toge slides his arm around Shoto, encouraging him to sit there. He can type faster with two hands - but he can still type just fine with one.

It's maybe a silly thing to do, if anyone else was asked, but it's not their relationship. This relationship belongs to the two of them and if they want to shake on it? They're going to shake on it.

Toge doesn't think everyone does the exact same things anyway.

I don't mind that Shoto. You can call me Toge too.

I'm not going to be able to say your name aloud, but I'll think it. Names are definitely words I can curse. I can't even say my own name really.

While Shoto reads that message, he moves his thumb idly on Shoto's arm where it's resting. Just an idle movement.

From:

The arm around him gets looked at, not displeased, just... This is certainly not something he ever thought he would be able to have. He never, ever considered it for himself. He has half his face burned, baggage like crazy and maybe poor Toge got the short end of the stick but he's willing to stick to their agreement... If he pulls away at any time, then, so be it. Until then, he will warmly enjoy that arm. Like this, too, he's close enough that even though he could look at his own screen when he's done, he can watch him type, too. Seeing the name 'Shoto' be typed out makes him smile again. The thumb is noted and instead of looking at it, he busies reading still.

"You can say what you need to, and don't what you know best not to." Shoto says, turning his head. They're close, so he's trying not to raise his voice or anything, but not whisper either. How does this part work? Well he's talking so that's step one. "I won't ask you to compromise. Relationships aren't about changing someone, I think. Or shouldn't be." Re: his own experience seeing his parents as they were. Let him try it on for size. "Toge." He has only ever seen it typed, "Did I say it right?" Maybe there's an accent to it he will have to perfect, he doesn't know. But it doesn't... feel wrong to say.

From:

cursedwords

Admittedly, they both have baggage. It's not like Toge's made it through his life unscathed, even if he's holding the worst of it back. Someday they'll confront it, he's sure of it, but for the time being he's comfortable. He leaned on Shoto last time, it's only fair he's the one embracing him this time.

Thanks, I'm just warning you ahead of time just in case you thought I could. I don't like it, it's just how things are.

And that's right. Sounds good. I like my first name better than my last name.

Toge has reasons for that. Even if there's cruelty in his first name too, it's not as much as his clan's name. He's not stringent like Maki is, but he prefers it this way too.

From:

Taking turns? That's teamwork. He can do that. It's a whole other experience to see him typing it live-time. He appreciates it gets sent anyway, even if it's obvious what Shoto's doing. "Then that's just how things are." He agrees again, doubling down on his promise. Maybe one day, and maybe not, but he won't be hurt by it.

Thankfully he didn't butcher his name or there wasn't hidden accent in it. He can speak a lot of languages but names are very subject and sometimes extremely specific. "Now that I know, it will be that and only that." He can also understand not enjoying holding a last name, but they differ in Shoto wanting to make a difference while holding his own. Shoto didn't think he could be content, he thought he was just going to be perpetually nervous but the arm around him melts all that away.

How did he land this guy again?

From:

cursedwords

He has a stray thought, but he needs to give it serious consideration and poke around a little bit of information before he decides what to do. That's a surprise for further down the road.

He grins and nods.

Good, I like that. I probably should've said sorry for coming by unannounced, but I wanted to give you your Christmas gift.

And, apparently, take a few risks sneaking around the Paladin's ship.

From:

How he can feel like he's going to burst and like he's the calmest he's ever been is beyond him. He won't sleep for a week thinking about it. He even tests the waters with leaning his head against Toge's shoulder. It's something that he had been curious about, and he's considering he may not get told no.

Another moment of reading and he turns his head, having to take it off his shoulder of course but, "No. You don't have to say you're sorry. I wasn't sure who was at my door, but it was the person I wished to see the most. After seeing your agility, I'm not too concerned, just don't get yourself in trouble. You're welcome here any time." Which brings him to a thought, imagine that happening in his head. "Midoriya had mentioned us getting somewhere else to live, that may make it easier once we do."

Edited Date: 2023-12-28 12:00 pm (UTC)

From:

cursedwords

Toge is comfortable with Shoto there. If he wasn't he'd shift, or find a better way to sit with him, but he doesn't need to. He doesn't turn him away when he rests his head on Toge's shoulder. It might be a little more awkward because he's smaller than Shoto is, but it's not that bad. He sighs rather contently.

The admission gets Toge to blush again, pink dusting his cheeks and he nods. He can definitely sneak around. He's flattered that Shoto wants to see him the most. He feels the same way really. It's part of why he came over after all.

Yeah, someone I know has hired me to be their cook, so I'll be moving too. It's a mixed ship though so that could be an option. Not that I think the Corsairs would do anything to you. Not if they know what's good for them.

He typed that with such an innocent face too.

From:

Shoto will learn the easier ways to sit together, but for the moment it really isn't all that bad. Even better when he sees him blushing. Yet another thing he has come to enjoy seeing. He's not sure what did it, but thankfully it happened. His eyes move back to the device. "Congratulations on your new job." He says as his... Boyfriend. Yep that's a thing. Types out the rest. He's about to say that he will come visit him, or rather he's gearing up to say it as he reads in his mind but...

That's a threat. Not a threatening threat, that's a-- no that's a promise. It comes off as really sweet. He can take care of himself, by far, if someone wants to try anything and usually Shoto can talk people down (read as boggle their mind on how he remembers the order of how to breathe; in then out).

"Then it will be safe, no matter if they do or don't." He has to parse that a little more, that someone can protect him. Not that his friends haven't. Not that they all haven't fallen on that proverbial sword for one another but. This is so levels above just a friend. The words romantic partner really do sink in. "I will come visit you, any time I can. Do you mind me asking who hired you? Is that too personal too soon?"

From:

cursedwords

Thank you.

It's a bit funny in that position that Shoto can see what he's typing, but since he's sending it to him it's not a big deal. He won't even have to look at his own shellphone right now, he can just read Toge's as he types.

It will be, and it was Daqiang who asked me. I don't think that's too personal at all. There's not much you could ask me that is too personal.

From:

To Shoto the tiny tap on the phones is becoming a familiar, comforting noise. Something as familiar as Izuku mumbling, Bakugo growling at him or the other various things he's used to. There's a different flare to it, something specifically Toge but... he's reading as they go now.

The name sounds familiar... while he considers it, he answers. "Then I offer you the same, about asking me what you'd like. I will always answer with honesty-- Ah, Moon Supreme." The abbreviated name since Shoto can and will use the entire name. "A kind hearted man, someone who cares despite what he thinks he's telling other people." An easy read for Shoto. "I think he chose correctly to ask you."

From:

cursedwords

He smiles. When his voice recovers, he'll hear more of his rice ball language, he'll get the chance to decode it like everyone else does. Toge will help him. For now he just has the tap of his fingers on the keyboard.

Okay, and if you don't want to answer something, just say that. I won't mind, nor will I be mad about it. There's not much I won't answer, but there's a few things I could think of.

He is. He was bitten by bats too and he kissed my forehead a lot. It was way different from being with you, a lot more like...I don't know, I can't describe it. No one's done that to me before.

From:

Shoto will be glad to sit down and decode it any day, and by sit down, he means learn an entirely new language based on only a few words just to hold specific conversations with the only person in the world that speaks it to his knowledge. As you do.

"I agree." he says after he's done watching the man type. "Should you not want to, you don't have to. I can't think of anything I wouldn't tell you if you asked, but I respect there are things you may not be able to tell me for my own safety. Please make it clear that's what it's for."

Otherwise he'll dwell on it and he doesn't want that. On the topic of forehead kisses, Shoto is giving it good long thought. No one's done that for him in a long time, not never like Toge but... "Do you want me to do it? So you can see if there's a difference?" After all, Bakugo had gone out of his way to help Shoto, it's the least he can do is to pass on that kind've help.

From:

cursedwords

I'm not a very good liar, text aside. It wouldn't be because of your safety, I just think I could tell you things that would sound really bad and upset you.

Which is not his goal. There are things he could say in that category.

You can if you want. I also like kisses to my lips though.

From:

Oh. That's very direct, the last part of the message that he watches being typed out and so Shoto has the one braincell fire up a few neurons to get an idea about how to hopefully put all three issues at ease. From his own distant memories at least this is something maybe he can help with, too, the inference of what forehead kisses are best suited for.

He sits up, wordlessly at that point after reading. There is a requirement of forehead, though, and so, he sits there a moment. He's still saying nothing, but wordless isn't an issue. If Toge wants to sit in silence sometimes, Shoto is fine with both and this is no different. He reaches his fingers forward, brushing aside the strands of hair on his forehead. The requirement. "We're close friends who discuss things now." he leans in and kisses his forehead. It feels good to do, too, even if that's the first time he's done it to someone. Not just a childhood memory. "Speak freely. We can work out the rest." To which he hopes stops two of the issues on his docket, the third being that Toge enjoys his lips being kissed? Bet.

Shoto leaves a tiny kiss there as well. Short lived as it is, it's there.

Spoiler alert, he likes that too.

From:

cursedwords

The kiss on the forehead makes Toge blush lightly as he nods a little bit as he seemed relaxed under Shoto's attention. He appreciated the kiss on his lips just as much. It was very different, in tone and vibe.

He sighs contently, pleased and he will lean forward to take another kiss.

From:

Feeling how he does, it solidifies that there really doesn't have to be typing, or words, or anything else to convey something between them. There's no hesitance, no pull away, Toge can take as many of these from him as he wishes. Maybe if Todoroki's even lucky they can hold hands in public.

For now it's secret Christmas-y kisses, lingering presses of his lips on the other boy's own. He has to stop himself after a little, "I'll end up addicted." Admits the hero whose next question is selfishly just because he doesn't want to see him go. "Will you stay again?" It's only ever for actual sleep and company purposes, "I pledge the same you did, even if you can protect yourself, if someone says something I won't be pleasant."

From:

cursedwords

By the time the kisses are done, Toge's got his hand on the small of Shoto's back and he's a bit slumped beneath Shoto, he's very very comfortable. He doesn't look like it's much of a problem. Toge is smiling again.

I can say, but did you sleep last time? His brow furrows lightly in concern.

We don't have to stay on the couch either, we can sleep on the bed if you're okay with it. I am.

From:

That smile will be the death of him, he can't place it anywhere in a category that doesn't ring as precious. Not just because of the pleasant-to-look-at face it rests on, but there's just something about it, even beyond the way that it makes him feel.

It's hard to tear his eyes away from it, or to ignore memorizing the way that hand feels on his back, either. To actually be wanted close by someone is not novelty to him. But, he does focus on the phone from his position.

A smirk comes to his lips at the first part, alright, he got caught. He didn't sleep much if at all and he has no problem with the second suggestion. There's more room and it's more comfortable. Any implication an outside source may have is lost on Shoto. He would have offered the bed again, but staying with Toge is pleasant. "I want to be a pro hero, we look after people around us. I'll rest this time, I promise. I was just worried about you. I'm alright with the bed, there's more room. I'll get you something to wear again. Was what you had last time alright? Or similar?"

From:

cursedwords

You don't have to move so fast and I'm not worried. I'm sure you can protect me. Trust me, that's really hot. It's just I think we'll be pretty safe in here and if we're not, you and I can both handle ourselves. So I hope you do sleep if I stay.

He grins though. He could be implying something, but he's not. He's fine with the proposal just to sleep next to each other.

And yeah, that was fine.

From:

Reading it over, he has no problem with the request. He can move a little slower. He doesn't know why, but slower movement is something he's capable of. Or... No he gets it, he's getting ahead of himself. That's what that one means. Got one! However, the fork in the road is 'that's really hot'. He still continues to read the rest of it, he turns his eyes back up to that grinning face and a small smile slips onto his lips.

"Since we're supposed to be telling each other things," starts the man as he traces under the line of Toge's lower lip. "Seeing you smile in any form is something I want to see you do more of. I'll find what makes you happy, so you have no reason not to." They've both lived such horrible lives, one more than the other, up until certain points of it, that it's a small pledge he's willing to give. He takes his hand back, "I have a blue shirt this time, or the dark one from last time. Preference?" He'll swim in both, but at least he has a choice.

Edited (Shhhh) Date: 2023-12-29 06:09 am (UTC)

From:

cursedwords

You're in luck, I kind of smile a lot, but it's better when you make me do it.

Toge could be plenty upbeat, and would try, especially now that he knew Shoto liked that side of him.

How about the blue one this time?

From:

Shoto puzzles out why it would be better, glancing at the phone he takes with him this time, scrolling to the message and he pulls out said blue shirt and the sleep pants to go with it. "This one's cooler, too, since you said it was too hot. I can help with that you know, you just have to ask. Once I show you how to use your support gear I guess you can help with that on your own, too."

Setting the outfit on the arm of the couch, Shoto sits back down with him, taking a little more of the warm drink in the endless cup. This thing is his new favourite.

From:

cursedwords

There's a perk I hadn't thought of.

Toge is chuckling lightly. Not quite as obviously, but he looks incredibly amused. He doesn't pull Shoto back into his arms, or make him do anything he doesn't want to. He leans his elbow on the arm of the couch to prop his head up and offer Shoto the most pleasant, docile of expressions.

He looks happy.

From:

Shoto brings his phone back out. It's alright not to have him attached at the hip. He's right there and that's all that matters. The look prompts one of Shoto's own, contented serenity in that moment and he wonders and hopes that nothing of this changes. That their agreement won't make it change.

For the moments he was scared, Shoto isn't at all frightened anymore. The concern of decisions and the admission that they can both take care of each other and themselves makes him less worried. Really Toge can handle anything that comes his way, but that won't stop Shoto from supporting him. Curses or upset sailors.

The smile on his face stays, even if it ebbs a little bit.

Alright taken back, because he's already reaching out for one of those hands, just to lay it overtop. Silence is fine with him, but in that moment even this far is too far until he can at least hold his hand.

From:

cursedwords

Normally he'd converse a little bit, but bad luck put them in this position where he can't for the time being.

However, Toge responds well to body language, and when Shoto offers his hand, he turns his around so he can interlock their fingers. It's a decisive move. He doesn't see why they should not hold hands and spend time together. It is, after all, a boyfriend staple when it comes to affection.

From:

The acceptance of his hand is a fine way to get more of the same, his fingers gently squeezing the hand that's allowed him in its grasp. It's small things like this that. His thumb runs along the side of the sorcerer's hand and he keeps his eyes on the other man. Things pop through his mind, none of which are in short of thoughts of how nice he looks.

"Would you say yes if I asked you on a date formally, if you don't mind that I'd have to research." A yes or a no is fine, of course, no phone needed, but he's not going to complain if he has to.

Edited Date: 2023-12-29 07:44 am (UTC)

From:

cursedwords

He isn't sure what Shoto wants to research, but at the same time there's no real harm in it. He seems a bit like the type who might worry otherwise, and since his best friend was not dissimilar in that area, Toge knew exactly how to handle that.

He nods his agreement. Definitely. He mouths, 'salmon', but still no sound comes out.

It doesn't surprise him, he needs the recovery time.

From:

Shoto is already worried, he wants it to be a nice date. Movies are great indicators, but there aren't the typical things here and really... Toge is much more important than just a typical, toss away date. Because Shoto says so.

The effort to speak is kind, the mouthing of the word is enough, and he can't wait until Toge's voice is better. Even if he can't speak regular words, the sound of his voice is comforting in its own way. ~~If only Shoto knew he had a healing ability.~~ "I'll make sure it's fun." Even if just sitting with him, now moving his hand to gently cover the one he's already grasping, is fun. God he's pretty. Maybe Bakugo was right, or maybe he wasn't, but Shoto knows damn well that Toge is lovely to look at. "Sorry, am I staring?" He knows he is and he draws his hand up, much like the movies, to kiss the back of his guest's hand and stand, letting it go after. "I'll go fix up the bed again while I'm thinking of it." Not that he doesn't all the time, but it's polite and everyone likes nice sheets.

From:

cursedwords

Toge does not falter when his hand is kissed, but he does blush. Having his mask down is so unfair because everyone, or well Shoto, can see his full expression. It's not something that happens often. He doesn't know that, but Toge imagines he'll tell him someday.

The kiss makes his smile widen just a bit more.

I don't mind. The staring or the date. I'm having fun right now.

From:

Shoto isn't silly to think that every day will have smiles like that but... in the moment, in this moment, there it is. He looks at his phone, nabbing it from the spot to pause where he is. "This could be a pre-date?" Is there pre-dates? Maybe there are now.

The couch isn't too far from the 'bedroom', a curtain drawn over a little enclave that Shoto simply pulls back. It's not hard to hear at normal volume voice wise. At least it seems big enough for two and comfortable enough. It's not the traditional style bed that Shoto grew up on but it's a bed and that's what works. There's a cat bed under it and some shelves on a wall, barren mostly aside from trinkets he'd gotten for Christmas now.

From:

cursedwords

Sure, a pre-date sounds fun.

Toge offers and he leans back to just look around the area. It's well kept, Shoto doesn't have a lot but that's not a problem really. His room is pretty different.

I have more stuff than you lying around. Then again, what else do you do with a cauldron of unlimited candy? I love getting stuff like that. Now I'll never be craving it. I also have one of fruits and vegetables so don't worry about that. And one of tea. A mug like yours of hot chocolate and a carafe of coffee. It's a good thing I like cooking because I really don't have to!

From:

The most important part of this is looking down at his phone again, what Toge says to him is the utmost importance. The bed is left how it is for the moment and he reads through it. Okay well good, pre-date but also now he's not sure what a pre-date is supposed to be. He has no tools at his disposal to research.

"Are all those for convenience, or for cooking? Minus the candy and drinks." That one sounds great, but if he put too much sugar into his diet he'd never forgive himself. "You have me curious also about your favourite candy from it."

He picks up the bedding he's changing out and tosses it into the small closet, closing it to start making the bed up again. Phone at the ready, of course.

From:

cursedwords

He can see he's holding up the process, so he'll pause a moment while Shoto does at least some of it. It's very cute, but he can wait, really!

I got the fruits and vegetables for cooking, yeah. I didn't want to be stuck without having them. It's not very big, but it can help me make desserts and things. We still need other supplies.

From:

Shoto simply thinks he has to have a thought on some of it, which is fine. It 'gives him time' to be able to finish up, comfortable with the way the quilt falls almost militaristically in its method.

Phone in hand, reading as he crosses, Shoto thought as much. That's responsible as a cook, to have cooking supplies. "Like meat, I'm assuming?" He knows a balanced diet, just don't ask him to do more than help. He can make it taste good, but everything else might be just not visually viable to the visual pallet. "If you need to shop, I'll go with you." It's not like he can't pick up things at the same time. Katsuki will appreciate it, right? ...Right?

Now that he's worried himself about the most mundane part of this, he settles in.

From:

cursedwords

Sure, we can shop sometimes. I have to keep an eye on the supplies. Moreso when I join the other crew. But it should be good. It's not a big crew and I'm used to cooking for seven or eight people at the dorm. They're probably going to be eating a lot of Japanese food though.

This was his first time out of Japan and although he likes to watch cooking shows and mukbangs, there's a lot of food he hasn't tried. He wants to, someday, but he didn't memorize the recipes.

From:

Shopping suddenly sounds so much more fun than it usually is.

"The soba you made was excellent." he compliments, "I'm sure they'll be fine if the food tastes good. But if you really do want something other than that, I can introduce you to one of my best friends here." Which he's going to anyway, unbeknownst that the man already met the lot of them. "He's good at everything. I can't imagine anything he isn't good at, that includes cooking. Maybe you two would enjoy cooking together."

From:

cursedwords

It would be fun. They could debate their purchases, see what's best and Toge can find the most strange things he can get his hands on, for Shoto's entertainment.

Toge's smile is positively radiant at hearing that Shoto liked it. I'm really really glad.

He can't help but fire that off quickly.

Sure, that sounds like fun too. Unfortunately my friends aren't here, so I can't introduce you, but I'm sure you'd like them.

From:

That's an active move toward manslaughter, it has to be. A smile like that is as deadly as the lips behind it. He glances at his phone and it tugs at his heart in a way he doesn't understand. He really should see a doctor.

When the next message comes in, he's already thinking of ways to get Bakugo to come meet Toge. "I'm very lucky," Todoroki professes, deciding there's absolutely no reason not to re-set an arm around Toge, too. "TWo of my best friends and a man that we saved is here with us. Though, truth told, he probably had a hand in saving us too." He rambles just that little bit, "I would love to meet your friends. I can still meet them by the things you tell me, or stories you have of them."

From:

cursedwords

This time, Toge is first to scoot in and snuggle against Shoto with his arm there. He curls up comfortably so he can balance his phone on his lap.

I have stories, so you'll get to know them too, but you are lucky to have your best friends here. I think that's nice. Guess I just have to make new friends.

That's harder than it seems, but his expression doesn't change.

From:

The smooth nature of just how easily they fit together like this almost distracts Shoto, too. His mind remarks on it, but Toge makes everything feel easy. They've only been each other's boyfriend for a handful of minutes and Shoto doesn't feel anxious anymore.

"I think you should, and I don't hope for the kidnap of your friends, but I hope maybe one day someone from your world will come here to keep you company, too."

From:

cursedwords

Maybe. I don't know, they might appreciate the break. We work a lot so. A break can be really nice.

Toge's comfortable, but that's not new. He's been comfortable in Shoto's presence for awhile. There has been leaning. There have been hugs. There have been kisses. He just thinks Shoto's really sweet. He's glad to have the break, just like he says, the boyfriend is just icing on the cake.

He's already thinking about what he'll bring Shoto next time. Maybe his favourite, his rice balls.

From:

Being snuggled in to, being able to hold someone (which is a crazy thought), these are things that he's never considered could happen to him. But here he is, comfortable and happy, too. "I think you have a very positive attitude, Toge." He gives a tiny smile across normally stoic features... normally for anyone else. Toge makes him smile a lot. "I hope, then, that they get the break too. I didn't think of that."

From:

Happy New Year, Toge. Thank you for everything in our previous year. I look forward to the new year including you as well.

From,
Shoto Todoroki

From:

If Toge is home, he will be greeted by a familiar face at his door after knocking quietly on it. If not, he can come home to the relatively small, light blue box containing what is trying its hardest to be a cupcake. On the box itself he's written - Shoto. The other giftbox, should Toge not be there, will have to wait. He's too afraid its contents won't make it to their intended persons. Sorry Corsairs.

From:

cursedwords

Shoto is in luck, because Toge is home. He opens the door to his room and smiles brightly. "Kelp!" He greets cheerfully, before seeing the box.

Toge's eyebrows raise with curiosity.

His room is just a basic room on the ship, but he does have a queen size bed, soft and fluffy with extra pillows he'd purchased and expensive looking sheets and a comforter. At the end of his bed, his cat Thornprick is curled up and having a nap since they're having down time. He has his own mug of steaming hot chocolate on a bed side table. He's upgraded since he used to have bunk beds in there.

From:

~~HANGONNEVERMINDTHERE'STHECAT.~~

Jokes aside, Shoto is happy to see him at the door and "Hello."'s him back for the greeting. First: "Here. I made this." the cupcake that he hands over, as if it doesn't look like a pathetic outcome from someone who obviously put effort into it.

Earlier in the month, Shoto had gone with a person or two to find some specific items along their tour of icy slopes. Shoto notes the decor change, and the style. His eyes return to Toge. "Do you mind if I come in? I won't keep you." But also cat. He should've brought something for the cat. He will bring his hand for the cat.

From:

cursedwords

He doesn't look like he's being disturbed, he just steps aside and makes a beckoning motion. "Salmon, salmon." He says, encouraging Shoto to come in.

Toge does accept the cupcake. He's more confused about why he's getting a cupcake than how it looks.

"Tuna mayo?" He asks the question, shutting the door behind Shoto and he's just going to lower his mask and without hesitation, take a bite of the cupcake in question.

From:

With the affirmative salmons in place, and the gesture, Shoto wanders in to the elaborate room. He looks around a little, happy that Toge seems to want to eat the treat at all. Shoto has been banned from the kitchen three times a day lately.

Even if the context is vague, he's pretty certain he has the jist of it. "It's my birthday." he relates, handing him the blue box. The box seems more interesting than him saying much more about his birthday or not. "Please make certain the item inside isn't cursed. I heard rumours about it having sway over people, but I don't think there's substance to it. You'd at least know for certain." He trusts Toge with all things that could even be remotely linked to anything supernatural. If he should or shouldn't. "I finally found some of these a few days ago." 'These' are the flower blossoms, he's gotten a couple of them, but this one is Toge's. "This one is yours."

From:

cursedwords

Toge does not have much experience with birthdays. His clan certainly didn't celebrate his birth at any given point, but at school he has learned that there is cake involved. Which Shoto brought him. That's pretty backwards, he knows, and he brought him a gift. Toge smiles and accepts it, taking the box and putting it gingerly on his night stand for a moment.

He holds up a finger and takes another bite of the cupcake.

Having his mouth full is a universal sign for not talking, but also, he's thinking about what he can do because clearly Shoto is the one who needs to be spoiled. On short notice, he can definitely make him some more cold soba, that's an easy one. It won't be a secret or anything, but he can also make him tea, and let him watch. Keep him company. If he had known, he could've taken Shoto out somewhere, or purchased him something.

Not that Shoto needs financial help getting things either, both of them demolished that goose and they likely both had a good amount of money. So cooking then, and company. He isn't sure what else Shoto might want. Maybe he could ask.

From:

Shoto knows it's backward, but this is how he wanted to do his birthday and the fact that he gets to see Toge? Gift in itself. His friends have all done kind things for him in their knowledge of the day, but even without knowing, just being there with him. It's enough for Shoto entirely. Seeing him actually tackle more of that cupcake is also a kindness. He can't imagine what would've happened to that poor thing at home if it was Rody or Bakugo.

Hell, if it's any indication, Shoto has long forgotten there's a cat in the room. No talking indeed, and he stays quietly in place, waiting for a moment or two. "Do you like it?" Asks the man, settling himself in for any criticisms. "The cupcake." Not that it needed clarity.

From:

cursedwords

The cupcake itself is a little dense, probably overmixed, and it's not as flavourful as it could be. It's far from inedible though. His boyfriend brought him a cupcake, how could he complain about that?

Toge licks frosting off his thumb after very rudely stuffing the rest of it in his mouth. Now his hands are free and he can use his shellphone to give him an answer.

It's good.

The simple statement is true. He's glad he got the cupcake, and he ate it, so he liked it enough to do that. You should cook with me sometime. We could make a different flavour.

He could probably subtly fix those minor mistakes too, without calling it that. Shoto tried. That's enough.

From:

Not huge into being emotive, the genuine look of surprise as it being 'good', not just 'okay', is something visible, even to people not very versed in reading someone's reaction. It obviously made him happy to hear, and the patient approach-- the right way, to tel him that they could do this together to make something entirely new?

There are few things in this life that make him smile the whole width of his lips, but all that? Every bit of what he's just heard, he does. A true and toothy smile. "I would like that, very much, Toge... Any time spent with you is well spent. What flavour would you have preferred? I thought a neutral one would be nice since I couldn't decide." Neutral, as in he didn't add flavouring.

From:

cursedwords

Toge flashes him a victory sign, but he answers with the obvious response he can think of.

I'm not picky, I don't mind something like this, like a vanilla, but you already made this kind. I thought you might like to try making something different for variety.

He'd eat anything his boyfriend brought him, but variety seems like a pretty good excuse.

From:

Variety and actual taste? That sounds like it. That sounds like exactly what it should be but Shoto is convinced he's done a good job this time. Not a bad thing, it's going to encourage him and when the typing happens he looks back down at his own screen. Not picky makes it easy.

Shoto has a think about it, nodding his head a moment or two while he does, still re-reading and then looks back up. "When we do, could we try making one that's more spicy? We could surprise Bakugo with it. He doesn't exclusively eat spices, but his tastes are more flavoured than I'm used to." Spicy Cupcakes.

From:

cursedwords

Toge seems to consider it a moment and snaps his fingers before typing his thoughts.

We could try something like cinnamon. Has a bit of bite but really goes well with sweets. You could do like a chocolate cupcake with a cinnamon frosting.

He thinks that would be better than making something spicy outright, and cinnamon and chocolate go well together.

From:

The snap catches Shoto's attention even more than it had been, slipping back into his thoughts about flavours. The sound of his phone makes him look back down, glancing for a couple moments just back up at Toge in general before back at his screen.

His eyebrows raise as he thinks of those flavours together. He didn't grow up with them, but he's pretty sure that sounds like it'd be good. "That's a much better idea, then it would be suitable for everyone. You'd have to stay to see the result of our effort, though."

From:

cursedwords

Toge lets out his muffled laugh and shrugs. Sure, he doesn't mind too much.

Now then.

He turns and produces a key, crouching down to unlock one of his drawers on his night table. Inside is a cauldron full of candy.

Take your pick, as much as you want. Then I'll make you tea and soba. You can also make other requests for your birthday. Anything you want!

From:

Maybe Shoto really did have a heart of ice, because the sound, even muffled, of Toge laughing makes it feel like he's melting, chest first. Does it show on his face, or on the lopsided grin that he's wearing watching Toge type. He misses the first alert over it and looks down when he realizes Toge is moving to something and maybe he oughta know what.

Oh.
Nope that didn't answer it, but the key and the hidden stash? That answers it. Ish. But Toge is clarifying and Shoto is content in reading what he reads. Toge is really going out of his way for him, and that aforementioned melted heart still must've needed another minute in the microwave. The warm feeling in his chest is something he hopes never leaves. "The only other request I have is your company. I like you." Which is short for for so many things flooding in his mind. "I came unannounced, so just for a while after dinner." Shoto knows, also, he can't renege big time on his diet, so he chooses two red, hard candies and offers one of them to Toge. They can both enjoy one that way. They can rebel and have some sweets before they eat, right? No one has to know but them.

Edited Date: 2024-01-17 06:24 am (UTC)

From:

cursedwords

"Salmon salmon." Toge responds enthusiastically. He is welcome to have all of his attention after dinner anyway, it's not like he had plans that evening or anything. He accepts the offered candy and lowers his mask to pop it in his mouth.

Then he makes a beckoning motion. Follow him to the kitchen. He didn't think any of his shipmates would mind the extra company, they didn't tell him what to do after all.

He paused briefly to check his cornucopia and pulled out two sachets of chai tea. Perfect.

From:

That's quickly becoming his favourite word to hear. He doesn't need the phone to understand it, either. No elaboration and it hits him that it feels like a step forward. Something he's been trying to do regarding being able to let Toge speak freely. At least freely as he possibly can.

Shoto doesn't have to be told twice to go with him to the kitchen area. He's not so savvy on tea, he knows a few sorts that he got told to know. That's about it, but whatever that is smells nice the moment he's close enough. "What can I do to help?" he asks instantly, not just going to sit around and make Toge do everything. ~~Which is the best bet for Shoto in the kitchen.~~

From:

cursedwords

He doesn't, and it's one of the words that has essentially a set meaning when he uses it. The galley is well stocked, both thanks to his shopping prowess and the constant stream of his bonuses.

He's got noodles reserved from the last time he made it for Shoto, as well as a couple of ingredients that tend to be more to his taste than everything he makes.

Toge looks thoughtful and gestures at the pots.

Please take two pots down. The second and third smallest ones. Fill the third smallest one with water and set it on the stove for me. We need to boil the water to cook the pasta.

From:

Waiting for orders, Shoto makes note of which pot might be the one in question to fill first. He takes them out, looking at all three side by side before replacing the one that he's certain is the largest and therefore of no current use. The smaller of the remaining one will get filled after he find the necessary resting place for the one uninvolved and thankfully, the implication is that they're using the stove, not Shoto's quirk. That doesn't stop him from lighting the pilot light on his own, though while the pot fills.

Once it's done, he sets the pot directly on the stove. There's no need for heat concerns when he's gotten good enough balancing out heat and cold.

Once he's done that, he announces as much. "Alright, done. Do we just wait for it then?" He can watch water boil, in case it tries to take forever. And will considering he has it on low flame.

From:

cursedwords

"Salmon." Toge agrees that they do have to wait for it to boil, but he also adjusts the heat for Shoto.

To get water to boil, turn it all the way up. When it boils, you turn it back down. It's a good trick.

The other pot, he's pouring in some dashi stock, just eyeballing it. This one, the heat gets turned to medium low.

From:

Shoto picks up his phone, eyes astutely looking at the temperature it's been turned to and then curiously back to Toge.

"You just need it to boil first, then stay at a certain temperature..." He's not so much asking, he's repeating, "What kind of metal are these made from?" He's picking the first one up, the big one that they're not using to have an inspect of it. "Stainless steel? Cast iron?" He gently knocks his fingernail at the bottom of one of them hoping for the answers, still searching for them. "If you know, I can take this outside and if all you need it to do is boil, that won't be a problem. It's knowing the limitations of the steel so I don't melt it that becomes the issue."

From:

cursedwords

"Fish flakes." Toge admits that he he doesn't know, with a shake of his head. He's not sure what kind of metal the pots are, but they're not cast iron. That much he does know. They were on the ship and he didn't pick them. Maybe he'll get a set of pots he likes at a later date.

Toge adds some soy sauce into the mixture he's making and letting them cook together.

From:

Fish flakes indeed... Shoto isn't sure either and he sighs as he comes up blank from the markings on it. "I think maybe I'll just monitor it like this for now. I don't want to damage them."

For now, even if he's supposed to be watching the water, his eyes stray to the man beside him. Not really only because he's gorgeous, but also because he's trying to formulate a question and it's nothing deep. He just never knows how to ask things less than directly, so he settles on that. "I wish it weren't at the possible expense of overstepping... Could you talk to me more- Not." he puts finger up, "Not anything out of your usual. You don't make it hard to understand what you want, if it's not complicated, I'd like to start learning. ...Though."

He's rambling, it happens with one sided conversations, not that he minds. "I can't say I don't enjoy looking back on conversations we've had any time I wanted to. Typing it out is just as good." After all, he can look back any time he wants to see Toge's feelings on their relationship.

From:

cursedwords

The resolution is good, but the question Shoto asks next is not entirely unexpected. Toge looks down a moment, and it's entirely possible that Shoto may realize that this is a very delicate topic for him and it might in fact be overstepping.

His lips are pressed together, thank goodness that his mask is keeping it out of sight. He's not angry, or hurt, it's just...a raw nerve. He's glad Shoto doesn't mind, but at the same time it feels like he kind of does. Toge knows that's not what he's asking, but that's what it feels like.

After a moment, he stirs his budding sauce once, but he goes for his shellphone.

I'm sorry.

That didn't explain anything.

It's hard for me to do that. You...I can try my other safe words but they're usually in response to...what other people say. Sorry. I know it's not ideal.

From:

Shoto can feel it immediately. Toge never misses a beat to respond to him in a timely way and when he does get the response, he understands. "I don't mean you need to speak any differently, I meant I--" Am a jerk, he doesn't understand the entire process of the attempts at Toge.

He sets his phone down. "I don't want you to apologize." he sets his hand on Toge's shoulder, "I think you are ideal." He's also not the best with expressing himself, "Just like you are. I mean that, wanting to learn doesn't mean you don't talk to me enough or don't converse, or that it's inconvenient this way. But I don't want you to be the only one making an effort, if there's something I can do, too... Then I want to. That's all. If this is how it is? Then I'm happy with it."

From:

cursedwords

Toge can't help it. He knows it was a misunderstanding, but Shoto's reaction, his words make him blush. He tries not to be self-conscious about this, he really does, but he's not perfect. He's blushing and he responds by hugging Shoto tightly, pulling him close before he can move away. Ideal.

That's just too sweet he can hardly take it. "Salmon salmon." Okay, Shoto, okay. Give him a moment for the hut and he'll give him the key.

From:

Ideal. It's true. It might not be the best word, but it's the word he means and it's sincere. There may be other people Shoto could've found to be with but, none of those people are Toge and if there's something he's learned... He really likes being with him, even just quietly hanging out.

The hug puts him at ease and even though he didn't expect it, returns it readily. The sauce can wait just a little bit. His hands settle in on the small of Toge's back and he leans his head down to rest it there. Shoto won't take him too long from the cooking process, Toge can pull away when he wants. But affection like this isn't something he's had a lot of in his life and he finds it something he enjoys partaking in.

From:

cursedwords

Toge gives a squeeze and lets go. There's nothing that couldn't wait a few seconds for them to embrace. He lowers his mask and kisses Shoto's cheek before turning back to it for a moment.

Now then. Crib notes. He drops a bundle of soba noodles into the boiling water.

Salmon - Affirmative
Fish flakes - Negative
Kelp - Greetings
Takana - To ask status/show concern/confirm I'm okay
Sujiko - Well/But/Hm...filler words kind of.
Ikura - The words you don't like Bakugo using.
Mentaiko - Encouragement/I've got this
Tuna - Things pertaining to me
Tuna tuna - Things pertaining to something else I want you to look at
Tuna mayo - Go to response to be part of the conversation. It can mean so many things I can't define it really.

All of these are subject to the grey areas around them. I've said a couple of other foods, or tried to anyway, just to mess with people and they have no meaning at all.

From:

The hug alone puts him at ease that he's gotten through to Toge what he really wants to say. He feels bad for ever even giving him the wrong idea, that anything about him is anything but... Well. Ideal. The kiss on his cheek just makes it sweeter. No matter that there's no doubt he likes to kiss him more squarely on the lips, there's something to be said about kisses elsewhere on his face. Securely otherwise that even with half his face marred, it doesn't dissuade him. Toge is kind.

...And Shoto is distracted until the moment his phone makes a noise and he looks down after looking on at his cooking partner. His eyes scan down what he sees there, and at first he pauses and looks up, a small smile spreading to the corners of his mouth. Then he's looking back down to read them.

For the moment, Shoto doesn't question 'tried to'. But he does keep it in mind and the smile is a little more prevalent. "I can't imagine you messing with someone." Yes, he kind of can, and he approves. His friends are all very playful with each other, too, and that seems innocuous.

"This is perfect, Toge." The list he means, gesturing to the phone with his finger. "The more I learned about this, the more I have to stress how much I think you would be welcomed in the hero world back home. People who care about the well being of others usually are if they can." Izuku would have likely been a police officer, or maybe an engineer if he hadn't been who he was. Shoto is sure. While they cook, why not talk?

"My father is the number one ranked hero in all of Japan. So my compliment comes from my professional understanding in and out of the hero work."

From:

cursedwords

The very first thing Shoto says makes Toge laugh. It's still quiet and muffled, but the way he bends over the counter, his shoulders shaking suggests that he found that very funny, in fact - because he did. "Salmon, salmon." He's still got laughter laced in his words. His tone changes slightly. Feigning innocence. "Tuna mayo!" Toge has never done a thing wrong in his life, what do you mean?

It's also a perfect example of what he meant. Tone and body language go a long way to helping him get his point across.

"Tuna?" Toge asks, thinking about it a little bit. They're a lot closer to heroes than villains, but more the vigilante, in the shadows type. What Toge does is heroic, without a doubt. The fact he's a Corsair has little to do with that. He's focused on the food for the moment, adding the seasoning to the sauce and keeping an eye on the noodles. He doesn't mind talking while he's cooking and there's not much to help with at the moment.

Edited Date: 2024-01-23 12:35 pm (UTC)

From:

That list has instantly opened an entire other world of talking to Toge. Now if only he wasn't busy enjoying the sound of that quiet, muffled laughter. Laughter he knows that he is enjoying the conversation with, both of them are, but that he has to hold back. Then maybe he would be able to understand right away. It takes him a second, a momentary glance once to his phone and he understands what he can expect is as 'perfectly' as he is going to get. Shoto isn't good with sarcasm, but it's because of the sometimes lack of body language and the sincerity in which some people say it. But yet here he is watching and understanding it. "Mmh, now I'm not so certain." he teases back, leaning against the counter, resting the small of his back against it in the lean.

It hits him again that he's understood at the next word and his smile is a little wider. 'Things pertaining to me.' "Yes, you. Really." He tries to think of how to phrase it, setting his phone back down after looking once more. "Not all heroes are heroic, not all villains are villainous. But you, I think, would make a great hero. I'm not sure how your cursed speech would--" Pardon the pun. "--translate as a quirk in my world, maybe very much like a friend of mine who has to be careful with his voice, too. Mmh..." Shoto thinks about it, just idly. "Your cursed speech would probably be classified as emitter, that's the same. I'm assuming it has a range to the sound and carry of your voice or you wouldn't have had to yell so loudly." It's sort of fun to think about. "Both of them could be accidental. The only difference is that his targets the person who speaks to him, the quirk is called Brainwashing in the similar way that mine is called Half-Cold Half-Hot. Most are generally specific." Cursed Speech for instance, is pretty damn on the nose.

See? No need to talk regular talk. While Shoto is quiet with a lot of people, when he really gets talking, he really gets talking.

From:

cursedwords

As Shoto learns Toge's habits, expressions and tones of voice, he's going to pick up so much and he doesn't even know it. His friends at home can understand him to a very accurate degree, and that's a pretty good start. Toge's impressed, even if he doesn't say so. He's smiling widely at the banter. Toge raises his hands and uses his fingers to make a halo. "Tuna mayo." He's a perfect angel, thank you.

The thought experiment is interesting and it piques his interest to hear that someone else has a quirk not unlike his. Fascinating, really. He stirs the sauce listening. There's a lot he could do in a crime fighting world, it's just not how things have gone at home for him.

"Salmon." Toge agrees, it definitely has the range of his voice. "Tuna mayo." He mimes cupping his hands around where his mouth is hidden. His weapon of choice is a bullhorn. It's not a standard weapon by far.

From:

This is perfectly conversation for him and Shoto is enjoying it. Typing is fine, and he can be more precise, but there's a way he's pinpointing it into the conversation. Practiced in it and this only drives Shoto to want to do better for him in return. As he said, he doesn't want Toge to be the only one making the effort. Though, it's not Toge's fault, Shoto takes a moment to understand what the sign is, and then smiles. "Now I'm really doubting." He provides in his deadpan way of speaking, if it weren't for the smile on his face.

The one to talk to about quirks is Izuku, but Shoto is no lightweight in understanding his opponents and even moreso understanding his friends. It'd be a lie if he said he wasn't interested to see just how much stronger or better he could become against someone as strong as Toge-- but it'd also be a lie if he said he wanted to see the man hurt just to spar full out. He doesn't want that.

Ah... Here's one that isn't specific, but he understands that it means the use of his voice at a carried distance in whole. He may not understand bullhorn, as it isn't so much a sign he would get, but he gets it in a generalized construct. "While I hope people aren't kidnapped, if he ever shows up here, I would be glad to introduce you if you'd like." Though... it does start a curious wonder in him if they could create support gear that would let him do more targeted things like Shinso. The thought has to stay in side his head for the moment. "Does that mean if someone is deaf, your cursed energy can't reach them?"

From:

cursedwords

"Salmon." Toge says enthusiastically at the thought of meeting Shoto's friends. He likes that he's getting to meet all these new people, after all meeting Shoto was like a stroke of fate.

His response to the question though is another expression of amusement. He holds up a finger to his lips.

"Salmon."

He is exactly right. Don't spread that around, though.

From:

It's incredibly liberating to speak with him and it feels silly now that he didn't just ask and was taking the hard road. If any one of his friends end up here, ones that Toge hasn't met, the first thing they're doing is meeting him. Anyone who doesn't know him is missing out in Shoto's opinion.

"I won't tell anyone." He promises, reaching out to brush some fingers through the silvery-white strands of hair. Bringing that to life from a movie or two he saw is something he doesn't regret. "So that we're even, my quirk is limited by my ability to balance the temperatures or use them independently without it being an actual focus. One day I hope to conquer it entirely without focus, but I'm not there yet."

From:

cursedwords

The brushing of fingers through his hair makes him blush and he ducks a bit into his collar like he's a little embarrassed and shy. Toge is by nature a little shy, it comes with the territory of being so soft spoken.

However, he's all too happy to remind Shoto of his other limitation with a hand miming gushing from his mouth, lowering his collar and sticking out his tongue for effect before grasping his throat.

Vocal cords. Biggest weakness. But it's okay because he feels better and-

The pasta's done, one moment, Toge blushes again as he turns to save it before it gets overcooked.

From:

Shoto isn't sure if that's a 'no' or an 'oh' type reaction, so next time he will be more cautious to feel that kind of thing out. When the topic turns to the memory of Toge spitting up what felt like seeing half the blood in his body, Shoto nods his head.

Both things are in his mind, trying to fight for the forefront when Toge abruptly stops to blush and tend the food he'd forgotten. Shoto would've eaten it overcooked or anything like. It shouldn't be a progression of memory of him bleeding from his throat right into how cute he looks when he blushes.

"Where are the dishes you'd like?" he offers, at least trying to remain helpful.

From:

cursedwords

Toge points to a cupboard. "Tuna tuna." He's made enough for both of them because he's a growing boy and needs to eat too. He'll find some bowls in there for them. In the meantime he does put the noodles on a bigger platter so he can hold out his hands down there and chill it.

Check it out Shoto - Toge's a bit like a personal refrigerator.

It was called cold soba for a reason, but once he had bowls, he'd point to the sauce. "Tuna mayo." He held up his hands again and did more chilling to the noodles. Shoto could chill the sauce a bit right?

From:

Shoto doesn't even need to glance this time again and it feels great. Though... Toge is pointing, but isn't that the point? That it's something to gain attention in a direction.

Soba is great. The company is great. All of today has been fun. But he's not sure that Toge realizes this is the best part of any gift.

Shoto says nothing, he doesn't really meet a beat while he gets the bowls, it's an obvious instruction and when he turns around to see the use of ice, he looks pleased by it. "You're really learning to harness it. It's not easy to not frost things at first." An idle conversation point, a compliment that he has no problem joining in the chilling part of this. This is something he can actually do in this process and does with an expert hand, carefully chilling the bowls intended for the sauce, too.

"It's fun to see you using an ice ability. There are people in my life back home who can as well, but none around me." None of his classmates, and no one he's met in UA personally that use ice. A lot that use fire because of his father, but otherwise. "Maybe in a few months, it will be you making the spikes instead of me."

From:

cursedwords

"Salmon. Tuna mayo." Toge responds, he's doing it, and it was definitely tricky. He's getting the hang of it though, Shoto's a pretty good inspiration on that front. He hadn't really been focused on it that much until he met him.

He laughs.

"Fish flakes." He doesn't think he can do both the spikes and the throwing creatures into them, but who knows, maybe he can learn that. He knocks a knuckle on Shoto's chest. That's his specialty after all.

With the soba cooled down, he serves it into the bowls.

From:

The practicalities of ice can be overlooked for more than just menial things like this and if he knew he were that inspirational-- Well. He enjoys specifically that Toge is taking to ice, and that's good enough for him. He may have started accepting himself as a whole, but his right side holds special purpose still now and again.

It takes Shoto a moment to realize what the joining of the action and that set of words mean but he wears the tiniest of smiles spread across his lips. "A team, then." Shoto offers, just like now and leans his his head to the side to kiss Toge's cheek. "Thank you for dinner." It's sincere, it's his favourite and he's spoiled with it thanks to Toge. Shoto picks up the appropriate bowls to set them out next to each other in what seems like the appropriate place to eat. "I will wash everything after dinner as thanks."

From:

cursedwords

"Salmon." Toge agrees, because he doesn't think he'll be able to talk Shoto out of it. He smiles fondly at him and puts an arm around him to give a little squeeze before grabbing a seat properly and his chopsticks.

"Tuna mayo?" He asks, gesturing at the food after a moment. Any good?

He rescued the noodles in time, there shouldn't really be a flaw in the food but he's not a professional or anything.

From:

Talking him out of doing something in return regardless? Not in his lifetime. The right decision is made and Shoto is none the wiser. A side hug is also a wise choice and Shoto returns it, joining him a few moments after. Settling in, Shoto appreciates the simple things like having dinner with Toge on any day, but today, even with his favourite dish, it's the idea he got to help in all the same. To him they did this together at least.

Thankfully, Toge gestures to the food and Shoto has started in on it more than a few bites. He nods his head a few times, politely swallowing what's in his mouth first. "Yes, it's good. I don't think I've ever eaten anything you've made that hasn't been. You're good at this." Now, the level of compliment is high, but take it as he may, Shoto loves this food but can't do more than cook nutritionally for himself. But. Is now used to Katsuki cooking who is an amazing cook. Any variable that works for Toge. "We should do this more often, next time I will cook for you."

From:

cursedwords

Toge blushes a little bit at his praise. "Tuna mayo." It was an expression of thanks for the compliment.

He wonders if Shoto can make something tasty but also, maybe he can make a suggestion.

"Salmon!" Toge responds cheerfully, but finally turns to his phone for help.

If you want to make my favourite, it's rice balls.

It's also very difficult to mess them up.

From:

Even if Shoto's smiles aren't huge all the time, even though he doesn't always get to express what he's feeling for lack of knowing how, or sometimes it's hidden behind a small mask, he's never smiled as much. He's never felt this much constant happiness being around someone, at least not like this. Holding no ideas of grandeur, of course there's going to be a day they disagree, but every time they've spent together, or conversations so far, he's never found himself as happy with food ingredients being listed at him. Tuna mayo? Yeah. Coupled with that blush he sees on Toge's face adds to that happiness.

There are some things that ingredients can't say and Shoto dutifully picks up his phone when it vibrates, looking at the text.

"Rice balls." Says the hero with a nod of his head, accepting this mission. "I can do those." Can he? Stay tuna-ed.

From:

cursedwords

He replies with a grin and flashes him a victory sign. "Salmon." He believes in Shoto's ability to make rice balls.

If they're not great, he'll still eat them, so Shoto has nothing at all to worry about.

"Tuna mayo." He's looking forward to it, he really is.

From:

makoglow

[ look. he was told to pass this along by someone he can't really say no to. so that means Toge will get this ]

From:

Good morning, Toge.

I was wondering if you were free some time this evening. Fair warning that I intend on monopolizing a large portion of time. If tonight is not appropriate, then I would like to ask if there is a more appropriate day in the near future.

Sincerely,
Shoto Todoroki

From:

cursedwords

Morning Shoto!

Yeah, I can prep everything early and so I'll be ready. Where do you want to meet me?

From:

Is this for tonight, or for tomorrow? If it's for tonight, I can meet you at your place, or if it isn't, I can meet you for dinner if you'd like.

From:

cursedwords

We can meet for dinner if you want. I meant for the ship, but once I have my prep done they can fend for themselves. Or you can come here and I can cook. Whatever you want.

From:

I don't want to take you from your job on the ship. We can cook together, maybe you'd be alright with me taking you for breakfast tomorrow instead?

From:

cursedwords

[ He's laughing. Shoto, that's so bold!! ]

Sure, that's fine. We can cook together, and you can stay over.

From:

[Shoto doesn't realize he just smoothed his way through that. He earnestly just figured they could change the outcome of the need to work around which meal they went for. But hey.]

Thank you. Should I meet you in the kitchen or do you want me to wait on deck so you can take me there?

[Are there rules about kitchen? He doesn't know.]

From:

cursedwords

Just come in the kitchen, it's fine. You can help me cut up the ingredients.

[ It's helpful and it can't possibly cause any skill issues. ]

From:

Understood. I will see you soon.

[See him after letting at least one person know where he's gone. It's not just habit it's good to do.]

From:

Not too long after, Shoto shows up in the kitchen as he promised. This time he has things properly wrapped, but all the same still in a backpack that he settles down at the door. First thing's first. "Hello, Toge." Greet the man currently putting a tiny smile on his face, but also respect his kitchen and wash hands first. So, rolling up his sleeves, that's what he does. "What do you need cut?"

From:

cursedwords

Toge is glad to see him, he always is. He rewards Shoto with a bright smile, although it's true his hands are busy and he can't lower his mask and kiss him right now.

"Tuna tuna." He points at some peppers and onions left on a cutting board. He's in the process of breading some meat.

From:

Working with food is an important constant, so, he will wait to show any further affection than just being there. Simply speaking to him and gesturing is enough for Shoto to understand.

"Sure." He rolls up his sleeves, washing his hands and making certain they're good and clean before he moves to start chopping. Knife in hand, peppers... in sight. Okay he can do this, it's not different than the stuff Bakugo taught him, right? Just cut them? He can cut them. Alright, cut them in half first, then work outward from the halves. Good yes. Exactly how to cut something.

From:

cursedwords

Shoto can't do any damage with just cutting things so he's not worried or looking over his shoulder. Once he's got his cutlets all breaded, he'll lean over and finally look to see how things are going.

He's also gathering some mushrooms and some zucchini, now cutting away too. This isn't a fancy meal, but it will be tasty. He also puts some rice on.

From:

Shoto is used to someone looking over his shoulder, so this freedom is nice. The quiet is just as nice as long as Toge is in said silence with him while the sounds of chopping or moving items, sounds from the stove, reign supreme for that moment. When Toge comes to have a peek, Shoto moves out of the way to let him, watching him go back to the preparation of the food.

It's simple as anything. Chopping between watching Toge take command of what he's doing in the kitchen. Domestic. Yet seeing him like this just makes Shoto happy. It's not even just the cooking, it's just him.

"Toge." Shoto says, setting down the knife with his job complete. Now. How to put all those feelings into human words. Hm. "I'm glad I got to see you even earlier than planned." N...ailed i..t... Nah he's calling that a win.

From:

cursedwords

"Salmon!" Toge exclaims rather excitedly at that, which means both that Shoto's words landed very well, and he in fact, thinks the same. He's glad he can see Shoto. His hands are just messy.

Aw, what the heck. He washes his hands and then goes over to give Shoto a hug, just a snug squeeze. "Takana?" How is Shoto doing?

From:

Shoto is feeling like he's getting so much better at this. You know, on top of Toge being an all around really great guy. Hearing the excited return is enough for him, but the curious mid-cook hand washing is only explained by the body against his and the arms around him. Ones that get a return of the same. A good tight hug that finds him leaning his head against Toge's for the squeeze duration.

It only takes him a second to parse through what might be the response, and he forces himself not to double check. "I'm well. Better now. I've been wanting to see you." With the closer range at least he can set a small peck against the side of Toge's head. "Other than keep you company, is there anything else you need help with? I can watch what's on the stove, if you'd like." And not need oven mitts to move any of it.

From:

cursedwords

From Toge's expression, it's clear that even though Shoto didn't double check, he got it right. He nods enthusiastically and finally lets go because he is cooking and he needs to finish that.

"Fish flakes." He answers, because he's good, that's the prep work done, it's just the cooking left. Another trip to wash his hands and he gets to it. It won't take more than fifteen, maybe twenty minutes to get it all done.

From:

It's invigorating to get this right. Even though Toge goes out of his way to make expressions and inflections, it still feels good. "Alright." He stays close, quietly watching what his partner is doing. The silence will never bother him, and just the same he leans and learns by example. Now if he could do any of the more advanced things? That's up in the air.

From:

cursedwords

He's probably not going to stop doing that, it's a force of habit his entire life because it helps people understand him better.

The quiet with him is nice and comfortable. It's a high compliment, because Shoto's made his way into a level of comfort most people don't. He's happy to have him observe. Unlike Daqiang's insistence that Shoto needs direct instruction, he doesn't think he does. He thinks he needs practice and gentle guidance.

Once dinner is ready and set to keep warm in the oven, barring plating some up for the two of them, Toge makes a beckoning motion, grabbing his plate. They can eat in his room, he's done for now. Someone else can do the dishes.

From:

Staying in their mutual understanding of silence, Shoto is definitely learning. He can see it being done and one day he may even try some of the things he's seen himself. Chef Ramsay-- er, Bakugo is a helpful man in the kitchen, too, but he learns just as well from the quiet serenity of Toge mulling around doing what he needs. Both have their way of doing things that Shoto appreciates greatly. It helps that his attention on Toge is very specifically focused when he's around the man.

He follows suit when Toge takes the plates, then takes his leave. Bag in hand, carrying whatever he needs to after slinging it over his shoulder while he follows. It's only when they're at the door that he opens it for Toge to go through. It's less that he can't do it and more that Shoto wants to. "Please." He says, holding it open. He will follow once Toge walks in and is safely out of the door's way to close.

From:

cursedwords

He smiles and steps into his room.

There's been a bit of a change, he's acquired a plush comfortable couch and his trunk has been moved to be a makeshift table by the couch. He's also acquired a bookcase, although there's no books on it, just various things he's collected. Not that he wouldn't sit on the floor, but it's more comfortable for having a guest over.

Toge puts the plates down on the trunk and flops down. "Tuna." He smiles, he's all Shoto's now.

From:

Shoto always enjoys having a look around Toge's room. It's organized and changes almost every time he's seen it. Different scope of thematically speaking than his own and it's a nice window into things he can think of in the future to get him.

Wherever Toge sits, Shoto sits next to him. In the bag he has started to bring chopsticks with him so that he can eat in comfort. That benefits him even at that moment and now that they don't have to be concerned with food that isn't prepared, or the outside world, Shoto can settle his arm around Toge with his bag somewhere beside him. "Move your mask down for me?" He asks, taking some food from his own plate to offer to give to Toge. He finds doing things like this is at least a way he can express himself, too.

From:

cursedwords

"Salmon." Toge was going to remove it anyway, because he needs to be able to eat but he's surprised when Shoto offers to feed him and he opens his mouth obediently. It's pretty good, but then again he only makes things he likes.

It's a perk of getting to be the cook, frankly. He should locate himself a set of chopsticks to carry around, but as it is he's just got a fork since that's what they had on the ship.

From:

Shoto waits, placing the food in his mouth and then goes back to sampling it himself. It's polite since he's not doing dishes, right? Or at least he thinks so. Based on all his totally legitimate research.

"This is really good." He says around bites, politely not talking with his mouth full. "You always make a great meal out of things I wouldn't expect to taste as good as they do put together."

From:

cursedwords

"Tuna mayo." Toge thanks him for his compliment and then focuses on eating. Honestly, he's as bad as most teenage boys in that he's more interested in eating his food than talking, but once he gets that done, he'll give Shoto his full attention.

"Tuna." He says once they're done, seemingly out of the blue, but it isn't. He gets up and goes to the shelving and pulls out a box. He brings it back over and sets it in front of Shoto. While he cracks it open he types out an explanation.

They say the bracelets will let us be able to find each other no matter what.

They're rather nice bracelets, each one a different dragon and Shoto can have first pick. Also inside the box is a stuffed turtle with a heart on his stomach.

And the plush will make you feel better if you get scared.

From:

Eating is important, and as has been obvious between them, silence isn't a downfall. If anything it's comforting for Shoto to sit in silence sometimes. So sitting in silence to eat is also great, considering the food is incredible, too.

Shoto is done in and around the same time as his partner is, looking up as he gets up after announcing to get Shoto's attention. Kind of. He's a little confused at first by the box. He understands it's a gift but he wasn't expecting a gift. Indeed he is opening it after realizing he may just be invited to do so. Shoto isn't being stopped while he does, so he continues on.

Not without the layering of exactly what Toge is typing about, which he reads once he has all the objects out of said box. He takes up his shellphone and reads over the wording. "Toge..." This is, legitimately, the sweetest gift he's ever been given. The turtle does make him wonder if his poor boyfriend has woken up in the middle of the night in sub zero weather. Nightmares aren't an uncommon occurrence for him.

"Thank you." He says, even though it doesn't seem to even cover the jist of it. Even the bracelets look like they're sturdy enough to withstand Shoto's heat. The turtle is so sincerely kind, but the idea that someone would want to be linked in ability to find one another 'no matter what'. Shoto never though that would be him to someone. "Thank you very, very much." Somewhere in between the gifts have become secondary to looking Toge in the face, "This is the nicest thing someone's done for me." Right up there with Izuku.

From:

cursedwords

It isn't really why he bought the turtle. He thought it was cute and that Shoto would like it, but he hasn't really experienced that chilling wake up call. Toge's a bit of a heavy sleeper and since he gets up early all the time, that's often what happens.

"Tuna mayo." Toge said warmly, he was so glad Shoto liked them. He thought both items would be beneficial and he considered for a moment.

He thought that Shoto should know how much he cares for him, but his language didn't account for it, and it wasn't something he could say verbally. The way Toge tilts his head it looks like he's thinking.

Ah he knows what to do. He smiles brightly and makes his hands into a heart. There, that would be good, hopefully?

From:

Lucky for him, Shoto hasn't had to explain himself, but in that way he's sure that Toge would take it at face value with one look at him. They both have a lot of things to deal with. He's still on the end roll of these items, eyes locked back on them until Toge speaks. Tuna Mayo indeed. He's not even sure which of the two of these that he wants to wear, but he's assuming one each for them.

His heart is full enough that he's pretty certain he's never going to have to try to fill it with any other emotion. The movement of his hands has Shoto staring at them.

Their shape is unmistakable. He understands the shape, but does he understand the concept behind it? Yes and no. Even this is a gift. This is more than a gift. Shoto is looking at that smile. There was an earlier lie, that his heart was full. It's either going to burst, or it'll hold. The feeling in his chest doesn't allow him to know which one. Another glance at the heart and he sets aside the gifts in their box, fingers reaching up to brush along the side of Toge's face while one hand cups it.

The lean is slow enough. Slow enough that if Toge doesn't want to be kissed he has the option not to be. But if Toge doesn't stop him, that's what's going to happen. He'll be kissed instead of responded to. This time with a lingering set of lips, letting how he feels in return hopefully convey that way in its infancy.

From:

cursedwords

Absolutely Toge wants to be kissed, and so of course he does not resist. He leans in and presses his lips to Shoto's, pleased by his reaction. He wanted a reaction. He wanted Shoto to understand that he likes him. He's said it, but text sometimes just isn't enough.

He has to lean up to do it, it's not fair that people are taller than him but he slides his arms around Shoto's shoulders. Hopefully it's encouraging. He's open to kissing him and embracing him. He invites Shoto to do it.

It might be more obvious he was up on his toes a bit when he settles back down on flat feet when the kiss breaks.

From:

Being held in kind or given this affection in the same vein, is something he never saw for himself. For others around him or other people in his life now? Yeah. Sure. Though, in that moment it doesn't feel like he doesn't deserve this. It feels like he's allowed to find someone that makes him happy.

Seeing Toge have to get up on his toes when he realizes he has to, makes his hesitance in almost chasing Toge's lips again seem physically difficult for him to have stopped his pursuit. Instead he settles his hands on either side of Toge's face and kisses his forehead, where he then sets his own. "Thank you for thinking of me."

From:

cursedwords

"Salmon." Toge breathes as he wraps his arms around Shoto properly, hugging onto him and being a little affectionate. He could let go if he had to, he just doesn't think there's a reason to. He's glad the gift went over well. It's not like he's had a boyfriend before and just because he likes cute things like turtle plushies doesn't mean other guys would.

He lets out a content little sigh, clinging to Shoto for as long as he'd let him.

From:

Salmon, indeed. The plushie could have been about any shape and he would've loved it, not only because of who it is from, but the sentiment he hadn't been insincere about. Yet again, however, he is surprised at someone wanting to be close to him, the arms around him easily tell him as much. The time frame for as long as he'll let Toge hold on is forever and Shoto's arms around him in return feel just as good for Shoto, too. His partner is hug sized and that's perfect for him. He still has things to give him, but in honestly letting go doesn't suit either, but he knows he can't stay like this forever.

Even if it's an alluring chance. Speaking of chance, he takes at least a small one, turning his head as needed to kiss either side of those marks and then gently and squarely on his lips. "I wish I knew how to tell you just how much you mean to me." Or maybe he can, even if the nagging in his head tells him the opposite and his heart is beating past his chest he's sure. "Could..." He hesitates. Okay words, you don't like him, and he doesn't like you. But the look over to Toge's couch, then back at him and the small tug toward it doesn't need words. It only has the smaller teen being coaxed in a way that all he has to do is pull back and Shoto will stop.

From:

cursedwords

He isn't exactly thinking very deeply at the moment. Shoto is warm and solid against him, although he blushes when he goes after his curse marks. He has very complex feelings about them, the fact that Shoto would like them is just a little wondrous. He could understand not minding them, or tolerating them, but drawing attention to them and liking them makes him feel so many things. None of them are negative exactly, it's just wild.

Toge smiles and lets Shoto pull him towards the couch without any resistance at all.

"Mentaiko." The word is gentle encouragement but at the same time Toge offers half a shrug and a smile. Shoto doesn't have to say anything. He's very adept at picking up other cues.

From:

Shoto wishes he had the words and understanding of his feelings to explain how he feels. The cursed speech, the markings, anything. They're all part and parcel of Toge and he has never felt as deeply for someone as he does, not only in that moment but every time since meeting him it's only gotten stronger. Stronger and full of nervous behaviour, because once he gets him to said couch, and sat down... Why he's so scared, Shoto can't exactly put his finger on it. Toge has never mistreated him or given him some sort of negative recourse even when their ideas don't align.

The tone in his voice is enough. The shrug makes him smile a small smile, but Toge's own smile makes his wider. Almost wide enough to expose his teeth. Very close indeed. "Good. I want you to know, I don't want you to ever have a reason to question it." Because his home life wasn't that great, his parents obviously weren't a good example. His hand moves again, one sliding around Toge's waist, the other on the side of his cheek. He can't take back certain words, and if he says them right in that moment, he doesn't want to have to walk it back. But in that moment, he may certainly feel like his heart could belong to the man he kisses again. His arm keeps his partner close, thumb on his opposite hand softly running along Toge's cheekbone. He's trying to gain his confidence, and once he's got it, he's sure Toge knows how to reign him in.

From:

cursedwords

He really doesn't need to reign Shoto in, not at all, and being pulled closer, connected in another kiss, he's content to move with the gentle guidance which may or may not be what Shoto intends really.

Instead, Toge moves with him and moves so he's straddling Shoto's lap, essentially sitting in his lap in one fluid movement. It would be, he's quite graceful from all that combat experience. He's probably a good solid weight, but he's trying not to sit too heavily on him. There. Perfect. Nice and close.

From:

No, it most certainly wasn't but by god, Shoto's only complaint is that he's pretty certain his heart stops. He's certain it did, but then he has no clue what the thump at the center of his chest is. Alright, he didn't die. He might, but not yet. The hero had no idea this was an option, but now that it is, he doesn't exactly dwell on that either.

The proximity thunks something in his mind, something he'd only had in it in passing and not in practice. They're dating right? Right. So when he pulls away, looking the other teen in the face, if he put his hands on the small of Toge's back to pull him more squarely onto his lap. Considering he's done all that, and is waiting to be told no or not, it's a pretty big step. But one he's willing to slow walk to both their comfort.

From:

cursedwords

They're dating, and Toge has no problems being pulled closer, pressed against Shoto in a pleasant way. He smiles. He doesn't mind a little bit of enthusiasm on Shoto's part of course.

He responds, not with a complaint, but another kiss. Shoto has nothing to worry about. If he does something Toge doesn't like, he'll make sure to stop him. It's not that Toge hasn't thought about this, but he doesn't want to push. He's inexperienced too, it's not like he really knows what he's doing.

From:

Everything seems positive, right down to the inclusion of being kissed in kind. His heart still thuds heavy in his chest in a mix of nerves, elation and excitement. Toge can take the back seat today, Shoto can push the envelope for once now that he's in the mind to try to. After all, every touch feels like it can express everything he, himself, can't vocalize to the sorcerer. Something they both continue to understand: Actions speak louder than words. For someone to care as much for him as Toge, he wants to be this close.

To catch his breath he pulls away, still fixated after to look in Toge's eyes with his mismatched own. Why is it so difficult when they've seen each other stark naked before? He can't make the words come to him, so his fingers slide from their position to the bottom hem of Toge's shirt, pulling it up just a little, breathy voice adding: "Can I?" and holding to make sure this sort of step isn't unwelcome.

From:

cursedwords

For obvious reasons, verbal has never been his primary method of communication, and while Shoto hasn't run into him being in a bad mood yet, it would be just as obvious as when he's in a good one. Toge is all about actions, so Shoto has nothing to worry about.

The kiss being broken makes him heave a little sigh. Both disappointment that it's over and the smile he has says he enjoyed it. He wonders for a moment if Shoto's had enough, but the little tug and the question makes him shiver slightly.

"Salmon." Toge murmurs. He's not sure if that's the best way to respond in this situation, but it's what he's got. He'll let Shoto take care of it, shifting only to make it easier, raising his arms a bit.

From:

There's a lot to love about Toge, his smile is one of the things and seeing it never ceases to make Shoto content. To him the way Toge speaks is just like learning any language and if Shoto could master English, then this is just another road to understanding. Salmon it is.

The shirt is made slow work of, stuck somewhere between nerves and making certain that until the last moment where there is shirt, Toge doesn't tell him no. The shirt is set aside unceremoniously, somewhere on the end of the couch where it's going to be undisturbed. Instead of opening his mouth to ask if everything is fine every ten seconds, he sets his hand to run down the side of Toge's body to his hip, eyes focused on the journey. It's difficult to touch his skin and have Toge sat over his lap without the bite of Shoto's own lower lip. It's keeping him in line when his brain is going well ahead of him. "If I don't assume you'll stop me at your comfort level, I'll keep stopping."

He doesn't know where his own limits are here, he hardly understand what he wants to do let alone what to do, but his hands settle on Toge's hips to keep him close, laying small kisses on the exposed skin in front of him.

From:

cursedwords

He's patient, Toge doesn't rush Shoto or push him to go faster, but he does let him take off his shirt. He responds by kissing his neck beneath his ear.

"Tuna. Fish flakes. Tuna mayo." Toge murmurs into his ear. He is not going to stop Shoto, so he's welcome to go as far as he likes.

He's not sure Shoto will understand all of that, but he also nods. He would stop him if he needed to. He doesn't think it will come to that.

From:

Shoto doesn't think it will either, come to stopping that is. After the feel of lips on his neck and the sound of Toge's voice in his ear, even if it's encoded behind the food-words, he's keen to keep going. What going looks like? He has no clue, but it includes the mapping of the other man's body, fingers grazing over skin and muscle. There's a small fleck of harmless fire every now and again in his hair the more riled he gets the the further he flushes over it.

In the thundering sound of his brain, he has decisions to make, ones that include what's supposed to go on here. The same brain that says 'boy' and the knowledge is limited, also reminds him that he himself is a boy, do what he likes and maybe Toge will, too. He pulls his head back enough to capture Toge's lips despite the steadily deep breaths he's taking. It means he can avoid eye-contact while he inclines in his seat, pulling Toge tight into his lap with a soft sound against his lips, using his hand to urge his partner into counter movement.

From:

cursedwords

Toge’s experience is limited to looking at things on the internet really, he’s a normal teenage boy with unmonitored access to the internet. Of course he’s looked into it. In this case though, he figures that they’ll manage one way or another. That can’t be that difficult, can it?

Humans have figured this out for thousands of years.

A very surprised groan escapes his lips despite himself, into the kiss. Shoto might not be able to see his cursed energy, but this close he can probably feel it. It’s a bit like a sliver of electricity or something to that effect without any pain or discomfort for Shoto. It’s not harmful like this, it’s not directed. Shoto will get a sense of Toge’s adoration of him, and the fact he liked that, he’s aroused his interest. Especially with the contact, he moves a bit, seeking friction while kissing him and he really didn’t register the discharge of cursed energy. He can’t help but press his body as close to Shoto’s as possible.

From:

Thankfully, it's not taking them thousands of years. It's definitely in the moment and hearing the sharp sound of his partner's groan sends elated shivers down his spine. At least, that's what he's thought it is at first. He's not going to think on it too much, not considering he wants more of it and if this is how to elicit that reaction? Toge has opened Pandora's box unwittingly where the problem is Shoto's greed to feel that again. His fingers stay bracingly tight on one hip, the other urging the already occurring roll of the sorcerer's own in a grind that has Shoto meets whenever he can. The hero's breath is heavy and his heart is wild in his chest, he's sure that no fantasy has ever come close to this.

"Toge-" he growls out as he pulls his mouth back, kisses sinking into the curve of the other teen's neck. He got told he didn't have to ask, and since he only needs the one hand on that hip, it leaves him with a free one. A free hand that makes him have to adjust how he's holding on to Toge so he can dip his fingers into the hem of the shorter teen's pants. Bold? Yes, but he intends on hearing more of those pretty noises fall from Toge's lips. With a resolute move he slips his fingers further in the fabric, hot breath on the other man's neck while his warm hand envelops sensitive skin.

From:

cursedwords

Toge whimpers again, this time it’s louder and the sliver of cursed energy is a bit stronger, because he’s not expecting Shoto to be so bold in that moment. He’s being surprised, it’s making him react. His cursed energy is harmless, except it’s making the mood heavier, steeping them both in his shift into something far less innocent.

He’s thought about this, hell, he’s dreamed about it. Toge’s happy with all of the attention he gets from Shoto, but he is attracted to him. He loves him. He’s thought so much about taking things further, but he’s never wanted to push him.

Hot breath on his neck, fingers seeking out something different and he’s just-

Ah. Shit. His brain catches up and he mentally curses his lack of self-discipline. Toge needs to clamp a hand over his own mouth. There’s reasons he shouldn’t do this, but he’s not really thinking about that when Shoto is touching him like this. His reaction is to figure out how to deal with the problem temporarily and maybe greedily keep encouraging him. His free hand rakes its way down Shoto’s chest, his palm pressing over the warmth beneath his shirt and he can distract him by fumbling a bit to get his hand up under the hem of his shirt.

From:

One of Shoto's biggest fears is mistreating a partner, ever. Aside that the shivers running up his spine are driving his boldness, it also tells him he's doing the right thing and not something he's coerced Toge into very clearly even above not being pinned and punched in the face. Or told to sleep. Feeling exactly, or even the remnants of the thrill that Toge gets from this too is only adding to the experience. Enough that the set of lips turning to kiss lightly at his neck hide his own, small and panted noises finally provide him a mental pause when he realizes what's happening.

Not that it pumps any kind of breaks on what he's doing outside his head. No, those nails are distracting leaving their mark down his skin in ways that he hopes he feels for a long time to come. The way Toge's hand feels under his shirt is distracting, but there's no distracting him from seeking out every little noise. Everything he can get from the sorcerer sat in his lap.

Shoto moves his hand with inexperience in the direction, but it's all the same as he's come to figure out that he was right about. "Let me hear you," growls the hero against the side of his ear. Maybe that will also help Toge to ~~understand the new kink he just unlocked~~ realize Shoto accepts every bit of him. Even like this. Even under the possibility of harmless, but still cursed energy leaking into their actions in the room.

From:

cursedwords

He should not be lured into Shoto's orbit like this, and yet he lets out another gasp, biting his lip instinctively behind his hand. The request is...absolutely insane, why would he want that? Toge's not trying to push Shoto one way or another, but things have gotten far more intimate, faster than he was expecting. He should've done something to better prepare.

"Tuna mayo?" Toge breathes into Shoto's ear after dropping his hand. Is he sure?

Toge should not. That doesn't mean he doesn't want to. It's really unfair, he's making it so hard to think of things with a clear mind when Shoto's hand is down his pants and he's hard and wanting. He should have more self-discipline than this - but he doesn't want to. He wants to melt into his touch and let him know how much he appreciates him in this moment.

From:

Shoto continues to move a little slower, giving Toge a little time to gather a thought or two. It's all Shoto can muster in that moment, a thought or two. It has escalated quickly, but it's not that he hasn't been thinking about it either. Or that he hasn't seen Toge in more platonic, naked situations and wondered in the darkness of his own room what he might do. His other hand moves to take gentle hold of the one that's fallen away from its original place over his mouth.

Even if he didn't understand, he would've known, and he pulls his head back, kissing at his bottom lip with soft kisses. "I want to, I'm sure." He's certain and so is the very real push against the front of his pants. "Please don't hide anything from me." That includes the sound of his voice, he so preciously little hears more than ingredients. He doesn't mind hearing ingredients, but the escalation in the speed of his hand and the kisses at Toge's bottom lip are what he has to encourage what other sounds he can give him.

From:

cursedwords

His resolve is being tested like it hasn’t been tested before. Please don’t hide from him? Even though he could influence him? Toge has a lot of thoughts about this, a lot of feelings, but he takes a shuddering breath. No, he’s focused on the here and now.

Toge gives in. He’s only human. He readjusts himself, pushing his hands up under Shoto’s shirt to feel the warmth of his skin. He has moved to angle himself so now when he writhes and moves he’s grinding against Shoto instead, giving into his instinct.

The true reward comes a moment later, as his lips find Shoto’s ear, pressing a kiss to it before he lets out a groan. This one is louder, the cursed energy far more potent, leaving raw sexual arousal in the air. He’s not immune to it, he can feel it, and it’s not going to take much of this for him to find relief.

From:

Shoto gives Toge all the time he needs to consider the request, the urging that it's alright doesn't mean that it will be the deciding factor. Toge's comfort is important, too. But in all honesty, there's a mental Thank God when it's obvious he's not going to keep restrained. The hands on his chest, under his shirt, is enough to spur him to take it off while Toge adjusts how he's settled. All the better, because the kiss to his ear already simply feels like fire, the movements equally the same.

And yet. Shoto should've known better that the effects of cursed speech might, oh, you know, be amplified by being louder. He'll make sense of it when he isn't drowning in sensation augmented by the feeling hanging in the air, heavy into his mind. Now he understands why Toge was worried, but Shoto still isn't.

First time like this with someone doesn't mean he can't tell just how different it is, losing himself in the sound of Toge's voice, wrapping his arms around the other teen's waist to help him move, to hold him in and move in opposite. His jaw is tighter than he'd like it to be, and he's burying his own noises in the crook of Toge's neck. In a short while he's barely holding on and the consequences of clothes aren't on his mind in the least. Only the quickly mounting pressure that causes him to moan Toge's name and maybe he would have been more embarrassed about being the first of the two to finish, but he's too busy listening to all the gorgeous sounds Toge is capable of making.

Edited Date: 2024-05-09 04:33 am (UTC)

From:

[For once the text isn't at 5 or 6 in the morning, it's 2 or 3 and the text itself reads:]

Woke up, thought to tell you I miss you. Hope you're sleeping well.

From:

cursedwords

[ Oh, what a coincidence, it's very late, but the text comes back almost immediately. ]

Sorry to hear you woke up. Miss you too. <3

From:

[That's odd. At least to him, because he's sleeping when Toge is up.]

It's alright. I guess we both do.

[Miss each other. He's not sure why there are days that have to keep him from warm arms and a soft smile, but there are.]

I'll come see you tomorrow. How come you're up? Did you wake up too?

From:

cursedwords

Okay, you should.

No, I was just winding down to go to sleep. I was playing with Thornprick for awhile.

From:

I'm going to. First thing. I can adjust my jog to come by.

[You know. Over islands.]

You must be really tired, normally we're asleep very early. I'm glad you two got some play time in.

From:

cursedwords

[ Yeah, about that. ]

Not really, I'm fine right now. I know when I'm there we go to bed early.

[ Shoto definitely sleeps. ]

It's okay, I have my ring set to your house, I can come by, whenever you want me to.

From:

Early? I thought we were staying up pretty late. Are you really up this late when you're on your own?

[He sleeps like a log.]

May I be completely honest with you, Toge?

From:

cursedwords

[ Oh boy. Late to Shoto is like 9 o'clock and Toge knows this. He suspiciously doesn't answer the question at first, especially because Shoto follows it up with a request. ]

Sure, you can tell me whatever you want.

From:

[That's totally late, ten oclock is the forbidden witching hour unless he's on call for it for some reason. But he goes on.]

Being sincere with you, I'm beginning to think there isn't a time I don't want you around. I'm not sure I can think of any time.

From:

cursedwords

[ Toge laughs, but he also has to bury his face in his pillow. He can blush and be amused and flattered all at the same time. It's a talent. ]

You're really important to me too, Shoto. I haven't found a time I didn't want you there, at least, I feel that way. I only wouldn't want you there if it wasn't safe for you. If I wasn't safe for you.

I know dealing with my power is a lot. Thanks for putting up with it.

From:

[Shoto wishes he could just type 'I love you', but there's just something about saying it out loud. He feels like they're saying it, both of them, but the words aren't there. Maybe one day soon he'll get the nerve.

Shoto is also touched by what he reads, touched and a little sad to see it. He sits up, adjusting his pillow to snuggle it in his lap and set his arms around it while he replies.]

I never feel like you're unsafe for me. I know logically there could be times, but even then I just wouldn't feel unsafe. I've never had to put up with anything, either. I accept all of you as you are. Our way of communicating is no different to me. Your quirk changes nothing for me.

[Hang on there's more dots.]

Cursed technique. Sorry, a little groggy still.

From:

cursedwords

[ It's too direct, maybe, but Toge's said it with words and actions that just weren't those three words. The response he gets still blows him away because he has so many feelings wrapped up in his cursed technique that he...just doesn't deal with. Even his classmates aren't safe from him, save Yuta by virtue of being actually stronger than him.

Shoto is an ordinary person to him, he should be more at risk. He should be more afraid because it would take no effort at all to sway him, to hurt him and still.

Blanket acceptance. He never thought someone outside of Tokyo Tech would ever offer that. ]

Thank you. I will never have a way to say that deeply enough. So just. Thank you.

Don't worry about it, I know this is your sleeping time.

[ He's also going to send a picture. Toge's in his dinosaur kigurumi, fortunately he doesn't need to play dinosaur right now, hood up and everything, but his mask is off, since Shoto's not there and he's just going to bed. He makes the heart gesture with his hands.

It's a good picture, what isn't shown is the fact that Thornprick bats his shellphone away after that because apparently he doesn't think he's a phone propping station. ]

From:

[That's something that Shoto enjoys a lot. Toge doesn't know a thing about his family, or at least nothing passed surface level and the mention of his father's name doesn't cast a shadow that he has to stand in. Shoto always just feels like he isn't son of the number one hero, kid who is always on TV a lot. He's just Shoto Todoroki, the man that Toge will get away with the crime of thievery regarding his heart. That's it, that's all. A normal person who can be swayed by cursed energy that, even if it did befall him, he would never blame on Toge for the usage of. It's either an accident or he needed it done.]

Thank you is more than enough, even if you don't have any reason to thank me. As I said, it isn't an obligation or a burden. It's just you and I like you.

Normally... but I'm enjoying talking to you. I didn't know you would be up, this is a treat.

From:

cursedwords

[ Just like Shoto is free of his obligations and pre-conceived notions, so is Toge. He's been constantly surprised by the warm reception everyone has given him. He feels blessed and a bit like his world as lied to him. ]

I really don't think we should talk about my sleeping hours. I was just winding down now anyway.

You'll be tired in the morning, you know.

From:

[A little like both their worlds lied to them.]

You did say you were, but you gave me that nice picture to keep me company.

I will, but I'll be equally happy. Sleeping without you is miserable. I may see what I have to do tomorrow and then come over in the evening if you're free, too.

[Because stopping there once isn't enough for him.]

Or you can come here.

[Toge gets back a picture that has no skill to cute hearthands or the use of cat, it's just a picture of Toge's 'spot' in Shoto's bed.]

I'll warm the blankets.

From:

cursedwords

I'm not gonna lie, that's really tempting. Especially if you can't sleep without me, we can't have that.

If you really can't get back to sleep without me. I could come there now.

I can always sleep later.

[ He's a productive member of society, he swears. ]

From:

[Shoto isn't sure if he would actually let the man sleep anyway, not right away. He always likes talking to Toge after all.]

You can, but I want you to sleep. Being tired isn't fun, and I'd probably talk forever. Now that I know you stay up, if I wake up I'll text you if I'm away. Maybe one day I will stay up late with you. I wonder what it's like to watch the clock roll over.

From:

cursedwords

I don't mind. I work a lot overnight, it's not like I'm not used to it. You can talk my ear off if you want.

I guess if we're not going to disturb anyone. Your roommates might mind.

From:

I'll recite something boring, then you'll sleep.

[Is he joking? Maybe. Maybe not.]

They're my housemates, you're my only roommate. If they mind, they're not asleep anyway.

From:

cursedwords

[ Sometimes the way Shoto's mind works is really adorable. ]

Sure, but I guess if you don't speak too loud it would be okay.

I don't think I'd be bored. Look don't worry about it, I'm sure I've stayed awake longer than just hanging out with my boyfriend.

From:

[Sometimes!]

Then, I will have to keep you close so I don't have to raise my voice.

If you end up not sleeping, we can sleep in the afternoon. I can miss one day of patrol. I'm due a day off.

Edited Date: 2024-04-27 11:22 am (UTC)

From:

cursedwords

[ It's too tempting. ]

Yeah, okay, hang tight I'll be there in a few minutes.

[ He should probably get dressed, but he doesn't. He makes sure that Thornprick has what he needs including a bit of chin scratching before he puts the ring of returning on his thumb for it's totally intended purpose - being called over to his boyfriend's in the middle of the night.

Toge knows he can use the front door, but he doesn't want to wake anyone so he'll scale the side of the house.

Sorry Bakugo. ]

From:

[Shoto almost feels bad about pulling him out of bed, but he will provide warm blankets and a set of comfortable arms. The ring is probably not supposed to be for this, but Shoto can't think of a better use really. The fact that Toge has it set to his place is also heartwarming. When he said that the other man is completion to things he's missing, he really wasn't just saying it to see the reaction. It's things he means.

Before Toge gets there, Shoto is already settled at the window with it open. He knows full well what direction the sorcerer is coming from and waits for him to arrive.

When he's there, Shoto helps him in by offering his hand. Even if he doesn't need that kind of help. The other one shuts the window and the first one draws him in. He is very happy Toge chose to come over. Lost sleep is worth it to them both. Shoto doesn't let go, but he does speak finally.]

That looks nice on you.

[Said specifically of the pajamas chosen for the night.]

From:

cursedwords

[ It's not, but it would still work as intended. If he's running to escape danger, and ends up here, then there's nowhere safer for him to turn up. He hopes he never needs it for its intended purpose.

Toge accepts his hand inside. No, he doesn't need help, but Shoto is there waiting for him. That's so incredibly heartwarming. The hug he gets his nice, and he wraps both arms around Shoto. He can probably feel the lingering chill of the night in his pajamas. ]

Kelp. [ Toge whispers in his ear, his gentle greeting. He smiles though and squeezes him lightly in thanks for the compliment.

He hadn't put his mask on for teleportation, but he will in a minute. He's glad Shoto never worries about his safety, but Toge will worry about that enough for both of them. ]

From:

Shoto's arms don't let go in that moment. Instead, even in though it may be just something with the night air, and would go away soon enough, he takes it upon himself and his quirk to be warm. He promised, and it's one of the few ways that he feels his quirk is useful in situations like this. Shoto turns his head to bury his face in the light locks beside it after hearing the ingredient and smiles at it. Sometimes it's hard to let go of him, even with the promise that if he does, and takes him to sleep, they can curl up there to cuddle more.

"Let me keep my promise." After a minute of running his warm arm along Toge's back, he offers with one hand to take him to lay down at least.

From:

cursedwords

[ It's comfortable, and nice and it wasn't inconvenient to come or anything but here he is, warm and solid. Toge doesn't regret his life choices in this moment. ]

Salmon. [ Toge agrees with a warm smile in Shoto's direction.

He did promise him a nice warm bed and cuddling which is probably the best offer he's had all day. He gives him his hand without question, and lets Shoto bring him to the bed. ]

Takana? [ Is he okay? Tired? Toge knows he's supposed to be sleeping. It's okay if he's an insomniac, but Shoto would never survive it. ]

From:

Shoto does take that hand, he takes it and holds it as they walk to his bed. It may not be the largest bed but while he opens the covers and lets Toge in first, it doesn't seem to matter cuddling up beside him.

"Mhm..." he answers, a little sleepy sounding but all the same finding a nice place to nuzzle in to while fussing with the blankets to get them around Toge in the most cozy manner he can. "This is much better now." He adds. Not the blankets, those he's still fussing with, but Toge being there with him makes him feel a thousand times more at ease. Once he has them as he wants, he slips his arm around the shorter man and cuddles completely in. "Much, much better." And while for some people those may be quick lines or just jokes, Shoto is such an honest, earnest person, it's what he sincerely feels. This is what makes it right.

From:

cursedwords

[ Toge is all too amused by his sleepy responses, he can tell Shoto must want to go back to sleep, chatting aside. He sighs contently and smiles.

He places a hand on the back of Shoto's neck and gives him a soft kiss on the lips, agreeing with him. It is a lot better to be together than apart.

He should probably think more about that, but for the moment, the realization is enough. ]

Tuna mayo. [ Go back to sleep Shoto. ]

From:

Shoto returns the kiss at its inception and his hands gently grasp onto the fabric of the kigurumi. Aside that the kiss already had it's affect on his lips, both in the kiss itself and the smile that it blooms off of, that he's in a kigurumi is just extra on it. It feels very him, whatever that means to a tired man with his eyes half open and a small smile on full display.

He shifts a little to hide his face in against Toge's collarbone, still holding on. "Have I ever told you that the sound of your voice is soothing? Even if we're fighting something, I feel calm and collected hearing it." Let him have his tired-man ramble.

From:

cursedwords

[ He blushes, but holds onto Shoto with a comfortable grip, just letting him lie like that. He really does need to stop speaking so much without a mask on, but for a minute or two it should be okay. ]

Fish flakes. [ Both that Shoto hasn't told him and mild disbelief in his tone that that could possibly be true. His voice is something that barely works, and is cursed no less. ]

From:

Shoto nods his head, he has been getting so much better at this... He knows sometimes he fucks it up and Toge is so good about it but this time, no. He knows what that is saying and so he reiterates, or rather a slight reiteration with an ~~domain~~ expansion on what he means.

"Mh..." He draws in a deep breath, letting it out, arms flexing lightly in the way he gives him more than a momentary squeeze of a hug, it's a hold and one that he's missing the moment he has to relax it. "Even now. I understand a lot better, I know not perfectly yet. But it wouldn't matter what you were saying. I haven't found a lot of comfort in my life, comfortable places, people who don't make me feel unsafe, but true comfort has been a long time for me. I'm so thankful to those bats."

Very sleepy ramble, but he's rambling because he wants to bare the truth of everything. He wishes he could just summarize it with 'I love you', but the words never come out of his mouth. Maybe those words are the cursed words for him. "Even now, the first thing you did when I said it made it easier to sleep, was to come here to make sure I could. Without question."

His eyes are shut, but he isn't sleeping yet. Just basking in Toge that close.

From:

cursedwords

[ Shoto has him completely fooled. Minor mistakes come with the territory because his coded language just is very imperfect, even if he gets him only 80% of the time, Toge's really happy that he's trying. That's all he could ask. Shoto is the only one he would claim does understand him - though he knows others are trying. It's his fault really. He knows this.

His sleepy ramble is just making Toge smile and he can't help but kiss Shoto's forehead again, gentle and soft, not trying to keep him awake but to help him feel that comfort. ]

Mentaiko. [ He's got this. It's alright to sleep. He's safe here and Toge is incredibly comfortable, which is just a plus. He'll wait out Shoto going back to sleep, mask up and join him.

It's going to suck in roughly two hours when Shoto wakes him to go back to the ship but...

It was worth it. ]

From:

There it is again. Not the kiss, well yes the kiss, but the sound of his voice as Shoto is easily slipping off to sleep. He tries to say something in return, but it comes out as a sleepy stand-alone sound while he drifts off to sleep.

He's not sure what exactly he's done to deserve this in his life, nothing as far as he's concerned, but, he'll take it.

From:

Good morning, Toge. Are you free to talk?

From:

cursedwords

Of course I am.

From:

I'll be back home in an hour or so, but I thought I'd tell you while you have the time. Midoriya was asking if you want to date with him and Bakugo as well. I'm not sure where the proposition came from, but Midoriya mentioned he and Bakugo are dating and wanted to include you and I. I didn't think that while you were recovering early on that it was the right time to say it.

But you know. Marriage was the right thing.

From:

cursedwords

I'm not sure how to take that. Is that something you want to do?

[ Why would they want to include him? It's not like he knows them well, but maybe they have their eyes on him? But why? Toge is so confused. ]

From:

I'm not certain myself. I'm trying to think of my own feelings on it, but it's also not fair of me to deprive them of you either if it's something you want. I can't say I wouldn't be jealous but I also want you to be happy. Bakugo and Midoriya are wonderful people and heroes, they've saved my life in more ways than one. I promise that if you choose to, they'll treat you kindly and if they do anything but, they will answer to me personally.

From:

cursedwords

I think you should probably decide how you feel. Well, also how you feel about them, because if you like them that's another thing to think about.

I'm not really the jealous type so you don't have to worry about that.

From:

I don't know how I feel about them. Not the same way I feel about you. I enjoy spending time with Midoriya and Bakugo, but I don't know if I want to be in a relationship with anyone but you.

I'm sorry that I am a jealous person. I will do my best, but I have reservations about relationships which I have no right to put on your shoulders. If you decide to take Midoriya up on the offer, I promise to work on it.

From:

cursedwords

What? No. I'm not just going to take him up on that if you're not okay with it. It's fine if your jealous, I'm just...not.

You should probably figure out how you feel about it before anything is decided. I'm not considering leaving you for them or anything. I wasn't even really thinking about them until you brought it up. I'm fine just us, I'm just trying to understand what you want.

From:

There's a lapse in the messages, because Shoto is thinking in a preliminary way.

I don't think I would be alright with that. The thought of you leaving me for someone else sits heavy in my heart. It'd be your right to do what you wish with your end of our relationship, but my intention is to stay with you until you tell me you no longer want to. I hope that day never comes.

May I suggest you contact Bakugo and Midoriya to speak to them, too? It will give me time to think about my own end of this, and for you to understand their feelings more, too.

From:

cursedwords

I know, the same goes for you too. You could choose to end the relationship for whatever reason. I'm really happy with you Shoto.

If you want me to hear them out, I will hear them out. Promise. You let me know what you decide okay?

From:

The fact that Toge is happy with him makes him smile, even if Toge can't see it.

I'm happy with you, too. I think hearing them out would be good and I will think about this while I'm out. I'll bring you home cake. What kind do you want?

From:

cursedwords

Sure thing.

This has to be the weirdest message he's gotten from Shoto, but he will dutifully ask Shoto's friends about dating as he promised, bewildered all the way.

Something with cream cheese icing?

From:

Alright. I love you, Toge. Very much. I will see you at home soon with your cake.

From:

cursedwords

<3

From:

[Well, this might be one of those times Shoto feels the worst about not understanding things.]

Have you spoken with Bakugo and Midoriya?

From:

cursedwords

Yeah, I spoke with both of them. They want to go on a double date. I'm fine with that.

From:

I'm sorry. I misunderstood.
You'll have to elaborate on being fine with that, please.

[He's taking no chances.]

From:

cursedwords

[ He's a bit bewildered by the question. ]

It's not a big deal, it was just a little embarrassing.
I mean.
We can go hang out with them.
Both of them asked me, said maybe we could do something on the MANTA board or just have lunch, that was Izuku.

From:

I'll be more careful in the future, that's not something I meant to put you through. I don't always understand, but that's not an excuse.

Either of those things is alright with me. Do you have a preference?

From:

cursedwords

Don't worry about it. It's not like I picked up on it.

Not really, whichever is fine.
I like your friends, Shoto.

From:

[Whatever Shoto's done, or whatever god he has to thank. They'd best show up or he'd best figure out how he landed someone like Toge.]

Thank you for understanding.

Then why not both? We can eat and then go collect.

From:

cursedwords

Okay that sounds good to me. You know I'm not busy right now, so anytime.

From:

Would you like to be? Busy?

From:

cursedwords

I would, yeah. All this resting is driving me nuts.

From:

There's a garden here, do you want to go? There are plenty of benches if either of us gets tired.

[Either of us being Toge.]

We could look at plants. Or just walk.

From:

cursedwords

That sounds great. I love gardens.

[ Has he mentioned that? He has not. Toge doesn't have any plants on the ship. ]

I took care of the garden at school.

From:

[Shoto likes learning about him, he's never heard of this hobby of Toge's, but he's suddenly very happy plants exist.]

I wish I could see it. I think they have a small gift store there, we could see if they sell anything to bring home. I don't see why having plants around when you're not feeling up to walking or going to the garden would be a problem.

From:

cursedwords

That could be a good idea, it would brighten up my room probably, or yours.

Gojo put me in charge of the garden, said he thought I might like it. He was right.

From:

My room can be yours, too. I don't mind sharing, it's nice to wake up with you.

Gojo-sensei said he was good at everything, maybe that's part of everything.

From:

cursedwords

Yeah, it's nice when we're together.

Maybe he is good at almost everything, but even with that, he's only one man. Even he needs help sometimes.

[ Perspective, from Yuji's screaming, he needed help from them. ]

From:

I like it, too. I like everything about spending time with you.

Maybe. I don't know if that's true or not, but I know you would. I believe you'd tell me the truth.

[It's still not getting him off the shit list that Shoto isn't done figuring out what all for Gojo is on.]

From:

cursedwords

Best part of my day. <3

It's true. In Shibuya, Yuji said he was sealed away. If nothing else he needs our help with that.

From:

Even that early? <3

[Hang on what.]

Did he lock himself out?

From:

cursedwords

No, it's going to be some cursed thing, but I don't have the details.

And yes, no matter what time of day, talking to you is the best part.

From:

Maybe while he's here, you can both figure it out. I don't think I'd be much help, but I'll help too if I can.

I don't know when it's appropriate to say I love you, but I will say it. Well I did say it. You make everything feel right. Home in ten minutes, then I'll say it to you in person.

From:

cursedwords

I don't think there's ever a time it's not appropriate. Love you too, Shoto.

From:

[Toge can't hear the contented sigh, but it's there.]

From:

Toge is now the proud owner of one purple Moon Pal. Clearly he needs something to snuggle to when Shoto is busy and Toge wants to sleep in. So, the Moon Pal is settled on the end of their bed. It's theirs now, don't you know, with a little note that says:

Good morning, Toge. Keep them company for me. Home in a few hours.
Love, Shoto.

PS. You don't really have to keep them company if you don't wish to, they're not sentient.

From:

cursedwords

Even though Toge has been sleeping during Shoto’s rest time, he’s also been taking frequent naps as his body recovers, so when Shoto gets back he’ll find him curled up with the doll tucked under his arm, the gift well received.

From:

Good morning when you wake up, Toge. Which may be good afternoon also.

Nothing in particular to report on my patrol, the usual scuffles and fights. Moderate to minor crime and nothing that I haven't been able to handle. Since we do this on a volunteer level, I may take two or three complete days off depending on what the climate of crime and altercations seems like in the coming days. If you'd like we can spend those together. I can take you back to the garden if you wish on one of those days.

Please continue to rest and heal, which means one day soon you will be able to come with me and I won't have to leave you status reports on the days you choose to. Those will be good days. Then you can choose your own dessert. Are you tired of cake? Maybe today something different on my way home. Something savory instead?

Love always,
Shoto Todoroki

[Who is sending a text, not a letter, but no one is allowed to tell him that.]

P.S.
♥

From:

cursedwords

Morning. If it is morning. I dunno, I’ve been sleeping so much I’m not sure what time it is. Being injured sucks.

You don’t have to take time off if patrolling for crime matters to you, but I’d love to go to the garden again. I don’t know if it would be helpful to have me along, considering I’m a Corsair.

I wouldn’t mind a change in dessert, but I’m not complaining. I like sweets.

Thanks Shoto, miss you. ♥ ♥ ♥

From:

It can be our morning. Recovering can be annoying, but please keep at it.

I don't have to, I want to. If it's time spent with you, then it's better than patrolling and we could look at new pots for your plant. Also, your designation doesn't make what kind of person you are, you could be the number one Paladin and still be a terrible person. I'll opt to take you with me, you've proven to me who you are.

Okay, both. Then there's no deciding and you can pick off either one at any time.

[Ugh, look at the cute hearts. It doesn't matter to Shoto that he did it first, that they're all the same and that it's literally only one version of a heart. They're the cuter version. There's three of them.]

From:

cursedwords

I’m not sure that time works like that, but it’s very sweet Shoto.

If you think you won’t get hassled, I’ll go with you. I don’t mind anyway. We can look for a pot, because eventually she’ll outgrow the pot she has.

Thank you for the snacks!

From:

It can, for right now.

I don't care if I get hassled. Being jeered at isn't something I'm not used to, and if they do it because I'm standing with someone, I'll explain why it's inappropriate to them.

Oh... It's a girl. Do girl plants need anything different than boy plants? Different nutrients?

You're welcome, you can ask me for anything you want and I will bring it home.

From:

cursedwords

I don’t want you to be hassled either way, and I’m not going to let it happen anyway Shoto. Don’t worry. I’d protect you.

I’ve decided it is, yes. I think most plants are neither, but she works well for this one. I don’t think she needs anything different, she’s well cared for.

I’ll remember that, fortunately, I am good right now. Very spoiled, I promise.

From:

[It always floors him when someone wants to protect him. And really... if there's anyone in the world that could without question who aren't Izuku or Bakugo-- It's definitely Toge. It just. Is.]

I trust you would. Having you on patrol with me will be even more productive because I can trust you.

She, then. I'll think of something to bring home for her, too. You can both be spoiled, I don't mind. The next time we go to the garden, we should ask where we bought her if they have anything plants like. Then it's not just a pot.

From:

cursedwords

Thank you, you know that I would work well with you. I think we’ve proven that.

I don’t know where you can get plant food around here, maybe where we got her but that seems out of the way. Sometime when we’re close to the gardens again we can pick some up. Otherwise she’s happy with sun and water.

From:

We have. We were encouraged to seek out partners, and while I work well with most people I think we have incredible synergy in our abilities.

She seems like she'll be content. I will get a little mirror if the light isn't direct enough all day. But the plant food isn't out of the way, I can get her that too. I'll bring it home tomorrow.

[He will take care of his tiny plant family.]

From:

cursedwords

Our abilities are compatible. I’m pretty versatile, and I can work with most people.

She’ll be great, Shoto, don’t worry. It’s not hard to make a plant happy.

From:

I know that when we go on quests, or fight larger creatures that our lives are on the line but I enjoy watching you work. I know it also hurts you, but at the same time it's incredible to see how you handle anything in your way.

If there's something you notice she needs, though. Just in case.

[He's still gonna... go buy her things. If she needs to be happy then maybe happy items will help. Or-- no there's no real radios or white noise maker for when they're out. Hm.]

Edited Date: 2024-06-09 12:33 pm (UTC)

From:

cursedwords

It does hurt me, but I’m okay with that, you know. I might be cursed in my way, but I like using my ability for good. The consequences to me aren’t so bad.

I’m also just really used to it.

From:

Then I will continue to help heal it as best I can. I'm afraid other people will abuse it, but I know you wouldn't do things recklessly just because you can. You might be used to it, but I don't want you to suffer any more than you have to.

Or maybe he will, but maybe he'll think twice about it before he does it.

From:

cursedwords

The only people I have to let abuse it are the Elders. Everyone else can go fuck themselves.

I know. It's very sweet that you worry about me. Most people don't.

From:

[Oh. That is. Assertive. He had meant his healing, but the idea that Toge would at least stand up like that helps him feel well and truly better about it.]

I do worry about you, not because you're not capable of telling someone exactly that. I care. Just as much as you won't let someone take advantage of you, neither will I. No matter who it is.

From:

cursedwords

Thank you Shoto!

From:

Got a minute to talk?

From:

cursedwords

Sure, what's up?

From:

Been thinking about some shit.
Mostly the not remembering this place when we go back to our own worlds kinda shit.
Didn't known if you'd ever told Todoroki about that part or not.

From:

cursedwords

I...haven't yet. I know that I should.
It's just that I hate making him upset.
I want him to smile, you know?

From:

I get it.
I didn't wanna tell Izuku either.
Wasn't an easy conversation to have.
But having had it myself now and with some other shit that's been going on, I dunno that leaving him in the dark is fair.

He's honestly worried Todoroki is going to get hurt here. Not that he's good at expressing it.

From:

cursedwords

Bakugo's right to be concerned, because it's entirely likely that Shoto is going to find this hurtful, even if Toge is trying to protect them both. He's also right on one point.

You're right. It's not fair.
I need to tell him that.
Especially because he asked me to live with him.

From:

He was asking me questions about when I went back.
That's why I had the thought to ask.
He should hear it from you.

You gonna accept?

He already knew it was going to come up at some point. Todoroki asked if that would be okay with everyone. He was mindful like that. And now he's curious what Toge's answer is.

From:

cursedwords

He should.
We haven't talked enough about what happened while I was gone.
I'll tell him.

As long as you guys don't mind.
And he doesn't kick me out after this.

From:

If I minded, you'd know.
And if he kicks you out for being honest?
I'll kick his damn ass for being stupid.
But that doesn't sound like Todoroki to me.

From:

cursedwords

I figured.
He might not think it's worth it for a time that could end any minute.
I'd get it.

From:

More ways in which he relates.

Do you think it's a waste?

From:

cursedwords

No, I don't.
This might be the only time I'm happily dating someone, so no. It's not a waste. It's really nice.

From:

Right.
Maybe he'll feel the same.
Won't know if you don't try.
I also don't think any of the shit I'm doing here is a waste.
Not just in terms of my relationship with Izuku.
If I remember or not, it happened.
And I had a chance to be happy.
That's how I feel about this place.

From:

cursedwords

I really hope so.
Because I really love him.
More than anyone else I've ever met.
I wasn't looking for a boyfriend ever.
I'm so glad I met him, and all of you.

For what it's worth?
I'm really glad you're happy, Bakugo.

From:

Glad to hear it.

That Todoroki is loved. He deserves it.

Don't go getting sappy on me.

Guess I'm glad I met you though.
You're not completely obnoxious.

From:

cursedwords

You should never read our conversations then.

Thanks. I have my moments though.
Quiet's probably helping me skate by.

From:

Izuku's birthday is coming up and I'm looking for help planning him a party.
Got time for that?

From:

cursedwords

Sure, I'm not busy with anything.
But, uh, tell me what you do for a birthday party?

From:

You can help Icy-Hot decorate.
I texted him a list of what we'll need.
Keep him on track.
Don't let him make any food for it.
I've got that covered.

Is that what Toge meant?

From:

cursedwords

Yes and no.

Decorate, okay.
And he knows with what?
Cause if he's not sure, I have no idea.

From:

He's got a list.
Figured you two would wanna work together.
And some of the decoration will take two people to hang.
Like the happy birthday banner.

From:

cursedwords

Oh good. A list is good.
Yeah, we don't mind.
There's more hanging than a banner?
I'll have to find a crate or something, he's a lot taller than me.

From:

I want balloons and streamers too.
And we have a step ladder if you need it.
Don't stand on crates.
Or furniture.

From:

cursedwords

I'm not even 5'4", I need a ladder.
...Balloons?
Eh, it would be fine, I'm not that heavy.

From:

Yeah, and we have one.
Use it, you delinquent.

Yeah, balloons.
You don't have those in your world?

Look. He doesn't know, okay. Who the hell knows what worlds have what.

From:

cursedwords

Only because it's hard to scale the wall with one hand, but I'll get it.
I'm a very upstanding member of society.

Uhhh yes? I think so? I seem to remember them being in anime or something.
I've never actually seen one in person.

From:

Silver lining in everything, I guess.
No more wall climbing for you.

Dark humor? He isn't... certain that will land well. But. He's testing the waters with it.

Also that is... honestly kind of fucking sad.

You will now.
We're gonna draw and write on 'em.

From:

cursedwords

Very funny, just you wait, I'll be scaling the wall in no time.

[ It does land very well. Toge has a great sense of humour, what's he gonna do? Mope about it? ]

Sure thing, if you say so.
I'll just do whatever Shoto tells me to do.
I've never been to a birthday party after all.

From:

I'm gonna put sticky traps all over the outside wall.
You're tiny enough, they'd probably work.

[OKAY! Good. Good. He can... work with that. Antagonistic friendships are... easier.

Also... stop. Making him sad??? What the fuck, Toge?? Why are the people in your life so shitty??]

When the hell is your birthday?

From:

cursedwords

Ooooh I'm scared.
I like a challenge anyway.

My birthday? Not until October. It's during the busy season.

From:

What day in October?

[Okay good. They haven't missed it. He's going to make sure Shoto and Izuku both know and they're going to make sure this boy gets a damn birthday party of his own.]

From:

cursedwords

October 23rd. I'm a Scorpio.
You don't have to remember that though.
Nobody celebrates my birthday, even me.

From:

Don't tell me what to do, damn you.
Just go get those party supplies with Todoroki.

From:

cursedwords

I'm going, I'm going!

From:

Katsuki types and erases and retypes his text a dozen times. But in the end he finally manages to find a way to phrase what he wants that doesn't feel... entirely mortifying?

I might have some questions.
Todoroki said you might have some answers.
It's about sex.

....Nailed it.

From:

cursedwords

Fortunately, he's not one to troll someone when they're asking for help.

Sure, I might have answers.
What do you want to ask?

From:

It's hard for him to admit he doesn't know something. And then on top of that for it to be topics like this... He's going to be slow responding while he works out how to ask what he wants to ask. Those three little dots flash for a while.

My biggest one is how to know when he's ready.
I keep thinking the mood is right and then something happens to make me second guess it.
I don't know if I'm moving too fast or coming on too strong or whatever.

From:

cursedwords

I was a little worried about that, moving too fast, but as long as everything was going well I didn't worry too much.
I might be more attuned to body language more than most people though.
I asked, but it was non-verbal, that's kind of par for the course for me though, so it's possible without words, if that's what's tripping you up.

From:

I dunno.
Sometimes it feels like the way we're talking is a build up to something.
But then he'll say something that's a pretty clear indicator it's not.
So how did you know Todoroki was ready?

Maybe hearing that will help him figure his own stuff out??

From:

cursedwords

Oh, okay I see.
We talk, but in a different way, so we exchanged Valentine's gifts, which is already romantic to start with.
We exchanged a few kisses and I moved to sit on his lap. Things escalated from there.
When we're alone, Shoto probably doesn't talk as much as you'd think. He's very interested in communicating with me in the way I do. He doesn't have to, I think he does it because he's sweet. So not 'speaking' about it, isn't weird for us.
So next steps, assuming you get kisses down, brushing hands over where you want to go, glancing into the other's eyes to see if it's okay.
Do you trust him to tell you if he's not ready?

From:

Give him like. Five minutes. His brain is currently on the concept of sitting in Izuku's lap. It is a mental place that is both incredibly enticing and absolutely embarrassing.

Okay. He's being asked a question. Focus.

Yeah. I trust him.
He punched me the first time I kissed him so I know he's got no problems establishing boundaries.
So I sit in his lap and kiss him and see where things go?

From:

cursedwords

Okay that's good.
I was standing when I kissed him so it seemed like a good move and it was.
If you think it's too much you can start smaller. Run your fingers through his hair, kiss his neck, that kind of thing.
In general, see where things go. If you're worried about him, just give him a check. Look at him, or ask him if it's okay. Give him a chance to accept. As long as you do that, it should be fine.

From:

Sounds simple.
Hard to say if it will be in practice.
But I can give it a go.

Okay. Well. That was... the easiest of his questions honestly? The next one requires being open about some details of where things are going between them... or well. Maybe not? Maybe he can phrase it in a way that doesn't quite give away...

So I already know how it works and all that.
But I wanna ask someone who'd be able to give me an honest answer here.
The one taking it.
I know it's not supposed to hurt but is it uncomfortable?
Or is it really supposed to feel good for them?

This is less awkward than talking to Todoroki but... still.

From:

cursedwords

If you're both ready and want it, it should be fairly simple, yeah.

I'm not going to lie to you.
At first it's uncomfortable. Feels awkward.
You're stretching a muscle that doesn't usually get much stretching, but if you prepare yourself, or Izuku, it won't be more than uncomfortable.
It does feel very good after that, especially at the right angle.

From:

Bold of Toge to assume anything is ever simple for these two...

Anyway, Toge has his attention now.

What's the right angle?

From:

cursedwords

First of all, it will feel nice either way, but whoever's in control wants to try and angle towards your abdomen so you hit the prostate.
It's all well and good that it feels nice enough, but if you hit it, you'll know.
It's intense.
You can actually do it with your fingers, which might be a better way to figure it out before you dive in.

From:

Oh. Toge just suggested... It makes sense. It makes perfect sense that he should... get a feel for it before they... whew. This conversation has been enlightening. And embarrassing. But he feels like he's going in a little better prepared.

And that's important. He doesn't want to fuck it up.

Okay.
I got one more question.

And then he needs to step away and not think about this conversation for a while. Because his face feels so hot he thinks it might explode. Especially with what's on his mind...

But it's kind of gross so if you don't wanna answer it, I get it.
But I was wondering about the finish.
And the mess.
I mean it's gotta go somewhere??

He doesn't know how to ask if he should expect his boyfriend to pull out or not. He has no idea how to ask that. But it's sure on his mind.

From:

cursedwords

The conversation has been candid, but Toge's great at being blunt in text form at least, and with a boyfriend who requires bluntness, they're a great match that way. He was worried this was going to be way worse than the mechanics. He's not even that embarrassed. He doesn't even have to be personal about his preferences.

It's fine.
It's personal preference. There's pros and cons to both.
Either way you should wash up afterwards.
If you do prefer inside, it'll come back out, so don't be too surprised.

From:

Pros and cons to... both?? Both what??

Oh. No. He's getting the answer. So the mess can, in fact, go inside. That's... a thing. And he needs to. Not. Think about that.

Right.

He. Needs to be done with the conversation now. It's been informative. Very.

Thanks.

From:

cursedwords

Sure.
Let me know if you need anything else.

From:

Inumaki-kun, do you have any favourite movies or music or television shows that you liked back home?

From:

cursedwords

Hmm, I used to listen to a lot of music and play video games at home before school, but since going to school we do watch a lot of movies when we get a chance.

More importantly though, we watch a lot of baseball. Do you like sports?

From:

Ah, baseball was popular at your school?

I do like sports, although I don't watch them that often. I spent most of my time watching hero movies, or shounen animes. I guess that's typical for someone like me.

From:

cursedwords

It was, when we had time to hang out. It's good to keep on top of things.

We've watched movies, but usually someone picks out a horror film to see if they can make Yuta scream.

I don't know who would do such a thing.

From:

Ahh...! Maybe it would be fun to try playing some baseball here sometime.

And horror movies... I'm not great at watching those either...

From:

cursedwords

Do you think we could? It could be fun!

Why not? It's fun to get scared. Also it's funny when people get scared. It's okay I always pet his hair.

From:

I don't see why not...! So long as everyone might be interested in playing?

And ahhh! I know some people might like getting scared! For me, I feel like my nerves get shot too quickly. Hahah. I get... jumpy.

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cursedwords

I only ever played once! I think I could still pull it off.

[ Awkward, maybe but he's still quick at running and he can probably hit one handed. ]

Can't say I relate to that, I'm too used to things jumping out at me.

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I think it would be fun to try to play!

You're very brave then, Inumaki-kun.

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cursedwords

We had a really fun time. It was something that our teacher, Gojo set up. Not normally something we're allowed to do.

You think so? I don't know about all that.

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Eh? Gojo-sensei is your sensei?

[He's not sure why he calls Gojo that. Sensei! Maybe because the man sort of forced it... It was so weird.]

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cursedwords

Kind of? Not anymore. He teaches first year at Jujutsu Tech and I'm in second year. He was my teacher last year.

He's a horrible teacher, but he's a cool guy.

[ In Toge's opinion it's because Izuku doesn't know that Gojo doesn't deserve that level of respect yet. He has respect for him - in a different way. In a way that he acknowledges the man is an idiot. ]

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That's... I wasn't expecting to learn that.

Is he really that bad of a teacher? Then again, he did want to fight me in a restaurant once... Saying that I could learn a thing or two from him. But we were wearing dresses at the time, too?

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cursedwords

Depends. He doesn't explain anything, he hides all kinds of information we should have, he kind of just expects us to figure it out. He's kind of an idiot. He always has ulterior motives. We're Kusakabe's problem now and I'm pretty sure he can't stand him because well, we're all technically behind or whatever. I dunno, some of that stuff's not important to our job, maybe that's the point?

But he actually cares about us which for me, Maki and Yuta, that's kind of a huge deal, so we'd follow him to hell and back.

Maybe he's more like a really annoying older brother, I dunno.

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Ah... He's the kind of teacher that teaches by trial and error. I see. I've had a few teachers teach like that as well.

Sometimes that hard way of teaching works. But I don't know... As long as he cares about you, it doesn't seem that bad?

You're brave to be able to call your teacher an idiot.

[He's amazed...]

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cursedwords

Well he is an idiot!

If you ask me, it's probably on purpose. Everyone else has a stick up their ass and he's...probably trying to show he's different. The caring is a part of that. So is the informality.

Of course I have plausible deniability. I could be saying anything!

[ What a gremlin. ]

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Oi.
I have a question.

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cursedwords

Sure, what is it?

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Is lower back pain normal?

[...no context at all. None. The most he gives is:]

It's not bad. Just a dull ache.

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cursedwords

[ Hang on what? Oh. It takes a moment. ]

An ache isn't too bad. Might just be sore/pulled muscles. Try some heat if it's really bothering you. Hot shower.

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Something I should expect then?

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cursedwords

Not always, but the first time, probably yeah, I would expect it. You get used to things like that so it doesn't actually hurt after awhile.

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So it's the same as any other muscle. I just have to train my back.
Yoga, maybe?

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cursedwords

Yoga would be great for that actually, anything to relax your muscles.

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