[Fantastic. He shouldn't be surprised that someone that goddamn obstinate in battle wouldn't be the same pulling weeds or whatever other domestic shit he's up to. The wave towards the lounging fortune telling dog and the flapping hands-
What an asshole.
He doesn't move an inch.]
My apologies. I promise I won't take up much of your time - yours, I need to stress. The services of your dog aren't required. I'm afraid I have to insist on this.
[Who's obstinate? Surely not the person minding his own business in his own garden while a duplicitous little brat is putting down roots in front of him.
Li Lianhua throws up his hands at Akechi's refusal to leave, giving him a look that's both incredulous and scolding, like the boy just broke a priceless vase while pointing fingers at the household cat.]
Are you really? You're being very brave for someone so afraid of causing trouble.
I certainly won't push you the point of reaching for a stick, if that's your implication. My intent isn't to start a fight.
[PUSHES THE VASE OVER PUSHESTHEVASEOVERPUSHESTHEVASEOVER.
But since he's still standing there, and Akechi is standing here, might as well do it anyway. The guy's liable to walk off and he'll have to keep doing this.]
All I wanted to do was thank you for assisting me and apologize for any unintentionally rude behavior.
[The mention of a stick earns Akechi not a single twitch of a reaction from Li Lianhua, though in the shade of his straw hat's brim his gaze grows icy. He has no time for regrets, but the boy is smart enough to understand what he saw and draw his own conclusions about Li Lianhua. Flawed ones without a doubt, but it's not knowledge he gave away freely, and certainly not to such a ruthless brat.
But it doesn't matter. It's not like it's ever convenient for him to have to fight, that there could ever be a good way to reveal that much of himself.
And then Akechi follows this up with something so utterly absurd that it manages to overshadow all bitterness and caution. That boy is really acting like all that-- butchering and cruelty was nothing more than a lapse of good manners, with not a drop of shame on his face. Like dragging a man through the dirt is no worse than getting his honorifics mixed up. Amazing, truly amazing. Li Lianhua feels eerily like something's being done to him that he's only ever meant to be on the other side of. Does he think he was blind and deaf the whole way through? Does he just not care? What do you even say to that?
So instead he laughs, almost like he's surprised at the suddenness of it himself, loud and sharp despite the wheezing underneath it. Just give him a moment to catch his breath.]
Eh? Little maniac, if that's the case I'd really hate to see you being rude on purpose!
[Oh he really can't with this. A shake of his head to regain some composure, though even as he continues there's a chuckle to his voice.]
I just don't understand, if you think I don't remember what you did, why come to apologize? If this is some strange attempt to gloat, let me tell you you're not giving yourself much credit coming to me of all people.
First - 'Akechi' is fine. Little maniac isn't a nickname I want associated with me. I'm sure you understand.
[Also it's rude? Wow, Li Lianhua.
The laugh is irritating, but he lets it pass - his own expression neutral, if not bordering on annoyance.]
And it's not an attempt to gloat. I wasn't myself - the stress of the situation was rather dire and I was hoping you wouldn't judge me based on one of my worst moments. It wasn't my intent to lash out at you.
[Boy it was and boy is the desire rising again. This asshole is unreal.]
I also wanted to ensure you were feeling better after that whole ordeal. You were quite ill.
[That prim little admonishment over the name earns him a sympathetic if still highly amused nod. Of course Li Lianhua understands it's not a pleasant thing to be called. Absolutely, for sure for sure.
And he just keeps on going. It's quite impressive really. For a young impulsive boy to say all that with a straight face and studiously practiced eloquence? Such a shame about the murderously short fuse, that desire to lash out at others. There had been nothing eloquent, empathetic or courteous about him that day, about the way he had slaughtered those animals, about the unwelcome attention he had shown Li Lianhua afterwards.
If it were gloating, he could at least appear to be having fun. If he were just here to confirm what Li Lianhua remembers, he could already be on his way now instead of prolonging this with crocodile tears. So what is he doing? It's like he just does the opposite of whatever he wants to be doing. Which would be a torturous way to be. Not to mention ridiculous. To what end? That guess can't be right. Can it?
Li Lianhua's eyes narrow as he listens, studies, indulgent smile held in place. Then,]
It sounds like there's quite a few misunderstandings between us, am I right? We really got off on the wrong foot. I wonder, would you let me serve you a cup of tea?
[Just testing a theory, real quick. If he's wrong, he can get back to his vegetables. If he's right, he's about to ruin this boy's entire afternoon.]
The suspicious 180 doesn't feel like it came from Akechi's statements in the slightest.
But maybe it did? Li Lianhua struck him as a fool from the moment they 'met' on Sleepr, under the guise of him being his own goddamn pet. He's strong - battle isn't new to this man, but that doesn't make him smart.
Okay. This is a chance to make peace - keep the image going. Whatever. Got off on the wrong food? Absolutely. A good prince amends relationships when required and he's among the best.
Smile bright, he takes a step forward and-]
Of course. I would love to join you. Thank you for the generous offer.
Not that he'll do anything to Akechi that the boy can't simply say no to, of course. But, it seems that he simply won't.
The private thrill of being right sparks a sharper, wider smile on Li Lianhua's face. Even if he still can't for the life of him understand it. But everyone has motivations that drive them, sometimes to extremes. He can't be blamed for being a little curious, that's all.]
Very good, very good. Let's start fresh with some fresh tea, right?
[Li Lianhua claps his hands together, brushes the dirt off them, then settles a friendly hand on Akechi's shoulder, close to the nape of his neck. Companionably, and a little for support, using the rake in his other hand as a walking stick. He just still gets dizzy easily, you see.]
Come come, let's sit on the porch. It's such a very nice day out today.
That's decided the second the man's fingers settle around his neck in a reminiscent gesture of the time they were trying to sweep under the rug.
Infuckingcredible. What an asshole. Every flippant, carefree word marred by the weight against his body.
It doesn't bother him. There's a knife in his pocket. It doesn't bother him at all and he starts the slow walk towards the porch - a sinking realization the area looks more like a trap than a place to sip tea.]
Is this comfortable for you? I don't mind assisting you, of course, but that's a rather uncommon way to hold onto someone.
[For someone who endured being wracked by poison for the sake of whatever destructive goal he had at the time, it shouldn't be much of a challenge to endure being held by the neck with a perfectly pleasant attitude. But still, not bad, not bad at all.
Li Lianhua makes no attempt to hide his raised eyebrows and satisfied smirk from the boy. And yet still goes for a harmlessly confused little sound in response to his question. It takes two to play out an absurd mockery of reconciliation, after all.]
Huh? Oh! I'm afraid my health has never been the most forgiving. I've caught a cold that nearly cost me my life more than once, you see, so I'm used to relying on people. But I can let go, if you prefer.
[Whatever he prefers, he only needs to speak it.
As they make their slow way up the slight incline towards the hill house with the green door and the cozy porch tucked in next to it, Huli Jing finally wakes up and, noticing a new person, happily trots out to meet with them with a wagging tail and a curious nose. As before, he's quick to investigate Akechi for possible treats or affection.]
No, it's quite alright. If this is what you prefer, then so be it.
[Asshole.
The grip allowed to continue because if they're playing this shitty game? Winning is the only option and Akechi refuses to relent. Compliance is key and he's a master of pretending he gives a shit about it.
But they move forward - slow, agonizing, and tension building with every goddamn step despite himself. Up all the way to the door and-
Huli Jing. The new focus of his attention and while there's no treat in his pocket, he does have a free hand that pets the little fortune teller's head. A shame it has such a shit owner.]
Looks like your pet has come to take over. What a dutiful master to come to his assistant's aid so fast.
[Funnily enough, there's actually another option; to stop playing. Somehow most people don't ever seem to see this option, though. It's no surprise Akechi is no different, but it does tell Li Lianhua some things about the hold his obsessions have on him. Someone could probably make this boy do just about anything with the right carrot on a stick and he'd convince himself that was his own choice, too.
Tch.
Li Lianhua's attention, too, shifts to Huli Jing and his interaction with Akechi. Of course he must appear to like the dog; pretty much everybody does. Huli Jing doesn't know the difference, wagging his tail happily for the friendly petting. Li Lianhua sighs.]
You're right, my master is very reliable. I only wish he'd listen better to some of the advice he got chatting with people on that little device one time. He's a little too trusting, don't you think?
Agreed, but he's among many who are. I'm sure he's doing his best.
[The Detective Prince will be looking for acting gigs the second he returns to reality. Every part of his brain working overtime to ensure his expression stays passive, no grit teeth. No hidden bite in his tone. No, no. He's truly giving compliments to the wonderful Li Lianhua who still has a hold on his neck.
Where's the goddamn TEA.]
What a kind, beloved pet to look after your owner in such a way.
[The boy should be looking for comedy gigs while he's at it. Maybe as a street performer. Those make good money, or so he's heard. Li Lianhua just huffs a laugh, shaking his head a little at the continued audacity of this brat.]
Mmm.
[A generous hum of agreement, then he gives Akechi's shoulder a friendly pat before finally releasing him as they reach the porch. He waves a hand to the bench by the table, inviting the boy to sit surrounded by pots of flowers and herbs that decorate the porch and windowsill. A small scratch of his nose is all that heralds his next trick.]
Ah, while I go fetch our tea, would you mind keeping an eye on my vegetables? I've been having some trouble with some crows coming to steal from me, you see, and I just haven't had the time to put up a scarecrow yet. My young friend would really be helping me out, eh?
He underestimated Li Lianhua. Placed him in the same bucket as every other altruistic fool with a hero complex for an ego. A part of him that exists somewhere that sickly body, but -
He's also a complete and utter asshole.
The bench looks like a solace. A peace offering. A pointed, subtle attack was his revenge. Akechi can accept that, now that his fingers are off his neck.
But no. There's more. A goddamn scarecrow, like Akechi is some farmyard puppet or a herd dog.
He looks at Huli Jing. Just. Being a dog. A creature far more suited to the task at hand and yet, it was provided to the animal.
He looks at Li Lianhua. Just. Being a dick.
And smiles - bright as ever. He isn't going to fall for this goddamn trap.]
Of course - I would be happy to. I am the one that took you away from your field, after all. My skillset doesn't including scaring wildlife, but I'll certainly do my best. Please rest easy the matter.
[Akechi's smile is reflected back at him just as brightly and not reaching eyes that remain ice cold. Not skilled at scaring wildlife indeed. Next he'll say he doesn't know which end of a knife is the sharp one. Li Lianhua really should go before he's tempted to serve that boy something from Miss Iris' garden instead of his own kitchen.]
Thanks. I knew I could count on my new friend. I'll get going then, I'll be just a moment.
[While Akechi gets settled on the bench, Li Lianhua clicks his tongue at Huli Jing and the dog dutifully follows him inside the house. Hopefully Akechi wasn't expecting to be left alone with the dog.
And Li Lianhua really doesn't take too long in the kitchen, though while Akechi waits he'll be able to hear the sounds of some nasty coughing and clattering of pottery through the open window. A short while later, Li Lianhua emerges with a teapot and two cups on a tray, as well as a plate with a few glutinous rice dumpling experiments. They have been flavored either with vanilla (way too much vanilla) or rose and hibiscus blossoms (completely bland, but with a lovely pink color). They have also been left out for hours while nobody quite had the heart to throw them away, so they now have the consistency of rubber tires.
Li Lianhua serves all this and pours the tea with a smile on his lips, extremely amused Akechi didn't take the opportunity to flee.
Everything here is a trap and Akechi is willfully falling for each of them.]
So, young man, you've been here a while, haven't you? Did you settle in alright? Have you met anyone from your home yet? Ah, I hope you won't mind the tea. It's only good enough to quench your thirst, I'm afraid.
He has to. It's not an obscene request - it's simply an embarrassing one. LLH knows what he's doing and Akechi isn't a pushover by any stretch of the imagination.
After today, he'll never comply with another task again. Once they're back on decent terms and this bizarre fucking revenge has been completed on the man's part.
Akechi stares at it from his perch on the man's porch. Watches. It looks at him in return and-
Another bird. He wants to die. Incredible. A third joins soon after and he looks around - no one. Though he's sure that fucker is watching from the house.
Gets down into the field as all the creatures pluck at the ground and-]
Leave.
[They don't give a shit.
Kicks some dirt on them. They seem to enjoy it. Which means-
He waves in all too dramatic gesture to shoo them away and they finally flutter off to harass some other garden.
[By the time LLH return to the battlefield, Akechi is settled back on a seat. Tea. A snack. There's no chance in hell things are looking up, but this is a slight reprieve. He tries to ignore the gross coughing that likely hit the teacups on the man's way out.
What an ass.]
I appreciate anything you're willing to share with me - thank you for being so gracious. As for those from my world, I have met someone - Maruki-san. He's quite a chatterbox, so I'm sure you've spoken. [Annoying, actually. ♥] We didn't know each other in our world, but he's familiar with me because of my celebrity status.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
no subject
Date: 2024-05-23 11:19 pm (UTC)What an asshole.
He doesn't move an inch.]
My apologies. I promise I won't take up much of your time - yours, I need to stress. The services of your dog aren't required. I'm afraid I have to insist on this.
no subject
Date: 2024-05-23 11:51 pm (UTC)Li Lianhua throws up his hands at Akechi's refusal to leave, giving him a look that's both incredulous and scolding, like the boy just broke a priceless vase while pointing fingers at the household cat.]
Are you really? You're being very brave for someone so afraid of causing trouble.
no subject
Date: 2024-05-24 12:32 am (UTC)[PUSHES THE VASE OVER PUSHESTHEVASEOVERPUSHESTHEVASEOVER.
But since he's still standing there, and Akechi is standing here, might as well do it anyway. The guy's liable to walk off and he'll have to keep doing this.]
All I wanted to do was thank you for assisting me and apologize for any unintentionally rude behavior.
no subject
Date: 2024-06-20 04:51 pm (UTC)But it doesn't matter. It's not like it's ever convenient for him to have to fight, that there could ever be a good way to reveal that much of himself.
And then Akechi follows this up with something so utterly absurd that it manages to overshadow all bitterness and caution. That boy is really acting like all that-- butchering and cruelty was nothing more than a lapse of good manners, with not a drop of shame on his face. Like dragging a man through the dirt is no worse than getting his honorifics mixed up. Amazing, truly amazing. Li Lianhua feels eerily like something's being done to him that he's only ever meant to be on the other side of. Does he think he was blind and deaf the whole way through? Does he just not care? What do you even say to that?
So instead he laughs, almost like he's surprised at the suddenness of it himself, loud and sharp despite the wheezing underneath it. Just give him a moment to catch his breath.]
Eh? Little maniac, if that's the case I'd really hate to see you being rude on purpose!
[Oh he really can't with this. A shake of his head to regain some composure, though even as he continues there's a chuckle to his voice.]
I just don't understand, if you think I don't remember what you did, why come to apologize? If this is some strange attempt to gloat, let me tell you you're not giving yourself much credit coming to me of all people.
no subject
Date: 2024-06-23 10:57 pm (UTC)[Also it's rude? Wow, Li Lianhua.
The laugh is irritating, but he lets it pass - his own expression neutral, if not bordering on annoyance.]
And it's not an attempt to gloat. I wasn't myself - the stress of the situation was rather dire and I was hoping you wouldn't judge me based on one of my worst moments. It wasn't my intent to lash out at you.
[Boy it was and boy is the desire rising again. This asshole is unreal.]
I also wanted to ensure you were feeling better after that whole ordeal. You were quite ill.
no subject
Date: 2024-07-01 10:33 pm (UTC)And he just keeps on going. It's quite impressive really. For a young impulsive boy to say all that with a straight face and studiously practiced eloquence? Such a shame about the murderously short fuse, that desire to lash out at others. There had been nothing eloquent, empathetic or courteous about him that day, about the way he had slaughtered those animals, about the unwelcome attention he had shown Li Lianhua afterwards.
If it were gloating, he could at least appear to be having fun. If he were just here to confirm what Li Lianhua remembers, he could already be on his way now instead of prolonging this with crocodile tears. So what is he doing? It's like he just does the opposite of whatever he wants to be doing. Which would be a torturous way to be. Not to mention ridiculous. To what end? That guess can't be right. Can it?
Li Lianhua's eyes narrow as he listens, studies, indulgent smile held in place. Then,]
It sounds like there's quite a few misunderstandings between us, am I right? We really got off on the wrong foot. I wonder, would you let me serve you a cup of tea?
[Just testing a theory, real quick. If he's wrong, he can get back to his vegetables.
If he's right, he's about to ruin this boy's entire afternoon.]no subject
Date: 2024-07-03 12:23 am (UTC)The suspicious 180 doesn't feel like it came from Akechi's statements in the slightest.
But maybe it did? Li Lianhua struck him as a fool from the moment they 'met' on Sleepr, under the guise of him being his own goddamn pet. He's strong - battle isn't new to this man, but that doesn't make him smart.
Okay. This is a chance to make peace - keep the image going. Whatever. Got off on the wrong food? Absolutely. A good prince amends relationships when required and he's among the best.
Smile bright, he takes a step forward and-]
Of course. I would love to join you. Thank you for the generous offer.
no subject
Date: 2024-07-04 04:13 pm (UTC)Not that he'll do anything to Akechi that the boy can't simply say no to, of course. But, it seems that he simply won't.
The private thrill of being right sparks a sharper, wider smile on Li Lianhua's face. Even if he still can't for the life of him understand it. But everyone has motivations that drive them, sometimes to extremes. He can't be blamed for being a little curious, that's all.]
Very good, very good. Let's start fresh with some fresh tea, right?
[Li Lianhua claps his hands together, brushes the dirt off them, then settles a friendly hand on Akechi's shoulder, close to the nape of his neck. Companionably, and a little for support, using the rake in his other hand as a walking stick. He just still gets dizzy easily, you see.]
Come come, let's sit on the porch. It's such a very nice day out today.
no subject
Date: 2024-07-06 03:00 pm (UTC)Li Lianhua is not an idiot.
That's decided the second the man's fingers settle around his neck in a reminiscent gesture of the time they were trying to sweep under the rug.
Infuckingcredible. What an asshole. Every flippant, carefree word marred by the weight against his body.
It doesn't bother him. There's a knife in his pocket. It doesn't bother him at all and he starts the slow walk towards the porch - a sinking realization the area looks more like a trap than a place to sip tea.]
Is this comfortable for you? I don't mind assisting you, of course, but that's a rather uncommon way to hold onto someone.
no subject
Date: 2024-07-06 09:54 pm (UTC)Li Lianhua makes no attempt to hide his raised eyebrows and satisfied smirk from the boy. And yet still goes for a harmlessly confused little sound in response to his question. It takes two to play out an absurd mockery of reconciliation, after all.]
Huh? Oh! I'm afraid my health has never been the most forgiving. I've caught a cold that nearly cost me my life more than once, you see, so I'm used to relying on people. But I can let go, if you prefer.
[Whatever he prefers, he only needs to speak it.
As they make their slow way up the slight incline towards the hill house with the green door and the cozy porch tucked in next to it, Huli Jing finally wakes up and, noticing a new person, happily trots out to meet with them with a wagging tail and a curious nose. As before, he's quick to investigate Akechi for possible treats or affection.]
no subject
Date: 2024-07-11 09:40 pm (UTC)[Asshole.
The grip allowed to continue because if they're playing this shitty game? Winning is the only option and Akechi refuses to relent. Compliance is key and he's a master of pretending he gives a shit about it.
But they move forward - slow, agonizing, and tension building with every goddamn step despite himself. Up all the way to the door and-
Huli Jing. The new focus of his attention and while there's no treat in his pocket, he does have a free hand that pets the little fortune teller's head. A shame it has such a shit owner.]
Looks like your pet has come to take over. What a dutiful master to come to his assistant's aid so fast.
no subject
Date: 2024-07-12 08:21 pm (UTC)Tch.
Li Lianhua's attention, too, shifts to Huli Jing and his interaction with Akechi. Of course he must appear to like the dog; pretty much everybody does. Huli Jing doesn't know the difference, wagging his tail happily for the friendly petting. Li Lianhua sighs.]
You're right, my master is very reliable. I only wish he'd listen better to some of the advice he got chatting with people on that little device one time. He's a little too trusting, don't you think?
no subject
Date: 2024-07-15 10:44 pm (UTC)[The Detective Prince will be looking for acting gigs the second he returns to reality. Every part of his brain working overtime to ensure his expression stays passive, no grit teeth. No hidden bite in his tone. No, no. He's truly giving compliments to the wonderful Li Lianhua who still has a hold on his neck.
Where's the goddamn TEA.]
What a kind, beloved pet to look after your owner in such a way.
no subject
Date: 2024-07-17 02:03 pm (UTC)Mmm.
[A generous hum of agreement, then he gives Akechi's shoulder a friendly pat before finally releasing him as they reach the porch. He waves a hand to the bench by the table, inviting the boy to sit surrounded by pots of flowers and herbs that decorate the porch and windowsill. A small scratch of his nose is all that heralds his next trick.]
Ah, while I go fetch our tea, would you mind keeping an eye on my vegetables? I've been having some trouble with some crows coming to steal from me, you see, and I just haven't had the time to put up a scarecrow yet. My young friend would really be helping me out, eh?
no subject
Date: 2024-07-19 01:19 am (UTC)He underestimated Li Lianhua. Placed him in the same bucket as every other altruistic fool with a hero complex for an ego. A part of him that exists somewhere that sickly body, but -
He's also a complete and utter asshole.
The bench looks like a solace. A peace offering. A pointed, subtle attack was his revenge. Akechi can accept that, now that his fingers are off his neck.
But no. There's more. A goddamn scarecrow, like Akechi is some farmyard puppet or a herd dog.
He looks at Huli Jing. Just. Being a dog. A creature far more suited to the task at hand and yet, it was provided to the animal.
He looks at Li Lianhua. Just. Being a dick.
And smiles - bright as ever. He isn't going to fall for this goddamn trap.]
Of course - I would be happy to. I am the one that took you away from your field, after all. My skillset doesn't including scaring wildlife, but I'll certainly do my best. Please rest easy the matter.
[Akechi's going to kill him.]
no subject
Date: 2024-08-11 07:45 pm (UTC)Thanks. I knew I could count on my new friend. I'll get going then, I'll be just a moment.
[While Akechi gets settled on the bench, Li Lianhua clicks his tongue at Huli Jing and the dog dutifully follows him inside the house. Hopefully Akechi wasn't expecting to be left alone with the dog.
And Li Lianhua really doesn't take too long in the kitchen, though while Akechi waits he'll be able to hear the sounds of some nasty coughing and clattering of pottery through the open window. A short while later, Li Lianhua emerges with a teapot and two cups on a tray, as well as a plate with a few glutinous rice dumpling experiments. They have been flavored either with vanilla (way too much vanilla) or rose and hibiscus blossoms (completely bland, but with a lovely pink color). They have also been left out for hours while nobody quite had the heart to throw them away, so they now have the consistency of rubber tires.
Li Lianhua serves all this and pours the tea with a smile on his lips, extremely amused Akechi didn't take the opportunity to flee.
Everything here is a trap and Akechi is willfully falling for each of them.]
So, young man, you've been here a while, haven't you? Did you settle in alright? Have you met anyone from your home yet? Ah, I hope you won't mind the tea. It's only good enough to quench your thirst, I'm afraid.
1/3
Date: 2024-08-23 01:41 pm (UTC)LLH is gone (positive).
Request to be a human scarecrow (negative).
The issue is -
He has to. It's not an obscene request - it's simply an embarrassing one. LLH knows what he's doing and Akechi isn't a pushover by any stretch of the imagination.
After today, he'll never comply with another task again. Once they're back on decent terms and this bizarre fucking revenge has been completed on the man's part.
...
He has to.
Akechi will remember this.]
no subject
Date: 2024-08-23 01:46 pm (UTC)Akechi stares at it from his perch on the man's porch. Watches. It looks at him in return and-
Another bird. He wants to die. Incredible. A third joins soon after and he looks around - no one. Though he's sure that fucker is watching from the house.
Gets down into the field as all the creatures pluck at the ground and-]
Leave.
[They don't give a shit.
Kicks some dirt on them. They seem to enjoy it. Which means-
He waves in all too dramatic gesture to shoo them away and they finally flutter off to harass some other garden.
Killing him would be kinder, LLH.]
no subject
Date: 2024-08-23 01:53 pm (UTC)What an ass.]
I appreciate anything you're willing to share with me - thank you for being so gracious. As for those from my world, I have met someone - Maruki-san. He's quite a chatterbox, so I'm sure you've spoken. [Annoying, actually. ♥] We didn't know each other in our world, but he's familiar with me because of my celebrity status.