[Setsuna realizes... that he's never actually sent something like this to Saizo before! One of the roles of the "wife" is to ensure the husband is happy, right? Checking up on him time to time, and making sure that he's doing well, even outside of the house...
... so!]
Saizo?
[Voice is meek as usual. Currently, the time is still school hour. He's a little nervous. It could be that he's just bothering him right now... But, he won't know until he confirms it himself!]
How is work? ... Ah, I wanted to know how you are doing. Is everyone treating you well?
Also... I wanted to ask what you would like for dinner today as well.
[Though Saizo can't see it, Setsuna did smile afterwards. Though, the faint pleased noise just now may have given that away.]
You do not have to answer immediately if you are busy. Well, then...
[Finally having gotten used to these sort of things, the answer to Setsuna's call is very quick.]
Setsuna...?
[It's definitely a surprise to get a call.]
Work isn't a problem. I haven't had any problems yet. Well...
[There was this one kid with a really bad report card. Somehow he ended up showing it to everyone on the network and Saizo caught sight of it. It wasn't too big of a deal... aside from adding a "plus" next to each grade. Talk about unappreciative to the only good grade he received!]
No, never mind. It's not that big of a deal since I took care of it. Everything is going fine.
[Regarding dinner, he didn't hesitate to answer.]
Soba! Soba sounds good for dinner!
[A small pause.] But, if you have other ideas, that's fine too. I like eating everything that you make anyway.
[Setsuna is actually impressed at how Saizo didn't struggle with the device. It's already been this long that they've been living together, hasn't it? Too long that they've gotten used to this kind of life...]
Really? ... I am glad to hear that. But, if there is anything I can do for you, I would not mind extending assistance anytime.
[Everyone encounters trouble at one point, after all. It's good that Saizo hasn't been experiencing this that much anymore, but Setsuna wanted to remind him that he doesn't have to deal with anything by himself.
How enthusiastic Saizo's next answer was easily results in a gentle laugh from Setsuna. Some things never change, right? Saizo still really likes soba.]
[Saizo, is he still trying to be more independent? Of course by now, Setsuna has noticed the drastic measures that Saizo's always trying to pull. But, that's precisely why he can't help but worry. He doesn't want his spouse to overdo anything.
In the end though, there isn't much he can do about it. If that's what he chooses... Instead, he should believe in him.]
I see. I understand...
[Maybe Setsuna can look forward to good news. With that, he pardons it with another faint smile behind the line.]
I am doing all right as well. With the holidays approaching however, things will only become busier.
[Setsuna hopes that it won't compensate with his time with the family... Work is important, but they're not any less.]
[As much as he appreciates all of the things that Setsuna has done for him, Saizo knows he can't rely on him forever. He'll have to get more and more used to doing everything on his own.
Who knows... maybe one day Setsuna would end up leaving this place. And really, Saizo can't afford to wander around clueless because the person that's been guiding him is gone. He's glad that the other has put his trust in him.]
Busier, huh?
[For Saizo, everyone seems to be excited for the approaching holidays. It also means that school would be closing for the break. Having a teaching job is a pretty easy life. Days off in between, and there's also summer vacation too.]
Then do you need any extra hands around the house? I guess I won't be doing anything when everyone is out of school during their short vacation.
Yes. We would have to adjust to the season. Food becomes higher in demand during the holidays, as everyone is preparing to have dinner parties or get-togethers.
[Back home, even Celestial Being actually celebrates mini get-togethers at Ptolemy...! Having food and drinks together like the family they are.]
And, I actually would appreciate that... I know that you have been improving in using the appliances too, so you may assist in whichever chores that you can handle.
[There's always something to do at home! Cleaning or cooking are the simplified tasks. There's gardening, too.]
People of this place really take celebrating seriously.
[Not that people of his time didn't have extravagant celebrations too. It's mostly festival based though. Celebrations here seem to be revolve around family more, so it's definitely not something he's used to doing.]
Mmm, you can count on me. I'll do whatever I can to lessen the amount of chores you'll need to do during that time.
[Cooking is definitely one! Well, he's still nowhere as good as Setsuna since the most he can do is make simple foods. He'll probably make an even bigger mess too.
Gardening though... Setsuna sure loves those flowers...]
I am certain you will understand once you experience it yourself.
[That's said in a lighthearted tone. Surely, Saizo will enjoy himself soon. After seeing the lights and the overall warm spirit of the holidays... Especially all the awesome food.]
Again, thank you. You are always very dependable.
[No matter what mess Saizo creates, Setsuna still ends up enjoying the young ninja's cooking regardless. It's the thought and effort that counts.
Of course...! That's why Gareki received +100 points already just for those flowers. c:]
I understand. The Western culture did not influence Japan yet at your era...
[After Saizo's era... Even more battles came, because there are those who are loyal to the tradition of the samurai, and those who wish to ally with the those from the West. Thinking about it, wars truly start from the pettiest reasons. All though chivalry and honor is important, it's different when it becomes the cause for someone's pointless death. Much more if it isn't just one person affected...
Setsuna shakes his head a little, trying not to think about that at this time. He called Saizo to keep him company and check on him, not worry him! It's a good thing that the ninja can't see his face right now, because he definitely made a sad expression. It's quick to be replaced by a lighter one however, all thanks to the latter statement.]
Yes. Our duty...
[Setsuna understands that fully. That's why he always tries so hard, too!
And no, Saizo. Don't worry. For the porridge you fed him before, that was +200. Because you even spoodfed him...!!]
Well, I knew that even my home would end up changing eventually.
[There are a lot of Japanese that have come to Holly, and they didn't experience the type of culture shock that he had.]
Japan sure as come a long way after my time.
[It's definitely a dramatic change. But he shouldn't dig into history too much. Who knows how he'll react to it the moment he reads the events that take place during and after his era.]
By the way, Setsuna... do you plan on doing anything after class is done with?
[That's definitely something that's really good to here.]
Hmm, I see. I still have some things to do, so I guess we can't go home together today. [There might have been a slight hint of disappointment in his voice.]
Be sure to take care of yourself on the way home then.
[Setsuna caught that tone, but doesn't call Saizo out on it. That's because he feels the same... It's more enjoyable to head home with someone they care for.
Instead of adding to the weight of that though, Setsuna lets out a soft laugh for a mere second.]
It is fine... Please, do take your time. I still have to prepare dinner, after all.
I promise that it will be ready by the time you return. I will be waiting.
Due to that kind of tone, it somewhat frustrates Setsuna. His face actually turns a little colored— ... He's got enough people treating him like a kid! AND IT'S RUN FOR LONG ENOUGH.]
O-of course. I will be fine. I just need to get used to it...
[Except he probably will never get used to it. He's too much like a new-born chick when it comes to the weather. This is what he gets for being spoiled too much from auto-temperature control. It doesn't help that he was originally a desert dweller.]
[Having something hot to drink is a really nice and comforting way to keep warm. Hot tea or even just hot water had saved him multiple times back then.]
I'd like a cup too once I get back home.
[Saizo will be out for a long while, after all...]
[Setsuna will be more than happy to! It is a surprise though, since Saizo usually likes sake during cold or rainy days. Though, it's better this way. Despite Saizo's strong poison resistance, Setsuna still can't help but worry about his health.]
How much longer do you think you will be able to stay there?
[The moment Setsuna makes the suggestion, Saizo's writing slows down for a couple of seconds. But then he quickly picks up pace, finishing is work faster than expected.
There's a sound of the chair scraping against the floor as Saizo pulls away from the desk.]
[Setsuna may have caught the general idea of what happened just now. Did Saizo just rush his work to meet up with him faster? ... Thinking about this helps relieve him from some of the cold breeze.
Ah. It's probably because the heat across his face is growing.]
In... that case, I will be waiting at the Shopping Gate.
[Setsuna wouldn't want Saizo to get into an accident or anything, just because he was hurrying too much. While that is unlikely to happen as the other young male is a ninja, he can't help but feel that way regardless.
Somehow, it felt like a pity to end the call so soon. That's why Setsuna just pauses a little longer, even if they weren't talking anymore.
Another soft sigh passes, indicating one last smile before the call is finally ended.]
[ So, yeah. All she gives him for a secret santa gift is a pair of mittens....
No, really, it took a lot of effort for her to even wrap that much for someone else! It helps that he's a complete stranger, though. It would've been more awkward to give a gift to someone she actually knows. ]
[Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! It is a time of generosity, and so Vietnam would like to share some food that one can share with family and friends. A basket will be discovered on your doorstep containing bánh chuối nướng (a Vietnamese style baked banana cake/pudding) and a can of sweetened condensed milk to go with it. One will also discover some bánh quy bơ quế (butter cookies with the best Vietnamese cinnamon she can get her hands on), and an assortment of mứt (candied fruit preserves) for the New Year.
Well, Saizo, guess you've been bro enough to get this really awesome club sandwich stuffed full of meat. It's pretty big. A card is included:]
Saizo,
Chúc Mừng Giáng Sinh! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
I am sure Setsuna may have explained the details of this holiday season, in which one of the traditions is for us to also share gifts. One of these gifts, the sandwich, I hope you will share it, but if you decide to keep it for yourself, to please finish it quickly. The rest you can take your time. Have a wonderful holiday.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
( voice )
... so!]
Saizo?
[Voice is meek as usual. Currently, the time is still school hour. He's a little nervous. It could be that he's just bothering him right now... But, he won't know until he confirms it himself!]
How is work? ... Ah, I wanted to know how you are doing. Is everyone treating you well?
Also... I wanted to ask what you would like for dinner today as well.
[Though Saizo can't see it, Setsuna did smile afterwards. Though, the faint pleased noise just now may have given that away.]
You do not have to answer immediately if you are busy. Well, then...
( voice )
Setsuna...?
[It's definitely a surprise to get a call.]
Work isn't a problem. I haven't had any problems yet. Well...
[There was this one kid with a really bad report card. Somehow he ended up showing it to everyone on the network and Saizo caught sight of it. It wasn't too big of a deal... aside from adding a "plus" next to each grade. Talk about unappreciative to the only good grade he received!]
No, never mind. It's not that big of a deal since I took care of it. Everything is going fine.
[Regarding dinner, he didn't hesitate to answer.]
Soba! Soba sounds good for dinner!
[A small pause.] But, if you have other ideas, that's fine too. I like eating everything that you make anyway.
[And that's said with honesty.]
( voice )
Really? ... I am glad to hear that. But, if there is anything I can do for you, I would not mind extending assistance anytime.
[Everyone encounters trouble at one point, after all. It's good that Saizo hasn't been experiencing this that much anymore, but Setsuna wanted to remind him that he doesn't have to deal with anything by himself.
How enthusiastic Saizo's next answer was easily results in a gentle laugh from Setsuna. Some things never change, right? Saizo still really likes soba.]
... Thank you. Look forward to dinner, then.
( voice )
Besides, you have a lot on your plate too. How are things on your end?
[Between housework, school, and the job at the bakery. It's definitely a lot to do. Saizo only has to worry about a bunch of kids.]
Of course, I always do.
[Since Soba is now tonight's dinner, he's really looking forward to going home as soon as possible.]
( voice )
[Saizo, is he still trying to be more independent? Of course by now, Setsuna has noticed the drastic measures that Saizo's always trying to pull. But, that's precisely why he can't help but worry. He doesn't want his spouse to overdo anything.
In the end though, there isn't much he can do about it. If that's what he chooses... Instead, he should believe in him.]
I see. I understand...
[Maybe Setsuna can look forward to good news. With that, he pardons it with another faint smile behind the line.]
I am doing all right as well. With the holidays approaching however, things will only become busier.
[Setsuna hopes that it won't compensate with his time with the family... Work is important, but they're not any less.]
( voice )
Who knows... maybe one day Setsuna would end up leaving this place. And really, Saizo can't afford to wander around clueless because the person that's been guiding him is gone. He's glad that the other has put his trust in him.]
Busier, huh?
[For Saizo, everyone seems to be excited for the approaching holidays. It also means that school would be closing for the break. Having a teaching job is a pretty easy life. Days off in between, and there's also summer vacation too.]
Then do you need any extra hands around the house? I guess I won't be doing anything when everyone is out of school during their short vacation.
( voice )
[Back home, even Celestial Being actually celebrates mini get-togethers at Ptolemy...! Having food and drinks together like the family they are.]
And, I actually would appreciate that... I know that you have been improving in using the appliances too, so you may assist in whichever chores that you can handle.
[There's always something to do at home! Cleaning or cooking are the simplified tasks. There's gardening, too.]
( voice )
[Not that people of his time didn't have extravagant celebrations too. It's mostly festival based though. Celebrations here seem to be revolve around family more, so it's definitely not something he's used to doing.]
Mmm, you can count on me. I'll do whatever I can to lessen the amount of chores you'll need to do during that time.
[Cooking is definitely one! Well, he's still nowhere as good as Setsuna since the most he can do is make simple foods. He'll probably make an even bigger mess too.
Gardening though... Setsuna sure loves those flowers...]
( voice )
[That's said in a lighthearted tone. Surely, Saizo will enjoy himself soon. After seeing the lights and the overall warm spirit of the holidays...
Especially all the awesome food.]Again, thank you. You are always very dependable.
[No matter what mess Saizo creates, Setsuna still ends up enjoying the young ninja's cooking regardless. It's the thought and effort that counts.
Of course...! That's why Gareki received +100 points already just for those flowers. c:]
( voice )
[If he had a little bit more information on it, he'll definitely be more prepared.]
Don't worry about it. It's part of my duty.
[He would have added "as your spouse" to the end of that sentence. But it's implied there. And it seems better left unsaid.
And wow, stop getting swayed by a little kid!]
( voice )
[After Saizo's era... Even more battles came, because there are those who are loyal to the tradition of the samurai, and those who wish to ally with the those from the West. Thinking about it, wars truly start from the pettiest reasons. All though chivalry and honor is important, it's different when it becomes the cause for someone's pointless death. Much more if it isn't just one person affected...
Setsuna shakes his head a little, trying not to think about that at this time. He called Saizo to keep him company and check on him, not worry him! It's a good thing that the ninja can't see his face right now, because he definitely made a sad expression. It's quick to be replaced by a lighter one however, all thanks to the latter statement.]
Yes. Our duty...
[Setsuna understands that fully. That's why he always tries so hard, too!
And no, Saizo. Don't worry. For the porridge you fed him before, that was +200. Because you even spoodfed him...!!]
( voice )
[There are a lot of Japanese that have come to Holly, and they didn't experience the type of culture shock that he had.]
Japan sure as come a long way after my time.
[It's definitely a dramatic change. But he shouldn't dig into history too much. Who knows how he'll react to it the moment he reads the events that take place during and after his era.]
By the way, Setsuna... do you plan on doing anything after class is done with?
[Husbando's duty!!]
( voice )
[Saizo will probably want to at least hear that. Japan is doing really well indeed.]
And, no... My shift is already over, so I am on my way home.
( voice )
[That's definitely something that's really good to here.]
Hmm, I see. I still have some things to do, so I guess we can't go home together today. [There might have been a slight hint of disappointment in his voice.]
Be sure to take care of yourself on the way home then.
( voice )
Instead of adding to the weight of that though, Setsuna lets out a soft laugh for a mere second.]
It is fine... Please, do take your time. I still have to prepare dinner, after all.
I promise that it will be ready by the time you return. I will be waiting.
( voice )
Yeah, I'm definitely looking forward to it.
[And since he'll be heading home a little later, he might as well do some errands as well.]
I'll probably head to shopping gates to pick up something for Saichan. Do you need anything from the area?
( voice )
That's right. I do need a few more supplies. Can I send the list as a message?
[It's easier to remember that way too, right?]
( voice )
But then it a few seconds before he realizes that Setsuna couldn't even see that. There's a bit of fumbling over his side of the line.]
Um... yeah. Sure. Go ahead.
( voice )
All right... I will be sending it soon.
[Soon, as in after they're done talking, of course!]
It has gotten very cold lately... I wonder if it is already winter?
[There's a faint sound of panting coming from Setsuna, it sounds like he's really cold. Maybe he has been all along.]
( voice )
[Reminds him of the date the two of them had at the ice rink. But this time, the temperature dropping is a natural cause.
Saizo manages to catch the sound of the other's panting, and that brings a little bit of concern from him.]
Setsuna, are you okay? You're dressed appropriately, right?
[Saying that in a tone that one would use for a child.]
( voice )
Due to that kind of tone, it somewhat frustrates Setsuna. His face actually turns a little colored— ... He's got enough people treating him like a kid!
AND IT'S RUN FOR LONG ENOUGH.]O-of course. I will be fine. I just need to get used to it...
[Except he probably will never get used to it. He's too much like a new-born chick when it comes to the weather. This is what he gets for being spoiled too much from auto-temperature control. It doesn't help that he was originally a desert dweller.]
( voice )
Never enough tbh]You don't sound too good though. I just wanted to make sure. Maybe you need one of those warmer snake like things.
[He's talking about a scarf.]
Or two. It's not weird to wear two at the same time right?
[What is modern fashion anyway? Maybe if he gets Setsuna to wear two scarves at the same time, it'll start some kind of new fashion trend.]
( voice )
N-no. LET HIM BE THE DOTING ONE THIS TIME.]A scarf...? Vietnam actually visited yesterday to give me one.
[Argh/// All you people and your doting. ;n;]
I am currently wearing it, so please do not worry. I really am all right. ... What about you, though? Are you wearing something warm?
[/SWITCH]
( voice )
Too bad, Setsuna.]Yeah, those things!
[He's satisfied to hear that Setsuna is bundling up like he said he is. Less things to fuss over.
AND WOW YOU.]
I'm able to tolerate it a bit. I used to train with someone who had ice based powers after all.
[But before Setsuna can even begin to nag him, Saizo quickly adds:]
But don't worry. The school has heat indoors. Plus, I did bring the jacket that you bought me. I'm perfectly fine.
[Or at least handling it better than Setsuna.]
( voice )
The sound of his footsteps slightly echo against the pavement.]
I am glad, then. ... Hot chocolate also sounds nice today.
( voice )
[Having something hot to drink is a really nice and comforting way to keep warm. Hot tea or even just hot water had saved him multiple times back then.]
I'd like a cup too once I get back home.
[Saizo will be out for a long while, after all...]
( voice )
[Setsuna will be more than happy to! It is a surprise though, since Saizo usually likes sake during cold or rainy days. Though, it's better this way. Despite Saizo's strong poison resistance, Setsuna still can't help but worry about his health.]
How much longer do you think you will be able to stay there?
( voice )
Something Setsuna wouldn't fully understand since he doesn't drink at all. Boy does Saizo desperately need a drinking buddy one of these days...]
A couple of more minutes. I just need to record a few things down and then I'll be heading out.
( voice )
... Would you like to meet up at the grocery instead?
[It's been a while since they shopped together, too. Behind the call, Setsuna's face heats up a little, anticipating the reply.]
( voice )
There's a sound of the chair scraping against the floor as Saizo pulls away from the desk.]
Yeah, I'll be seeing you there.
( voice )
[Setsuna may have caught the general idea of what happened just now. Did Saizo just rush his work to meet up with him faster? ... Thinking about this helps relieve him from some of the cold breeze.
Ah. It's probably because the heat across his face is growing.]
In... that case, I will be waiting at the Shopping Gate.
( voice )
[He didn't want Setsuna to wait outside much longer than he really needs to. It'd be even worse if Setsuna wounded up getting sick as a result.]
I'll see you later, Setsuna.
( voice )
[Setsuna wouldn't want Saizo to get into an accident or anything, just because he was hurrying too much. While that is unlikely to happen as the other young male is a ninja, he can't help but feel that way regardless.
Somehow, it felt like a pity to end the call so soon. That's why Setsuna just pauses a little longer, even if they weren't talking anymore.
Another soft sigh passes, indicating one last smile before the call is finally ended.]
secret santa gift!
No, really, it took a lot of effort for her to even wrap that much for someone else! It helps that he's a complete stranger, though. It would've been more awkward to give a gift to someone she actually knows. ]
Package + Note
Saizo Kirigakure,
Use it well.
-Tieria Erde
christmas basket!
Well, Saizo, guess you've been bro enough to get this really awesome club sandwich stuffed full of meat. It's pretty big. A card is included:]
Saizo,
Chúc Mừng Giáng Sinh! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
I am sure Setsuna may have explained the details of this holiday season, in which one of the traditions is for us to also share gifts. One of these gifts, the sandwich, I hope you will share it, but if you decide to keep it for yourself, to please finish it quickly. The rest you can take your time. Have a wonderful holiday.
Vietnam