locked_down | it only hurts for a moment - you get used to it quickly

[ After everything's said and done, Shirou's going to go ahead and set things up for today. It's the same as always; nothing has changed-- but he still wants to believe that there's something worth in doing this, so he'll at least go ahead and do that once he's given out notes (or told a person verbally, one on one) under their door, a small neat note stating: ]

For those who don't want to be alone today:

I know it's been a hard month. And I know it's probably going to get even more difficult from here. But I don't want anyone to give up just yet. If you'd like, there'll be food and drinks in the simulation room.

- E.

[ And for those who decide to make the trip to the simulation room, they'll find themselves walking into what seems to be a karaoke bar! Shirou's made it pretty spacious and there is, in fact, a table set up with some food for everyone to take - primarily burgers and ramen (hell, there's a bit of ramen burgers, too, the Biggest Cancer) - that he's made the decision to make, so feel free to take it, and he's willing to even get drinks for everyone, too.

This includes virtual drinks, as he actually has some experience working at a bar, even if it was more menial tasks and less bartending. But hey, there's a first time for everything, yeah?

And there's also the option to sing your heart out-- although that might not be the most appropriate, given the last execution, but he's. He's trying, anyway. ]

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

You really like laying down on there, huh.

Maybe you have a future as a human body pillow.

[ Akira wriggles around, so his face is pressed up against Shirou’s stomach and wraps his free arm around the other’s waist. ]

... [ That and he doesn’t want to think much about anything — it all ends up going to bad places after the trials. ]

I’d write you an excellent review and everything.

[ If Akira doesn't want to think that hard, then he really doesn't mind. He feels comfortable like this; he feels safe. ]

What score would you give me, a ten?

[ It comes out a little muffled but: ]

Eleven.

Wait. Seriously? Maybe I can make a profit that way...

I have dibs.

[ His arm is tightening its grip. Sorry Shirotsugra, there is no escape. ]

How much are you going to pay me, then, Akira?

Do I get a discount for being charming?

Maybe. Depends on your offer.

[ He doesn't move for a moment, and then Akira twists so that he can push himself up a little and press a kiss to the side of Shirou's jaw. ]

That's a down payment.

A down payment, huh. Does that mean that I should be asking for more of that as the rest of my payment? Or should I wait until you formally make the contract with me as my new Master?

[ Something about that sounds really formal, but it also makes him think of forming contracts with Personas - and that he has a lot of experience with. Even if his Personas don't ask for kisses in exchange for things. ]

...

[ Shirou still gets a flat look. ]

I can go find another lap to nap on.