#enigmatic smiles || hakkai

[shouga-nai]

@wolfsmuses || Closed spooky starter 🎃

"It certainly is looking like a ghost town here," Hakkai mused, looking around at the quiet empty streets, when the sun had barely even begun to set.

It's not that the place was uninhabited. In fact, they had just arrived and were planning to replenish supplies and secure lodgings for the night, only to find most of the establishments closed. Locked shut. The rest paid no mind to the travelers as they scurried on to their homes, like an age-old routine.

Come to think of it, he recalled overhearing the words of gossipmongers from the last village. Something about an old abandoned shrine at the outskirts of this one, said to be terribly cursed that it had driven the locals to shut themselves indoors before sundown in fear of being haunted by whatever evil that lurked. There were even claims that the villagers had resorted to offering human sacrifices to appease the restless spirits.

Of course, they were all simply rumors, but it would appear a good chunk of it was proven true. And while Hakkai enjoys a good horror story now and then, something about this plot did not sit right with him.

Before he could ponder on it further, however, a voice beckoned. An elderly gentleman, who seemed to be observing them with great interest, particularly-

"Young man, you are... the High Priest Sanzo, are you not?"

[shouga-nai]

Hakkai nodded, trusting that he need not explain what they were. Even though they hadn't brought it up directly in conversation since they first met, Hazel wasn't that ignorant.

"Oh? I could've sworn you once mentioned how stylish they are." Not unlike the haughty foreign exchange student in typical high school light novels and their backhanded compliments. "Then again, I suppose it would be rather awkward for the both of us to sport similar accessories."

Jokes and sarcasm aside... He noted the shift in expression on the other's face, his own gaze turning pensive.

"I wouldn't say that exactly." Technically the one who'd go mad wouldn't be Hazel who, as far as he knew, was still human. Varahal had climbed his way to the surface and taken the driver's wheel on multiple occasions now. And as Sanzo had warned him, one can never return as they were before the moment they fully succumb to the Minus Wave's effects.

Should that happen to Varahal, would Hazel Grouse basically cease to exist beyond the physical sense? Or would they become one and the same?

"What I'm saying is that I think it wouldn't hurt to consider it as a little preventive measure, even if one must dock a few fashionable points, considering the alternative..." Particularly when said alternative makes their 'foreign exchange student' far more uncouth.

"Power limiters?"

In the same instant the question left his lips, Hazel's mind caught up. And it did so by going far behind, to what felt like a century ago, but really wasn't. A busy tavern that smelled of roast meat and fine wine; Ukoku Sanzo sitting right beside him, like a devil on his shoulder, telling him all about the Seiten Taisei... sneaking the idea of eradicating the monster right into his head, without him even noticing.

Blue eyes lifted to stare at Hakkai in the face, instinctively looking for that very same diadem as the one on Goku's head at first. Then, he noticed them again. The ear clasps that had caught his attention when the brunet had been rescued back at the village in the woods.

"Oh... Can't say 't'is quite my style, somethin' like that." He sighed with a short sulk of his shoulders. They looked quite tacky, truth to be told. Hazel didn't need to, however. His thoughts reflected plainly on his face. As did the dejected look in his eyes right after; his lips pursed, a bit nervous, and once again, he deeply breathed in.

"If I don't... is there a chance I might go mad like the others? S'that what you're sayin'?"

[shouga-nai]

Random Headcanon Generator

"Don't we all~?"

[shouga-nai]

"Please don't use empty cans as ashtrays. If you do it again, I will kick your butt into next week. ♥️ "

[shouga-nai]

@geraniumplant || Continued ~

Hakkai knew something was off, initially suspecting the blonde of hiding it in his habitual display of stoic bravado. But it seemed even Sanzo was oblivious - until now, as deep crimson stained white robes. The evidence clear as day.

"And I'm sure there's an engaging story behind this one. But while you're at it, I'll have to ask you to disrobe..."

Calm and casual was his tone, as though this was a regular occurrence. It really was. But his hands moved, gathering essentials and making space before gesturing for the other to sit, or lie down, whichever works.

"I can only most efficiently heal you that way after all ~"

[shouga-nai]

"My heartfelt congratulations to Mr Wolfwood. That was quite the competition, and each contestant gave it their all with their own unique brand of charm and grace~"

This isn't a beauty pageant, Hakkai. or is it?

@geraniumplant

[shouga-nai]

@healingbrews said:

PINNED + Reverse [Hakkai]

My muse pins yours against a wall || Accepting!

He moved as fast as lightning. With heightened senses, he acted purely out of instinct, pinning the one who approached against the nearest wall. Funny - they always seem to find themselves in this situation, only something was off this time. Probably to do with the fact that Hakkai was for some reason missing his power limiters, thus the pointed ears and yellowish left eye staring her down.

He had a clawed hand against the wall right by her head, from which dark vines traveled across the surface and crept up her shoulders, steadily coiling down her arms to effectively ensnare their victim. His other hand hovered, poised to strike at any given moment.

For a moment though, his gaze almost seemed to waver, as though only then realizing who it was he had in his grasp. Then something clicked, as he leaned in with a ghost of a smile to whisper-

"...You deserve better."

[shouga-nai]

"On the topic of food crimes, Everything-in-the-fridge Curry leaves much to be desired..."

[shouga-nai]

Hakkai noted the slight wobble as Sanzo rose to a stand. It was too dark to tell, but he suspected his companion was injured, likely because of him...

Focus.

The hand being offered pulled him from his thoughts, and he couldn't help the soft wistful smile forming on his features. You're getting soft, Sanzo, he thought, but held his tongue this time lest he receives another whack upside the head, haha.

It always was nice to know someone believes in him more than he did.

"I suppose you're right." Hakkai took his hand and swiftly got to his feet. Only then did he take notice of the damage he'd sustained. Nothing serious, but probably would be a nuisance if left untreated.

A ball of chi was gathered in his palm, serving as a decent light source as he led the way, maneuvering around the now lifeless hooded forms — until the shine of metal on the floor caught his eye. There his limiters were, right by the first demon he sliced in that temple...

Hakkai wasted no time in retrieving and putting them back on, appearance reverting back to normal. He heaved a sigh then, looking around at the old place. Suppose they could consider the mystery solved.

"Well then," he turned to the priest, smile ever present. "Shall we head back and claim our reward?" In other words, he'd very much like to get out of there now that their work was done, and he figured Sanzo would feel the same way. Also, he needed to get a better look at Sanzo's state. The sooner they leave, the better.

𖤓 ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ Sanzo's face remained expressionless, even when Hakkai recoiled away from him. It gave him a moment to breathe, sucking precious air into his lungs. The monk hadn't realized he was holding his breath the entire time Hakkai threatened to slice him with his claws.

"I don't need an apology," Sanzo replied dryly, standing with a slight wobble. He touched the back of his head to feel the sticky blood in his hair. At least the bump had clotted. "I need you to focus. Where are your limiters?"

The damn temple was dark with no source of light to help them find their way around. Sanzo thought he could use his lighter, but upon checking his sleeves & pockets he must have dropped the damn thing during their scuffle.

Damn.

Against his better judgment, he offered his hand to help lift Hakkai to his feet. "Killing you would be an inconvenience," he muttered dryly without looking him in the eye. This was Sanzo's way of saying he cared. "Besides, I wouldn't hear the end of it from Goku & Gojyo if you got in the way of my bullets."

[shouga-nai]

@kisumshi said:

“now, before i say anything, promise me you’ll stay calm.” Gojo to Hakkai

More random dialogue prompts || Accepting!

Oh boy, here we go. Considering everything they've been through together, nothing ought to faze him at this point. Nor should he be in any way surprised.

Hakkai stood there ever so patiently, lips pressed to a smile and hands clasped together over abdomen. While some may be fooled, anyone who's the least bit perceptive might be able to pick up on the subtle chill in the air threatening to rise, solely depending on what would be said next. The redhead who was either in trouble or just about to be best tread carefully.

"That's very reassuring to start off with, and I trust it can't get any worse from here. So let's hear it then - what's the damage?"

[shouga-nai]

@geraniumplant || Continued ~

There was a blast of intense light and heat. His attempt at conjuring a barrier with his chi in the last second was for naught.

And for a moment, everything went blank.

The first thing Hakkai felt when he came to his senses was a sharp pain at the back of his head. He must've been thrown back and had a nasty landing. Sitting up only worsened the pain. He ached all over, most prominently... his vision was fading.

Helplessly he sat there as black shade began to fill his field of vision, like a dark curtain slowly covering his good eye.

Panicking and fretting would do nothing. So he looked around frantically for a familiar form and made his way over with haste. By the time he reached Sanzo, the darkness had fully enveloped his vision. Even with his prosthetic right eye still intact, this made him nearly blind at the moment.

He hated that he couldn't quite see how bad Sanzo's injuries were, carefully lifting him while still being on high alert in case their assailant was still around - only to grunt, nearly losing his balance as Sanzo gripped at his qipao.

"I'm going to need you to stay calm and focus, Sanzo." While his voice was rather hoarse, his tone was stern and words clear. Hakkai felt for his friend's arm, slinging it over his shoulders before getting to his feet while supporting Sanzo to the best of his ability. Slow and steady.

"Can you walk?"

[shouga-nai]

@healingbrews said:

"Am I just that undesirable? What am I doing wrong?"[Hakkai]

He paused, tight-lipped, green eyes dared to flicker towards Hinoka in that moment. Undesirable? Such a notion was almost laughable if he's to be completely frank, and... inexplicably painful.

"I honestly have no clue how you would come to that conclusion. And I don't want to hear any more pessimism in that regard."

His tone was rather curt, meaning every word, as his steely gaze then shifted to one more pensive.

"As for what you might be doing wrong..." He took a breath, for all intents and purposes calming his own nerves. "They say you are prone to tunnel vision if you focus a little too hard in one direction. I'd suggest taking a step back to get a broader view of the picture."

[shouga-nai]

He noticed it, the way she tensed up. "I see..." Was his response at first, gaze softening a little. Hakkai was no stranger to having to grow up independently. However, it was still too early to jump to conclusions.

"Well then, you can stay with me if you like, at least until we figure things out." In an attempt to lighten the situation, he offered a smile.

"I'm Hakkai, it's a pleasure to meet you." He then introduced himself, leaving it up to her if she was comfortable enough to share her name.

She took a sip of the water, tensing at his question. "I.. no.. I don't have anyone around..." Ilia looked down at her water, not sure what to say. She didn't know how he might react and didn't want to be sent back to the lab.

[shouga-nai]

🔮 CRYSTAL BALL — what is a core memory from your childhood that you think defines you today? 🗡️ DAGGER — what is something or someone you know you can't afford to lose? how far are you willing to go to make sure you don't lose it/them? (Stop giving me these opTIONS I'LL SEND SO MANY)

In character Development Questions || Accepting!

🔮 CRYSTAL BALL — what is a core memory from your childhood that you think defines you today?

"Someone once asked me why I never smiled, back in the old orphanage... Might've frightened her with my answer.

It's funny though - now I just can't seem to break that habit! Smiling, that is. Jokes aside, I can't change what I've said or done in the past, but I can make a difference in what tomorrow brings. She had a heart of gold, my dear old friend. I hope she's doing well."

🗡️ DAGGER — what is something or someone you know you can't afford to lose? how far are you willing to go to make sure you don't lose it/them?

"Ah, quite the conundrum it is...having something to lose. Something that gives meaning in life and completes you. Say, a loved one, or even something intangible like pride - hypothetically speaking. It's dangerous, tending to invoke the worst in someone. If they let it consume them.

Hypothetically speaking, of course~ I'm sure the Captain could concur with the sentiment."

[shouga-nai]

NEGATIVE TRAITS

bold: always / italics: sometimes / crossed out: never

aggressive | annoying | arrogant | authoritarian | bitter | brutal | callous | cannibal | careless | cold / cold-hearted | compulsive | controlling | corrects others constantly | cowardly | critical | cruel | delusional | demanding | disillusioned | domineering | envious | emotionally stunted | greedy | grim | guarded | hard | harsh | hypocritical | impatient | impolite | intimidating | irritable | kidnapper | lazy | liar | lustful | materialistic | mean | merciless | messy | mistrusting | murderer | narrow-minded | obsessive | opinionated | over-bearing | over-critical | over-emotional | over-thinking | patronizing | proud | remote | repressed | rigid | rules with an iron fist | ruthless | sarcastic | self-critical | self-righteous | self-patronizing | serial killer | stubborn | taciturn | torturer | touchy | traitorous | unsympathetic | unpredictable | uptight | vain | vengeful

Tagged by: @healingbrews Tagging: Steal it!

[shouga-nai]

SEVEN DEADLY SINS

Bold for what always applies, Italics for what sometimes applies, and Crossout for what never applies.

LUST: desire for connection, pursuit of pleasure, emotional intelligence, obsessive, lovesick, one-night stand, seductive encounter, flirtatious conversation, erotic party, seductive attire, revealing clothing, passionate gaze, provocative makeup, sensual expressions, suggestive gestures, flirtatious smiles, lingerie, love letters, perfumes, provocative behavior, love poems, erotic art

GLUTTONY: indulgence in experiences, savoring moments, hospitality, generosity, hedonism, culinary expertise, wine tasting, excessive snacking, overloaded plates, excessive portions, bloated stomachs, messy eating, greasy fingers, full tables, indulgent spreads, overflowing cups, satisfied expressions, wine bottles, can't get enough, fast food wrappers

ENVY: motivation, competitive spirit, strategic planning, observational skills, bitter, rivalry contest, envious gossip, resentment-filled argument, social media jealousy, furrowed brows, clenched jaws, side-eye looks, pursed lips, tense posture, whispering behind backs, crossed arms, gossip magazines, keeping up with the joneses, the grass is always greener, feeling inadequate

GREED: resourcefulness, entrepreneurial spirit, negotiation, materialistic, aggressive investment, lavish spending spree, resource hoarding, get-rich-quick scheme, auction bidding war, property acquisition, piles of money, overflowing wallets, luxury items, locked safes, penny-pinching, rare collectibles, selfishness, unwillingness to share

SLOTH: calmness, stress management, nonchalance, relaxation techniques, lethargic, apathetic, inactive, lazy weekend, binge-watching marathon, neglected chores, skipped workout, long nap, lounging on the couch, missed deadline, unkempt appearance, messy hair, pajamas, blankets, slippers, procrastination station, self-care routines

PRIDE: confidence, self-assurance, self-respect, dignity, public speaking, self-promotion, arrogant, conceited, egotistical, self-important, vain, boastful speech, puffed chest, raised chin, smug smiles, spotlight, tooting your own horn, showing off, refusing to admit mistakes, feeling entitled, personal branding, leadership development

WRATH: assertiveness, decisiveness, strength, intensity, boundary setting, courage, indignant, heated argument, road rage incident, physical altercation, angry outburst, clenched fists, glaring eyes, tense muscles, raised voices, reddened faces, aggressive gestures, stormy demeanor, intense frowns, destructive actions, broken objects, punching bag, out for blood, fists, simmering anger

Tagged by: @healingbrews Tagging: @electric-ecclectic , @kaienmaru , @blackhardtt and you!