Description

"I want to have a choice..."

General Knowledge
"I can't be what he wants me to be..."

Things You Want To Know
"I have a dream..."

For Better Or For Worse
"I dream of freedom..."

|Personality|
{Dreamer, Talented, Sweet, Trapped, Torn}

Makoto is a gentle spirit that is a firm believer in non-violence. He is a lover, not a fighter and finds his father's views twisted and wrong. He has a Buddhist mentality that causes him to find passive methods to solve his problems. Morally, Mack is the pinnacle of innocence because he has a tendency to merely see the best in people, even when it's not even there. This is also the main cause of his naive nature; his tragic flaw. He is a very spiritual person with his 'make love not war' outlook on life. He thinks that the world isn't a horrid place, but simply a bit lost.

Being a complete sweet heart, Makoto doesn't approve of his father's ideals. He believes that there is a simpler, more honest way to make a living. Mack is a dancer. He moves with a fluid grace that is to be admired, but due to his family's business, he is forced to cast away everything that he is to be someone else.

Tragically, Makoto's heart is too pure. Despite his father's caustic remarks, violent rages, and cruel tortures, Mack still loves him. It's that devotion and love that will end him one day. His is too selfless; risking his life to save another because the mere thought of doing such a good deed is enough to make it worth it. He can't stand to see anyone in pain, no matter who they are, he feels compelled to comfort them. He will throw away his problems in order to assist someone else, however this can be taxing on him because his concern will not falter. He will worry himself until he is positive that everything is okay. He does these things not only out of the kindness of his heart, but also to escape from his own troubles.

|Hobbies|

~ Dancing
~ Philanthropy
~ Eating
~ Reading
~ Writing (Narratives mainly)

|Habits|

~ He hums when he is thinking
~ He dances when any type of music is playing
~ He snaps when he gets an idea
~ He hates silence, so he can always be seen with his IPod and headphones lodged in his ears

|Oddities|

~ Maki used to be called 'Bones' because when he danced it was as if he didn't have a bone in his body
~ He hates the smell of alcohol because of his father's addiction
~ He doesn't cry in public
~ On the rare chance that he's angry, he will turn the other cheek, but will dance to blow off steam
~ Mack can't lie to save his life

|Likes/Loves|

Pasta
Dancing
Music
Crime Novels
Philanthropy

|Dislikes/Hates|

Sushi
Violence
The Mob
Restrictions
Sit-Coms

Stuff You Shouldn't know...
"And when I dance, I feel free. I have control, for once."

|Strengths and Weaknesses|

|Character Skills/Talents|

Dancing
Communicating
Listening
Writing

|Character Flaws/Weaknesses|

Cooking
Fighting
Lying
Being Mean

Secrets:
~ His father forced him to torture and brutally kill a man
~ His dancing is the only thing that gives him control over his life
~ He has been feeling a little sick lately, but has been ignoring his symptoms

Fears/Phobias:
~ His father
~ Breaking his legs
~ Clowns

Remembering The Past
"It's what makes me special...different...and I never want to let that go."

|Biography|

|Place Of Origin|

New York, New York

|Birth Date|

August 5th

|History|

Makoto's life has always been planned from the moment he was bought into the world. His father ran the Japanese mafia in New York City, teaching Mack to run the business when he finally reached his peak. Being the eldest, Makoto was next in line to carry out the legacy that his grandfathers set for him. However, during his childhood, Maki expressed signs of generosity and purity that his father dismissed. His mother taught him that kindness and love were golden; to not lead with your fist, but your heart. He embraced her lessons along with the piano, violin, and cello, but what really caught his attention were the ballroom dancing lessons that his mother enrolled him in when he was ten. He discovered his knack for dance and ventured out, honing his talent is multiple genres. He felt free when he was tap dancing, careless when he was break dancing, and graceful when he was foxtrotting. Makoto found his passion.

It wasn't until he was eighteen and his sister, Kazuki was thirteen that their father began to expect more from Makoto. He pushed him towards the business, criticizing his dancing and calling him a disgrace. He claimed that Maki was breaking tradition. Humble, Mack didn't argue, simply allowing his father to verbally abuse him and flinching whenever he raised his hand at him. He began to hide his talent, only dancing in the privacy of his bedroom. He hoped that one day, he'd be able to convince his father that his gift wasn't a waste of time. Sadly, the man refused to listen. He forced Maki to attend business deals, watch men get tortured for information, and oversee illegal transactions. Each event making Maki feel dirty.

When he turned twenty, Maki's mother gave birth to his youngest brother, Yuki, but died in the process. Her death led to his father's spiral. He took out the pain of his loss on Mack. Within that same year, his father took him to yet another torture session. Apparently, the man was rat and deserved to be punished, but Mack knew him personally and knew that at home, he had three kids and a wife to care for. He remained silent as the man was beaten within an inch of his life, but then his father commanded the goons to stop before turning to Maki and ordering him to finish the traitor off slowly and painfully. Maki hesitated, but refused. His father pointed the pistol to his head, declaring that Makoto was not his son because his son wouldn't defy him. Afraid for his life, Maki reluctantly torture the man then ended his life with a gruesome stab to the throat. After that day, the dancer was traumatized and filled with so much shame that he considered suicide. That's when the idea hit him. He'd fake his dead and escape the tyranny of his father's rule. Month went by and Makoto planned everything to the T.

One rainy night, Makoto was on his way home after closing a deal with a drug lord. He swerved off the road, crashing the car and getting out then used lighter fluid to set the car on fire. After faking his death, Maki made his way to freedom...until The Gift of Innocence recruit found him.

|Family Tree|

Father|Jun|50|Alive
Mother|Nani|45|Deceased
Sister|Kazuki|16|Alive
Brother|Yuki|1|Alive

|Happiest Memory|

"My mom taught me how to ballroom dance. She'd pick twirl me around as classical music swirled around us. She was an amazing dancer and an amazing woman."

|Saddest Memory|

"I can't get his screams out of my head. My father instructed me, urging me forward as he pressed the gun to my head, 'slice off his ear,' or 'cut off two fingers'...he kept begging, talking about his wife and kids. He was so scared. I didn't want to do it, God, I didn't want to...I'm just so sorry."

Theme Song

It's Time | Imagine Dragons
So this is what you meant
When you said that you were spent
And now it's time to build from the bottom of the pit
Right to the top
Don't hold back
Packing my bags and giving the academy a rain check

I don't ever wanna let you down
I don't ever wanna leave this town
'Cause after all
This city never sleeps at night

It's time to begin, isn't it?
I get a little bit bigger, but then I'll admit
I'm just the same as I was
Now don't you understand
That I'm never changing who I am

So this is where you fell
And I am left to sell
The path to heaven runs through miles of clouded hell
Right to the top
Don't look back
Turning the rags and giving the commodities a rain check

I don't ever wanna let you down
I don't ever wanna leave this town
'Cause after all
This city never sleeps at night

It's time to begin, isn't it?
I get a little bit bigger but then I'll admit
I'm just the same as I was
Now don't you understand
That I'm never changing who I am

It's time to begin, isn't it?
I get a little bit bigger, but then I'll admit
I'm just the same as I was
Now don't you understand
That I'm never changing who I am

This road never looked so lonely
This house doesn't burn down slowly
To ashes, to ashes

It's time to begin, isn't it?
I get a little bit bigger, but then I'll admit
I'm just the same as I was
Now don't you understand
That I'm never changing who I am

It's time to begin, isn't it?
I get a little bit bigger, but then I'll admit
I'm just the same as I was
Don't you understand
That I'm never changing who I am

Second & Sebring (Of Mice & Men Cover) | D at Sea
I believe it's time for me to be famous,
And out of place.
I believe it's time for me to move forward,
When I break through.

This time I'll, make you,

Proud to see me over, come on daylight.

Proud of, who you raised.

Your shelter, your peacefulness.

So this time I'll make you proud.

Proud of, who you raised up.
You know that I will,
Always be here 'til the end.

Come back so I can say thank you for this,
Home cooked meals and a place to rest,
My troubled head when you're away,
I've passed the test, I've earned an A,
Not just in school, but in life,
You'll always be right by my side.
To help me show, hope to all,
That are lost and sick in this dying world.
I'll use the love you left behind,
I'll change their minds, I'll change their minds.

I hope, I hope you smile,
When you look down on me.
I hope you smile.

This can't, we won't know.
I hope that I make you proud.

This is not what it is, only baby scars.
I need your love like a boy needs his mother's side.

This is not what it is, only baby scars.
I need your love like a boy needs his mother's side.

This is not what it is, only baby scars.
I need your love like a boy needs his mother's side, yeah.

Other

Other/Misc:

|Wants to gain|
"I just want my freedom...it's all I ever wanted."

|Anything else|
~ Makoto can speak fluent Japanese
~ He always has his headphones and IPod on his person
~ He carries a picture of his mother because she was the only person that supported his dream
~ He wants to become a famous choreographer

So begins...

Makoto Oshiro's Story

Seen 23 Times • Page 2 of 2 • 1, 2

Setting

The Gift of Innocence Corporation

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Scarlet Victoria Romanov

Character Portrait: Rosalina Charlotte Vasquez

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#2013-08-12 21:37:30, as written by FateWhisperer

The Benefactor didn’t have to wait long for others to respond to the mysterious happening of the office and himself. Grey had asked, "Why was I chosen?" and the Benefactor would have thought it was obvious at this point yet he opened his mouth to respond. Before he could, the Benefactor stopped as he heard laughter coming from another Harper who had only one question to ask, “Why does the elevator not work?” The Benefactor took a moment to smirk at the question, anticipating that it would come out sooner or later but not with the enthusiasm Harper had. Still he did have to explain and he would’ve if Jasper wasn’t so quick to answer Grey. “Apparently, you weren’t paying attention when this guy was giving an overview of everyone’s life story,” as he gestured to the Benefactor on cue. Obviously, simple bitch, you’re just as fucked up as the rest of the broken toys here.” Afterwards he turned to the Benefactor. “I have a real question, Mr. B,” sounding irritated. The Benefactor held back his smile to the nickname, hiding the fact that he kind of liked it because he knew now was not the time. “Can I just get the hell out of here?” Jasper asked before shaking his head ,waving his hand, and walking towards the door. ”You know, what? You don’t even have to answer that. I’m going to just go.” And with that Jasper walked out of the office, the first one to leave after the empowering. The Benefactor didn’t need to signal Scarlet as she walked out of the office after Jasper. After a while, she came back in without him, unsuccessful perhaps.

In a few moments, Daniel spoke up agreeing with Harper the “former hooker.” “I don’t know, it just seems like a lot of walking,” while Rosalina and Noah had a conversation amongst themselves. Makoto seemed to be the only one who enjoyed this at this point. The Benefactor wasn’t surprised when another one, Alton, also announced that he would get out of here. “Listen, I’m just going to go back to my flat, the atmosphere in there right now is pitiful and I don’t want to deal with it. So if you don’t mind, I’m going to try to come to terms with the fact that pain isn’t available to me anymore.” The Benefactor watched Alton leave and thought, ”My, I wonder if I should’ve really done that, or rather if he should’ve given him that ability considering his…special kinship towards it. But what’s done is done and he cannot take it back.”

If the Benefactor had thought that Makoto was the one who enjoyed this he couldn’t have been more wrong when Grey had started a whole conversation to him about thanking him for saving her schooling for psychology, offering her coffee skills, introducing herself, a “broken” closet, and a bottle of wine that didn’t make her drunk. The Benefactor had taken her hand and shook it gently giving her a warm reassuring smile while she spoke, but couldn’t help raise his eyebrow and give a concerned look when she mentioned the bottle of wine.

“Grey, it is a pleasure for you to offer coffee. I’d like to take up the offer sometime if it’s no trouble, and perhaps the others would like some too. I will ask the maids to gather a list from each of you about your clothing preferences. Though, about the wine…I’m sorry to say that I didn’t put that there…” The Benefactor grew jealous for the moment. ”Of all the things I don’t give them, why did it have to be wine!” he thought. The Benefactor could feel his taste buds craving for the drink that Grey had taken up and he couldn’t help but tighten his grip, forgetting that Grey was holding onto his hands. “Ahh sorry about that miss. But I can’t inform you much on the wine.”

He was about to suggest that Novia would help the maids gather deals on the clothing but then she excused herself, in a much intelligent and sarcastic tone, “Well, as much as I'd love to stay and join you all in being harassed and degraded by Nero of the 21st Century, I think I can manage to find something more stimulating to help me grasp onto what's going on. Thanks for the stuff, by the way. Love the kitchen design. But I really want my Audi back.”

More people walked out of the office after Novia, leaving Grey, Harper, Rosalina, Noah, Daniel, Makoto, and Jang to be in the room. Aradia and Zeus left the area without a word. Fiona said a goodbye to Harper saying, “As much as it is seeing people explode and hearing all this cursing, I think I'm going to go look around this place. But, it was very nice speaking to you, Harper. I hope to see you around.” With the leave of her best friend Aradia, Hailey excused herself, "I...I...Never mind. Excuse me, I need to... I gotta... I need to collect.. collect.. collect my thoughts."
The Benefactor observed all of this, and took note of who left and who still remained. It didn’t surprise him much that some people stayed behind while others had left. This happened many times over and after experience he knew that plans don’t always go as smoothly, so he had to think of an alternative. He smiled towards Grey who was still nearby him and then addressed the crowd of young adults.

“Now, I see that we won’t be able to go have a tour around the town, which is still fine. You’re free to go and look around this weekend as your jobs don’t start until Monday. However, I see that we need to get together as a group, so I’m going to plan a little something for us to do this evening. For now, I want you to get closer to each other, especially trying to find those who have just ran off. There are no more secrets in this place anymore since we have to get close to each other. It is important that a business runs as a unit that so happens to have many components.” The Benefactor smiled, remembering that logic from his father who he had looked up to all those years ago as a child. Now it was his turn to shine, his moment of leadership. “In fact, this may also be an excellent opportunity to try out your powers if you wish, as long as the other person is willing of course. Again Daniel, I warn you on not making anyone…endowed with another person inside of them…unless they wish it upon themselves.”

Before the new recruits headed out the Benefactor quickly said, “And the reason why the elevator doesn’t work is because my father was unfortunate enough to receive this building without one and as it expended the workers couldn’t install one. I apologize for this, but in a sense it is a good way to be healthy and exercise. You never know when emergency could strike and that extra training would help.” After the new recruits filed out, The Benefactor motioned to Nick and Scar to have a meeting to themselves.

“Nicholas, Scarlet, watch over these interactions. We need to make sure they do not get unnecessarily injured in any way,” the Benefactor whispered with a serious tone. Slowly his serious expression turned into a smile and he cheerfully smiled and he continued, “Especially since they’re supposed to have a good time!”

Nick nodded and politely said, “Yes, sir,” then grabbed Scarlet’s hand and escorted her out. Making sure that nobody was around, Nick asked, “So, Scar, how do you think of the new recruits? I’m definitely enjoying the chicks around here, though the guys ain’t so bad. They’re such lucky bastards though. The Benefactor’s throwing them a party again even though they act like such brats!” He gazed at Scarlet as she spoke, observing her beautifully defined body and the flaring sea of vermillion that flowed down with it. Her luscious lips seemed to move with the words she spoke and he didn’t care what she was saying so long as he could look intensely at his partner. Ignoring anything she was saying he then asked, “Hey, why don’t you tell me your power?” He eyed Scarlet suspiciously, circling around her as he spoke. “I mean, it’s been a long time since I joined and you’ve always just kept to yourself about it. We’re partners so shouldn’t we be looking out for each other?” Nick then put his arms around Scarlet and looked at her earnestly, this time showing genuine interest and concern for her. “C’mon, Scar. You know I worry about you sometimes. Why don’t you promise you’ll show me your power? It doesn’t have to be now since I know sometimes there has to be those opportune moments. But can you promise me you’ll show it to me?” Nick held on to Scarlet and stared into her eyes, awaiting an answer.

Setting

The Gift of Innocence Corporation

Characters Present

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#2013-08-15 07:33:00, as written by ibecameinsane

“Now, I see that we won’t be able to go have a tour around the town, which is still fine. You're free to go and look around this weekend as your jobs don’t start until Monday. However, I see that we need to get together as a group, so I’m going to plan a little something for us to do this evening. For now, I want you to get closer to each other, especially trying to find those who have just ran off. There are no more secrets in this place anymore since we have to get close to each other. It is important that a business runs as a unit that so happens to have many components. In fact, this may also be an excellent opportunity to try out your powers if you wish, as long as the other person is willing of course.” The Benefactor cast a warning look in Daniel's direction, almost like a mother scolding a child. It almost brought a smile to his face, but Daniel settled instead for shoving his hands deeply into the pockets of his jeans. “Again Daniel, I warn you on not making anyone...endowed with another person inside of them…unless they wish it upon themselves.”

“Damn, I thought you forgot.” He deadpanned, his face completely void of emotion even though his voice oozed snarkiness.

He completely missed the explanation of why the elevator wasn't functioning, but in retrospect he couldn't be bothered. The Benefactor said he could go and that's just what he wanted to do. He wanted to get out of this crowded room and explore, roam around in wide open spaces instead of being cooped up in this room. Daniel wasn't concerned with conversing, not by any means, he just wasn't comfortable in confined spaces with an overbearing amount of people. He contemplated on whether or not that made him a tad claustrophobic but immediately dismissed the idea when he remembered his childhood; when he would be perfectly fine after Dick would shove him in his own bedroom closet just to laugh when Daniel finally 'came out'.

As the others began to file out, Daniel was brought out of his reverie, immediately turning to his friend with a lop-sided grin, “So Maki, you want to ditch this place and have Walter give us a tour of the town?”

"Sure," Maki nodded as he shrugged his broad shoulders. "But...who's Walter?"

“Why, he's my personal chauffeur," Daniel chuckled, then pursed his lips in thought for a moment—providing a shrug of his own. “He's pretty much the Alfred to my Batman.” He made a nodding motion with his head, directing Maki towards the door as he took a grandiose step forward, “Come on, let's go. If we're lucky he'll still be outside.”

"Wait," Maki said with a furrow of his brows. "If you're Batman...does that make me Robin?"

Daniel's eyes lit up as he paused mid-stride, his head slowly turning to his Asian friend with his mouth ajar in a silent, ecstatic scream. "Abso-fucking-lutely!" He nearly hollered. Daniel quickly took hold of Maki's hand and pulled him out of the door, hollering, "Come Boy Wonder! To the Batmobile!" Daniel dragged his friend down the multitude of stairs, rushing down several flights before breaking out in a loud song, "Nananananananananananananananana BATMAN!" He flung himself off the steps, halfway down the last flight, barrel-rolling as he came into rough contact with the floor. He landed on his back, sprawled out in the shape of a five-pointed star, giggling as he heard Maki nag him from the bottom of the steps.

"Dude, be careful. I don't want you killing yourself."

He perked his head up, eyes wide in utmost seriousness as he peered over his chest, "Batman can't die."

With a shake of his head and a bemused chuckle, Maki traveled the rest of the way down, assisting Daniel to his feet. "You're seriously enjoying this too much."

Daniel shrugged, brushing himself off nonchalantly, "What can I say? Life's about making a fool of yourself and having a damn good time doing it." He gave his friend one last content smile before he motioned towards the grand entrance, "Come on, Alfred awaits." turning on his heels and they walked out, their stride mimicking that of the other. As they left the Corporation, Daniel pulled out his cell phone, shooting a text to his mystery lady so she wouldn't get mad at him for leaving again.

Hey there doll face ;) Dan here. Maki and I are going to have Walter show us around town and then do a little shopping. Fret not, dear maiden, we shall return before sunset, giving us ample time to recuperate before the little social gathering you and the Boss have planned. Ta-ta~

With a satisfied smile, he tucked his phone back into his pocket and strode down the walkway, pleased to see Walter reading the morning paper whilst leaning against the hood of his car. He tapped on the hood to get the old man's attention, smiling apologetically when he startled him. Walter returned the smile with one of his own, accepting the unspoken apology before he folded the paper.

"What can I do for you, Daniel?"

"I'd like to trouble you for a ride, if that's okay." Daniel replied with a smile. "My friend and I would like a tour of the town."

Walter beamed, pushing himself up off the hood before standing in front of the young men, "But of course, Daniel, it would be my honor." He cast a friendly smile in Maki's direction and held out his hand, his smile growing as the Asian automatically accepted it. The old man gave a firm shake, replying exuberantly, "And you must be Mister Makoto Oshiro. A pleasure to meet you, sir."

Makoto smiled coyly before scratching the back of his head. "Sup?" He said, shyly, but soon realized how out of place the statement felt. "Uh, I mean, right back at ya, Alfred..." He paused, obviously wanting to face palm himself.

"It's Walt-..."

"Come on Alfred!" Daniel interjected, having moved to the back passenger door as Maki made a fool out of himself. Walter turned to him, frowning—even in his eyes. Daniel beamed in response, watching Maki awkwardly meander to the other side of the back seat from his peripheral. "We're going to take you to the mall. Maybe get you a new hat or something."

Daniel and Maki both climbed into the backseat as Walter opened the driver's side door, "You'll find that I don't often wear hats, Mister Brennan." He stated before plopping down behind the wheel. He turned as he shut the door, looking over at Daniel in faint exasperation, "And would it trouble you greatly to address me by my name, sir?"

"What have I told you, Alfred?" Daniel asked mid-chuckle, rolling his eyes with a shake of his head, "It's strictly Dan or Daniel, no 'sir' or 'Mister Brennan'."

Walter huffed slightly as he turned around, mumbling under his breath slightly, "Quid pro quo, Mister Brennan."

Daniel cocked an eyebrow as Maki stifled a laugh beside him, smirking before he steered his attention to the landscape outside his tinted window. Daniel is typically a very talkative person. More often than not he’ll be prattling on about senseless subjects and various pop culture issues, but in the car he is very reserved. He’ll sit for hours at a time in the car, remaining perfectly still, lost in the hectic confines of his own mind. Today, however, something was nagging at the back of his mind—something he’d overheard when The Benefactor was dishing out everyone’s life story. He glanced towards Maki, rubbing his fingertips against his thumb as his elbow remained propped up on the window frame. Maki? In the Mafia? That couldn’t be right. Surely The Benefactor was exaggerating the truth. Or maybe he wasn’t, Daniel thought, Appearances can be deceiving. Daniel ran his fingers through his hair idly, his gaze remaining on this seemingly timid man at his side. Eventually Maki glanced over, feeling Daniel’s eyes regarding his profile. His friend’s expression changed to one of self-consciousness. Maki anxiously began touching his face, looking at Daniel in confusion.

"What?” He asked, "Is there something on my face?”

Daniel smirked, not knowing exactly how to approach the subject. It was a delicate one, he was sure, and should probably be handled with careful precision. "So you and the Mafia, huh?” Daniel deadpanned, "What’s that about?”

Maki immediately began avoiding eye contact and stared at his fingers as they idly plucked at his shirt. "Uh..." Daniel could tell he struggled for the right words to say. "My...my father was a mob boss." He left it at that, his leg shaking nervously. It was obvious that he was uncomfortable with the subject.

A moment passed between them, Daniel exchanging looks from Maki to the back of Walter’s head. He knew he should probably leave it that, never approach the subject again until Maki wanted to bring it up, but he just couldn’t. And—for some reason—Daniel knew it wasn’t for his own benefit. He could honestly go without knowing about Maki’s past and be perfectly fine. The guy he was looking at now was one he was content with befriending. He liked Maki; could see them becoming fast friends. Maybe that’s why he pressed the issue. Daniel placed a hand on Maki’s shoulder, squeezing slightly to comfort him, "Makoto-…” He began, using his friend’s full first name to draw his attention, "You can tell me anything. Whatever you want to get off your chest, I’m here. It’s between you and me.” He waited for Maki to look at him again before giving him a reassuring smile, holding out his pinky. He smile broadened as Maki glanced down at it, then back up at him. "Pinky promise.” Now, anyone his age would probably think his ‘pinky promise’ was a joke—but the sincerity in eyes was too apparent to ignore. Pinky promises, to Dan, were like blood oaths. He never broke a pinky promise, even growing up. It probably originated from his time as a child, when he still believed there were monsters hiding under his bed. He’d have his father or his brother check and see if there were any and when they told him there wasn’t Daniel made them pinky promise that they weren’t lying. They did and, to his relief, there never were. For whatever reason, it always made Daniel feel reassured. Since then he’s utilized the pinky promise for only the most important things. Keeping Maki’s dark past a secret between them…being there for Maki in his time of need from here on out—that was one of the most important things he’d ever promised anyone.

Maki met Daniel's gaze, allowing a small meek smile to adorn his face. He wrapped his right pinky around Dan's left one. "Pinky promise..." He nodded. Maki then pulled his finger away before sighing, slowly revealing his own story. "My father wanted me to be like him, you know, take over the family business, but I couldn't do it. I wanted to dance...own my own studio and teach, maybe even become a professional," he paused, scratching the back of his head nervously before continuing. Daniel listened intently, his own hand resting in his lap, "But my father wouldn't have it, said I was a disgrace to my family and I was breaking tradition. He forced me to...to kill a man, brutally kill him. I watched him be burnt alive and I'm the one that set the fire. My dad held a gun to my head, literally, and threatened to pull the trigger if I didn't comply. Says he was teaching me to be a man." He released a bitter laugh that held no humor. "I couldn't live like that...so I faked my death and the next day, I wake up here."

Daniel sat, frozen in shock as he remained silent. Fathers forcing their career on their sons was one of those stereotypically Asian things, but he’d never heard of a dad being a Mafia boss. He couldn’t fathom what his friend went through. Daniel had to fight back the urge to hug him, especially after that bitter laugh pierced his heart. He hadn’t known the man for more than a few hours and yet the prospect of knowing that all of that had happened to him hurt him more than he could contemplate. Maki rubbed the nape of his neck, the movement snapping Daniel out of his stoic reverie. "Crazy, huh?"

He didn’t know what to say at first, but he couldn’t prevent the breathy scoff that fled his lips. "Yeah,” he thought aloud, wincing at how nonchalant it sounded. There was a brief moment of silence between them until Daniel couldn’t suppress his need to further comfort his friend. He wrapped his arm around Maki’s shoulder in a half hug, looking down at his face as a faint comforting smile adorned his features, "Too bad you’re old man wasn’t a doctor or something.” It was a half-hearted joke, a measly attempt to cheer his friend up even though he was at a loss for words.

"I just told you about the lowest point of my life," Maki said in slight disbelief. "And you manage to still come up with a stereotypical racial slur." He let out a weak chuckle. "I've only known you for a few hours and I can already tell you'll be a handful."

Daniel smirked, "But I still made you smile.” He muttered, tightening his hold on Maki, resting his cheek against the side of the younger man’s head for a brief moment before pulling away, "In the end, that’s what I’m here for. I’ve never been much good for anything else.”

Maki responded with a meek smile, averting his eyes to the window. "Thanks for listening, I guess. Not the normal way to start a friendship...but look where we are, we've passed normal when we woke up in our apartments."

Daniel smirked, about to open his mouth to respond when-…

“Pardon the interruption Mister Brennan,” Walter interjected, looking at Daniel through the rearview mirror before glancing at Maki, “Mister Oshiro” he looked back to the road, “On your left you’ll see Willowstone Blue Cross Hospital. You’ll be working there, Mister Brennan. And on the right you’ll see the Willowstone Psychological Care Facility-…” Walter carried on, continuing to give a tour of the town as a sense of contentment lingered between the two young men. Daniel felt a shift in the nature of their quiet, it was less awkward—more comfortable. As if that confession of Maki’s past brought them that much closer to friendship. Daniel would like to believe that it had. But then again he’s a ‘half-full’ kind of guy.

About an hour passed and Walter had driven them throughout the small town. Daniel was antsy at this point, anxious to get out of the car and stretch his legs. He’d seen the same street sign three times now, saw everything this place had to offer. He could probably go around town with his eyes shut and navigate with ease after such a long time spent in the back of the moving vehicle. What he needed was some entertainment. Daniel looked over to Maki, and furrowed his brows in a childish pout as he took in the younger man’s calm demeanor. How could this guy not be bored out of his mind, Daniel asked himself in the depths of his sporadic consciousness. He couldn’t stand it anymore. Subsequently, Daniel began rolling around in his seat until his legs were draped over the back of it—his chestnut hair inches from touching the floorboard. "Alfred I’m bored,” Daniel stated in a childlike whine. Maki cupped his hand over his own mouth, stifling his laughter as Walter glanced into the back seat, whipping his head back in a double take, his eyes nearly bulging out of his head.

“Mister Brennan, please!” he hollered, his voice a higher octave as he panicked. “Sit in your seat properly! I assure you, we’re almost there!”

Daniel groaned in reluctance, sitting upright again as they pulled up to a stoplight. They were in midst of midday traffic, cars coming in and out of the Market Place in stylized simplicity. Daniel watched the cars go by, boredom creeping back up as he frowned in disappointment. There were no Punch-Buggies or Bruiser-Cruisers anywhere. It was then his eyes lingered to the Market Place itself, catching sight of a two story shopping plaza that could only be the mall he’d been so anxious to get to. Walter drove forward into the parking lot, searching for the closest spot it had to offer. Daniel was practically bouncing up and down in the leather seat like a kid on a school field trip. As soon as Walter put it in park, he bolted out of the car, standing at the rear end of the vehicle as if he couldn’t go in without supervision. Walter opened the door for Maki, eyeing the childish man with an incredulous stare. Maki just shook his head with a grin, walking along side Walter as Daniel led them into the mall. He completely in awe by its size and grandeur, eagerly scanning all that the mall had available. Suddenly, as if on cue, his stomach growled loudly. Daniel glanced around, seeking out the nearest clock. It was well past noon, no wonder he was starving.

"Hey, how about we get something to eat?” He suggested as the men behind him finally caught up, "I’m famished”

"Cool,” Maki agreed, gesturing over the one of the adjacent food stands, "There’s a burger joint right over there,”

"Oh, thank God,” Daniel jeered with a fake sigh of relief, "I was afraid you were going to suggest Panda Express or something."

"But I’m Jap-…”

“Hey Walter-…” He interjected, paused to laugh before sucking in his lips, holding the rest back. The old man smiled pleasantly, waiting for him to get himself together, "What do you want to eat? Anything on the menu, I’m buying.”

Walter gave a courteous nod, “How very kind of you, Daniel. I hope it’s not too much trouble that I’d prefer a salad from Chick-fila instead.”

Daniel guffawed, putting on a mock British accent, "No trouble at all, old bean. I’d prefer a bit of the poultry myself .” He laughed and dropped the accent, looking over at Maki, " We’ll pick yours up first, like I said, it’s on me.”

Walter stopped the boys before they took a step forward towards the counter across the food court. “Please, allow me, Daniel.” Walter insisted. Daniel cocked his brow, and Walter narrowed his eyes, “As recompense for you paying for my meal.”

The old man graciously took their order, insisting that he fetch their food for them. Maki was reluctant to say the least, but Daniel held no qualms so long as he paid the bill. Daniel handed the old man a twenty dollar bill, telling him what he wanted before Maki hesitantly did the same. Walter sauntered over to the burger joint as Daniel led Maki over to the table, pulling out his phone and tapping into the mall’s wifi. He checked their shop directory, scanning through their options. He suppressed a cheer when he saw that they had a Starbucks, unable to contain his excitement when he saw a Spencer’s towards the back of the second floor. The boys were picking and choosing what stores to visit first by the time Walter came back with two trays of food. Daniel met the old man halfway to the table, carrying the heavier of the two. Walter gave him a small smile of thanks before setting the tray down in front of Maki. Daniel pulled the chair out for the old man, Walter letting out a gravely chuckle as he took a seat. Dealing out the meal, he didn’t take his own seat until Walter had his food set out before him. He plopped a waffle fry into his mouth, looking at Maki’s meal. He frowned, holding his chicken sandwich in his hands as he silently judged him.

Maki’s glance averted once or twice to Daniel’s expression before he tired asked, "What is it this time, Daniel?”

"You’re drinking water.”

The younger man cocked his left brow, as if he was expecting more an explanation, "And-…?”

"You could’ve had a soda.” Daniel responded, speaking as if it were obvious.

"I want to be healthy. Water’s good for you.”

"Water is for the poor.” He deadpanned.

"Ironic that you say that because, technically, I’m richer than you.”

"And yet I can afford soda,” Daniel replied, quirking his brows, as he took a quick sip, “Go figure.”

Maki rolled his eyes, "Whatever Daniel, just drink your soda and be unhealthy.”

“I will, and I welcome the kidney stones that follow.” Daniel quipped, taking another hearty swig. He dove into his sandwich, feeling stuffed by the time he plopped the last waffle fry into his mouth. Walter took up their trash as Daniel polished off the last of his Dr. Pepper, checking his phone again for the map before tucking his phone away for the rest of their voyage.

Much to Daniel’s discontent, Maki dragged them into a Foot Locker. For the majority of the time, Maki darted from one side of the store to the other, in utter awe at their selection. Daniel hung back with Walter, making jokes about it, uttering minor quips about other customers as he people watched with the old man. Daniel found comfort in the older man’s laughter, his mood picking up as he saw Maki stride up to them carrying two bags of newly purchased foot wear. Daniel just shook his head, not wanting to comment as they left the store. Falling in stride with the other two men, they moved to GameStop next, which was way more Daniel’s speed. He ended up buying The Last of Us and Bioshock Infinite as he and Maki dorked out over their discussions on the best games. To Daniel’s relief they had a lot in common, especially in game play. They left and continued on whilst Daniel shared a story about a time he and his brother went to the mall and he’d won a bet about being able to pick up more girls than Dick. He got a couple of laughs, gesticulating throughout, and he stopped right at the end of his story as a Bath & Body Works came into view. Daniel dragged them into the store, despite their protests, and their nostrils were almost immediately assaulted. Maki took one inhale and his eyes widened considerably, trying to hold his breath without being outright rude and covering his nose. Walter did the same, holding himself at a higher posture, breathing through his mouth discretely to alleviate the stench. That’s when a bubbly woman caught sight of them, she sauntered towards them, greeting Daniel with a forced friendliness. “Hi there! Welcome to Bath & Body Works. Is there something I can help you with?”

“Why yes, there is.” Daniel stated with a suave tone, “I’m looking for a scent for my girlfriend.”

Maki seemed confused, "But…Daniel…didn’t The Benefactor say that your girlfriend-…?”

“Shut up Maki,” Daniel interjected quickly, casting him a look before he smiled at the woman sweetly, “I have a girlfriend. Could you point me in the direction of some of your top scents?”

“Sure-…” The woman slowly agreed, she lead them over to a section and held a bottle up for him. “This one is called Forever Red,” she replied with a rehearsed bubbliness before squirting it onto her wrist, blowing on it for a moment before holding it out to Daniel, “What do you think?”

Daniel leaned forward at the waist, his nose barely touching this woman’s wrist as he took a ginger whiff of the scent. “Oh my God,” he thought aloud, his eyes widening a bit as his pupils dilated. He leaned forward once more and took a greedy sniff, “Oh my God. This is amazing.” The woman smiled, pulling her wrist away, but Daniel ceased it, “Wait, not done.” The woman blushed as Daniel pressed the tip of his nose against the inside of the woman’s wrist, his eyes shut as he let out a small moan of appreciation. He pulled away with a grin, pointing to it as if he were a little boy asking for candy. “That one. Ring that up, that’s the one.”

The woman stammered a bit, grabbing a new bottle off the shelf before she lead Daniel to the counter, Maki and Walter following behind—slightly chuckling. Daniel carried the bag without shame, reaching in to spritz his neck with the scent as they made their way to Spencer’s. “I don’t know why they called it Forever Red,” Daniel prattled, “They should call it, like, Latin Goddess or something. I smell fucking delicious.”

Maki nearly stopped in his tracks, "Wait…you got that for yourself?”

Daniel pouted, “I don’t have to explain myself to you.”

“Sir, pardon me if this comes off as rude, but-…” Walter interjected, “Would you perhaps be…a bit of a ponce, by chance?”

“Don’t act like I don’t know what that means,” Daniel retorted, “I watch BBC, I know what it means. And no, I’m not a ponce.”

"What’s a ponce?” Maki asked.

“I believe you Americans refer to it as ‘being gay’,” Walter answered

“Shut up! I’m not gay.”

"Well you can kind of understand where he’s coming from-…”

“Shut it!” Daniel growled, sighing as he veered off towards his favorite store. “Let’s make a stop here and we’ll head for Starbucks before we go home.”

"But...but...this is Spencer's. It's dirty in there, Daniel. we should go somewhere else." Maki stammered, his anxiety apparent in the way he picked at the hem of his shirt.

Daniel gave Maki an incredulous look for a moment, “What are you, five? Come on,” he insisted, dragging the younger man inside by his wrist.

Walter paused by the door, “Actually sir, if you don’t mind, I’d like to go get your coffee instead. This store is a little too vulgar for my taste.”

“Oh, sure thing, Alfred.” Daniel responded quickly, ignoring Maki’s look of shocked rebuttle. Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out another twenty from his wallet, never ceasing his hold on his friend. He handed it over, reciting the same order he got every time he went there. “I want a venti mocha frappuchino. What do you want, Maki?”

Maki huffed, looking at Walter as he politely responded, "A grande caramel frappuchino with extra caramel, please.” Walter dismissed himself with a nod, heading off towards Starbucks as Daniel tugged Maki into the store, stopping in front of the shirts. Maki held his wrist as he looked at Daniel with a slight pout before piping up, "Are you sure you need caffeine?”

Daniel held up a shirt before refolding it and returning it to its place, idly looking through the selections while he glanced at Maki ever so often, “I’ve drank so much caffeine over the expanse of my lifetime that it hardly affects me.” He caught sight of a funny shirt and let out a chuckle, holding it up for Maki to see, “What do you think?”

"I think it's a little mean," he glanced nervously around the store, eyes glancing at the toys and vulgar jokes. "Uh, you should buy it so we can leave..."

“We’re not going anywhere until Alfred comes back with my coffee.” Daniel stated, folding the shirt over his arm before he dove for another that caught his eye. “This one’s funny. I’m definitely going to need this on some occasion.” He chuckled. He eyed his nervous friend who just stood there getting scarred for life and he emitted a devious smirk, “You better hope he comes back before I lose interest in these because then we move to the toy section. And believe you me, they aren’t the kind you get a Wal-Mart.”

Maki panicked visibly and literally deflated in relief when Walter announced his presence, waiting at the door with their coffee. Maki rushed over to the man, sipping at his frappe while Daniel bought the shirts, taking his perfume out of the bag and sticking it into his the one from Spencer’s along with his games. Throwing away the evidence, he took his coffee with a small thanks, slurping it down as Walter chuckled in bemusement. Daniel finished his by the time they’d got to the car, tossing it in a bin outside before calling shotgun. Maki sat in the backseat, sipping away as Walter tried to adjust to someone else’s presence in the passenger side. They eventually returned to the Corporation, before sunset as he promised. He sent a quick text to his mystery lady telling her that he had returned and he let Maki go to his room, hanging back with Walter to talk about their favorite BBC shows whilst sitting on the hood of the car.

Thirty minutes later, Daniel meandered down the hallway in an abnormally good mood, bag of purchases in hand. The hallways was nearly deserted save for the melancholy fellow Daniel had flirted with earlier But the younger man was the least of his concern. Things were finally starting to look up for him. He’d been given a second chance at life and he’d already made two new friends. He couldn’t be happier.

With his eyes half-lidded and a pep in his step, Daniel sung his way down the hallway. He got out his keys once he got in close proximity, well into the chorus by then. “Heaven isn’t too far away!” Daniel paused at his door, still singing as he unlocked his door. The lack of movement beside him despite there being the silhouette of a person brought him out of his reverie. Daniel did a double take as he sent a weak glance towards the man to his left, recognizing him almost immediately, having forgotten the man was there already. A wide smile spread across his face as he pointed at him, “Hey, I know you! I sang to you.” The younger man gave him an odd look so Daniel tried to refresh his memory, “Remember?” He mimed out his previous air guitar, grinning again before sticking his hand out, “Hi. Name’s Daniel, Daniel Isaac Brennan. And you are?” The younger man opened his door, shaking his head as if he got the impression that Daniel was a giant ignoramus and wasn’t worth his time. Daniel’s smile faltered a bit as he let his hand fall to his side, remembering that Maki had failed to do the same thing hours earlier. “Not a handshake kind of guy, right.” The door slammed in his face and Daniel smirked, “Alright. Challenge Accepted.” Daniel retired to his own apartment, turning up the stereo high as AC/DC blared through the speakers.

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The Gift of Innocence Corporation

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#2013-09-11 11:34:36, as written by .euphoria.

Buzz, Buzz, Buzz

This was the only sound that had woken Fiona up from her small nap. Looking up, she could see the sun peeking through the branches of the tree she was laying under. It took her a brief minute to think about what was going on, where she was, and what had woken her up in the first place. Then she could hear her phone vibrate again meaning she was getting another message. She reached for her purse which was doubling as her pillow. Looking at her phone she could see she had more messages than she thought. All from her peers which was a surprise seeing that all of them believed that Fiona was a tree-hugging spoiled princess, never really taking the time to actually talk or hang out with the girl outside of class. But now that their dance teacher, Madam Romanov had told them how Fiona had "broken her leg", they were all asking who was going to take over all her parts and solos until she came back. The worst thing is that she didn't know when she was going to to go back or if she would ever get that chance to even go back.

She didn't even answer any of them except one from her closest friend, Mimi. A fellow vegan and dancer, that she had met when she was assigned to her dormitory where they were roommates. The pair weren't best friends but she was the closest thing to a best friend that the British girl had in her life. She wasn't one to let someone in her life enough to give the title of "best" anything. But, Mimi was pretty damn close. Looking at the text from the girl, Fiona couldn't do anything but smirk. Only because Mimi didn't ask anything about her spot but asked her exactly 'what her dumb ass did to break her leg'. Fiona, was not a good liar but she just said that she was trying to do Pas de chat for a routine and she just landed in a bad position. Mimi wasn't stupid, and she knew when her friend was lying and now was one of those times. But, she just told Fiona that whatever she was going through that she wished her luck. Which was all Fiona could do for herself as well. Looking at the time, she decided that she should probably head back into the line of fire. With all the cursing and angry people that she had walked away from. She could understand their annoyance but she just wasn't a fan a cursing and rarely cursed herself unless she was very pissed off at someone or in extreme pain.

Heading inside the building, Fiona looked in the hallways and decided that she could head back to her room or go explore to see what else this place held within it. She wasn't even paying attention to which was she was walked until she looked down the hallway to see someone else walking. She had seen him the the group while the benefactor was giving each one of them their power but she couldn't put her finger on it. She walked up to the Asian man with a smile on her face as she cleared her throat softly. "Hello, my name is Fiona. I remember seeing you before but I sadly cannot remember your name."

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Makoto Oshiro

0 · 1,457 views · located in The Gift of Innocence Corporation

a character in “The Gift of Innocence”, originally authored by peace_of_mind7, as played by RolePlayGateway

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So begins...

Makoto Oshiro's Story

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Setting

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Setting

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