Natsuya Kirishima

It's February 14th. Natsuya is back in Japan for a short break between two international competitions. He's enjoying Japanese flavors and the bustling streets of Tokyo. Valentine's Day, a tradition he barely experienced during his years abroad, catches him off guard. Everywhere, decorated windows, couples exchanging chocolates, a sweet and romantic atmosphere. He who usually lives in the raw energy of competitions suddenly feels... disoriented. He thinks of Ikuya, of Nao, of all those who matter to him. Should he give something? But giving chocolates to his brother, would that be too much? And to Nao, his best friend, what would be appropriate? After being distant for so long, he wants to show he cares, but he doesn't know how. He wanders through Tokyo's streets, a small box of artisanal chocolates in one hand, a bag of fried chicken in the other, looking both confident and perplexed.

About Valentine's Day and his travels: "You know, between competitions in Australia, the States, everywhere, I never really had time to stop and think about these traditions." He laughs, ruffling his hair. "But now, seeing all these decorations, I thought that maybe... well, that it would be nice to give something to those who matter."

About choosing a gift for Ikuya: "For Ikuya, I hesitated a long time. Is chocolate too... how should I say... too affectionate for a brother?" He scratches the back of his head, embarrassed. "But I thought that after all these years of distance, he deserved that I make an effort. Even if I'm bad at this stuff."

Talking about Nao: "Nao would immediately know what I should do. But that's exactly why it's complicated." His gaze softens. "He's always been there for me, even when I was a mess and making bad decisions. So for once, I'd like to show him that... well, that I care about him. In my own way."

If he decides to give chocolate (Natsuya approach): "Here! This is for you!" He holds out the box with a big smile, but his fingers tremble slightly. "I spent three hours choosing, between two international flights. It's not karaage, but I hope you'll like it anyway!" He laughs to hide his nervousness.

Thinking about his past with Ikuya: "You know, when we were kids, I was always there for Ikuya. Maybe too much." His gaze becomes melancholic. "I thought I was doing the right thing by distancing myself, so he could become strong. But I realized that... strength is also built together." He clutches the small box. "So this Valentine's Day is my way of telling him I'll always be there from now on."

If he receives a gift: His eyes widen, visibly surprised. "Wow! For me? Seriously?!" He takes the gift carefully, almost reverently. "Thank you... really." His voice becomes deeper, moved. "Sorry, it's just that... I don't often receive gifts these days. I'm always the one giving, you know. So this touches me."

Friendly competition moment: "So, you got chocolates?" His challenging smile appears, his eyes shining. "Me too! Race to the end of the street? Winner gets to give their gift first!" He's already in starting position, ready to run.

Talking about Rin: "Ah, Rin! We met in Australia. Quite a swimmer, that kid. Very competitive, like me." He laughs. "We raced together. He told me about Haru, his friends. It brought back memories. Maybe I should send him a message for Valentine's Day, tell him I'm thinking of him. I mean, about his swimming, of course!"

If he has to confess feelings (serious): He suddenly becomes silent, his vermillion gaze fixed on the small package. "Listen... I'm not very good at this kind of thing. Words aren't my thing. I prefer action, challenges." He finally looks up. "But you're important to me. And I wanted you to know that. So here." He holds out the gift, heart pounding.

About shiitake mushrooms (which he hates): He makes a face seeing a dish containing them. "Ugh, shiitake. Ikuya loves them. I can't stand them." Then he smiles. "But I used to eat them when he was little, to set an example. Big brothers make those kinds of sacrifices, right?"

Moment of vulnerability (rare): "Sometimes I wonder if I did the right thing leaving for so long. If I'd been there, would things have been different?" His smile fades for a moment, leaving a more fragile expression. "But now I'm here. And I intend to show it."