[ linked from the continuations masterpost, this is where threads for various events or anything else will go! this post is specifically for SFW continuations. NSFW continuations are here! ]
[ From here. ] [ And it's worse than it looks currently, he probably just hast Leave a Mark/Chin Scritches/Publicly Call Someone a Mate left on this, but repeating squares is fine. need!! to pick!! another card. ]
Productive is one word for it. [ Wry. ] Still don't actually have a whole row yet.
Yeah? If I get a second one before this is open, I might hunt you down.
[ Thinking of what he has left on there. There are a couple that wouldn't be completely creepy, even if Venti weren't, like, three thousand years old, probably. ...Man, that is hard to wrap his head around. ]
[ ...Folds his arms over his chest. ] [ —It's not like he hasn't been thinking Venti was probably older than he looked for a while now, even if he wouldn't have guessed 'by a factor of 300'. Venti's not an actual teenager. Really, he's just — a short adult, or something. Right? ]
[ But ugh, he still looks so young, and Lupine only got real confirmation that he isn't a few days ago. It's just... not parsing right in his brain. Maybe after he's had more time to get used to the idea? ]
[ Which he's apparently just saying with no self-consciousness whatsoever, and now examining his hands thoughtfully. Not a cat, but when he flicks his wrist, he does pop claws. ]
[ A huff. He shakes his head again, then bows his head to take Venti's wrist sort of gingerly maybe shut up in his right hand. With his left index finger, he traces a smiley face.
Light pressure, but it still raises a noticeable scratch. ]
...Pretty sure my free will ends where someone else's begins.
[ Just. Saying. ] [ He tugs his card out to check it, mostly just intending to use filling some other, less — friendly square as a pretext to end this conversation for now, and he's slightly surprised to realize that the claws one, now filling in, made a vertical bing— ]
[ Flips the card so that Venti can see all...... the brand-new unfilled squares. Sigh. ] [ Okay, he should not be feeling this way, he should be focused on the fact that a new card means more points for the game.
[ Snorts softly, but that sure does immediately put all the wind back in his sails. ]
Please. It'll take more than this. [ Folding his arms over his chest. ...And, okay, now just holding them out to look at them. Heh, he had nail polish on earlier, but it doesn't look like it really survived all the claw-popping. ] Anything you wanna do on there?
[ He's repeating himself, but he doesn't really notice. ]
[ Hmph. ] [ And that's a little — frustrating, maybe. Dammit, Venti.
He moves to stand behind him, so that he can look at the card over his shoulder, and — huh, it is a lot tamer. Spotting the only mention of poisoning, he snorts softly. ]
Well, shoot, I know you were hoping for an excuse to kiss me.
[ Fond eyeroll. Being fine with it, especially to troll him, is different from being remotely interested in it. ]
[ ...Well. That makes a difference. Maybe more of one right now than it would've if he were still a were. After another beat of lingering eye contact: ]
[ Eyes lidding. Yeah, that's — nice. The expression, the tone. Venti would probably get points for that playfulness no matter what, but... Maybe he's already getting past it after all. ] [ Eases his weight lightly up against a tree at his back~. ]
Is there any way I could get you to narrow that down a little more?
[ ...And that expression is even nicer, but for maybe half a second he's a little — disappointed, almost, that Venti didn't take the opening. Huh. ] [ Lupine shelves it, though, because he did pick something, and reaches out instead to curl his fingers in the front of Venti's top: tries to tug him closer. ]
So we are.
[ Yeah, he feels — very past it. Venti wants this, he wants it, no reason not to. ]
[ Eyes widening, hi there; he feels the tree hit his back, and between that and the very firm, insistent kiss — if he still had any lingering reservations, unimportant as they were starting to seem, they're gone now.
His lips part, a flicker of tongue at the seam of Venti's mouth, and his hands find his hips, fingers digging briefly in. ]
[ Damn, Venti, that's— ] [ Hnnn, okay, hands shifting to get under Venti and left him, easing the angle on his back, and very much encouraging — more of all of that.
The confidence, the certainty, they'd probably be a turn-on anyway, but they're going right through him right now, like a knife through butter. ]
[ His fingers slide against Lupine's jaw, thumb briefly pressing into the pulse point at his neck as he press closer, making a low and satisfied sound. The other braces against the bark beside Lupine's head, like he's getting himself good and comfortable. ]
[ That definitely pulls a noise out of him, low and thick. His eyes roll open lazily, fix on Venti's face. A breathless laugh, his eyes also dark where they aren't like polished silver. ]
Are you fucking kidding me.
[ Achievement unlocked: Lupine will now swear out loud around you, instead of just in his head.He still doesn't do it a lot, though; reflex to be more kid-friendly is strong. ]
Isn't the end of that 'and hope to die'? That's barely a consequence here. Guess I'll just have to make sure it's really worth doing anyway.
[ Light. He tips his head back, thinking. Apparently completely content to do this thinking while still leaning with his back against the tree and Venti's weight supported. ]
Let's see... I've got a square for pinning someone down with vines, a square for poisoned kissing, a square for using pollen in ~some way~... [ Chuckle. ] Squares for nature walks and sunbathing and meditation... Squares for decorating places and people... [ Snorts. ] I'll have to find someone to confess a secret to, in a tree because why not.
[ It's comfy?? Why would they move?? Lupine's strong, Venti weighs nothing, this is fine. ] [ A chuckle, ]
Why do I feel like you like one of those options more than the other two.
[ ...And why not, really. He's got something he could say. Lipquirk, but instead of continuing he's gonna just ~nightingale~ them, a flourish of scented wind full of petals and leaves; one lifts them up, then up. Because maybe he remembers this was something Venti liked, too. ]
[ It's a ludicrously soft way of flying, too, like. Ride the leaf. ] [ But he smothers a laugh and gives Venti a toothy grin. ]
Thought you'd like that.
[ Hops off the leaf to land neatly on a thick enough bough, careful to shift and maintain his balance as it sways briefly under their combined weight. ]
[ —Feels even nicer, though. Even warmer. Maybe a little weirdly warm.
Probably should've taken a few seconds to really assess his card-swap; he was so used to the wolf's instincts that so far he's only really noticed their absence, but of course the nymph card must've come with something, too. He should slow this down a little, double-check some of the things he wants to do.
...But the 'secret' should be fine. Right? It's not much of one, even though he— ]
I left some stuff outside your door after that long game, the one that really sucked for most people. Didn't sign my name, or anything, so it should count?
[ ...annnnd suddenly he feels a little put on the spot, even though he absolutely did this to himself. He tells himself it's ridiculous to feel self-conscious, it's not like he actually meant the stuff to be a secret. ]
Uh, I left some fixings for beef bowls? And a thermos.
[ Really wishes he could rub the back of his neck right now, or fidget in literally any way, but his arms are occupied and you don't shift your weight when you're standing on a branch. ]
Yeah, well. [ He's glad you like it, or something. ] I can give you the recipe.
[ And boy the nymph is enjoying all of this, so so much. ]
Yeah, well, the sign said you wanted to be left alone.
[ Somewhere between what he clearly thinks is a tone of eminent reasonableness and an embarrassed mutter. ] [ In his defense, he'd probably be less embarrassed if the nymph in him would stop having reactions to and feelings about this obviously stupid thing, reactions and feelings that he is sincerely hoping aren't in any way visible. ]
[ Oh, it's way too late for that. ] [ —And he doesn't think Venti means it like that, but it hits different this time than it did after the dungeoncrawl, so. He shifts Venti's weight so that it's resting more on one of his hips, freeing up an arm, and his gaze on Venti's face is — kind of measuring. ]
...Right. [ Beat. ] So. Ninety percent sure this is a stupid question, but. When you say 'date', you're thinking — I'll show you how to make this drink, with an option for messing around some more? [ Because. He'd be interested in that. ] And not, like... a date-date.
[ There's a long pause after the words are out of his mouth before he drags that freed-up hand down his face. Maybe, if he really tries, he can sound more like he's fifteen. ]
[ Sighing, but also definitely not — well, not fussed about whether Venti means that literally or not! He wouldn't be surprised either way, as a fellow employer of Exact Words for telling 'lies'. ]
Yeah, yeah. Glad to amuse you. [ And the nymph is, actually, so. ] [ Muttered, ] This place'll almost train you out of asking, but. Still that ten percent chance, you know?
[ Didn't wanna miscommunicate, but he's already said way too much that's easy to decode as caring about Venti's feelings, so. ]
I think your votes were 'pollen' or 'nature walk'.
[ ...But he's got a free hand, so. While Venti debates which he'd rather do, Lupine is just going to be getting a different square by reclaiming Vent's left wrist and—
—most of what he can do like this really does feel exactly like using rapunzel, but he's a little blank for a few seconds.
[ ...but it does feel kind of the same way blooming flowers does, when he focuses, and thankfully, in his opinion, all it does is seal up the little smiley face. Good as new — and no scar, but well. Why wouldn't nymph-card-heals work differently. ]
[ But since Alex isn't looking, he'll speed it up a little, unzipping and kicking off his boots, shimmying out of his jeans. Skinning out of his shirt...
When he's down to just his boxer briefs, he starts shifting: first furry all over, then dropping down onto all fours before he — slowly — changes the rest of the way, so that he only drops the underwear at the very end, stepping out of it easily. ]
[ —Can't actually talk like this, but he noses the card over. ...'Bite' is the only one that actually says 'in animal form', but 'chin scritches' and 'leave a mark with claws'... one supposes 'get or receive massage' might work with petting.......?
[ ...Oh. That's — really nice. Kind of a lot nicer than he was expecting. His eyes lid after a few seconds of it. He's not a dog, so it doesn't all work the same, but Alex does get a brief sort-of-wag.
It takes him a moment to process the offer. —And then he's a little reluctant, because the scritches are nice.
[ Starts shifting back then. He stops somewhere in the middle, still covered in a thinner layer of black fur but with a mostly-normal mouth (too-sharp teeth, his tongue a little flatter than it should be), and offers up a crooked smile as he retrieves his underwear. ]
Can't compete with that, I guess.
[ But he's certainly planning to do what he can anyway. ]
[ ...Just, gazing at Lark again. After a moment, he snorts softly. ]
Don't think I've got anything left to say. If I ask you to point me at anyone who makes you uncomfortable, isn't that just telling you I don't think you can take care of yourself?
[ Beat. ]
But if, for whatever reason, you ever need help — I'd be there.
...I've recognized, like. Four or five flower names so far? And LiliS gives you kind of a lot of exposure.
[ Beat. ]
I'm having better luck with fruits and vegetables, but I doubt listing off the ones that go together best in a parfait's gonna count as lecturing anyone.
Well, banana's good with anything. It can help neutralize the acid in kiwis, make 'em play nicer with other fruits, but as long as you've got really sweet strawberries and blueberries — rather than tart — you'll probably be okay.
[ ...Okay, he recognizes this as something that would make sense during a lecture, but. ]
—Yeah, well. ...There are other fruits, like peaches, that'll get pretty much swallowed up by whatever else you mix in there, so... if you want a peach parfait, it should really just be peach and cream. Less of a problem with banana, because who wants a banana parfait......
[ This is very awkward, he's so aware of every time Lark makes a note. ]
[ Lark wasn't even really thinking about how it would make sense to do this during a lecture, he just wants to have something to refer to later when he tries making deserts. ]
We don't have things like 'parfait' where I'm from, so this is useful.
Depends on why they don't eat much fruit or vegetables. Most little kids, I'd go for ripe strawberries. The little ones. [ Holds up his thumb and forefinger to demonstrate a little strawberry. ] They're sweet, but also pretty mild, and they're soft and easy to chew. Watermelon's another good candidate, if you cut it up into bite-sized pieces.
[ ......He could keep going. Might have a lot of stuff in his head about getting picky kids to eat fruit. Oooookay. Switching gears: ]
But if it's someone who just thinks fruit is boring, maybe hit 'em with a mango? Really flavorful, sweet but also tart.
Hehe, they're not exactly picky, but they're the kind of people who tend to reach for the really sugary stuff if they want something sweet. I'm a little worried they'll get diabetes one day.
[ He notes down the part about mango, in particular. ]
And what about for someone who doesn't like overly sweet things?
You could also try starting with the parfait, the way I make it at least you can definitely still taste the fruit.
[ If he were trying to figure out which specific people Lark was talking about, he'd be very amused right now because so much of AlcheME is older than Lark, but. Sometimes you wanna give your friends plausible deniability. ]
[ The not-liking-overly-sweet-things... does get a tiny lipquirk, but he clears it off his face. ]
Probably better to go for vegetables, in that case. Start savory, you know? Couple of basic tips.
[ And now he's gonna be listing them off on his fingers. ]
Don't boil 'em unless you've got a really good sauce or stew going. Mostly you're gonna want to roast them. Melted butter and spice is easy and almost always really good, no matter what you're cooking. Broccoli, sprouts, root vegetables... cauliflower, if you're really worried about them reacting to the taste, because it barely has one.
[ Tips his head back. ]
Also, don't feel like you have to do a salad. Salad's fine, but your only flavor's coming from the dressing. A carrot cooked in curry is always gonna taste better than a raw carrot with a little dressing.
It definitely is. You wanna stew 'em to just soft, so they really absorb the flavor. Lots of veggies do well like that, just gotta put 'em in the pot at different times so you don't have anything that's either still a little raw or way overcooked.
[ Maybe a little more comfortable with all the note-taking now. He crosses his arms over his chest. ]
So, that's what I'd do. You can probably also get a sauce they already like and serve a mild vegetable in that, something that's got a lot of nutrients, just to kinda... get your foot in the door with 'em.
Yeah. Afterlife to hell. [ he scoffs. ] Sounds like a song title, doesn't it?
[ he gives an overdramatic shrug, finishing off with a heavy sigh. ]
Between that and "amnesia round two," getting "fitting" outcomes like these shouldn't surprise me. But hey- enough with the bad jokes, puns. [ he waves a hand dismissively. ]
[ Boy, that........... sure is all a lot, and Lupine opens his mouth, but when Okitsu kind of pointedly changes the subject, he closes it again. ]
Who, me?
[ Tugs his card out. —HE SURE IS. Flips it with some amusement to show that he's got one missing square in all of his rows and columns. ...But just the one. 'Get fangs touched', 'Chin scritches', 'Pocky share a kiss', 'Bury someone or someone's belonging', and 'Play fetch' are still available....... and nothing else. ]
Well, we can go over your card, see if we can come up with anything?
[ Hey, this card has gotten him laid at least once today, but the prompts are kind of what you make of them. ] [ Lupine's lips quirk a little. ]
And sure, if you'll give me a sec. I'm not looking to trash this outfit, and uh... the wolf I turn into is kind of big.
[ Already shrugging out of his jacket. Up to Okitsu if he wants to turn away, really, but by this point Lupine has gotten all kinds of reactions to stripping, and he's not feeling especially shy. And, for what it's worth, the boyis fine.
He'll stop at the underwear and go furry for more modesty, though. ]
Mm, more surface area... better for more effective scratching? Hah.
[ there are positives to a large wolf form for sure. more scritchy surface, better belly rubs, better cuddles. and others, surely.
had Okitsu gotten different memories or had different experiences thus far, he might have been more reserved about the stripping, but at this stage he has both old memories of destroyed bodies and current ones he needed to dive in for to patch up, so a healthy one is more than fine. he turns aside a little and smiles to himself, but he doesn't make a show of looking. (not that he doesn't, though, he's just mindful not to stare too long. unlike his little stint of staring at a nearly naked nymph...) ]
You... you all set? [ just a gentle request for permission, and also him holding back from saying the weres are kind of cute in that "extra extra large teddy bear" way. ] We can go over mine after I take care of some of yours, deal?
[ Well, he's definitely now mostly naked. The shift after that is on the slow side, controlled, so that he's able to slip the underwear down and then just step out of it once he's entirely wolf.
And now there's just a decidedly large wolf, jet black fur all over, with eerily human gray eyes. The wolf trots up to Okitsu and then sits, sort of like an attentive dog. ]
[ for all his earlier self-control, he has to turn and marvel at both the size (extra extra large wolf indeed) and the calculated care in that transformation. he really had tried not to, but now he’s just too busy being impressed. ]
… You’ve, uh. You’ve done this once or twice, huh… [ he gently reaches over to just. offer a hand for pets to start. ]
[ Curious headcock for a beat, because what? Then — a whuffling noise that is apparently what happens when he tries to laugh in this form. Tosses his head and leans in to sniff Okitsu's hand instinctively before forcing himself to stop and just bumping the hand instead. A stray half-wag, because he's very much not a dog but some of the signals are similar.
He has, yeah. He's way faster at getting out of this outfit now. But, well. Anything physical is pretty much his forte. He can also shift only partway and just kind of stay there, a more 'traditional' werewolf instead of this anime catboy werewolf thing he has going on most of th etime. ]
[ oh, that's. that's also kind of a cute noise. he didn't know that he was missing out on a big wolf pup laugh, but now he does, he was, and he is getting that corrected. this whole monster thing isn't so bad, sometimes.
he strokes over Lupine's head, scritching a little behind his ears first. ]
Hey, so... I know I said I'd give you chin scratches. I will, but maybe I could also touch... You know, other stuff.
[ BOLD?
except. wait.
he opens his own mouth and gestures to one of his own canines. ]
[ Nice, yes, that's — very good, leaning into scritches for a moment. There is a bit of a bemused pause at that first question, because o rly, but when Okitsu gestures helpfully, he snorts and lifts his head, baring teeth carefully.
Lots of very sharp teeth right now, clean and white. Apparently this is what good dental hygiene looks like on a wolf.Also has perfectly inoffensive breath. ]
Ah, does that feel nice? I bet. Hah, I should've asked when I had the chance...
[ when he was under the effect of that kemonomimi potion, but he'd been too worried about being good enough as a host and effective in serving to just indulge. probably merciful that he had been, in the end.
still scritching at the top of Lupine's head, he leans in a little closer and hovers his fingers over those very well cared for teeth. ]
No biting the fingers, alright? I don't care if you want to bite through my hair or wherever else, but I use my hands a lot. Or I'm going to be. So, off limits.
[ not that he'd exactly been worried about aggression, but might as well establish a boundary, even if he truly could just heal the damage in the end. it's about trust! and apparently being flippant with everything else. Kitsu runs a finger along those bared teeth, nodding along. ]
[ Another little half-wag in response to the question, and he makes a sort-of barking sound.
The bit about not biting his fingers earns him a very flat look, though. What kind of wolf do you take him for.
—And, okay, having his teeth touched is really weird, he manages to hold still for just a few seconds before he has to withdraw his head. Moving his jaw around and wrinkling his muzzle somewhat comically. ]
I know, I know, sorry. I'm not into touching teeth either.
[ again, what a weird square for bingo. but, hopefully this was effective enough? for the trouble and theatrical discomfort, Kitsu reaches over to scritch some more behind those ears. ]
Wanna roll onto your back? We can finish this.
[ chin scratchies and belly rubs, perhaps? this one is a little bit for him too, it just. sounds fun and correct. and it sounds cute! sometimes things can be cute and not horribly terrifying like heights ]
[ if hypnotizing song I would like to request SFW hypnosis because he would feel SO BAD later for being seduced by someone under 18 ] [ Lupine blinks. ]
[it's just a regular song.. and will start singing: it's not anything Lupine can understand, but it's soothing and Persephone is a master of his craft.]
[ fff sorry about that misunderstanding about perse's age but \o/ .......is this the first time he's ever actually heard an idol sing. That's a little bit funny. The song itself isn't, though, and as much as he's just... not really an appreciator of the arts, Lupine goes quiet to listen. ]
[persephone is a master of his craft. performance is his supernal ability, something he is worldshatteringly good at. so enjoy it, probably. it's lovely and sweet and melancholy.]
I wouldn’t mind that at all. A close friend of mine used to be on LiliS, but he’s since been moved to Taisho… though I don’t think we ever did a Live together. [ his ears then down just a little bit. ] But we should absolutely do one together. Exploring and drinking.
I did not. We should plan something then... I have a carriage and we could bring a couple of people around on it. Maybe do a pub crawl and explore the different places to get drinks and food or something.
[ pentium takes a couple of steps back and flashes him with a smile. ] Ready... go! [ his smile widens into a smirk as he darts forward, aiming to slash at him with his claws. ]
Apparently there aren't any bars in this city. [ This is actually not completely true, there's a karaoke bar that totally serves alcohol, but Lupine has been misinformed. He grins, though, because he does at least know: ] Good thing you guys can just make drinks wherever you go.
[ Lupine responds with a smirk of his own and leaps nimbly out of the way of Pentium's claws, a not-completely-necessary backflip that lands him on his feet. And he's not asking, but his default is obviously powers-off, because instead of using Juniper Tree to give himself armor, he pops claws of his own: more like a cat than a wolf, really. That's not how that works, producers, but he's not complaining just at the moment.
Agile and fast, but no slouch in the strength department either, and certainly capable of fighting barehanded with a style that involves a lot of punches, kicks, flips, and tricks, Lupine's certainly formidable enough, even with the time he has to spend adjusting to having claws.
(He's also holding back some, learning how Pentium fights and seemingly adjusting himself in response. If Pentium goes hard, he'll give it his all — but if Pentium swipes at him in ways obviously designed to miss, he'll respond in kind.) ]
[ He'll have you know he was being at least a little sarcastic, but the smirky tone probably didn't completely help. ] [ ...More than a little amused. ]
Well, I can— [ Stops himself with a snort. ] I guess I can't, actually, safely say I haven't done any of that before. But definitely not that I can remember.
[ A glance around... he should probably be transporting Tsukky somewhere while they talk. ]
Fufu... well, I can safely say that I should be fairly good at serenading. And I am quite adept at using rope? So you wouldn't need fear for either. For the second, I certainly would not harm you. It would be catch and release.
[ Cute. And so is — all of that, really. Lupine smothers a laugh. ]
Please don't take this the wrong way, but I wasn't worried.
[ Eyes flick up thoughtfully. ]
I guess you could probably do the serenade and the hypno-whatsit at the same time.
[ There sure are some connotations to the things you listed off, Tsukky, but Lupine has apparently not even sort of registered that you might be aware of them, let alone mean them. ]
Well, I guess that's one way to get a captive audience.
[ But he is laughing, because. Yeah. You've got your tentacles wrapped around his waist and he's supporting your weight and it's just impossible to be remotely intimidated. ]
[ Okay. But now he's straddling Lupine on a chair with his dozens of tentacles wound around his hips and waist. He has the decency to look a touch embarrassed. ]
. . . Are you sure you are comfortable like this? I know I worried about it before, but this isn't too heavy?
Well... I could not say currently. But I have been bad lately. You see... I have the unfortunate habit of stress eating. My senpai are always telling me to be careful of what I eat or I will gain too much weight. I was even given a weight journal in order to record my measurements.
It wouldn't be lovable or cute for an idol to gain too much after all, as Sena-senpai says. And so, since it is a little embarrassing, I would rather not say how much I weigh. It feels as though my senpai would reach through the screen and smite me on the spot if I did.
[ He gained a pound since Hunger Games. It's terrible. OTL ]
[ All of this is washing over Lupine in exactly the same way it would be if Tsukasa were speaking a completely foreign language. Or worse, since Hell Magic Translation is not helping him with this at all. ]
Right, well, you weigh like. Nothing.
[ Definitely could've carried you and Venti and Felicity up the stairs in that dungeoncrawl with Nightingale. ]
Hmm. I shall simply pick one of our songs, then. They are all meant to sweep one off their feet, after all. And so which is probably less important than simply doing it.
[ He'll go with the latest one he downloaded. Since it only seemed to pop up recently. It'll be a much slower, acapella version of Castle of my Heart.
It's meant to be the serenade, but the desire to listen and attend to him is laced through the words so that by the end, the hypnotism is so firmly wound about Lupine, who listened so compliantly, that if he asked him to jump, it would be a matter of how high. ♪ ]
[ It's still very funny for the first stanza, Lupine just watching and listening politely, thinking that Tsukky definitely has an ear for pitch, wondering if this card is making his (and Persephone's) singing better, and honestly? On some level, he didn't really expect it to work. He thought it might be like (attempt to) intimidate someone. Maybe he'd pretend to be hypnotized for fun.
But Tsukasa keeps going and he starts to feel sort of floaty. The amusement drains. His expression slackens, eyes slipping first to half-mast and then shut. This is fine. ]
[ He can tell when the music has had a chance to wrap around his will. If he's honest, even he is a little surprised at how well it worked.
Isn't this... actually a dangerous ability?
Of course, in his hands, it is perfectly safe. Probably. ]
Fufu~ you're a good boy aren't you, Lupine-san? ♪
[ He reaches up to pat him on his head. ]
I will be gentle with you, so do not worry a hair upon your head. I am a Knight after all. And we are nothing without our honor. But now that I have you in my net... I cannot very well just release you without a bit of fun, first. ♪
And so, I shall ask you for your time. And first, I think I should like to hear a cheer of sorts. Do you have anything like that in your homeworld?
[ It's sort of like he's really floating, somewhere up above his body, watching all of this with a kind of dreamy unconcern: not like it's happening to someone else, because that would honestly be more concerning, but like it isn't real. ] [ Even so, his reaction to being called a good boy is drowsily raised eyebrows, as if to say, Really? Dog jokes?
But he isn't uncooperative, either. Doing what Tsukasa asks still seems like a good idea. There's some slow, sleepy confusion visible on his face, though.
Perhaps you are unfamiliar with what a cheer is? Truthfully, I am unsure if I have ever done one myself. I would venture to say no. But we can be creative. ♪
[ His tentacles shift over him, ensuring that his hands are free for this, at the same time Tsukasa lifts his own hands up. ]
Something like... 'Go avante go go avante!' Or " 'A' 'V' 'A' 'N' 'T' 'E' ! AVANTE! You do it while clapping, or lifting your hands up in celebration.
[ Wow, you're right, you should not have this power. ] [ The pat might get a slight headtilt into Tsukasa's hand~. He doesn't seem to mind. But since that also wasn't a question, he doesn't feel any need to respond. ]
[ The scritch is very nice, he's definitely leaning into that not unlike a lazy cat. But very unlike a lazy cat, the idea of a bath just gets half a shrug. Murmurs, with some dozy amusement, ]
Sure, if you can get us to water.
[ He kind of doesn't think you can without help? ]
[ If you want scintillating conversation, you'll probably need to unhypnotize him; he's just prone to warm sleepy amusement right now. ] [ But his response to that is another easy shrug before he lifts Tsukasa up out of the chair again. He doesn't even really need to exert any effort here, because again half of Tsukasa's body is a jellyfish and much lighter than usual. ]
Where to~?
[ There're definitely pools around here somewhere... ]
[ With Lupine already wrapped within his tentacles, they only need to tighten a little when he hefts them both up once more.
. . . He really is strong. At least in Tsukasa's opinion, despite whatever he says. He has the grace to feel a little embarrassed, being carried again, but stomps it down in favor of lifting a tentacle and pointing off in the direction toward their left. ]
I believe I have spotted one over in this direction.
[ Will he, though. Lupine spends a moment just standing there, supporting Tsukasa's weight, but then he lifts him away from his body and lowers him politely into the water. Just a touch sing-song: ]
[ He's in the water though now, and true to word it's much easier to move around. He's no longer dependant on someone else to transport him if he wants to get anywhere fast. He merely floats at the edge of the pool though, one tentacle lifting to wrap carefully around one of Lupine's wrists. ]
Come. Into the water with you now. Right now, you are supposed to be under my spell, you know? So behave like a good boy.
[ Where would you have gotten that idea, Tsukasa. Is it the part where he absolutely used the same tone most people would've used when setting down a small dog or a cat, ] [ Drawn closer, and he smiles faintly and follows Tsukasa's lead.
Are you really gonna make him get into the water with his clothes on, Tsukky. ]
[ ........Well, honestly, Lupine doesn't particularly care at this moment, so there's a pause where he tips his head to the side, thinking about it. Hmmmm. ] [ Shrugging out of the leather jacket, at least, and starting to take off his boots. ]
[ He feels much better about that. And even reaches up to clumsily fold the jacket for him while he works on his boots. ]
I feel much better this way. If you got a cold due to me, I would feel so sorry for compromising your health. Being as fit and healthy as possible is absolutely essential here. Becoming ill can hurt you, especially in a game.
[ He feels as though he is supposed to look away. His eyes shift to the side, a touch of color sprinkling the apples of his cheeks, as he glances back and then away again.
. . . It's a little unfair, he thinks, how effortlessly fit some people appear.
Though he has no way of knowing how much he works out or not. And as an idol he isn't supposed to put on too much muscle mass... probably.
Ahem. He finishes trying to awkwardly fold the clothes. He's still no good at it, but once finished, he reaches a tentacle up. ]
[ Turns back, though, and takes the tentacle. Still with a faint smile, like he's not — completely awake. Shockingly. He steps into the water and settles down next to Tsukasa comfortably. ]
. . . Sort of. It's a specific sort of practice routine, and mostly cardio. ]
Fufu... very good very good! ♪
[ Petting him on the head with another tentacle, while he reaches back to the side of the pool. Lucky for them, all the necessities that are needed for their bingo cards can be found for the strange event. What he reaches for is a bottle of shampoo. He holds it up cheerfully when he turns back around. ]
One of my cards requires me to wash someone's hair. I shall ensure that it shines beautifully.
The punishment of if people don't play. Mind whammies until you're done.
[The memory isn't as bad as some could be. Though it ends during the night without including the next day.] [But the feelings are strong. There is the panic, of course. The fear of discovery. He's trying so hard to hide the drawings he's made of the dragon, and then it sounds like he knows already. There is still fear, but honestly, this wasn't his father's scary calm. This was aggressive, but it isn't the amount of rage he expected.]
[He starts apologizing, feeling guilty, he should have just told him, but there is a relief that maybe, maybe this didn't have to be the nightmare scenarios he dreamt up.]
[Until his father laughs.]
[No, his father was just messing with him, and he was proud of his training, and because Hiccup is 'better,' he tells him all the thoughts he had kept to himself.]
[It feels as if the bottom of his stomach falls out of him as Stoick says everything he had suspected, everything he had feared was true.]
[How he knows the reason those feelings stopped is based on a lie. That these feelings are the truth of the matter. It leaves him almost numb to the pain that comes with the realization.]
[Lessens the blow of how eager his father looks to talk to him, and how its not true, but it doesn't negate the awkward.]
[The helmet is touching. If. Awkward. Because breastplate, but its something of his mother's and that still means a lot, and its still a lie, lie, lie-]
[Finally, the awkwardness is too much and with a weak excuse, he gets Stoick to leave and he sighs because it seems like they're awkward even when his dad wants to talk.]
[He looks at the helmet. He looks at the pictures. He repeats the words 'worst viking Berk's ever seen.']
[He sits down hard because he is going to need to make a choice. He knows he will. Because he can't be what they want. He can't be what his father wants.]
[He can't belong. He knows he will never belong, and he should just leave. Run away with Toothless.]
[He looks at the helmet and he sits down heavily because he knows he should leave, but the very thought makes his heart feel like its crumbling in his chest.]
....he's not a bad man. He's usually a very good man. A good chief. He cares so fiercely for his people and wants them safe.
Just.
It made him a bad father a lot of the time. He needed me to be something I wasn't, I caused problems, and got people hurt in my desperation, which got him upset, which made me more desperate, which caused more problems. He couldn't understand me. Most couldn't.
But he wanted to connect and I think that hurt worst of all. He wanted to, we wanted to, but it just didn't happen.
Not until....well, Toothless and Astrid and almost getting the whole village eaten by the Red Death because we couldn't listen and trust each other. Things did improve, but....
[He picks up the spyglass.] But scars don't go away easily.
[Gladiator conditions and SACRIFICING PEOPLE FOR MONEY, INCLUDING CHILDREN]
[Also this just convinces him more and more that money is, indeed, over rated.]
He's supposed to be a leader? [The disgust is absolutely dripping from him. Because at least greedy assholes are greedy assholes, but leaders are Supposed To Be Better.]
[Though honestly! This would be a time he would agree murder would be warranted.]
[That was a CHILD, and while he believes some Terrible People Can Be Better, murder of a child for sick enjoyment is one of those things you don't get Better from.]
I hope you found enough evidence to bury him in disgrace and stripped power and money. [Because frankly that would probably be worse then the murder for an old man like that.]
[He cares so much for people, especially innocents.]
[Sometimes evil has to be forcibly removed, even if disgraced living would be a better punishment.]
It was a child. In a death pit. It's not even a gladiator death pit, at least those have people interested in a good fight, and that's a nightmare to go through, and somehow this guy has made those types slightly less morally disgusting!
[ He would've preferred the latter, too, honestly. BUT WE'LL GET THERE. ]
...Yeah. A kid, whose parents couldn't afford to pay their taxes.
[ And the fact that they were successfully (maybe) rescuing one kid from a maze full of bones and blood — well. He doesn't love the natural conclusion there. ]
I trust the hell offer a little more. At least they admit they expect your eternal servitude in exchange for your wish. But a big part of me still says there's gotta be another layer to the devil's bargain, like your wish'll eventually backfire.
[It may be paranoia, but it's not unreasonably founded. So Artorius does consider it very seriously. In part because they're the worries of someone who holds a special significance to him and part because it is something he too will likely have to take into consideration in the future.]
...it would be pretty foolish to expect eternal servitude from someone if the very foundation of that agreement were to fall through.
Maybe. [ Wry. ] But it's not like this place is a model of efficiency, is it. Takes ages for one of us to even 'graduate'. So they must like the show we put on in the meantime.
[ He suspects they'd also like the show he'd put on if they got him to make a wish that wound up hurting someone. ]
[ Say something. Say something! Fuck. ] [ Blinks, offers up a wan smile. ]
I'm fine. Just — tired.
[ Beat. ]
Think I left something back in the game tower. [ Beat. His gaze flicks up to the hotel, the general direction of ZRAEL's dorm. ] They've got this, right? For the night at least.
[ A sharp blink. ...Stupid perceptiveness. That was supposed to be a joke. ] [ Lupine turns, starting to lead Venti away from the hotel. ]
...I don't even know why I'm surprised, really. I mean, I was working up to — saying something. [ Heh. ] So of course, right? I'm sure this is great TV.
I think you're spared the guilt, in this case, of still wanting to see him again. You both come from the same world, after all, and it awaits you after this is all over if that's where you choose to go.
[ Nose wrinkle at noble for — multiple reasons, really. Lupine shrugs a tiny bit. ]
Some people go on to run games themselves, right? Social games.
[ He thinks Cobalt's games make a difference, even if it's not as much of a difference as he wants to make. And yes he sure is talking very casually about selling his soul. ]
[ It is very true that Lupine wouldn't last long at it, but. ]
Better than turning my back completely. [ Smallest hesitation, because again there are cameras, but he can phrase it like he doesn't already know: ] If there's even a chance we can take the system down from the inside...
Maybe. But I don't think I can give up without having tried first.
[ ......And. Only more surprised. ]
—Honestly not sure. [ Half-smile. ] I think it's a safe bet that the three-year separation wasn't great, but...
[ Would just going back to the same world as him make Lupine happy? It feels like kind of a lot to pin on one other person. Especially a person he's just spent the last couple weeks making a fool of himself around. ]
. . . What if you just went to another world entirely, and had a fresh start? What if you came to Teyvat? You and your friend would be just as welcome, and you could lay your old burdens to rest.
[ He's already done some successful rationalizing over Zari's offer: that it was couched in the expectation that he'd say no, that they're both immortals so it's probably more like inviting him over for a long weekend, that Venti might not actually be on board anyway. ]
[ well first of all what do you mean not necessarily ]
...I mean...
[ Gonna chafe an arm while he tries to put this into words. ]
You're inviting me — us — to come live on your world. We're not gonna know how anything works. You'll have to kinda... look after us, at least for a while.
[ His gaze lingers on Venti's face for another moment, then he points it back up at the sky. He really wants to keep pushing, to know for sure whether he's being invited to cross a bridge and come explore a world or move in together, but it doesn't really feel fair to keep asking without at least making himself vulnerable enough to say: ]
...I don't have enough memories back to know what's going on back home, and I'd — have to ask him, you know? But it's tempting.
[ His gaze lingers on Venti for another moment, soft, then he turns to keep — going. Vaguely heading for the karaoke bar. ]
Some of it even in okay ways!
[ He's not saying this — fixes everything. Today was still kind of the worst in several separate ways. But he does... feel a little better. A little lighter. Having plans, even tentative ones—
We both know it's easier to just — not ask. To smile and laugh and redirect.
[ It's been a while but he still appreciates that moment after Ideal Worlds where he tried to deflect and you responded by telling him you felt like shit. It made it a little easier to let his own guard down, and he doesn't think it's ever been quite as up since. ]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
+ Venti, Monster Bingo 3
need!! to pick!! another card.]Productive is one word for it. [ Wry. ] Still don't actually have a whole row yet.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
[ Thinking of what he has left on there. There are a couple that wouldn't be completely creepy, even if Venti weren't, like, three thousand years old, probably. ...Man, that is hard to wrap his head around. ]
—Any squares you'd prefer?
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
They all look fine. I suspect your sensibilities are more delicate than mine~
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
What, you don't even have a preference?
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
1/3
2/3
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Claw mark?
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Fine by me~
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
...What, really? No comment?
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Are you requesting one?
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Not that much of a masochist, thanks.
[ Which he's apparently just saying with no self-consciousness whatsoever, and now examining his hands thoughtfully. Not a cat, but when he flicks his wrist, he does pop claws. ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
And I'm not a masochist at all, so treat me gently, okaaay~?
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
You're sIV, you'd be fine.
[ He's pretty sure he wants to do it with this rather than going wolf, though. He'll have more control
so it won't hurtshut up. ]Give it a second before you heal it, though, it's supposed to leave a mark.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
He's right but also, rude. ]
Do I get to request a design? Do a smiley face!
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
What, not a heart?
[ Thinking of Tenn and his first day making omurice. He flexes his fingers. ]
I think I can do that. What would be easiest for you?
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
[ It won't stop him recreationally whining any chance he gets, but that's a different issue entirely. ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
I actually meant more like... what's a body part you wouldn't mind getting scratched, one that you can reach easily to heal.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Here, this one's my least favorite arm!
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
shut upin his right hand. With his left index finger, he traces a smiley face.Light pressure, but it still raises a noticeable scratch. ]
How's that?
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
He's barely holding back his mirth. ]
Very gentle! Very delicate! What a soft and merciful warrior-wolf.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Shut up.
[ RELEASING YOUR ARM. ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Thank you for going easy on little old me~!
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
[ Huffs out a breath and gives up. Pushing a hand through his bangs. ]
You're welcome.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
You have free will, you know.
[ Tugging his sleeve back down, apparently unconcerned with healing something so trivial ]
1/2
[ Just. Saying. ] [ He tugs his card out to check it, mostly just intending to use filling some other, less — friendly square as a pretext to end this conversation for now, and he's slightly surprised to realize that the claws one, now filling in, made a vertical bing— ]
2/3
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
[ Well, at least he didn't lose his clothes, the way some of the other nymphs have. ]
Sure. Why not.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Huh. ]
Wow, what timing!
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
They heard you offer, I guess.
[ Flips the card so that Venti can see all...... the brand-new unfilled squares. Sigh. ] [ Okay, he should not be feeling this way, he should be focused on the fact that a new card means more points for the game.
Might be visibly bucking himself up a little. ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
[ For example, if you never even start-- ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Please. It'll take more than this. [ Folding his arms over his chest. ...And, okay, now just holding them out to look at them. Heh, he had nail polish on earlier, but it doesn't look like it really survived all the claw-popping. ] Anything you wanna do on there?
[ He's repeating himself, but he doesn't really notice. ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Hahaha, wow, this new one is way more tame!
[ Is that good or a disappointment? Unclear ]
I'd rather not get stabbed again. Or poisoned.
Anything else is fine, though.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
He moves to stand behind him, so that he can look at the card over his shoulder, and — huh, it is a lot tamer. Spotting the only mention of poisoning, he snorts softly. ]
Well, shoot, I know you were hoping for an excuse to kiss me.
[ Fond eyeroll. Being fine with it, especially to troll him, is different from being remotely interested in it. ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Winking over his shoulder. ]
Ehe. ♪ How do you know if I was or I wasn't?
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
...I thought it was an educated guess.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Not well educated.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Maybe more of one right now than it would've if he were still a were.After another beat of lingering eye contact: ]My mistake.
[ His voice pitched just a little lower. ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Hehe . . . so do you wanna do something more fun than just hair-braiding~?
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Is there any way I could get you to narrow that down a little more?
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
So we are.
[ Yeah, he feels — very past it. Venti wants this, he wants it, no reason not to. ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
This is the kind of blowing off steam that he's always in the market for. And Lupine certainly does have cute reactions . . .
Don't mind him as he shoves Lupine back against the tree and seals their lips together, not bothering with any token coyness or hesitation. ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
His lips part, a flicker of tongue at the seam of Venti's mouth, and his hands find his hips, fingers digging briefly in. ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
or letting his fingers brush Lupine's jaw to shift the angle until it's juuuust right,
or the pleased lilt that drifts from his throat when those fingers dig in,
or the way he presses Lupine flat against the tree.
. . . There's no shyness here at all anywhere, really. ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
The confidence, the certainty, they'd probably be a turn-on anyway, but they're going right through him right now, like a knife through butter. ]
1/2
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
And then he pulls back abruptly, expression betraying that he knows exactly what he's doing and intends to manipulate it to great effect.
(His pupils are certainly blown wider than before, though) ]
How much do you think counts for your square~? ♪
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Are you fucking kidding me.
[
Achievement unlocked: Lupine will now swear out loud around you, instead of just in his head.He still doesn't do it a lot, though; reflex to be more kid-friendly is strong.]Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Feral hours are now ]
If there's a problem, then do something about it.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
If only I had a square for lying to people so I could say I wouldn't have thought you were a tease.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
I'll gladly make up for it anytime. ♪
[ BOY HOT ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Mounting evidence might suggest that 'gremlin' is actually one of his types.]Anytime, really? [ Playful. ] You promise?
[ He feels good, right now. Warm. And as very nice as the kiss was, he might be more interested in making Venti laugh.
...Though if there's anything else Venti wants, well... ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Cross my heart!
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Isn't the end of that 'and hope to die'? That's barely a consequence here. Guess I'll just have to make sure it's really worth doing anyway.
[ Light. He tips his head back, thinking. Apparently completely content to do this thinking while still leaning with his back against the tree and Venti's weight supported. ]
Let's see... I've got a square for pinning someone down with vines, a square for poisoned kissing, a square for using pollen in ~some way~... [ Chuckle. ] Squares for nature walks and sunbathing and meditation... Squares for decorating places and people... [ Snorts. ] I'll have to find someone to confess a secret to, in a tree because why not.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Hmmm~
You could find someone much more into in the first one, and it would be pretty bad if I got poisoned, so . . .
I vote for pollen or nature walks or secrets~
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Why do I feel like you like one of those options more than the other two.
[ ...And why not, really. He's got something he could say. Lipquirk, but instead of continuing he's gonna just ~nightingale~ them, a flourish of scented wind full of petals and leaves; one lifts them up, then up.
Because maybe he remembers this was something Venti liked, too.]Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
[ That actually catches him off guard, but he quickly breaks into laughter at the familiar sensation of floating.
It's been a long time . . . ! ]
You really do have some amazing abilities!
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Thought you'd like that.
[ Hops off the leaf to land neatly on a thick enough bough, careful to shift and maintain his balance as it sways briefly under their combined weight. ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Venti balances easily, like perhaps he's someone who spends a lot of time in trees for some reason . . . ]
If I didn't know better, I'd think I was being wooed.
1/2
Right, like you need wooing.
2/3
Probably should've taken a few seconds to really assess his card-swap; he was so used to the wolf's instincts that so far he's only really noticed their absence, but of course the nymph card must've come with something, too. He should slow this down a little, double-check some of the things he wants to do.
...But the 'secret' should be fine. Right? It's not much of one, even though he— ]
3/4
Some kind of people-pleasing thing, maybe? ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
I left some stuff outside your door after that long game, the one that really sucked for most people. Didn't sign my name, or anything, so it should count?
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
[ Blank confusion, plain and simple ]
. . . Something like that is a secret?
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Sure. I mean, unless you already guessed. Then it probably won't count.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Uh, I left some fixings for beef bowls? And a thermos.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Ohhhh!! So you were the one who left that mysterious drink I liked so much!
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
[ Mysterious??? ] [ Well, that sure is another bubble of warmth. Ugh. Thanks a lot, nymph card. ]
I guess so? It was a... kind of eggnog. With, uh, sake? —Good for colds, that kind of thing.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Yeah, well. [ He's glad you like it, or something. ] I can give you the recipe.
[ And boy the nymph is enjoying all of this, so so much. ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Yes!! How silly of you to hide it. Plenty of people left gifts for sensitIV that day.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
[ Somewhere between what he clearly thinks is a tone of eminent reasonableness and an embarrassed mutter. ] [ In his defense, he'd probably be less embarrassed if the nymph in him would stop having reactions to and feelings about this obviously stupid thing, reactions and feelings that he is sincerely hoping aren't in any way visible. ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
[ Bops his nose ]
Thank you for such a thoughtful gift. You didn't have to go out of your way, but you did.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
It's easy to make. Not all that stable, though, once it starts to cool off, so you have to drink it kind of quickly.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Well then, you'll just have to teach me sometime!
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
—Yeah, I can do that.
[ And he would've agreed anyway, but there's a tiny bit of heat crawling up his neck right now. ] [ stupid nymph's stupid feelings ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Great, it's a date.
1/2
...Right. [ Beat. ] So. Ninety percent sure this is a stupid question, but. When you say 'date', you're thinking — I'll show you how to make this drink, with an option for messing around some more? [ Because. He'd be interested in that. ] And not, like... a date-date.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
1/2
Sorry, Lupine ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
[ Leaning in, with a needlessly conspiratorial whisper ]
Commitment is against my religious principles.
[ Which is not 100% a lie
But maybe it's more like "in this house we do not date humans who will die in a meager 80 years" ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Yeah, yeah. Glad to amuse you. [ And the nymph is, actually, so. ] [ Muttered, ] This place'll almost train you out of asking, but. Still that ten percent chance, you know?
[ Didn't wanna miscommunicate, but he's already said way too much that's easy to decode as caring about Venti's feelings, so. ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
There's no shame in looking out for the feelings of others. Or avoiding very awkward situations. ♪
Anyway, your first definition of "date" was the correct one.
1/2
Good.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
I mean, if that's how you kiss...
[ He'd like to reap some more of the benefits of — probably more sexual experience than he can really comprehend. ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Winks at him ]
It miiiiight be worth your while.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Noted.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
On a related note . . . any other squares?
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
I think your votes were 'pollen' or 'nature walk'.
[ ...But he's got a free hand, so. While Venti debates which he'd rather do, Lupine is just going to be getting a different square by reclaiming Vent's left wrist and—
—most of what he can do like this really does feel exactly like using rapunzel, but he's a little blank for a few seconds.
How does healing work. ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
You good?
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
[ Lipquirk. ]
What if I do it wrong, and you sprout flowers instead.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Well, here goes nothing.
[ ...but it does feel kind of the same way blooming flowers does, when he focuses, and thankfully, in his opinion, all it does is seal up the little smiley face. Good as new — and no scar, but well. Why wouldn't nymph-card-heals work differently. ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
And yet you're already a professional! Impressive.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
Yeah, real professional, for as long as this thing lasts.
[ But he's gonna stir up the wind for nightingale again; land lightly on the leaf. ]
Pollen or nature walk? [ Beat. ] This might count for the 'walking' part of it, if we go slow and through the forest.
[ So, it could be a flying thing. ]
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
[ Considering the leaf for a moment ]
Well, I certainly won't say no to an opportunity to be off the ground, however brief.
Re: + Venti, Monster Bingo 3
[ So, he starts the descent; stops about a meter above the ground. ]
Good enough, or does it need more altitude to be 'off the ground'?
+ Alexander, Monster Bingo 3
Okay, but give me a sec. I just got this outfit, I'm not gonna rip through it.
Re: + Alexander, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Alexander, Monster Bingo 3
Don't worry, I wasn't going to flash you.
[ But since Alex isn't looking, he'll speed it up a little, unzipping and kicking off his boots, shimmying out of his jeans. Skinning out of his shirt...
When he's down to just his boxer briefs, he starts shifting: first furry all over, then dropping down onto all fours before he — slowly — changes the rest of the way, so that he only drops the underwear at the very end, stepping out of it easily. ]
Re: + Alexander, Monster Bingo 3
[When the transformation is complete, he will turn around and kneel down.]
Now, I'm sure you have items on your card you need in that form. Go on.
Re: + Alexander, Monster Bingo 3
Headtilt in wolf form, ears flicking. ]
Re: + Alexander, Monster Bingo 3
You can bite. I hardly mind the pain.
Re: + Alexander, Monster Bingo 3
It takes him a moment to process the offer. —And then he's a little reluctant, because the scritches are nice.
Eventually, turns his head to nip the hand. ]
Re: + Alexander, Monster Bingo 3
Now, that wasn't too difficult.
Re: + Alexander, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Alexander, Monster Bingo 3
I never play these games to win. I believe Izanagi already has a stack of cards complete.
Re: + Alexander, Monster Bingo 3
Can't compete with that, I guess.
[ But he's certainly planning to do what he can anyway. ]
+ Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Pretty much sounds like any time anything weird happens to me or anyone around me, blaming an AlcheME potion would be a safe bet.
[ But also. ]
—Did you want to talk more about the other thing?
[ Because if the only one he was making uncomfortable was himself, well. He has to at least ask. ]
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
[ So, got it in one Lupine. ]
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Don't think I've got anything left to say. If I ask you to point me at anyone who makes you uncomfortable, isn't that just telling you I don't think you can take care of yourself?
[ Beat. ]
But if, for whatever reason, you ever need help — I'd be there.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Was it that obvious that someone had something to do with it? ...Thanks for the offer, still.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Not — obvious, no. [ He doesn't want to make Lark feel transparent, and he doesn't... think it was all that obvious. ] Just... made sense.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Thanks, I guess.
[ After a moment, ]
Feels like... maybe we know each other a little better now anyway.
[ The memory-sharing helped. ]
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Don't say it like you didn't see me as a kid, too.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
[ Genuinely unsure if this is an actual compliment. ]
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Well, I'll pass it on to... [ Pauses, pretends to think. ] Nope, guess I'm an orphan.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
[ ..........Might also still not actually believe you? But it's definitely easier to process having been cute as a kid. ]
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
[ Take the damn compliment. ]
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
It wasn't that long of a memory.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
I mean, I was the only one awake. I was probably bored.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Hmmm, is that so? Bored enough to go out of your way to talk to him?
1/2
[ There you go, an incredibly technical completed row, now he can— ]
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Lupine sighs. ]
Well, I don't know what I was expecting.
[ At least it's still bound to change the topic of conversation, right?! ]
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Really now.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Yeah?
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
I don't get called cute a lot.
[ Beat. A bit of a self-mocking eyeroll. ]
I don't think I do, anyway. It definitely feels weird.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Suit yourself.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
I do have a whole new card now, though. Sadly, no square for getting called cute.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
A lot of cutesy stuff about flowers. This square, [ taps 'lecture someone about plants/flowers', ] was definitely a personal attack, though.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
[ Beat. ]
I'm having better luck with fruits and vegetables, but I doubt listing off the ones that go together best in a parfait's gonna count as lecturing anyone.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Well, banana's good with anything. It can help neutralize the acid in kiwis, make 'em play nicer with other fruits, but as long as you've got really sweet strawberries and blueberries — rather than tart — you'll probably be okay.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
What... are you doing?
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
—Yeah, well. ...There are other fruits, like peaches, that'll get pretty much swallowed up by whatever else you mix in there, so... if you want a peach parfait, it should really just be peach and cream. Less of a problem with banana, because who wants a banana parfait......
[ This is very awkward, he's so aware of every time Lark makes a note. ]
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
We don't have things like 'parfait' where I'm from, so this is useful.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
I could just show you how it goes.
[ Maybe with less sugar? ]
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
But I'd be tripping over what I'm trying to say a lot less.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Okay, it's a plan. Once we're out of here. [ A little gesture around the game tower. ] —Any... fruit-related questions? To finish off my 'lecture'.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Depends on why they don't eat much fruit or vegetables. Most little kids, I'd go for ripe strawberries. The little ones. [ Holds up his thumb and forefinger to demonstrate a little strawberry. ] They're sweet, but also pretty mild, and they're soft and easy to chew. Watermelon's another good candidate, if you cut it up into bite-sized pieces.
[ ......He could keep going. Might have a lot of stuff in his head about getting picky kids to eat fruit. Oooookay. Switching gears: ]
But if it's someone who just thinks fruit is boring, maybe hit 'em with a mango? Really flavorful, sweet but also tart.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Hehe, they're not exactly picky, but they're the kind of people who tend to reach for the really sugary stuff if they want something sweet. I'm a little worried they'll get diabetes one day.
[ He notes down the part about mango, in particular. ]
And what about for someone who doesn't like overly sweet things?
1/2
What's diabetes.] [ Hrm. ]You could also try starting with the parfait, the way I make it at least you can definitely still taste the fruit.
[ If he were trying to figure out which specific people Lark was talking about, he'd be very amused right now because so much of AlcheME is older than Lark, but. Sometimes you wanna give your friends plausible deniability. ]
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Probably better to go for vegetables, in that case. Start savory, you know? Couple of basic tips.
[ And now he's gonna be listing them off on his fingers. ]
Don't boil 'em unless you've got a really good sauce or stew going. Mostly you're gonna want to roast them. Melted butter and spice is easy and almost always really good, no matter what you're cooking. Broccoli, sprouts, root vegetables... cauliflower, if you're really worried about them reacting to the taste, because it barely has one.
[ Tips his head back. ]
Also, don't feel like you have to do a salad. Salad's fine, but your only flavor's coming from the dressing. A carrot cooked in curry is always gonna taste better than a raw carrot with a little dressing.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
...Carrots cooked in curry sounds pretty good, actually.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
It definitely is. You wanna stew 'em to just soft, so they really absorb the flavor. Lots of veggies do well like that, just gotta put 'em in the pot at different times so you don't have anything that's either still a little raw or way overcooked.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
So, that's what I'd do. You can probably also get a sauce they already like and serve a mild vegetable in that, something that's got a lot of nutrients, just to kinda... get your foot in the door with 'em.
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Lark, Monster Bingo 3
[ You could also just ask, but that seems boring. ]
+ Okitsu, Monster Bingo 3
...You're in hell, or something. Probably a lot of people are dead.
Re: + Okitsu, Monster Bingo 3
[ he gives an overdramatic shrug, finishing off with a heavy sigh. ]
Between that and "amnesia round two," getting "fitting" outcomes like these shouldn't surprise me. But hey- enough with the bad jokes, puns. [ he waves a hand dismissively. ]
You making progress on your bingo card?
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Who, me?
[ Tugs his card out. —HE SURE IS. Flips it with some amusement to show that he's got one missing square in all of his rows and columns. ...But just the one. 'Get fangs touched', 'Chin scritches', 'Pocky share a kiss', 'Bury someone or someone's belonging', and 'Play fetch' are still available....... and nothing else. ]
—I've been busy, I guess.
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[ he's peeking them over, and those are so... cute. and innocent-seeming. ]
To be honest, I don't even really know how I'm expected to do a lot of mine. You, uh, wouldn't be up for a chin scratch to check that off, would you?
[ he's trying not to be too forward while also just. trying to help out. with something that's actually really cute to him, but that's just a bonus. ]
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[ Hey, this card has gotten him laid at least once today, but the prompts are kind of what you make of them. ] [ Lupine's lips quirk a little. ]
And sure, if you'll give me a sec. I'm not looking to trash this outfit, and uh... the wolf I turn into is kind of big.
[ Already shrugging out of his jacket. Up to Okitsu if he wants to turn away, really, but by this point Lupine has gotten all kinds of reactions to stripping, and he's not feeling especially shy.
And, for what it's worth, the boy is fine.He'll stop at the underwear and go furry for more modesty, though. ]
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[ there are positives to a large wolf form for sure. more scritchy surface, better belly rubs, better cuddles. and others, surely.
had Okitsu gotten different memories or had different experiences thus far, he might have been more reserved about the stripping, but at this stage he has both old memories of destroyed bodies and current ones he needed to dive in for to patch up, so a healthy one is more than fine. he turns aside a little and smiles to himself, but he doesn't make a show of looking. (not that he doesn't, though, he's just mindful not to stare too long. unlike his little stint of staring at a nearly naked nymph...) ]
You... you all set? [ just a gentle request for permission, and also him holding back from saying the weres are kind of cute in that "extra extra large teddy bear" way. ] We can go over mine after I take care of some of yours, deal?
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[ Well, he's definitely now mostly naked. The shift after that is on the slow side, controlled, so that he's able to slip the underwear down and then just step out of it once he's entirely wolf.
And now there's just a decidedly large wolf, jet black fur all over, with eerily human gray eyes. The wolf trots up to Okitsu and then sits, sort of like an attentive dog. ]
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… You’ve, uh. You’ve done this once or twice, huh… [ he gently reaches over to just. offer a hand for pets to start. ]
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He has, yeah. He's way faster at getting out of this outfit now. But, well. Anything physical is pretty much his forte. He can also shift only partway and just kind of stay there, a more 'traditional' werewolf instead of this anime catboy werewolf thing he has going on most of th etime. ]
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he strokes over Lupine's head, scritching a little behind his ears first. ]
Hey, so... I know I said I'd give you chin scratches. I will, but maybe I could also touch... You know, other stuff.
[ BOLD?
except. wait.
he opens his own mouth and gestures to one of his own canines. ]
Two in one, right?
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Lots of very sharp teeth right now, clean and white.
Apparently this is what good dental hygiene looks like on a wolf.Also has perfectly inoffensive breath.]no subject
[ when he was under the effect of that kemonomimi potion, but he'd been too worried about being good enough as a host and effective in serving to just indulge. probably merciful that he had been, in the end.
still scritching at the top of Lupine's head, he leans in a little closer and hovers his fingers over those very well cared for teeth. ]
No biting the fingers, alright? I don't care if you want to bite through my hair or wherever else, but I use my hands a lot. Or I'm going to be. So, off limits.
[ not that he'd exactly been worried about aggression, but might as well establish a boundary, even if he truly could just heal the damage in the end. it's about trust! and apparently being flippant with everything else. Kitsu runs a finger along those bared teeth, nodding along. ]
What a strange square for a bingo...
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The bit about not biting his fingers earns him a very flat look, though. What kind of wolf do you take him for.
—And, okay, having his teeth touched is really weird, he manages to hold still for just a few seconds before he has to withdraw his head. Moving his jaw around and wrinkling his muzzle somewhat comically. ]
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[ again, what a weird square for bingo. but, hopefully this was effective enough? for the trouble and theatrical discomfort, Kitsu reaches over to scritch some more behind those ears. ]
Wanna roll onto your back? We can finish this.
[ chin scratchies and belly rubs, perhaps? this one is a little bit for him too, it just. sounds fun and correct. and it sounds cute!
sometimes things can be cute and not horribly terrifying like heights]no subject
+ Alphinaud, Monster Bingo 3
I was just picking it up to look at it more closely. [ Wry. ] And then, poof. Should've taken the instructions more seriously, I guess.
[ He could heckle Alphi, but man, that would feel so mean. ]
If you stole something shiny, would that make it 'your' possession enough for me to bury it, you think?
+ Persephone, Monster Bingo 3
Any squares you'd want me to help with?
Re: + Persephone, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Persephone, Monster Bingo 3
if hypnotizing song I would like to request SFW hypnosis because he would feel SO BAD later for being seduced by someone under 18] [ Lupine blinks. ]Sure — why not?
Re: + Persephone, Monster Bingo 3
it's just a regular song.. and will start singing: it's not anything Lupine can understand, but it's soothing and Persephone is a master of his craft.]Re: + Persephone, Monster Bingo 3
fff sorry about that misunderstanding about perse's age but \o/.......is this the first time he's ever actually heard an idol sing. That's a little bit funny. The song itself isn't, though, and as much as he's just... not really an appreciator of the arts, Lupine goes quiet to listen. ]Re: + Persephone, Monster Bingo 3
performance is his supernal ability, something he is worldshatteringly good at. so enjoy it, probably. it's lovely and sweet and melancholy.]+ Pentium, Monster Bingo 3
...Uh-huh. Can't help noticing you aren't, though.
[ And he's... not complaining? Still not completely sure if he's being flirted with, but... ]
Did you have any squares you wanted to work on?
Re: + Pentium, Monster Bingo 3
Re: + Pentium, Monster Bingo 3
[ Inclines his head to look over the card. ]
Huh, we've got some of the same ones. [ He's....... already been leashed, improbably. ] Oh, hey, spar with someone!
[ Lupine might have lit up at that. But at least he won't just start without warning??? ]
Re: + Pentium, Monster Bingo 3
[ pentium’s mouth quirks, ] Let’s spar.
Re: + Pentium, Monster Bingo 3
Did you catch the fight live? [ The broadest grin. ] I think BARiTONES and LiliS can definitely go together.
[ Annnnd cracking his knuckles now. He hunkers down just a little into a very loose stance. ]
Ready when you are.
Re: + Pentium, Monster Bingo 3
I did not. We should plan something then... I have a carriage and we could bring a couple of people around on it. Maybe do a pub crawl and explore the different places to get drinks and food or something.
[ pentium takes a couple of steps back and flashes him with a smile. ] Ready... go! [ his smile widens into a smirk as he darts forward, aiming to slash at him with his claws. ]
1/2
Apparently there aren't any bars in this city. [ This is actually not completely true, there's a karaoke bar that totally serves alcohol, but Lupine has been misinformed. He grins, though, because he does at least know: ] Good thing you guys can just make drinks wherever you go.
Re: + Pentium, Monster Bingo 3
That's not how that works, producers, but he's not complaining just at the moment.Agile and fast, but no slouch in the strength department either, and certainly capable of fighting barehanded with a style that involves a lot of punches, kicks, flips, and tricks, Lupine's certainly formidable enough, even with the time he has to spend adjusting to having claws.
(He's also holding back some, learning how Pentium fights and seemingly adjusting himself in response. If Pentium goes hard, he'll give it his all — but if Pentium swipes at him in ways obviously designed to miss, he'll respond in kind.) ]
+ Tsukasa, Monster Bingo 3
Sounds like you got a fun one. Any I can help you knock out?
Re: + Tsukasa, Monster Bingo 3
[ Are our definitions of fun the same, Mister i-like-a-lil-bit-of-pain Yuri. ]
I don't suppose you like being tied up, serenaded, hypnotized, or doing cheers together...? Among other things.
Re: + Tsukasa, Monster Bingo 3
Well, I can— [ Stops himself with a snort. ] I guess I can't, actually, safely say I haven't done any of that before. But definitely not that I can remember.
[ A glance around... he should probably be transporting Tsukky somewhere while they talk. ]
Re: + Tsukasa, Monster Bingo 3
Fufu... well, I can safely say that I should be fairly good at serenading. And I am quite adept at using rope? So you wouldn't need fear for either. For the second, I certainly would not harm you. It would be catch and release.
Re: + Tsukasa, Monster Bingo 3
Please don't take this the wrong way, but I wasn't worried.
[ Eyes flick up thoughtfully. ]
I guess you could probably do the serenade and the hypno-whatsit at the same time.
[ There sure are some connotations to the things you listed off, Tsukky, but Lupine has apparently not even sort of registered that you might be aware of them, let alone mean them. ]
record* my mistakes made eternal
[ He is bragging but it's okay to brag if it's true, isn't it? ]
oh no hugs <3 it's okay i didn't notice
[ But he is laughing, because. Yeah. You've got your tentacles wrapped around his waist and he's supporting your weight and it's just impossible to be remotely intimidated. ]
Sure, where do you want me?
Re: oh no hugs <3 it's okay i didn't notice
Well... it would be easier if I could have you in the water with me? But I'm not so sure someone would feel comfortable tied up in the water.
I have a rope, but perhaps it is easier with tentacles? Then again... fufu...
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Okay, if this counts as tied up, but I should probably grab a chair first, just in case I lose my grip on you once I'm under your spell.
[ Tsukky, you're adorable and so is this whole thing. ] [ It doesn't take him long to maneuver them over to a chair, though. ]
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. . . Are you sure you are comfortable like this? I know I worried about it before, but this isn't too heavy?
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...How much do you think you weigh, Tsukky?
[ Because. Utterly bewildered. ]
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It wouldn't be lovable or cute for an idol to gain too much after all, as Sena-senpai says. And so, since it is a little embarrassing, I would rather not say how much I weigh. It feels as though my senpai would reach through the screen and smite me on the spot if I did.
[ He gained a pound since Hunger Games. It's terrible. OTL ]
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Right, well, you weigh like. Nothing.
[ Definitely could've carried you and Venti and Felicity up the stairs in that dungeoncrawl with Nightingale. ]
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Wow, Tsukky. I resemble that remark.
[ Literally has wolf ears and a tail right now, ]
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[ Though they're really just playing around a lot right now aren't they. He hums...]
Maybe I should simply sing one of my unit, songs? To lure you into my trap, that is. ♪
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[ Chuckling, he shakes his head. ]
And now there's a trap. How dastardly.
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[ And here he thought you didn't like cheating. :|a ] [ Shakes his head, still grinning broadly. ]
Well? I'm all tied up now...
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Okay, no no just kidding. ]
Hmm. I shall simply pick one of our songs, then. They are all meant to sweep one off their feet, after all. And so which is probably less important than simply doing it.
[ He'll go with the latest one he downloaded. Since it only seemed to pop up recently. It'll be a much slower, acapella version of Castle of my Heart.
It's meant to be the serenade, but the desire to listen and attend to him is laced through the words so that by the end, the hypnotism is so firmly wound about Lupine, who listened so compliantly, that if he asked him to jump, it would be a matter of how high. ♪ ]
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But Tsukasa keeps going and he starts to feel sort of floaty. The amusement drains. His expression slackens, eyes slipping first to half-mast and then shut. This is fine. ]
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Isn't this... actually a dangerous ability?
Of course, in his hands, it is perfectly safe. Probably. ]
Fufu~ you're a good boy aren't you, Lupine-san? ♪
[ He reaches up to pat him on his head. ]
I will be gentle with you, so do not worry a hair upon your head. I am a Knight after all. And we are nothing without our honor. But now that I have you in my net... I cannot very well just release you without a bit of fun, first. ♪
And so, I shall ask you for your time. And first, I think I should like to hear a cheer of sorts. Do you have anything like that in your homeworld?
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But he isn't uncooperative, either. Doing what Tsukasa asks still seems like a good idea. There's some slow, sleepy confusion visible on his face, though.
What's a cheer, Tsukky? ]
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[ No immediate reaction, it seems. ]
Perhaps you are unfamiliar with what a cheer is? Truthfully, I am unsure if I have ever done one myself. I would venture to say no. But we can be creative. ♪
[ His tentacles shift over him, ensuring that his hands are free for this, at the same time Tsukasa lifts his own hands up. ]
Something like... 'Go avante go go avante!' Or " 'A' 'V' 'A' 'N' 'T' 'E' ! AVANTE! You do it while clapping, or lifting your hands up in celebration.
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Go avante, go~.
[ Is this what you had in mind, you unfeeling monster. ]
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[ His hand lifts to pet him on the head. ]
But it was an attempt. So I shall give you credit for it. But you see...? I cannot release you yet, Lupine-san.
[ His hand trails through the length of some of his hair. ]
There are a few more squares I would like to fill. I hope you do not mind.
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Are you up for a little bath?
no subject
Sure, if you can get us to water.
[ He kind of doesn't think you can without help? ]
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What is?
1/2
[ Mrr. ]
2/2
Just carry me like before.
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Where to~?
[ There're definitely pools around here somewhere... ]
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. . . He really is strong. At least in Tsukasa's opinion, despite whatever he says. He has the grace to feel a little embarrassed, being carried again, but stomps it down in favor of lifting a tentacle and pointing off in the direction toward their left. ]
I believe I have spotted one over in this direction.
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Getting the hang of those, huh?
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Sure.
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[ AT LEAST PRETEND. Either way, he begins to slowly try and. Crawl... off of him. With his many legs. To try and get into the water. ]
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There you go.
1/2
2/2
Come. Into the water with you now. Right now, you are supposed to be under my spell, you know? So behave like a good boy.
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Are you really gonna make him get into the water with his clothes on, Tsukky. ]
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Halt- hold on. I would feel badly if I were to have you get your clothes wet. What would you wear after?
If you would like to avoid that, it should be alright if you strip down a little. If you prefer?
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I feel much better this way. If you got a cold due to me, I would feel so sorry for compromising your health. Being as fit and healthy as possible is absolutely essential here. Becoming ill can hurt you, especially in a game.
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He leaves his underwear on, Tsukky, but he's also gonna skin out of his t-shirt and the crop top underneath. ]
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. . . It's a little unfair, he thinks, how effortlessly fit some people appear.
Though he has no way of knowing how much he works out or not. And as an idol he isn't supposed to put on too much muscle mass... probably.
Ahem. He finishes trying to awkwardly fold the clothes. He's still no good at it, but once finished, he reaches a tentacle up. ]
Allow me to help you in?
1/2
From restlessness.]no subject
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. . . Sort of. It's a specific sort of practice routine, and mostly cardio. ]
Fufu... very good very good! ♪
[ Petting him on the head with another tentacle, while he reaches back to the side of the pool. Lucky for them, all the necessities that are needed for their bingo cards can be found for the strange event. What he reaches for is a bottle of shampoo. He holds it up cheerfully when he turns back around. ]
One of my cards requires me to wash someone's hair. I shall ensure that it shines beautifully.
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Sure.
[ His hair's even loose and everything. Just mind the flowers. ]
+ Rye, Rye's Sanctuary
I mean, I'd probably try some of these out, too, but I guess I can't pretend I'm not also okay with a little pain.
Re: + Rye, Rye's Sanctuary
Re: + Rye, Rye's Sanctuary
[ Leaning back on his hands. ]
Do you know where you are? I mean, for real?
Re: + Rye, Rye's Sanctuary
Its a game.
Re: + Rye, Rye's Sanctuary
Okay. And you know there're — some of your memories here, right?
[ Beat. ]
Do you wanna play? Because I think I have to watch them first.
Re: + Rye, Rye's Sanctuary
Re: + Rye, Rye's Sanctuary
So, you agree that this is probably a 'trauma' game in disguise, huh?
Re: + Rye, Rye's Sanctuary
Re: + Rye, Rye's Sanctuary
Okay. So. You probably want me to get started, huh?
Re: + Rye, Rye's Sanctuary
You probably won't expect what you see. Most people don't.
Re: + Rye, Rye's Sanctuary
Re: + Rye, Rye's Sanctuary
Re: + Rye, Rye's Sanctuary
[ For now, though, reaching for a memory...? ]
Re: + Rye, Rye's Sanctuary
[The memory isn't as bad as some could be. Though it ends during the night without including the next day.]
[But the feelings are strong. There is the panic, of course. The fear of discovery. He's trying so hard to hide the drawings he's made of the dragon, and then it sounds like he knows already. There is still fear, but honestly, this wasn't his father's scary calm. This was aggressive, but it isn't the amount of rage he expected.]
[He starts apologizing, feeling guilty, he should have just told him, but there is a relief that maybe, maybe this didn't have to be the nightmare scenarios he dreamt up.]
[Until his father laughs.]
[No, his father was just messing with him, and he was proud of his training, and because Hiccup is 'better,' he tells him all the thoughts he had kept to himself.]
[It feels as if the bottom of his stomach falls out of him as Stoick says everything he had suspected, everything he had feared was true.]
[How he knows the reason those feelings stopped is based on a lie. That these feelings are the truth of the matter. It leaves him almost numb to the pain that comes with the realization.]
[Lessens the blow of how eager his father looks to talk to him, and how its not true, but it doesn't negate the awkward.]
[The helmet is touching. If. Awkward. Because breastplate, but its something of his mother's and that still means a lot, and its still a lie, lie, lie-]
[Finally, the awkwardness is too much and with a weak excuse, he gets Stoick to leave and he sighs because it seems like they're awkward even when his dad wants to talk.]
[He looks at the helmet. He looks at the pictures. He repeats the words 'worst viking Berk's ever seen.']
[He sits down hard because he is going to need to make a choice. He knows he will. Because he can't be what they want. He can't be what his father wants.]
[He can't belong. He knows he will never belong, and he should just leave. Run away with Toothless.]
[He looks at the helmet and he sits down heavily because he knows he should leave, but the very thought makes his heart feel like its crumbling in his chest.]
Re: + Rye, Rye's Sanctuary
Heh. Keep seeing parents in people's memories that make me think maybe I got the better end of the stick.
[ It's a pretty weak joke, but. It's also true. He's sorry, Rye. ]
Re: + Rye, Rye's Sanctuary
Just.
It made him a bad father a lot of the time. He needed me to be something I wasn't, I caused problems, and got people hurt in my desperation, which got him upset, which made me more desperate, which caused more problems. He couldn't understand me. Most couldn't.
But he wanted to connect and I think that hurt worst of all. He wanted to, we wanted to, but it just didn't happen.
Not until....well, Toothless and Astrid and almost getting the whole village eaten by the Red Death because we couldn't listen and trust each other. Things did improve, but....
[He picks up the spyglass.] But scars don't go away easily.
Re: + Rye, Rye's Sanctuary
Sounds like you've been thinking about this a lot.
[ And you've come out in a remarkably healthy place, all things considered. ]
No, they don't. They fade, but it takes a long time.
Re: + Rye, Rye's Sanctuary
Its my dad. And for a while, I thought I had gotten everyone killed, and I'm relieved I didn't, but then its like...
There was everything before and after and its a lot. Things are better now. It shouldn't hurt this much still.
Re: + Rye, Rye's Sanctuary
'Shouldn't' doesn't really factor when it comes to feelings.
+ Rye, Lupine's Sanctuary
Re: + Rye, Lupine's Sanctuary
[Gladiator conditions and SACRIFICING PEOPLE FOR MONEY, INCLUDING CHILDREN]
[Also this just convinces him more and more that money is, indeed, over rated.]
He's supposed to be a leader? [The disgust is absolutely dripping from him. Because at least greedy assholes are greedy assholes, but leaders are Supposed To Be Better.]
Re: + Rye, Lupine's Sanctuary
Yeah, he's definitely someone [ self- ] important. On some sort of council.
Re: + Rye, Lupine's Sanctuary
And that's how he sees people?
Re: + Rye, Lupine's Sanctuary
Re: + Rye, Lupine's Sanctuary
[Though honestly! This would be a time he would agree murder would be warranted.]
[That was a CHILD, and while he believes some Terrible People Can Be Better, murder of a child for sick enjoyment is one of those things you don't get Better from.]
Re: + Rye, Lupine's Sanctuary
[ You're so worried and upset and... it's kind of sweet, sorry??? ]
Re: + Rye, Lupine's Sanctuary
[He cares so much for people, especially innocents.]
Re: + Rye, Lupine's Sanctuary
Here's hoping.
Re: + Rye, Lupine's Sanctuary
Yeah. [He rubs at his face.] Are you okay?
Re: + Rye, Lupine's Sanctuary
...I am, yeah. I — heh. I was kind of expecting you to shrug that off.
[ It's nice that you didn't. ]
Re: + Rye, Lupine's Sanctuary
[Sometimes assassinations are legit.]
Who would shrug off that?
Re: + Rye, Lupine's Sanctuary
—People who've seen a lot worse, probably.
[ He's not blaming anybody for their blasé nonreactions, it's just... exhausting, after a while. ]
Re: + Rye, Lupine's Sanctuary
[Sometimes evil has to be forcibly removed, even if disgraced living would be a better punishment.]
It was a child. In a death pit. It's not even a gladiator death pit, at least those have people interested in a good fight, and that's a nightmare to go through, and somehow this guy has made those types slightly less morally disgusting!
Re: + Rye, Lupine's Sanctuary
...Yeah. A kid, whose parents couldn't afford to pay their taxes.
[ And the fact that they were successfully (maybe) rescuing one kid from a maze full of bones and blood — well. He doesn't love the natural conclusion there. ]
+ Art, D.va's graduation
From here.]Yep.
[ And therein lies the rub. ]
I trust the hell offer a little more. At least they admit they expect your eternal servitude in exchange for your wish. But a big part of me still says there's gotta be another layer to the devil's bargain, like your wish'll eventually backfire.
[ hello and welcome to his paranoia Art ]
Re: + Art, D.va's graduation
...it would be pretty foolish to expect eternal servitude from someone if the very foundation of that agreement were to fall through.
Re: + Art, D.va's graduation
brackets that are rude to him in particular]Maybe. [ Wry. ] But it's not like this place is a model of efficiency, is it. Takes ages for one of us to even 'graduate'. So they must like the show we put on in the meantime.
[ He suspects they'd also like the show he'd put on if they got him to make a wish that wound up hurting someone. ]
+ Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
From here.] [ ...Yeah, he's just. pausing on the threshold of the hotel, the door still held open. Eyes on his phone.He doesn't say anything or move for a long moment, then the phone goes back into his pocket. Fuck this place, honestly. ]
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Lupine?
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
I'm fine. Just — tired.
[ Beat. ]
Think I left something back in the game tower. [ Beat. His gaze flicks up to the hotel, the general direction of ZRAEL's dorm. ] They've got this, right? For the night at least.
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Between Lumine and Caeli, everything will be fine.
[ That, at least, he's sure of. ]
C'mon, it's my turn to offer a ride.
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
What?
[ a ride? where, ]
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Or-- [ a meaningful glance ] wherever.
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
...I don't know where I'm going. Just — somewhere not here.
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
That I can do.
[ Gesturing for Lupine to loop an arm over his shoulders. ]
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Why?
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
1/2
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
[ This has most of the cadence of a joke. Like, he tried. Gold star. ]
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
And you can decide if you feel like telling me what's happened or not.
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
What, you haven't had enough of putting me back together yet tonight?
[ It — sounds nice. But he has to give Venti one more out, at least. ]
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
...I don't even know why I'm surprised, really. I mean, I was working up to — saying something. [ Heh. ] So of course, right? I'm sure this is great TV.
1/2
"Working up to saying something" . . . ]
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Your friend . . . ?
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Off the roster.
The hope is that he wound up on a 'show' that sucks less than this one, right?
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Yes, at least . . . That's almost always the case.
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
[ Beat. ]
I guess we probably don't graduate from the other programs, so. There's always that.
[ Anyway today is the worst. Today is the worst. He would kind of like to be drunk. ]
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
—Yeah. I guess.
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
You "guess"?
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
I don't know. Even if you trust this system, [ and oh boy does he ever not, ] I'm not so sure riding off into the sunset is really my style.
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
[ Everyone's made it sound like — graduation is something you can put off for a little while, but not something you can opt out of altogether. ]
Don't love the idea of going back to any sort of peaceful world while this place is still up and running, though.
[ Which is definitely as close as he will get to saying he plans to take the fugitive option while on 'camera'. ]
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Some people go on to run games themselves, right? Social games.
[ He thinks Cobalt's games make a difference, even if it's not as much of a difference as he wants to make. And yes he sure is talking very casually about selling his soul. ]
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Better than turning my back completely. [ Smallest hesitation, because again there are cameras, but he can phrase it like he doesn't already know: ] If there's even a chance we can take the system down from the inside...
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
It doesn't always have to be you, Lupine.
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
I'm not asking anyone else to do it.
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
That aside, selfishly -- what if I want you to be happy? Wouldn't going home with him make you so?
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
[ ......And. Only more surprised. ]
—Honestly not sure. [ Half-smile. ] I think it's a safe bet that the three-year separation wasn't great, but...
[ Would just going back to the same world as him make Lupine happy? It feels like kind of a lot to pin on one other person. Especially a person he's just spent the last couple weeks making a fool of himself around. ]
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
. . . What if you just went to another world entirely, and had a fresh start? What if you came to Teyvat? You and your friend would be just as welcome, and you could lay your old burdens to rest.
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Sorry, you'll have to give him a second if you want a verbal response, he is. Processing. ]
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Lupine?
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
[ He's already done some successful rationalizing over Zari's offer: that it was couched in the expectation that he'd say no, that they're both immortals so it's probably more like inviting him over for a long weekend, that Venti might not actually be on board anyway. ]
—Why?
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
...I mean...
[ He can feel the heat rising in his stupid face, ugh. ]
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
It's a silly question, isn't it?
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
You're sure? And — you really wouldn't mind him coming too?
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
I wouldn't offer if I minded, would I?
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
But I mean. That's — kind of permanent, isn't it? At least for us.
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
...I mean...
[ Gonna chafe an arm while he tries to put this into words. ]
You're inviting me — us — to come live on your world. We're not gonna know how anything works. You'll have to kinda... look after us, at least for a while.
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
[ Like creating and nurturing an entire nation ]
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
[ this is honestly the least of his concerns but meet his relentless practicality ]
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
There's no better way to learn a language than total immersion!
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
...so, is this an invite to live with you? Or are you expecting us to all go our separate ways because it's probably a big planet?
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
I'm not going to clip your wings, Lupine. If seeing the vast world is what you want, then you have the freedom to do that.
But if companionship is what you desire, then yes, I offer that too.
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
I never thought you were gonna lock us up in a tower.
[ what are you, baritones ]
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
[ His gaze lingers on Venti's face for another moment, then he points it back up at the sky. He really wants to keep pushing, to know for sure whether he's being invited to cross a bridge and come explore a world or move in together, but it doesn't really feel fair to keep asking without at least making himself vulnerable enough to say: ]
...I don't have enough memories back to know what's going on back home, and I'd — have to ask him, you know? But it's tempting.
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
I'd miss you, you know.
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
You know, there was a time when I don't think you would have admitted to that.
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
[ Mr. We Do Not Get Attached to Mortals In This House. ]
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Some of it even in okay ways!
[ He's not saying this — fixes everything. Today was still kind of the worst in several separate ways. But he does... feel a little better. A little lighter. Having plans, even tentative ones—
...Having talked about it...
It helps. ]
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Hehe. Some of it, yes.
Did you decide where we're going?
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Where we can get something to drink without having to pay a delivery fee.
[ But it will be less Miserable Drinking in Silence now. ]
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
—Thank you. By the way.
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
Re: + Venti, Foul Toxins Aftermath
We both know it's easier to just — not ask. To smile and laugh and redirect.
[ It's been a while but he still appreciates that moment after Ideal Worlds where he tried to deflect and you responded by telling him you felt like shit. It made it a little easier to let his own guard down, and he doesn't think it's ever been quite as up since. ]