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October | Test Drive Meme
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You've seen this before. The thought strikes suddenly, during whatever it is you were doing. Having an important conversation? Running away from home? Dying in the midst of a fierce battle? Where ever you are, one things is true: you're certain this isn't the first time you've lived through this. But upon realizing this, that's when it happens. Like someone hitting rewind on the VCR, you're back where you were ten minutes ago. And it happens again. And again. And again--Until finally, something is different. A door stands in front of you. Will you go through it? Nothing else seems to be working, so this might be your only chance.
Upon opening the door and heading inside, a strange feeling overwhelms you. It's comforting and warm, like being enveloped in a soft, heavy blanket. You hear a voice murmuring in your ear, but it's unintelligible.
And in the next moment, you've appeared in front of a mysterious stone shrine in the middle of a forest, surrounded by the unfamiliar yet worried faces of fox-like humans in red and white robes, speaking in a foreign language that doesn't sound so foreign to you anymore.
Maryouku University
There isn't much time to process what's happening before characters are transported to the nearby Maryouku University. All injuries are completely healed, and those under mental duress will have a powerful soothing spell cast on them to calm them down. Their every need is met: food is offered, and questions are answered. "You've arrived in the Western Kingdom of Nippon, on a planet called Gaia," they explain. "When you became aware of the timeloop, we... well, let us explain."
Orientation Maryouku University, Kyoto
Everyone is brought to a large auditorium, where dozens of other people looking similarly out of place are seated around them. The Kitsune Yokai from before filter on stage, as well as a number of humans and other Yokai in labcoats. And after a brief introduction, they begin to explain. What they experienced back home was a timeloop. While the loops in their home worlds are smaller and likely to resolve on their own, the fact that such a small amount of time is being repeated is what makes them so dangerous for those who become aware of it. And they've been working around the clock, checking adjacent universes for others who've become aware. While the technical explanations may go over the heads of most, that's not the reason they were all brought together like this.
And they continue to explain: their own world was trapped in a year long loop for decades, if not longer. Through the use of an ancient form of bonding magic, they bound their world to the present flow of time, allowing it to progress past the timeloop. Or at least, that's how they thought it worked. In truth, Kizuna is very powerful reality-warping magic. And thanks to the powerful bond all refugees now share with the country of Nippon, the magic surrounding them will only continue to evolve.
Until a means of resuming the flow of time back in their home world is found, they'll just have to make due with this one. But not to worry, because Nippon is fully committed to taking care of the refugees!
A Brand New Home Kyoto, Kansai
Once orientation is over, characters will be allowed to choose housing in both Kyoto and Tokyo, enabling them the means of easily living between both cities if they please. These housing options will be fully paid for by the government of Nippon, with the NRL and MRU providing a stipend for food expenses in Tokyo and Kyoto respectively.
In lieu of providing transportation, all refugees will be granted an unlimited rail pass that they can use to travel all across Nippon! As of the beginning of May, express routes connecting Tokyo and Kyoto will be running at all times of day, allowing refugees to freely travel between the Eastern and Western Kingdoms.
At the Kiyomizu Temple in Higashiyama, preparations are underway for a festival coming at the end of the month. Refugees will hear talk of the locals trying to decide on what style mask they want to create, and at the Temple itself, they'll find craft booths offering free supplies for custom mask making. The masks must reflect what a person believes to be their inner self, and there's limitless supplies provided to bring their creation to light. It seems these are going to be really important later, so don't just half-ass it, okay?
Over at the dorms in Gion, a rather provocative game has broken out amongst the residents. Following a generous gift of prized sake from one of their patrons, the Geiko have decided to throw a party with the refugees, and somehow, this devolved into a competition of strip rock-paper-scissors. With just how many accessories the Geiko wear, they clearly have the advantage! But no one is talking it very seriously, and the night is filled with laughter and silliness. Join the fun? It's one hell of a way to make new friends!
In Uji, signs of autumn have taken over, as the famously rural neighborhood becomes filled with beautiful hues of red and yellow. At the Byodoin Temple, the monks have requested that all visitors bring offerings of colorful leaves for their resident Phoenix deity, who is known to drain the color from people who provide lackluster or incorrect offerings. However, it seems the phoenix is only interested in red leaves this season, and offering any other color will render the one making the offering temporarily colorblind. At least the effect only lasts about an hour? Such a picky bird.
NRL Time Refugee Support Network
Once they've received their housing assignment, all refugees will be given small handheld devices called magi-tech comms, or magi-comms for short. They're heavier than a conventional smartphone would be, but far sturdier, and powered by the ambient magic that flows through the city. They don't need to be charged, but they won't work outside of cities at all. Upon booting it up, they'll find a message linking them to a special channel for refugees.
#nrl_time_refugee_support - online
Use the following code for your top-level if you'd like! This is how network communication will look for characters in the game until more advanced magi-tech comms become available for characters.
A Tale of Two Festivals
As the leaves of autumn begin to change, so too are the refugees encouraged to change up their routine and pay a visit to the city of Nara. Located south of Kyoto, Nara is a city where Yokai and Ayakashi live in perfect equilibrium, with many aspects of life in the city adjusted to account for the Ayakashi's eccentric behavior. Likewise, the Ayakashi here are almost never known to curse anyone, and are generous in the blessings they offer both the people and the land in which they live.
Perhaps some are put off by the idea of a city where Ayakashi are allowed to flourish after past experiences with these strange creatures. But this month is special!
Starting on October 1st, the Tsukimi Festival is held every night after sundown for the next two weeks. Long ago, the gods gifted Gaia an enchanting string of pearls that entwined the planet, lighting up the night sky. However, the greed of mortals seeking power led them to fight over the pearls. As wars waged, the pearls would be shattered in the conflict, until only one remained. Seeing the way their gift was tarnished, the gods decided that those on Gaia would only be allowed to see the pearl in all its glory for part of the month, taking it away for the other half. This became the cycles of the moon, and the shattered remains of the other pearls formed the solid ring that is always visible in the night sky.
So what makes October so special? For this month only, the full moon will be completely visible for the first full two weeks of the month, never visibly waxing nor waning. But what happens after two weeks...? Well, you'll just have to be patient for that!
One With Nature Narashi, Nara
Nara is an interesting city. Buildings are seemingly hidden away by larger-than-life trees that tower overhead, with some even built into the trees themselves, and all of them brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow for the fall season. Lower streets and areas are lit up by special bioluminescent flowers that bloom on the lower sections of the tree's trunk. And while magic-powered lifts exist, the sheer number of elevated walkways and stairs make it a bit of a workout to explore. And of course, no matter where one looks, wildlife is around every corner -- though by and far, most of them are ayakashi. But there are no higanbana death flowers or dangerous tsutsumi-bara vines here. Instead, the refugees will has a chance to see more tranquil varieties ordinarily only found in the depths of Nippon's forests.
One of the more common creatures found in the main district of Nara, Narashi, is the Arukibake, the ghost-walker ayakashi. Utterly harmless, these little leggy ghosts can be found strutting around the city at every corner, ranging from the size of an apple to waist-height. However, they're known to be naturally attracted to people who have recently experienced bouts of depression or loneliness. The exact reason for this is unknown, but anyone seen with a small procession of these fellas marching silently behind them is certain to get more than a few concerned passer-bys offering them a warm meal, a hug, or even a shoulder to cry on if they need it. Even for the Western Kingdom, it seems the people of Nara are especially compassionate.
And then, there's the likes of the fuwakafun, the puffball ayakashi. No larger than your average cotton ball, these little guys are known to spread not pollen, but color as they move from flower to flower. And Nara, with its unique species of bioluminescent flower that blooms all year round, has no shortage of flowers even during the fall season. Should the fuwakafun land on someone's hair or clothing, it'll fade to take on the color of whatever flower the fuwakafun was resting in before. Ordinarily this effect is meant to create rare flowers as a gift for those who allow the fuwakafun to live in their garden, but with more fuwakafun than flowers, they've got to make do with what they have.
But for all that the Ayakashi in Nara are peaceful, there are still more than a few troublemakers. One in particular to look out for is the gurakurage, the glass-jelly ayakashi. Appearing in an array of beautiful colors, these ayakashi are attracted by greed and feelings of lust. It's not uncommon to see them tethered by a string in shops, where their increased activity serves as a warning to look out for shoplifters. But when encountered in the wild, these strange jellyfish will latch onto the bodies of people experiencing sexual frustration. A minor annoyance to be sure, as they can simply be peeled off, but just don't break the glass dome atop their head. Doing so will greatly anger the ayakashi, causing them to grow in size before... well. I think we all know where the prompt with the tentacle creature is going.
Dear Deer Narashi, Nara
While Nara is known for its high population of Ayakashi, the most well-known is the Saiwaika, the good-fortune deer. Growing no more than two feet high, these miniature deer can be found in parks throughout Nara, where they've become so docile and used to the presence of Yokai that they'll walk right up and cutely beg for food. Thankfully, vendors selling special crackers for the saiwaika can be found everywhere.
Being around the saiwaika has an interesting effect. Those who look upon their tiny, dainty forms will find themselves strongly compelled to be generous and kind to every living creature they meet. Originally a defense mechanism against predators, the saiwaika instead offer this power as a blessing to the people of Nara, which is said to have the lowest crime rate of any city in the Western Kingdom. Even cruel or downright evil folks will find their hearts filled with warm feelings, offering to buy their worst enemy lunch, help a little old lady cross the street, or maybe even offer some more of those tasty crackers to the deer...
All right, so there's a little bit of an ulterior motive to their blessing. But you can't deny they're very cute. However, they really do have a certain craving for these crackers. And while they've learned not to steal them off the stall tables, once the wrapping comes off, it's a free-for-all. The tiny deer have been known to swarm, nibbling at the clothes of those bearing the treats. Some even attempt to jump and steal them, with the saiwaika being well-known for its ability to leap nearly ten feet into the air. Yes, this looks as silly as you can imagine.
Perhaps its because of this that a common prank played by children in Nara is to slip a few crackers into an unsuspecting friend's pocket, causing the deer to hungrily swarm without the target knowing why. Shouldn't their blessing counteract these pranks...? Well, if the saiwaika is getting fed, is it really such a bad thing?
Behold The Pearl Narashi, Nara
Given the name of the festival, it should come as no surprise that the chief activity performed during the festival is simply observing the moon with good company and plenty of food every night. Its radiance will only grow brighter as the festival continues, the light reflecting off the ring that surrounds Gaia and causing it, too, to glow every night, occasionally releasing rainbow-colored bursts of magical energy only visible during Tsukimi.
For the best views, Sarusawa Pond in Narashi is widely considered to be the optimal location for moon-viewing parties. Food and drink stalls can be found lining the pathways that circle the pond, and with the backdrop of a five-story pagoda lit up by moonlight, it's also known as one of the most romantic spots in Nara.
But while there are plenty of places to sit and gaze up at the moon on the shore, the real celebrations occur on small boats that sit silently upon the water. Only allowed to sail at a certain hour before sundown, those hoping for a proper moon-viewing best board early. And once the boat has parked on the pond, a Mizu spell is used to still the water, causing a mirror-like image of the moon and the stars above to reflect upon its pristine surface.
But aside from being very beautiful, there are a number of superstitions associated with this practice. It's said that one should never stare at their own reflection in the water, or else they may see their reflection begin to twist and mutate into a monster. While limited to just their reflection, the effects of this spell may cause erratic or animal-like behavior when standing in the moonlight, with some becoming prone to acting on their every impulse, no matter how rash. It's not uncommon for at least one party-goer to make the mistake of staring too long, before throwing themselves in the shallow pond and thrashing about wildly. Unfortunately, the effects of this will linger until the festival ends on the 14th. Better bring an umbrella for tomorrow's Tsukimi.
OOC Notes
Welcome to Jikan's October TDM! The TDM is considered game canon, and also serves as the intro log! That said, whether you choose to carry threads over to the game or not is up to you!
• Current players are more than welcome to top-level, or take prompts from the TDM and use for their own logs! This may change in the future depending on how busy TDMs become.
• CRAU characters may start regaining their CRAU memories one month after the TDM. However, vague feelings of familiarity are allowed between previous game CR! For more on this, please read the FAQ!
• You do not need to sign-up for housing! Choose whichever style you prefer, in both Kyoto and Tokyo. Roommates can be chosen by the characters or can be random. If you want to switch housing later, your character has the option of moving at the beginning of each month.
• While you do not need to thread the mask-making prompt if you don't want to, these masks will become important for the event later in the month, so choose your designs carefully!
• The full moon will be visible in the night sky from everywhere in Nippon for the first two weeks of October. While Tsukimi celebrations can be found everywhere, the sister festival to this one is unique to the Kansai region, and will be explained in more detail in the event later in the month.
• Characters who have their reflection mutated by the pond's spell will retain a monster-like appearance when they look into a mirror or reflective surface until the festival ends on the 14th. This effect is for their reflection only.
• Similarly, whether their reflection becomes monstrous in a frightening way, or monstrous in a sexy way, is completely up to you. The change can be subtle or dramatic, and those around them will be able to see the changes!
Please leave any questions about the TDM prompts in the thread below! General game questions can be directed to the FAQ!
Apps are always open!
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no subject
[ It was rare that he even saw Scaramouche, but that might just be because of the nature of their work. It certainly wasn't out of lack of wanting to see each other, which seemed rather unfathomable even if Childe did acknowledge he might have felt that way in the past. Their situations had changed so it was completely different now. ]
But that's fine, because at least we're here together, right? Who knows, maybe Signora will show up to-- er.
[ Did he forget about Signora's unfortunate fate until just this moment? Maybe.
Moving on... ]
What sweets do you enjoy, Scara? If we can't find them here, maybe there's a few local artisans that will be able to make them here. [ Childe is already setting off, leading Scaramouche away from the leggy deer even though one or two end up breaking away to follow them, perpetually on alert for even more tasty treats. ]
no subject
[While their first meeting here hadn't ended well, Scaramouche thinks he could try and not completely close himself off. If he was capable of spending time with the Eleventh without issue now, then he could do it again. Yes he did have a weapon hurled at his head, but Tartaglia wasn't acting that way now, it would be okay. Spending time with other people more regularly might not be so bad.
At the very least the other man was familiar. There was something comforting in that.
The look he gives Tartaglia at the mention of their deceased coworker is almost pitying, but he makes no comment. Were Signora and Tartaglia close perhaps? Did he miss her? He had mentioned her in their previous conversations, maybe they were friends. Oh well, he wasn't going to ask.]
I'm a fan of dango, I know they have that here. Certain yokan, manju and wagashi are pleasant, but I wouldn't want to trouble anyone to make something specifically for me... Mm and although not a sweet, onikabuto are also quite nice.
no subject
[ Which sounds genuine enough, even if Childe's expression doesn't quite seem so enthused. There's a big confusion going on in there. The concept of loyalty isn't really so foreign a concept to him, being Snezhnayan and all, so there's less confusion about that that eventually helps him to accept the notion of spending more time with Scaramouche like this.
As Scaramouche goes on, Childe takes a moment to admire how big his jacket looks on him. It invokes an odd feeling of pride and one-upmanship in him that he can't really place, but he imagines his satisfaction at seeing Scaramouche look as though he were swimming in his clothes was because of some deep-seated need to want to look after him so that he could grow big and strong - actually, could Scaramouche even grow? ]
Sorry - do you grow? [ He needs to know, now. There's a curiosity he won't be able to get rid of unless he does. ] Taller, I mean. Or are you going to stay the same size forever?
... also, I think I've seen some of those things, but uh... onikabuto is a new one to me. What is it?
no subject
[Tartaglia's arm is given a gentle pat as Scaramouche decides that yes, he is indeed a good choice to spend time with. He was part of the Fatui because they were fun, sticking with the only other member present was a good idea. Besides who else out of the eleven of them could be more fun than the youngest and most bloodthirsty oriented member.
Sure he's called Tartaglia one of the most incompetent Harbingers in the past, but that was a little unfair. The man was still alive - that counted for a lot these days.]
Um... I'm going to stay this size forever. I'm not a child, I can't just grow more.
[That was of course ignoring the fact that he was created as is and had never grown. He was 'not mortal' and anything more detailed than that Tartaglia didn't need to know. Unless being more forthcoming was something he should be doing - since he was going to try and spend more time with him - almost like something friends did. If friends shared things with each other why did he feel like this wasn't something to share...
More importantly how does one broach the subject that they're a prototype vessel of an Archon?
Scaramocuhe glances down at one of the deer chaperoning them for the night, admiring just how soft it looks, and letting his mind wander. Perhaps as a step towards being in better standing with the Eleventh he should just come out and say it. Explain why he's as small as he is without needing to slowly ease into it--
He's stopped listening to Tartaglia. He's being rude. Something about onikabuto? Right, onikabuto. He smiles up at the youngest Harbinger, the reasoning for his height can wait.]
Oh, they're big electric beetles.
[Is he saying he eats bugs? He's saying he eats bugs.]
no subject
You think so? I'm flattered, Scara. [ Nevermind the fact that he very vividly remembered the other calling him useless on more than one occasion... but that was all in the past now. Now, he couldn't imagine feeling any kind of way about his coworker aside from warm affection and a genuine enjooyment of his presence.
And since they're in the business of paying each other compliments... ]
I'm glad it was you that came here and not anyone else. I wouldn't have minded anyone else, but - I'm just glad it's you.
[ The saiwaika that seem to be chaperoning them remains a constant around them, occasionally nipping at their clothing for more crackers but otherwise remaining somewhat out of the way. Tiny little deer feet tap on the ground as it follows even as it falls behind occasionally, letting them know that its presence is always not too far. ]
It's fine if you can't grow more. You're perfect just the way you are.
[ Except... then Scara says that. And Childe does not know how to react for several long moments, stopping short in the middle of the sidewalk, looking down at his Harbinger companion. ]
... so. So like. You eat bugs.
[ It's both a question and a statement. ]
no subject
[Something of that nature would be simply impossible, unless experimenting on others or being experimented on somehow sounded like a good time. It absolutely doesn't to him, so he's glad for Childe's presence over the others. Though Pierro might have been fine, but the First was generally more tolerable than everyone else so that was hardly fair.]
You'd get along with anyone Tartaglia, but I appreciate it all the same.
[He chuckles as he says it - the Eleventh was always different that way, so sociable when it came to people and not at all like a Harbinger when outside of combat.
Scaramouch is definitely near average height for someone from Inazuma, hardly his fault that everyone else was so tall. Why Ei didn't make him taller when she herself wasn't nearly as short is beyond him, but he's long past wanting to actually ask her such questions. He's fine with his height - most of the time - and gives a pleased little hum at the compliment. Yes, he was perfect.]
It's the same as eating any other animal. If I ever find one here you should try it - I'll share.
[While he liked them enough that he doesn't really want to share, should one ever cross his path, if he was trying to be better with Tartaglia he thinks he can manage. Not like he's really had many in the past years with being out of Inazuma for as long as he'd been.]
But they don't have them here from what I can tell... What about you, was there any sweets you'd like? I'll treat you.
no subject
Actually, there weren't really many Harbingers that he thought would get on well here... maybe Pulcinella but Childe might also be biased, given that he was the one that had recruited him to the Fatui. ]
You can too, you know. You're so cute, Scara, and so confident. I can see how others might flock to you. Like a natural born leader, haha!
[ Though in his mind he actually thinks more like a mascot character. It'd be a mean thought if it didn't feel right. ]
I... hm. Well, I'll try anything once. In Snezhnaya we couldn't really afford to be picky. There wasn't a lot that survived the harsh winter so if you found anything that did, you could probably consider it exotic.
[ The offering to treat him to sweets gets a little laugh out of him, Childe humming in thought for a moment or two as he debates answering. ]
There's not much nutritional value to be had from sweets, so I don't really imbibe all that much. But that means more for you, doesn't it? I wouldn't mind treating you, you know.
no subject
I don't come off nearly as friendly and approachable as you do. Or at all.
[Confident he can agree with. A leader, even if not a natural, was something he was good at now with all the experience he had. Cute? That was definitely a Tartaglia thing.]
How anything survives in all that snow I'll never understand. Nor how you don't find it all so boring after being stuck in it so long. But I'll let you know if I come across one in that case - you have to try it.
[The time he's spent in Snezhnaya has not been enough to endear the place to him more. Far too much snow and nothing to really do aside from work. He supposes that at least every time he's been in the nation there's been something to keep him busy, though that fact is far less to do with the nation and more his position.
Is Tartaglia not a fan of sweets? That would mean more for him, something he'll gladly accept.
Gently he tugs on Tartaglia's arm once the many food stalls are in view, perhaps they would come across something the other man would like once they started looking... Then they could finally get to that boat the Eleventh seemed to want to do.]
A little indulgence won't kill you. I truly don't mind treating you, but if you would prefer to then I'm not going to object.
no subject
[ Because who would be terrified of a tiny Ajax, right? Right. ]
It's rough, but nature finds a way I think. Snezhnaya's home to me, but you're not from there, right? I can see how you might not like it. It's so cold it's easy to die if you're not careful and don't keep moving. But then you get the travelers and wanderers who always go "oh, it's not that bad, it's just a little snow" and they're the ones that end up dying on Dragonspine.
[ Is that considered unkind? He's laughing as he says it, so probably not... but either way, once Scaramouche tugs on his arm in the direction of the food stalls to get him to go over there, he can't help himself. He quickens his pace, an act that ends up dragging the Balladeer rather than lead him - and here, now, the deer finally fall away, distracted by another human with food to inflict their kindness curse on - and he only stops just when they've gotten near enough to see what he's selling. ]
Ah... everything looks really good. Pick what you want, it'll be my treat. Let me do this for you, okay?
[ Even though he'd said he wouldn't object, Childe is just going to hammer it in so that they're on the same page. Was this a date? ]
no subject
[He sounds amused at the thought, though he doesn't personally know if such things are true or not. Just the vague gossip from the recruits when suddenly the Harbingers had gained a new member. He doesn't believe for a second that age has anything to do with how approachable someone seems - after all he's easily been mistaken as the younger between the two of them before.]
I think that's just a trait of mortals. Always forgetting just how fragile they are while thinking they can take on everything life throws at them with ease.
[It would be funny, but something in his gut tells him the demise of so many people is not something he should be thinking.]
You Snezhnayans are resilient however, I'll give you that.
[It's happened again - Tartaglia's long legs have somehow managed to turn the tables, though this time he doesn't seem to mind, merely doing his best to keep pace.
Once they've stopped in front of the stalls, he gives Childe a nod in response. He said he wouldn't object and so he hasn't. Instead Scaramouche turns to look over everything on offer. There are a few sweets he recognizes as things also in Inazuma, some he recognizes as things he's seen while in Nippon, and a few others he's not seen before.
Eventually he settles on just dango. It's a sweet he knows he likes, and while the Eleventh is treating him he would like to not spend all of the money the man has on hand.]
...Thank you, Tartaglia.
[The words still somehow don't feel quite right, but they're easier to say this time.
Dates can only become real when you speak their name aloud.]
no subject
I'm glad you see it that way. [ And he sounds like he means it, too. Whether it's because Scaramouche has been conditioned to think that way through his time in the Fatui, or because it's some backhanded insult directed at Childe - though Scaramouche wouldn't do that, he would never do something like that, maybe in the past but that was all behind them now - he's not sure, but he's appreciative of the compliment all the same.
The stall they step up to has a variety of different desserts and such on sale, each one steaming hot and fresh. There's a good assortment of festival food, a handful of dango he recognizes and a few taiyaki, which he only knows because of his date at the all you could eat sweets shop last month.
He kind of wishes he'd been able to take Scara there, but now that they were "hanging out", he expects they had a lot of time to make up for all the things they missed doing together as coworkers.
Of course, the entrance fee might not be something Scaramouche would completely agree with... ]
There's an all you can eat sweets cafe over in Nihonbashi, if you'd ever want to go. [ Childe decides to bring it up anyway as he's paying for the food, after selecting a dango for himself and a few more for Scaramouche. ] I wouldn't mind taking you, but the uhm. In order to get in you'd have to pretend to be a couple. A kiss worked well enough for me last time but I can understand if you wouldn't want to go. [ With me. It hangs unspoken in the air as the transaction is finalized, but Childe doesn't elaborate any further on it and instead smiles softly down at his coworker. ]
You're welcome, Scaramouche.
[ a beat, and then: ]
You can call me Ajax, if you want. If it's from you, I don't mind.
no subject
[Scaramouche smiles as he recalls the event. It had been shortly after he arrived, and while his company at the time was a tad annoying he hadn't minded the actual sweets from the cafe. He could see himself going again to try what other things they had.]
I wouldn't mind actually going in, if that is truly something you'd like to do. Such a fee wouldn't be so bad if it were with a friend.
[He's practically beaming, no he doesn't think he'd mind at all. Who would have thought his first proper friend would have been a fellow Harbinger, a surprising outcome all things considered. And to think he used to avoid his coworkers as much as he could.
What comes out of Tartaglia's mouth next has him pausing.]
Ajax...
[That's-- that would have to be Tartaglia's real name wouldn't it? The Sixth looks shocked to hear it as he stares up at the taller man, a faint flush spreading across his pale face. They got rid of their names when they became Harbingers so anyone knowing of them would have to have known before, or be someone trusted enough to be told. The Eleventh doesn't sound like he's lying, with the way things had been going between them so far he wouldn't do that. Would he?
No it has to be the real thing. But if it was the truth then what did that mean? He and Tartaglia - no, Ajax - were working on being friends now, but they weren't that close yet. Were they? What does he do? It's a nice name, maybe he should say that. Compliments because they were good friends now, that's certainly what they were, what this meant.
His head feels like it's spinning, and he buries himself into the borrowed scarf and jacket. He doesn't have the social experience for this kind of thing, and so instead of a compliment he mumbles out the first thing that pops into his head:]
Kunikuzushi.
[Yes, his real name, Harbinger name, and alias are all stupidly long. His life is just like this.]
no subject
[ Childe immediately responds with, and scrutinizes Scaramouche in his coat and scarf a little. Is he cold, maybe? The Balladeer is small, so he would not be surprised to learn that he was also the type to get cold easily. That might have been one of the major reasons why he didn't like Snezhnaya, because of course one would find it boring if all they could think about was how chilly it was.
Mentally, he makes a few notes about Scaramouche's assumed aversion to the cold and tries to think of all the shops he'd seen that sold decently-priced, warm clothing. He might send him a sweater or something, since all he'd seen on Scaramouche were those little shorts and sandals.
It dawns on him, then, the Balladeer's comment about being okay with paying the fee if it were with a friend, and he feels the corners of his mouth soften into an intimation of a smile. Friend. He couldn't say he had many in the Fatui that he considered close - moreso since the lot of them seemed to prefer scheming in the shadows than being open and honest with their intentions - and while he hadn't been hurting for companionship, knowing that once this was all over they could go back to Tevyat and maintain this level of friendship with one another was nice.
It's not like he'd ever been lonely growing up, but it is a nice thought that Scaramouche would be around to hang out with him later. He had the sort of ruthless ambition and cruelty that Childe secretly admired, even if his penchant for being slimy and shying away from fights wasn't something he agreed with.
That's fine, he supposes. That just means more for Childe. ]
Ah - do you want to rent a boat?
[ Now that they're closer to the bond they can make out the number of tiny vessels making their way onto the water. The small fleet moored at the dock bobs enticingly in the moonlight, and Childe points at it excitedly. ]
I can do all the rowing. You can just sit and eat.
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Actually it is pretty cute.]
Ajax, that's my name. Kunikuzushi. I know it's a bit long.
[He says it a bit slower this time, not because he doesn't think Tartaglia won't understand - the man is quite smart in most matters - but because he doesn't want him to mistake it again. This was the first time in countless years that he'd felt comfortable enough to offer his name to someone. An incredibly Inazuman name for someone that tended to dress the part regardless of weather.
The question on if they should get a boat is met with a swift nod. Going out onto the water sounds like a perfect way to relax in good company while enjoying the beauty of the festival, without being surrounded by other festival goers. It had also been what Tartaglia had mentioned doing before they had left the deer, so he couldn't just change his mind now, being quick to make his way to the docks. Have to keep up with the Eleventh's long strides for once.]
I can help as well.
[He's not that small that he can't row a boat. Probably.]
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[ He supposes it does sound pretty Inazuman... He's a little embarassed by the faux pas, but Scaramouche doesn't tease him about it like he probably would have done before all this, so he's able to move past it without further thought.
It also helps a lot that the Balladeer is smiling at him like that. ]
Kunikuzushi. [ Childe will say it slowly as though savoring every syllable and committing it to memory. It rolls off his tongue awkwardly, as is the nature with first learning a name, but he repeats it again to himself a little softly and it sounds much better the second time around. It's as much of a mouthful as Tartaglia, perhaps even more so.
While Childe isn't exactly sure what it might mean it seems to suit Scaramouche as well as his Fatui name. He wondered if the other might prefer it over what the rest of the Harbingers called him. ]
Do you still want me to call you "Scaramouche"? And please, I insist. [ As if to argue his case Childe will show the additional sticks of dango he'd bought at the vendor. ]
It would be a shame for these all to go to waste. I specifically bought these for you to eat, so just relax and let me take care of you this one time, okay?
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You're welcome to call me whichever name you prefer. There are already a few here that know that name, so it would not be out of place should you want to use it.
[Of course out of everyone that knew it now, only Childe was the one it had actually been given to. The others had either found out unintentionally or just so happened to be his creator. If the Eleventh wanted to use it then he would be the first to do so with permission, and that he feels matters most.
Scaramouche eyes the dango, mulling over the request in his mind. What's happening here is he's being bribed with sweets, something he doesn't particularly want to say no to. If Tartaglia wants to do everything then he has little reason to not allow him to do so, but a part of him feels it somewhat unfair - like he should also be contributing somehow. A compromise would perhaps would do well here, or he resigns himself to doing something else for the Harbinger at a later time.]
Fine, but eventually you're going to have to let me do something for you. You're not always going to have dango on hand to persuade me, and I'd like to do something nice for you as well. I won't take no for an answer.
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He sees the way the other eyes the dango and he's struck with a sudden intrusive thought to pull it out of reach, make him jump for it like the snot-nosed rat bastard he is. It's such a sudden notion that he's actually thrown off guard for a moment, blinking and startling a little like he'd been physically struck. Where... where had that come from?
Fortunately, Childe is a quick recover, and while his smile is strained the rest of what comes out of his mouth is genuine. ]
I can see I'm going to fighting a tough battle, Kunikuzushi. [ The third time around the name sounds a bit more comfortable and easier on his tongue. ] In that case I'll invite you to do your worst. I'm going to do my best to not let you lift a finger if I can help it.
[ So saying, once they're within a respectable distance of the boats he'll hand the dango off and make his way to the pier to speak with the person manning them. They're given a set of oars and left to untie the boat themselves, and after stepping into the vessel carefully Childe turns to Scaramouche and offers his hand. ]
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[There's a wide grin on his face as he looks up at Tartaglia. If he's being permitted to do his worst then that leaves room for plenty of options. While he isn't sure of much he can do on a boat - especially when the other Harbinger has already convinced him not to do any rowing - he's certain he can come up with something.
Scheming itself isn't anything new, though normally it isn't for something so innocent. Until he and Childe parted ways he would need to keep watch for potential openings, any weaknesses that may pop up, or for anything that could be used in the future. And that's another plan isn't it? Get back at him when he least expects it, possibly weeks from now.
It's a thought that's a bit odd, considering the less hostile nature of it all. But they're friends that have gone as far as exchanging names - real names - to do anything but something kind feels wrong.]
If I can't manage something this time I won't give up.
[The sweets are carefully held as the Sixth takes the hand offered to him, hopping down into the boat. A moment is taken to ensure the veils and rope on his hat don't catch on anything before he's sitting down and making himself comfortable. There's one particular point Scaramouche feels he needs to punctuate, after of course he takes a bite of the dango.]
You'll simply never know when I may strike.
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What a dangerous thought.
But he waits until the other appears situated, noting for himself how much smaller Scaramouche looks now that he's been made to sit at the edge of their little boat, and against his better judgement a small smile ends up playing around the corners of his lips. When he isn't being an obnoxious piece of shit the Balladeer can actually be quite cute. The ropes keeping the boat tied to the pier are swiftly taken care of, and in no time Childe is settling himself into his own seat on their vessel. ]
You know me, Kunikuzushi. [ He doesn't need any kind of prompting to take up the oars in his hands and begin rowing. The ease that Childe does it suggests he's been out in a boat plenty of times, or at the very least he adapts to the motions of everything fluidly, like a fish to water. Fitting, given his Vision.
It takes minimal effort to push away from the dock and set them adrift in the waters, and as Childe rows he glances about at the other boats several feet away with all the amorous couples within. The moonlight shines down, bathing all in its light and casting a luminescent reflection on the water's surface. Gentle waves lap against their small vessel, lending a tranquil tone to the overall ambience of the situation and soothing whatever rising nerves Childe might have had.
He looks over to Scaramouche - Kunikuzushi - and smiles. ]
I love a good battle.
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[He offers up a gentle smile in return, tugging the edges of Childe's jacket inward. Not that he's cold, but the enveloping warmth is pleasant as the boat is rowed out into the water and he enjoys his dango.]
Mm I suppose I could offer you a fight to make up for all of this, but that seems far too easy.
[There is of course the fact that he knows Tartaglia would enjoy it, and that in itself is a reason to consider it. A fight would likely make the other man happy, but he feels there's something stopping him from instantly making such a generous offer. It isn't that the Sixth dislikes fighting - it can be fun and it's nice to relieve stress that way from time to time - but he can be picky in what battles he takes and when.
Something else to consider is that Tartaglia is very much human. He doesn't doubt that the Harbinger could easily hold his own in a fight against him, but what if he overdid it and hurt him. Would he be able to handle it if he were to hurt Ajax? He's not skilled enough in the magics of this world yet to be able to heal everything. A risk he isn't certain he is willing to take he decides. Friends don't hospitalize friends.
Probably. He's not really had friends so he's yet to learn all the social rules. However it feels right to say that it is likely the case.]
I think I can do better than a fight. After all there has to be plenty you'd enjoy just as much.
[Even nice Scaramouche denies Childe a battle.]
You'd tell me if there was something specific you wanted, wouldn't you?
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It wasn't as though he'd been particularly lonely during his time in the Fatui. When he'd first been granted his Delusion and cast as the newest and youngest of Her Majesty's Harbingers he knew that the looks he got from his colleagues weren't all good ones. Childe was the odd one out in a crowd of cranky, slimey schemers, and he'd never had a problem with that before.
He's not sure how old Scaramouche is exactly, just that's older than him. He's never been given much reason to care. ]
Now I feel like you're just teasing me. [ Childe laments exaggeratedly, even going so far as to throw the man a mocking pout. ] What else could be better than a fight? There's nothing else that can compare.
[ Even as he says it, the cloud cover overhead parts, allowing for slants of moonlight to spill even more over the pond they're rowing across. Doing so lights up the man across from him in an ethereal, otherworldly light, highlighting his pale skin, dark hair and bright, vibrant eyes.
Childe thinks he might have stopped breathing for a moment. He'd certainly stopped rowing.
He can think of a few specific things he'd want right about now. That was what Scaramouche had asked, after all. Right? ]
... come again?
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[The mock pout is met with a apologetic smile. Even if Childe doesn’t mean it a part of him feels somewhat bad to have even considered it, if declining was an option. The fact that the other is acting as he is, tells him at the very least there aren’t any hard feelings on the matter.]
Humans can be so fragile… I’d worry I would hurt you.
[The words lack the venomous teasing tone he normally takes when speaking on human fragility, his worry being entirely honest. The idea of accidentally causing Tartaglia serious harm doesn’t sit well with him.
When the boat stops suddenly, the Balladeer finds himself blinking, not entirely sure why this spot in particular had been chosen. Giving the surroundings a look over he decides that it’s not such a bad place to stop, Tartaglia wanted to row and if this was where he picked then so be it. He could just settle his gaze on the moon and snack on the remaining dango pieces.
At least until the Eleventh asks him to repeat himself.]
I asked if there was anything specific you’d like. Since you wouldn’t let me treat you or help. There must be something else. Or would you rather the surprise?
[Scaramouche seems to genuinely be contemplating which the best option would be. Merely asking took a bit of the fun out of things, but if it could guarantee that Tartaglia would enjoy what was given then that absolutely would make up for things. Of course a surprise would allow him more control over things, being able to repay the younger man in a way he felt was suitable for what had been given. A difficult decision, but he’s also not about to deny him anything that isn’t potentially dangerous.]
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[ Though when Scaramouche posed that last question that there's a multitude of suggestions that run through his mind. What would he like from him at this moment?
Childe looks at him, really looks at him, taking in the Balladeer's appearance as though he's seeing him for the first time. He looks so small like this, shrouded in moonlight and sitting at the end of the boat. So small in Childe's jacket, with his scarf draped around his neck. There's power in that tiny frame yet, he knows, but right now... right now, he can't think of any good reason why Scaramouche should leverage that against him.
There's a part of him that knows that's wrong, but he can't fathom exactly why that would be. Thrilling from a battle was a concept that came as easily to him as breathing. It wouldn't make sense that he wouldn't delight in it from Scaramouche, either.
But no - that's not what he wants from him. And when the realization of what he desires hits him like a truck, all he can do is swallow in response. ]
... hey. [ His voice is soft, but still loud enough to be heard over the water lapping against the boat. Childe will stretch out his legs, first one, then the other, and release one of the oars to gently pat at his own lap. ]
Come here.
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[The Eleventh is right, he wouldn't be in the Fatui if he were easy to break. And to be a Harbinger on top of it means that he can certainly handle himself in a fight, could possibly be a match for him, but even the most fight inclined humans still had their limits. At least as far as Scaramouche understands humans - and he'd like to think that being around them for his entire life means he has a pretty good grasp on how durable they can be.]
I would not want to overdo it and shock you harder than your body can handle. You, of all people, should know the kind of damage that could do.
[When Tartaglia goes silent he takes it as the man finally considering his question, using the time to finish his sweets and carefully set the sticks down on the seat next to him.
Scaramouche is more than content to simply sit and watch the moon in good company, give Ajax all the time he needed to decide what it was he wanted. If he wanted to decide on something. A decision that certainly didn't need to be decided upon immediately, and he considers mentioning that any time would be suitable but a request is soon being made of him. He blinks, processing just what is being asked of him - Tartaglia wants him... in his lap? He can't exactly find any reason to deny him.
Carefully he removes his hat, gently folding up everything attached to it to keep them from getting tangled and setting it in the most secure place in the boat he can. It'll likely be easier if he isn't wearing it, and he's far less likely to accidentally hit Tartaglia with it. Then the Sixth is cautiously moving over to straddle the other man and seat himself in his lap, doing his very best to not rock the small boat as he moves.]
Yes?
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he’s not sure if Scaramouche is naturally warm or if he’s simply reflecting Childe’s body heat back at him. at this point he doesn’t think it matters; they’re close enough that he can’t quite tell where his body end and the Balladeer’s begins and he’s finding that doesn’t bother him as much as he thinks it should.
there’s a lot about this situation that feels surreal, almost dreamlike in a sense. he remembers how he’d been close to throwing down with him at the coffee shop and all the other times back home, in Tevyat, but he can’t for the life of him figure out why he’d even been annoyed or aggravated with him in the first place.
looking at Scara now, feeling how delicate the bones of his hips are under his hands like the birds of a small bird… he can’t really think of much anything except how his eyes are almost a perfect shade of moonlight, luminous and bright in the dark.
he’s curling his fingers a little tighter before he can stop himself as though he’s expecting the other to leap off his lap when he moves. Childe leans in until there’s barely a breath between them, his lashes fluttering, lowering…
it’s rather apparent what his intended goal is, and if it isn’t it’s probably made more clear when one of his hands frees itself to tangle gently into the hair at the nape of Scaramouche’s neck. ]
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