middaeg | [open + closed prompts] i don't want a brand new start

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[open + closed prompts] i don't want a brand new start

Who: Nie Mingjue & Others
When: Month of May
Where: Around the City
What: Catch-all.
Warnings: Will update as needed.

[If you'd like something specific just hit me up at

nekky or nekky#8210! Fourth wall characters are welcome.]

i. Markets
[Nie Mingjue has found steady work since arriving here, a small miracle in itself. It isn't even work he hates. It is boring, certainly, and not a suitable use for an esteemed war general's skills, but it is peaceful nonetheless, and pays well enough to live comfortably. That last part is important, if Huaisang winds up remaining here in Aefenglom. He needs to find a larger place for them.

Regardless, it is a good enough employment for now. Madam Winifred Teague, an elderly wealthy woman approaching 80 with hair like snow and a bent-over posture, has hired him on as her bodyguard. She turns out to be as paranoid as she is old, afraid of something that is most certainly (not) coming to kill her. Some shadowy organization she angered in her youth, supposedly, throwing assassins at her door. Mingjue has seen no evidence of such, but she pays him handsomely just to follow her around with Baxia on his back and look imposing. She even appreciates his changes - tigers are quite frightening, it's perfect!

She had wanted to go shopping this morning and see the markets, though she disdains the Goblin Market vendors with their hastily set up stalls of illicit goods. He follows a few steps behind the old woman in her fine dress as she window shops, occasionally calling him over to study an item since his eyes are better. He puts up with it. He has respect for his elders.

She doesn't have much respect for others, though. She bumps into you in the crowd, maybe, hard enough to make her wobble dangerously, and screams like she's being murdered, calling, Mr. Nie! Mr. Nie! This ruffian! They've come to kill me! He rushes to her side fluidly and lets the hunched-over old bat hang on his arm to steady herself (a hilarious sight, considering he is very tall and she is shrunken with age), narrowing his gaze at you.] Nainai, this is no ruffian who means you harm. Are you?

ii. Wilde Hunt
[The full moons this month are worse and more bearable at the same time. His changes are coming on a little quicker; his ears have already morphed, human ears melting away to nothing and sprouting lightly-fuzzed tiger ears atop his head instead. His skin is still growing more patches of crocodile leather, down the outsides of his hips and thighs now, but the agitation is lessened. He has a temporary Bond with his brother now, and that has done wonders to settle him. Still, when he finds out that an area has been quarantined off in the Wilde to provide an outlet for those experiencing the effects of the lunar cycle, he heads out one night with Baxia to see.

And to work off some of his energy in the way that is the most comfortable, the most known for him. Nie Mingjue moves through the trees with all the grace of a feline, handling his massive saber like it weighs nothing. Even without cultivation, he can cleave thin trees in half with only his strength and the fine sharpened steel. The area will need some time to recover after he's done out here no doubt.

He's pursuing a particularly large Shade, running between the trees, eyes wide and pupils huge. His senses are sharper than ever and he tracks the rotten smell without a conscious thought. Unfortunately, you happen to be in the middle, between him and his prey. He barks, brandishing his saber,] Move! Now! [Maybe it's an accident, or maybe you're going after the same hideous, twisted beast?

He's willing to make it a competition.]

iii. Wildcard

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[They found each other in the makeshift markets days before, but that is not where Nie Mingjue takes Huaisang this time when they go out one nice afternoon. He's grumbled the whole morning after they got breakfast at a nearby restaurant, but it's all for show - he offered this, and he's going to keep his word. It's time for Huaisang to start a new collection of pretty, delicate things that he likes. Mingjue is allowed, after all this time apart, to spoil his brother a little.

He finds himself flustered a little more often lately, ever since they went to the Coven and both took a temporary Bonding potion, drinking to seal their new, more open alliance as brothers, closer to equals than they've ever been. They will work together more now, be more honest with each other. The Bond makes that ridiculously easy. He has no doubt that Huaisang caught on quickly to pick up every little fleeting mood of Mingjue's under his usual irritated grumbling: joy, love, pride, the feeling of being home again. There is anger too, often, and actual irritation, but the first things are more common when they're spending time together.

Nie Mingjue has always been quick to anger, but after all, he loves just as fiercely as he rages. Huaisang now has every tool at his disposal to pick out that he is happy to be here, even though he grouses on the outside.

They're meandering down the narrow streets of a nicer part of the Shopping District, the sort of place where things are expensive and lovely and rare. Handcrafted by artisans, or made for artists with money to blow. He meant it when he said he'd make up for burning his things all those years ago. He touches his brother's arm subtly when they come across a high-end art shop, thinking he might be caught by the displays in the window of paints, inks, and silk canvases.]

"The finest pigments suitable for all Witches' magics." Maybe this could also be helpful for your studies. [It's just an excuse. He's ridiculously transparent like this. Still, Mingjue wouldn't trade the Bond and the ability to know his brother is safe 24/7 for anything.]

[ and strangely, the world moves on.

after the world-shaking realization that da-ge was alive here, everything in aefenglom has moved very quickly. huaisang had gone from a new position of political power (that he really didn't want) to schoolbooks like he was a teenager again, but the training here is decidedly better than just about anything done in gusu-lan. he never once has to pick up a sword, and the feeling of learning to control magic fluctuations is like a fascinatingly difficult puzzle. ever quick on the uptake, he's taken well to it already, and the temporary bond between him and his brother has created something strong to fall back upon, a bolstering failsafe that he treasures more than he could properly put into words.

the low level spells are easy enough that he's starting to get them. it's not much yet--simple prestidigitation, basic healing--but it's something, and he likes that he can feel it, when his brother is proud. (it's never been difficult to read, but it's--it's nice. this new honesty is utterly refreshing, for huaisang. it feels like a rebirth.) with every day, he'll learn more and more, in hopes to master this to be as useful to his da-ge as possible. after all, danger is on the horizon, lurking in the corners of the night, and its the strength of the bond that keeps the paranoia of the last ten years from eating him up all over again. no, they'll be ready, if something happens. they'll stop this in its tracks.

but, happier days come with harder work. though huaisang is doing more than he has in a while--which, work is still work, and sometimes he just wants to dick around and read poetry, why is that so hard--when his brother suggests a shopping trip, he's delighted. dressed finely in gray and gold and green, the nie sect leader hair ornament carefully removed from his bun, huaisang fans himself as they make their way down the lovely, shop lined streets of this place he's still trying to understand. he walks close at nie mingjue's side, but pauses often to admire things, and sure enough, mingjue must have felt the bloom of interest over their bond when they pause.

his eyes are shining at the sight. everything in the display is lovely--the craftsmanship on the painting is impressive, and he leans in curiously to look at it closer, tapping his fan against his mouth. ] You could cast magic through these? That's what that shopkeeper before was trying to sell, I believe.....

[ the black market one. he's glad he didn't actually buy those... thanks, big bro... ] Perhaps if I painted a bird, it might come to life. Wouldn't that be incredible? [ he turns his head, looks up, smiles at his brother. how nice it is, just to smile, with no ulterior motive. how nice, to be happy again.

...not to mention, it's especially nice to be spoiled by his big brother again, so maybe there's a tiny bit of an ulterior motive. it's harmless. ]

Edited 2020-05-13 16:15 (UTC)

[With Huaisang throwing himself into his studies the way Mingjue never expected him to (he can feel it, though, that this is something that actually interests his brother, puts his talents to use), Nie Mingjue does some research of his own on chimeras, on the animals he is taking on traits of. If his lazy brother is working hard, he can work hard too, to ensure their bond will remain strong and he will not be a burden. He will not lose himself to instincts the way he lost himself to qi deviation, will absolutely not put his brother through that again, and so he asks around, starts learning to accept and manage his changes. (It's something Lan Xichen had urged him to do, but he hadn't felt motivated to do it until now.)

He is proud of the progress they are making together. Where Huaisang senses a coming danger, though, Mingjue finds himself growing more settled. He has already spent a month here with Jin Guangyao in the city and he doesn't expect much trouble; certainly nothing they cannot handle between the pair of them. The Nie Clan has always been strong. He will learn that, if he hasn't already.

Yes, they've both been putting in the work, so a nice outing is deserved. Huaisang has earned it. He must be made of stone to mostly resist smiling when the paints catch his brother's interest, but Huaisang can probably feel that he's pleased. He might never get used to that, not being able to hide.] These would be better. Higher quality. This shop is well-established. [And more pricey, but that's alright.

He huffs a laugh.] What would you even do with a bird made of ink and magic? [He opens the door, motions him to enter and go take a look around.] Truly it is lucky you are the Witch out of us. [Mingjue has no imagination. This is a fact.]

[ "and pricey!" excellent. his favorite!

huaisang can't help the way his lips twitch up in a smile behind his fan; the bond responds to mingjue's happiness, a matching warmth of his own. apprehension about jin guangyao aside, he is so unbelievably happy. there's very little that could change his mood, even his brother having No Taste. teasingly, he asks--] Must everything have a use? It would be beautiful to look at, that's what would matter.

We'll see if it's lucky, yet. [ he's always been fond of uselessly pretty things and not fighting, so.... yeah. it actually is pretty lucky. he likes the creative nature of magic, likes the way it thrums in his veins instead of demands an outlet, likes how he's not required to slash and hack to make things happen. if making pretty, imaginative things can help his brother, help them, then perhaps they're lucky after all. huaisang was always of a fanciful nature when he was younger, and even now, he still dallies plenty, still loves art and music and all the things that were mostly useless in the grand scheme of things. his skills in these areas gained him the occasional admirer, but otherwise, they were purely for the pursuit of aesthetics and nice things. (although sometimes, that admirer was a broken little bird of a half brother who would die to bring the yiling patriarch back to life? it be like that.)

the chimes on the front of the shop jingle, and huaisang steps inside. it just smells like parchment and ink in here, which is an excellent sign, and he greets the shopkeeper with a polite, graceful bow, then pretty much immediately gets to admiring the goods. he keeps up their easy conversation, though, and keeps glancing back to make sure nie mingjue is there. (days later, he still has to remind himself this is reality). ] Besides, you can write spells, can't you? Perhaps a bird could deliver one, although it might come back terribly damaged... Ah, I'd rather just keep one as a pet.

[ is it odd to keep pets in a place full of monsters? would a monstrous cat chase an ink bird as a toy.....

...hm. ] Da-ge, look. [ !! that thought aside, he gestures to a brush. it's lovely, an elegant oak wood handle, painted with a golden swirl up the body. it is probably very expensive. huaisang has eyes. ] How lovely, isn't it?

Impractical. [He says, but that's all he says in response, the mildest of baffled disagreements in Nie Mingjue terms. They have always been very different, and though he's never understood the appeal of fine and artistic things, when they were younger, he tried to indulge his brother when he could. It was always nicer than seeing him cry. Time went on and Mingjue had to harden, for both their sakes, but he still remembers those easier days when besting his private trainers in the yard and helping Huaisang evade being caught stealing sweets from the kitchens were his biggest concerns.] It will suit you, being a Witch. If you don't slack off, you will excel. Has it been difficult so far? [Magic, from what he knows, can be utilized in many unconventional ways, several of which will suit Huaisang well: music, ink and paper, elaborate words.

He follows him around the shop letting him wander as he pleases, always present like his tall, relaxed predator of a guardian. Not like he can go far when he's the one with the money, and that defeats the purpose of the outing anyway. It might not be something he necessarily enjoys, but he doesn't care so long as his brother is enjoying himself.]

Better an ink and parchment bird than a real one if you wish to keep a pet. [He intones flatly, expression not changing in the least when he adds,] I am not cleaning bird shit out of carpet. [It's a joke and it's not a joke at the same time. He's really not doing that.

He glances over at the item that has caught his brother's eye, knowing it must be nice if Huaisang lights up at the sight of it. He nods once, decisive.] Go ahead. You will need new brushes for your studies. [That's really just an excuse. The world might collapse if he admits out loud that he's consciously spoiling his brother today.] Get a set.

[ mm... has it been difficult? hard work, yes, certainly. a lot of studying, more so than he's ever done in his entire life. a practice that will take time to truly master. mingjue might feel a twinge of a complaint across the bond, but it's not really upset: just huaisang being huaisang and therefore, a little lazy. ] Not really.... it's easier than cultivating. [ that comes with a laugh, a little sheepish but mostly shameless at being The Family Disappointment TM. it ended up serving him well, so, you know, it's fine.

he glances down thoughtfully at his hands, fingertips gently ink stained from practicing writing spells already. ] If only things had always been this way. [ maybe he would've been better from the start! ha ha. in a way, he's more than prepared for the drawbacks of being a witch, too; magic overload sounds exactly like a qi deviation, which is something he has so far managed to avoid and would like to continue doing. it's funny, but huaisang's life before this place made him quite well suited for it. combined with this bond and the presence of his big brother, he's almost enjoying the work he has to do. it's nice!

also he gets to buy nice things for it! nie huaisang's smile grows at the permission, his eyes nearly sparkling with unbridled glee. ah, he's going to paint so many beautiful things..... and magical things, yeah, not just landscapes and fans. with a hum, he nods to the shopkeeper, taking up one of the lacquered boxes. ] Thank you, da-ge! I'll make good use of them, I swear.

[ it's so, so nice to be able to just say that. his emotions reflect across the bond itself, just warm, pure happiness. there are so many little things he took for granted all these years. dragging his brother on shopping trips is one of them; there was never any time as they got older, what with studying, with the war. he misses the shops of the towns near their ancestral home, but he'd take this place with his brother over it almost any day.

brushes secured, huaisang trots over to inspect the paint as well. selecting colors is easy. dark greens and grays, deep dusty purple, a striking gold metallic that glimmers in the light. he's feeling particularly inspired, today. ] These as well, please.

[ ♥ ]

[Easier than cultivating, huh? Then no doubt he will be good at it. The best Witch here, in time. Mingjue can't help the way he reaches out to clap a hand gently over his shoulder, pride filtering through the Bond that he is making an effort. Pride for the man he survived to be.] Good. Then I won't hear any complaints. [That doesn't mean he won't use that against you in the future, Huaisang. No getting to be lazy. The corners of his lips turn up.

And then he adds, a little quieter,] I wish many things had been different. [That Huaisang could have pursued something he wanted to do. That Mingjue had found a better way to cultivate. That they had had more years. He might grumble about this little outing, being dragged from place to place (and no doubt will wind up carrying the bags), but it brings back good feelings he thought were beyond his reach.]

You had better! [He chides to hide the way he's glad for the chance to get him things he likes. He can't hide it anyway, not through the Bond. Mingjue nods at the shopkeep watching them, hoping for a sale, and the man seems happy to assist Huaisang with selecting jars of paint. Nie Mingjue pays without complaint, watches as everything is neatly boxed and bagged.

He huffs out a little laugh.] You always got that same look on your face when you got your way, when you were small. What are you going to paint?

[ he wishes things had been different, too. he gives nie mingjue a small smile in response to it, because that's all he can really do. it would have been different, maybe, if nie huaisang had tried harder. if he'd paid more attention. if he'd stopped trying to be the lazy second young master nie as his brother had asked, and instead made his brother more proud. maybe nie mingjue would have lived longer, maybe jin guangyao wouldn't have been a problem.

maybe, maybe. this was their maybe. this new world is their chance to live anew. what else could he possibly want? (well, it'd be nice if jin guangyao wasn't here, but, that's besides the point.) he focuses instead on that warm feeling of pride that ebbs through the bond and rolls his shoulders back, standing just a bit taller at the thought. in his vengeance, huaisang had gone against every justice nie mingjue stood for, and it had been for survival. maybe this time, he can think instead like rebirth, and make his brother proud, for real.

collecting the back from the shopkeeper, nie huaisang bows, politely, and does in fact wait expectantly for his da-ge to take the bags from the shopkeeper. they have so much more shopping to do, after all, and he turns and taps his mouth with his fan, thoughtfully. ] ...That will have to be a secret, won't it? If I tell you, I might change my mind midway through. Or worse, be unable to pull it off!

[ something for his brother. a painting of home. he's known what he was going to paint from the moment da-ge mentioned shopping like this.

...but there's no fun in telling him, not right away. it makes him feel like a little kid again, bringing his brother everything he could because he wanted to impress him, earn his praise. ] Where should we go next? I saw a shop nearby that had items for focusing spells that looked like jewelry.

[He answers that smile with a small one of his own, and understanding. They can't change what happened, but at least they can have this now. Nie Mingjue never imagined how much he would miss his younger brother until he no longer had him nearby; if living in the same city as Jin Guangyao is the price they have to pay, he'll gladly pay it.

Mingjue takes the bags onto his arm without complaint, resigned to being the pack mule for the day, and follows Huaisang out.] Art is one thing you could always pull off. [He could never tell the difference between inked willows in the moonlight and inked pine trees on the mountainside, but he knew Huaisang had a talent there.] I should hope so for all the times you skipped saber practice to paint. [He doesn't push too hard, unsuspecting, just claps a hand on his shoulder and habitually steers Huaisang out of the way of some overlarge Turnskin not watching where she's going.

His protective instincts have not weakened in the least since his own changes started.]

Lead the way. We will go wherever you want, as long as it isn't somewhere of ill-repute. [No Harbor District for you, mister.]

[ oh-- he didn't even notice the turnskin. his gaze flicks over to it, a bit surprised, still not quite used to seeing such monstrous figures in person even after a bit of time has passed. a younger huaisang might have screamed in fright, at least back when they were children, but now it's just a sense of curiosity. there's still so much to understand about this world... but if nie huaisang's brother is here, he'll be fine.

gratitude flashes across their bond, warm and familiar, and he nods as they make their way down the street towards the next shop. at this rate, he'll have filled his brother's house with all kinds of trinkets, but... well, it needs it. huaisang hums in response to the comment of ill repute, too, turning to give him a smile that's a bit more sheepish. ] That market really was strange, wasn't it...? I still wasn't sure what anything was, or I wouldn't have spent too much time there, I promise!

[ he did keep his porn books he bought on accident though, but like, is that even surprising. ] What about you, da-ge? Do you need anything to 'focus' the transformations that you have, too?

[He keeps his hand resting casually on Huaisang's shoulder, even after the perceived 'danger' is passed, finding something like comfort in the contact. Better not to lose him in the crowds, but also a reminder that they are both here and solid. Sometimes it still feels like an elaborate hallucination, this gift of his only family.

His gratitude is answered with a thread of protection, and care. Mingjue opens the door and lets him in first when they make it to the next shop he wanted to visit; the jewelry and trinkets hold very little interest for him, but he's just here to carry bags and open his wallet (and spend time with the baby brother who hasn't seen him in so long), so he doesn't mind.] Mm. They are not usually so open with their stalls. The City Guard will have them in hand soon enough. [And they'll crawl back to whatever holes they came from in the first place. Good riddance.] It's alright. Luckily you did not drink anything they were selling. [He would have had to kill somebody, so. Hey. A win.

Also he hasn't seen the porn books and he does not want to. But he would not be surprised. As much as he will defend Huaisang to others, he knows his brother is a trouble-making gremlin (and now knows he's an unparallelled mastermind).

Nie Mingjue hums out a sound that says he's considering, but after a moment of reviewing his knowledge, shakes his head.] The transformations will happen whether I wish them to or not. It is a matter of accepting them or fighting against them, though a bond with a Witch can be stabilizing and stave off the possibility of slipping into a feral mindset.

I suppose in a way, you are my focus. [And that seems quite fitting, considering his life's goal has been to protect his brother.]

[Lan Xichen is out in the Wilde, attempting to draw some energy back into himself from the earth and trees and fresh air beneath the moon. It helps a little and at least allows him to practice channeling more energy into spells. He's not really looking for Shades as much as a quiet spot for himself, but since people tend to avoid places with Shades, one can often lead to the other. He finds the tracks and signs, following them toward the prey until he hears a familiar voice.]

Mingjue.

[Looking up, Lan Xichen carries himself with his usual calm, looking pale white and like a jade statue draped in drifting clouds thanks to the Lan robes. If he's a bit quieter than normal it is probably hard to notice, but his smile is muted as well.]

Are you hunting this one, then? I will leave it to you.

[Mingjue looks down when he spots - and smells - Lan Xichen. Everything is much sharper, allowing him to make note of his sworn brother's unique scent now; he's sure to remember it for the future just in case. There is something a little brighter in his eyes now as well, whether it's from the hunt or something else. He jumps down from the tree he had climbed to get a better vantage point, Baxia held loosely.]

Xichen. [He says it warmly, or at least as warmly as he ever does, gesturing toward the trail.] Plenty of prey for both of us, if you would like to join me.

[There is something that just seems natural about watching Nie Mingjue climb through trees and searching for prey. Or maybe it's just that he seems happier, something that Lan Xichen only distantly remembers of his friend. It's refreshing, and somehow enlightening, seeing the contrast and realizing that he did not recognize it at first glance.

For a moment, he just takes the scene in, looking at Nie Mingjue the way he should be. It's only after he realizes the silence is getting awkward that he remembers to speak.]

Ah. Then, I shall accompany you. Please, go ahead.

[It's been a long time since he's had the time for just a casual night-hunt. Before, there were always disciples to watch out for, training opportunities to ensure. And that was when he wasn't busy with Sect politics to the point of being unable to go out in the first place. Nie Mingjue had a lot of responsibility piled onto his shoulders at a relatively young age, having to lead when the rest of his age group were still enjoying their teenage years, so to come out and hunt with no pressures or duties involved is... unusual but not unwelcome.

It has been quite some time since he last felt happy.

He offers Xichen a slight smile and takes the lead, slowing his pace a little so the Witch can keep up. His night vision is sharper this month, so he picks out the easiest path for them. Judging from smell, the Shade has gotten a fair head start.] Are you well? The lunar cycle seems different this month.

[Even with Nie Mingjue slowing his pace, Lan Xichen stays behind him, following along to witness the hunt more than participate. It's good to see this, and if his friend finally gets to be who he wants to be here, taking advantage of the freedom and new chances Afenglom offers, then it really must be fate that brought him. He tags along, but it seems that at that pace Mingjue might not get his prey.]

Well. Yes. You should hurry, though. It might get away if you don't catch up.

[He does have questions, but they can wait. Mingjue's hunt is a priority.]

[Nie Mingjue fixes him with a narrow-eyed gaze of light suspicion, wondering if there is a reason he doesn't want to really hunt, only spectate. He's hanging back on purpose, it seems. But there is an unholy shriek farther ahead, the Shade no doubt, and Mingjue is briefly torn.]

I'll wait for you ahead. [He says, because the creature is too dangerous to leave be in the area, and then he picks up speed, moving fluidly. He doesn't need a lantern even in the dark, his senses vibrant and alive with the moons hanging overhead.

He disappears into the undergrowth, and it isn't long before the Shade's shrieks turn to the sounds of a fierce fight, blade cleaving necrotic flesh. It crumbles into dust when he slays it, a withered old body that was dead a long time ago, a black stain on the ground. Sure enough, he waits there for Lan Xichen to catch up.]

[ If he doesn't make any attempt to hunt then he won't overextend his magical reach. It might mean not being able to practice as often or to keep up with someone like Nie Mingjue, but few could keep up with him even when he wasn't a fierce predator with enhanced abilities. Really, Lan Xichen should be content he can get close. He smiles and conserves his strength, watching the blade of Qinghe dash after the Shade with an amused huff.

Once he catches up, Nie Mingjue has already dispatched his prey and Xichen is just in time to see the dust catch air and scatter around him from the last blow. ]

Congratulations.

[ The amusement is still warm in his voice. ]

You still hunt magnificently. I'm sure at this rate we'll be able to clear much of this area of Shades entirely. Perhaps we should create a new border further out?

[Nie Mingjue has been warned that the bodies of Shades can still spread infection even after they're dispatched, so he pulls out a flint to strike, starting up a small fire to consume the pile of twisted darkness. He keeps half an eye on it for now, glancing up when he scents Lan Xichen entering the little clearing.]

It would not be a bad thing for those in the Outer City. Fewer threats in their area. [A coordinated group could hunt better, but he doesn't say that out loud, just raises a brow.] You didn't seem interested in the pursuit. What are you doing out here?

I am interested. But you had that one well in hand, didn't you? I am happy to assist you, but I thought it would be better to wait until there was real need.

[Lan Xichen approaches the spot where Nie Mingjue is burning the corpse of the Shade.]

I have been taking in the population for now. I wanted to know how far spread the Cwyld has gotten and what we should expect within a certain boundary. Would you like to see?

[Xichen pulls a hand drawn, folded map from his robes and shows it to Mingjue, small marks made in the sketch of the Wilde for sightings of Shades and infected areas.]

Then we can find others. [He certainly isn't tired yet. His adrenaline is up and his furry rounded ears are pricked in alertness. No doubt Nie Mingjue will be out here until the sun comes up, unless something happens.

He leaves the small fire burning with just enough attention paid to it to ensure it won't spread and comes to look at the map Xichen produces, tracing the marks with his eyes.] Mm. Do you think there is a pattern? The areas of infection don't begin until farther out from the city but the Shade sightings are growing closer to the walls.

[He smiles, because that is Mingjue's kindness shining through. A bit like a mother eagle trying to bring live prey to its young and teach them how to kill, Mingjue is ready to accompany Xichen on more hunts so he can get some exercise too. It's actually quite cute if you like eagles.

Or scaly tigers. Xichen has decided he's fond of them.]

It seems as though the nest or at least the source of the infection has remained further out, but the Shades are moving closer. Perhaps they are just seeking the city because of all the living they sense there. We should think about establishing a second perimeter to prevent them from coming close. And if there is a place that is infected we don't know about, it might be closer than we realized.

[More like, he figures Lan Xichen must have come out here for a reason, so why wouldn't Mingjue accompany him? Maybe one day he'll try it out with Huaisang, leading him to live prey, but for now, his brother is too new to being a Witch to be out here. (And probably wholly uninterested.)]

Maybe something disturbed their usual haunts, driving them closer. [He doesn't like the thought.] This hunt was only organized to let those disturbed by the full moons work off some energy, but they should be doing this more often, with more structure. At least a few groups should be out here every month just to thin the Shades that draw near.

[Nie Mingjue turns back to stomp out the small fire that has consumed his kill by now, running Baxia's blade over the heat first to remove any residue from the blade.] You didn't answer me earlier. [Or he did but was too quick to change the subject.] Are you well?

[It's nice to be included in those things, treated like it is normal despite knowing Mingjue must still hold some resentment against him as well. He may not know why he is being treated kindly, but he appreciates that consideration nonetheless and takes the planning seriously.]

That would mean there are more dangers. If there is something greater driving the Shades toward us, we should ask others to help keep watch. I think you are right. It would be best to go out at least once a month to make sure things aren't getting worse.

[Plenty of people go out to hunt, but it isn't necessarily organized and that information isn't always public. Mingjue of course has a strong sense for battle plans. That question, though, is more personal, isn't it?]

Ah, but I did answer. [Technically and very directly, although that was the problem. Xichen draws a breath and sighs.] I suppose I am tired lately. I thought a walk outside would do some good.

[It isn't resentment, not really. It is an endless frustration, a feeling of distance that he does not enjoy. A wariness, that Jin Guangyao could turn his old friend against him with some whispered words, some twisted poison in his ear. Putting the past behind them does not need to mean he leaves Lan Xichen behind as well, though; he still worries for the man, and respects his opinions when it comes to business matters.]

Maybe I will seek those with like minds in the near future then. [Arrange some groups for regular Shade hunting... it could be something good. Something useful.]

One hell of a place for a walk. [He says mildly, stomping down the last few embers of the fire.] Is something on your mind? Things have been... quite unusual this month.

[Xichen, as always, is too trusting of all things. Of Jin Guangyao and his conditional kindness, but also of the tenuous relationships that he's walking on a spider's thread. He believes that even if there is resentment between his sworn brothers that they can find some way to peace. If not together, then at least along their own paths and still both live well.

It's a naive but honest hope for them. He does laugh gently at Mingjue's observation that he is far out--it's true, if he wanted just a walk.]

Well, I cannot always remain in the city. I want to see what the Coven has made and how well everyone is getting on. I promise to protect myself if any Shades approach.

[But he's not actively hunting either. At least at the moment.]

Mm... I think that I am not strong enough.

[Finding peace is about to get a lot harder. They spoke last month, at least, and it didn't go well, but it went without murder or chasing and that's progress. This month, things have changed again...

But that is the very near future. Making sure the embers are extinguished and the Shade no more, Nie Mingjue joins Lan Xichen at his side again so that they might walk, since that's what he's here for. His grip on Baxia is easy and loose, unafraid of what might pop out. The dangers out here, he is allowed to kill.] I am not certain how much has been made out here, truly, but it isn't a bad idea. Directing an unstable saber toward an enemy and away from one's own. [Has he used this technique on unruly Nie juniors in the past? Most likely.

But then he glances at Xichen, expression searching, his question just as probing.] What makes you think that?

[Xichen watches as Mingjue stamps out the last flickers of live flame that used to be a Shade, grinding it away to make sure it is no longer going to come back as a threat. It's a swift, thorough action that is utterly befitting Nie Mingjue. Xichen has no doubt that if he decides to help keep the people living beyond the Wall protected, they will be secure in ways that are sorely needed. He came at a good time whether he knows that or not.]

Mm. So far I think it seems to have done some good. I'm glad everyone is out here.

[He smiles at the question, soft and strangely content.]

I wish to be strong so that I can also defend the things that are most important to me.

[The ruffian in question who has apparently come to kill the old woman is a tall, gangly thing. If anything, the indication of some items dropped on the floor seems more like the old lady had knocked the man off balance somewhat and he had been kneeling down to pick up said items. There's nothing particularly suspicious about the items either. Animal supplies and the like. Just a guy who was going about his day before an old lady started screaming bloody murder because she and him collided.

Newt looks up from where he's crouched and offers a nervous smile. It has nothing to do with being intimidated by the other (Newt isn't much for being intimidated). It's just very awkward to being accused of attempted murder and not being particularly popular with rich socialites.]

I, uhm, do beg your pardon. I wasn't looking where I was going. [More like the granny just went about with no care of anyone around her.]

[Madam Winifred is not... entirely there, he thinks. She has all her faculties except for the one that tells her when someone is not out to kill her. She is definitely the one that bumps into the gangly man and then screams for her bodyguard as if she was wrong, and Nie Mingjue has to suppress a sigh.

She grips at his sleeve, and he loosens her withered hand, patting it.] Nainai, go wait over there for me. I am sure your hip is bothering you. I have you in my sights. [He motions to a bench nearby for her to sit down, and she regards Newt with a suspicious look, muttering very audibly, You'll deal with this ruffian, Mr. Nie?] I will.

[Once she's hobbled off to take a sit, pulling out her folding fan to fan herself, Nie Mingjue stoops to help him gather his things.]

Apologies. Madam Teague has her... peculiarities. [She's an old bat and he knows it.]

[Newt just laughs a little instead of being offended in any capacity. Honestly, this was mild as far as being accused and sentenced to death or whatever.] I can't say I'm offended. I've had worse altercations.

[Which probably is far from comforting, but that's besides the point.] I assure you that I don't have any intention of doing anything to her, unless you think she'll find an untimely [Is it truly untimely?] death to this hairbrush.

[A lopsided grin though.] She seems to appreciate you quite a bit though.

She is harmless. [He agrees, handing over the things of Newt's that he'd picked up.] According to her, in her youth she angered some secret organization and believes they will send an assassin to kill her. She is... alert. [Aka she's paranoid but he's too polite to say so about his employer.]

I know you mean her no harm. [And frankly if he did, Nie Mingjue is pretty sure he could take this guy. He waves a hand vaguely.]

I should hope so. She pays me well to intimidate those who frighten her.

[Newt is gracious for the help and thanks him as he puts everything back into the paper bags he's carrying.] Well, she certainly has a lot of vigor for her age. [He'll give her that.] It sounds like she had quite the time in her days. [He's curious what she might have done and what secret organization, but he also wonders if that's actually true or the ramblings of an old woman with some screws loose.]

Well, I appreciate that. I'm not really interested in getting into any altercations. [He's pretty sure Hiccup will get stressed out if Newt finds himself in trouble again. Wrong place at the wrong time is his specialty.]

I feel as though you have to do a lot of intimidating then. [Given that she basically accused him of attempted murder.]

She is quite energetic still. [But definitely has a few screws loose. Nie Mingjue has not further inquired about this 'secret organization' or what she did to anger them, but he doesn't really believe a bit of it. He chalks it up to wealthy elder eccentricity.]

I have no desire to fight in a crowded marketplace, so we are agreed. [He would if he could chalk it up to self-defense with the authorities, but only if it was warranted. He straightens to his full height.] Quite a bit, but if a few glares toward supposed enemies put her at ease, it is good for all involved. [He's clearly under no impression that he's anything other than an elderly woman's babysitter here.

Mingjue salutes, bowing his head politely.] I am Chifeng-zun. Thank you for not reacting with anger to my employer's eccentricities.

[Newt gathers the remaining items that had gotten knocked to the ground. They're a different assortment of tins of tea. Some he had to stock up on, but a few that he had wanted to try for either their flavor or their supposed properties.]

I don't really have any desire to fight in general, much less a crowded marketplace. [A pacifist deep down.] I hope it stays that way though. [Just because conflict is stressful, and the altercations that have happened while here had been....extreme to say the least.]

Newt Scamander. And you really don't have to thank me. I'm a little used to it. Well, not being accused of murder, but perhaps getting some hostilities from others. The richer natives here aren't fond of me either, so her having some dislike towards me wouldn't have been surprising if I'm going to be honest. I appreciate you that you didn't immediately escalate it.

[He could guess that. This guy, while just about as tall as him, looks like the skinny pacifist type. Not that he's making a judgement, but a warrior always makes a split-second evaluation of a potential opponent.] I consider it my duty to fight when necessary and de-escalate when necessary. [The severe line of his mouth takes on an almost amused turn.] Nainai clearly is the one who bumped into you, even if she does not see it that way.

[He raises a brow, curious.] The wealthy natives dislike you? Why is that?

Well, people do hate being in the wrong, I've found. [Which isn't really a criticism towards a senile, old woman.]

Oh. I suppose the best description is I'm a sympathizer of Monsters. I think many are more tolerant now, but I definitely have been kicked out of establishments in the wealthier districts before. [Newt straightens up and shrugs a little. He doesn't bring up the happenings of January if there's no need to.] I keep a clinic, but I see more Monster patients than I do Witches.

I had noticed that those in the aristocratic district tend to be... human. [And it's still weird not to include himself in that group anymore, but with the furry round ears poking out of his hair, he can't exactly hide himself under robes anymore.] They have something against Monsters? [He hasn't exactly seen it with Madam Teague, but that doesn't mean it isn't true of others. And even she had been delighted at his changes because it would make him more 'intimidating'.]

Ah, so you are a healer. [This seems to make sense. Newt is definitely not a fighter from what he can tell.]

I wouldn't say against, but you could say that not every man was born equal. [And he has seen this kind of mindset at home with his brethren and their opinions on Muggles.] You could say that many consider others to be lesser than them. [And even if people don't say it out loud, there's the obvious differences in living arrangements and the divide of those who live in the wealthier districts and those that live in the slums.]

I suppose that's one way to look at it. [He had no love for fighting, but that isn't to say that Newt didn't know how to and it would be ignorant to think that he can't either.] I much prefer to help others, though how that help comes along depends on the situation at hand.

This I have seen hints of in my daily life. [Chimeras apparently are 'bad luck'. Who'd have thought. He's gotten some dirty looks for simply being, but the opinions of the masses have never particularly bothered him as long as he himself feels he's on a right path.] I had no idea it extended to Witches viewed as sympathetic, however. [His expression is quietly disapproving.]

Mm. [He really doesn't know. He's made some assumptions here. But he doesn't seem like he's going to press the issue or be rude either.] Where is your clinic located? [It seems like something he should know. With a certain someone around.]

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[open + closed prompts] i don't want a brand new start

closed to nie huaisang;

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