Event Log: June, What Lies Beneath

[faileas]

Event Log: June, What Lies Beneath

Down, Down, Down The group leaves on the morning of the 16th, a band consisting of Mirrorbound, Theodore and Sowilo from the Coven, and one of the two returned Wilders to lead the way. The latter three will only be present for the first leg of the journey: from the North Gate to the Northern Outpost by teleporter, then a few hours' hike to the site. A tunnel yawns open, fallen rocks built up around it in mounds. Everyone is offered enchanted lanterns to light the way, and their guide takes them perhaps a mile down before he and the pair from the Coven must part ways with the Mirrorbound. The poorly-lit tunnel leads steadily downward. The way is marked by their gracious hosts to be, with arrows drawn in softly-glowing algae painting the walls so there is no mistaking which way to go; a good thing, because the deeper the party goes, the more tunnels branch off of the largest one, twisting and turning into the dark. It takes some hours to reach a familiar cavern lit with algae and glowing crystals, a herd of the velvet wormipedes idly milling about the small lake and stream that led into town in the dream. Much nicer long boats are set up and waiting to take them deeper, along with respectfully quiet Monster guards to steer them. They take a slightly different route from the dream, but before long, they reach the curtain of grayish green moss that dangles down into the water, stretched across the wide tunnel exit like a membrane. It parts on its own as the boats pass, though beware if you are infected by the Cwyld - it will not allow passage, only reach out long, tough tendrils to try and envelop you, the touch of it burning acid-bright where it is harmless for those uninfected. Past the curtain of strange moss, the cavern city opens up before them, vast and spacious, dimly lit with more algae, crystals, and softly glowing orbs of magic. It's like being plunged into an eternal twilight, somehow soft, cast in gentle colors. The boats bypass the markets this time, drifting farther down a branching stream into the city proper, to dock next to stone platforms. The winding streets and flowing canals branch out all around them with no rhyme or reason, the city sprung up around the natural layout of the caverns rather than the other way around. Buildings are carved out of tall stone spires, the windows and doors covered in fluttering silk, many of which are pulled away so that fascinated locals can peer out at the scene unfolding. The Matriarch herself comes to greet the group, ringed at the back by spear-carrying guards, all Monsters. A tall, long-limbed Arachne woman bearing battle scars and stark white hair, she looks perhaps in her 30s, and speaks with a booming, commanding voice, amplified by a charm. As she speaks, ten Wilders are released from silk rope bonds and nudged to join the Mirrorbound; they're a little roughed up, perhaps, and shaken, but none are seriously injured. A few Monsters also make the rounds, placing copper tokens in the hands of ten individuals. "Welcome, travelers! This meeting was foretold and so it has come to pass. During your stay you will be treated as our honored guests. You may come and go as you please, but we ask that you use the same tunnel you entered through; we have not yet re-secured the other entrances from Cwyld nor the tribes. I would hate for danger to befall you while you are under my care." Her smile is wide, her eight eyes bright, and her teeth are very sharp. "We have prepared temporary residences for your use. I hope you will stay for the celebrations. I look forward to meeting with some of you very soon." Notably, she does not mention the surface where from the Mirrorbound came, and those around her do not ask.

I. The City The Mirrorbound receive mixed reactions from the Underground. Some are fascinated by these visitors personally invited by the Matriarch and allowed past the markets; others are wary and suspicious, believing them to be wolves in sheep's clothing. In the city proper, most passing Monsters are armed, but this doesn't seem to be anything new. Still, step cautiously - plenty do not take well to even unknowing offense and will pick a fight, or may see these guests as easy, weak targets to pickpocket or mug in the dark corners of the twisting streets. The guards only step in if things take a turn for the worse or if the fight is very obviously imbalanced - they step in more for Witches being attacked than Monsters, because they feel Witches require protection more. Still, not all are so unscrupulous: more citizens are delighted to talk, even if they still seem skeptical about a whole world up above. Mirrorbound, as guests of the Matriarch, are given nearly free run of the city, allowed to explore such locations as the marketplace, the library, the shops, the schools (the Arena for Monsters and the Academy for Witches), and the tunnels and caverns outside the protective moss barriers. The only places they (and most locals) are expressly barred from are the Matriarch's audience hall, the upper level of the library, and the guards' barracks. a. The Marketplace The marketplace is much larger than previously thought - it rings the entire city, and stalls spill onto the streets of the inner city as well in a lazy sprawl. There are some shops with actual buildings, but they're fewer and more expensive: alchemy and apothecary shops, a couple of restaurants, a weapons shop or two, nice clothing shops. Most, though, are independent merchants who set up and take down their stalls every day and night. Any number of Underground-sourced foods, clothing, weapons, trinkets, and more can be found at the stalls; they barter, or exchange chips of precious metals and gems, but they'll take cune coins with fascination. The marketplaces are the liveliest areas of the city with Monsters and Witches alike, from all walks of life, mingling and sharing gossip and idle talk. Those who lost items to the burrowing hyenas at the Northern Outpost some months ago should keep an eye out: the hyenas are fairly common down here, serving the roles of pets or working dogs for Underground citizens, and a few merchants deal in more interesting goods. The missing items can be found scattered across some stalls, and the merchants will gleefully tell perusers that these things come from the surface, aren't they fascinating? Don't you want to buy? Luckily, it shouldn't be too hard to get your things back. They'll take all manner of interesting trinkets in trade. b. Library The library is bound to be a popular stop. Monsters get some strange looks if they enter the spire just off the courtyard from the Academy, but they aren't barred from entry; most just feel that reading is for Witches. The building is only two levels - one closed off at the top, guards keeping everyone out, and the rest is just one very tall floor ringed with a spiral of platforms and stairs to access the honeycomb-shaped shelves built into the walls. All their books are written on scrolls of silk, and the librarians bark at patrons to be delicate with them, some are very old. If one has endless time, the scrolls can offer a look at life Underground: historical accounts of past Matriarchs, brave warriors and battles against nomadic tribes or hideous beasts, their history as they know it, scrolls on offensive and defensive magic for Witches, fighting techniques for Monsters, information on their unique flora and creatures that can be found outside the city, and even plenty of fiction - sword and sorcery novels all set in the tunnels and the city. It's just a bit difficult to find what, specifically, you're looking for, because if there's any kind of organization, it only makes sense to the deep-dwelling denizens. Maybe make it a team effort! You'll also need some simple translation spells, because their system of writing is quite different to the common system in Aefenglom; even then, it may not be accurate on older scrolls. c. The Guest Villa Those who choose to spend several days in the Underground are given modest accommodations in a tall stone building. These guest chambers boast gentle lighting, wide beds, backless sofas, potted decorative fungi, and stone furniture. It's... cozy, with humble individual rooms and larger common rooms for gathering. The algae grows in delicate patterns across the walls, pulsing in soft colors. They've gone out of their way to provide what comfort they can, but there aren't enough rooms for everyone to have their own - everyone will need to share with one or two others, so choose someone you can get along with.

II. The Tunnels Mirrorbound are not restricted only to the city. There are many entrances to the cavern where it resides, the openings all covered with sheets of that same gray-green moss; some wider tunnels obviously see more use than other, narrower ones, and the footpath of many Underground denizens is easy enough to trace, the stone worn smooth. The path to the velvet wormipede cavern is one of them; they're raised as livestock, all at once food, transportation, and producers of silk and hide for clothing. This is much the same as the dream. Another well-worn tunnel leads upward to an agricultural center, though, and still more lead out into the wild. They're warned, but not hindered, before they leave for anywhere other than the farms or the livestock cavern; dangers abound in the Underground. Those who do much wandering may notice something going on as well; the guards stationed at each tunnel mouth can often be found talking to each other in low voices about an unknown red algae that seems to be growing on the protective moss. It can be found primarily around the lesser-used tunnels so far, starkly bright against the dull green, and this seems to be a point of concern... a. A Botanist's Dream It's a short walk down a wide, inviting tunnel to reach the place where the city grows fungi and underground plants for food and medicine. Large rats and hyenas both are present to keep opportunist creatures and insects from demolishing the carefully-cultivated beds of rock and soil, and small blind fish swim about in the large pool of shallow water, in which grows something like seaweed. One of their primary sources of food, besides bug and rat, are mushrooms of many sorts - all the types that grow in the farms are edible, though some may be an... acquired taste. The Fauns and Witches who tend the beds are happy to offer samples of anything that can be eaten raw; they're most enthusiastic about a type of spherical mushroom whose cap opens up to reveal what tastes and feels like savory cotton candy, and a type of flat fungi that tastes sweet and fizzy and offers a heightened good mood for an hour after. b. The Wild Underground The lesser used tunnels are a different story. A mile out from the city, Cwyld runs in thick black veins through the stone walls, infecting the sparse plants and many creatures that live out there. Careful not to touch. Infected and uninfected creatures both are highly dangerous to explorers, including stone-burrowing moles with wicked teeth and claws that can cut through metal like butter, vicious white wasps that carry lethal venom, and berserker vampire bats that survive on the blood of other animals and people alike. Some infected fungi give off blindingly-bright flashes when disturbed, while others will cause rashes and blisters on contact. Explorers are warned not to touch anything if they can help it. As well, the nomad tribes roam the less-civilized tunnels and caverns. These are small bands of usually Monsters of different types in mixed groups, though some can be found dragging humans along with them. Nearly all of them are some degree of feral, and plenty bear Cwyld infections in different stages of seriousness. They don't stop to ask questions before they'll attack anyone, including each other, in hopes of robbing them blind and leaving them for dead. As vicious and quick as they are, perhaps it's no wonder they value strength in the city?

III. Graduation Day (21st - 23rd) The Underground does not have 'Litha' as Aefenglomites know it, but come the 21st, they do have a major celebration. They simply call it the New Year, or Graduation Day, depending on what festivities are asked about, because the three days serve as both. At this time of year, with more magic in the air, the algae and crystals glow much brighter, cycling naturally through different colors that cast beautiful rainbows across the imposing stone structures. This display is how they mark the start of a new year, and it coincides with the graduation of young Monsters from the Arena and Witches from the Academy. The New Year is a time to celebrate Bonding, partying, and showing off one's skills in the hopes of attracting a new Bondmate or romantic partner. Tensions can also rise high as rivalries are settled, and small brawls in the streets are common; the guards don't interfere, again, unless things get too dangerous. They're content to let citizens work out their own issues, but unfortunately, this means Mirrorbound may get dragged in on occasion! Small fights are also a tried and true tradition to show off one's abilities around this time of year. It serves multiple purposes: attracting a Bondmate, establishing a place in the unspoken hierarchy of the city, and working out problems with others. Monsters are more likely to start brawls than Witches, though it isn't wholly uncommon to bear witness to two rival Witches throwing spells at each other in an alleyway over their grievances. They're more likely to be stopped, as magic can be quite destructive. a. A Matching Pair The un-Bonded should take precautions during the New Year celebrations. These fascinating newcomers are bound to draw the eye of curious locals, and they may put on a violent or flashy show trying to draw your attention in return! The most common way to show that you're already taken during the celebrations is with face-painting: several stands set up around the marketplace with cosmetics and brushes, and two (or three, or more) people painting matching designs on their faces and bodies signify them as a set - either Bonded or intending to Bond. That doesn't mean there won't still be competition for your heart, but it will lessen significantly, especially if you're a Monster-Witch pair already. b. Exhibitions Primarily intended for the graduating classes of Monsters and Witches, the exhibitions are an official stage set for their coming-of-age; this year, however, the Matriarch has decreed that Mirrorbound may participate as well, in the interests of getting to know one another! They're interested to see what these strange travelers can do, especially against some of their own. Mirrorbound are encouraged by excitable locals if they seem reticent, but of course, no one is forced. (Just don't be surprised if you're called a coward for refusing!) At the Arena, a massive sunken ring with stone benches for spectators ringing the whole of it, young Monsters learn combat skills, with and without weapons, and how to harness their unique physiologies in the dangerous world of the Underground. Their yearly exhibition fights take place all through the three days of the New Year, and young Monsters battle each other til first blood to the cheers and jeers of citizens (and more importantly, Witches) come to watch. The longer the battle, the more impressive it is - and Monster Mirrorbound will have no shortage of eager opponents wanting to test their skills against the unknown. Generally, the fights result in bruises, small cuts, and little else, but rivals for the same Witch might take it farther on purpose before they're wrenched away from each other by the teachers. Meanwhile, at the Academy, the tallest stone spire building in the city, young Witches learn magic from a young age. It isn't exactly the same as magic taught at the Coven, but many concepts are similar - barriers, evocation, enchantments meant for weapons or shields, healing, most of the magic they're taught at this younger age is for combat, protection or practical purposes. They only learn more frivolous magics after graduation. Much like their Monster counterparts, they give solo or duet shows of their flashier and more impressive magical skills in the courtyard, with many citizens coming to watch and take stock of the new generation. Mirrorbound Witches may find themselves being cajoled into putting on a show of their own by curious locals wanting to know what kinds of magic are taught elsewhere.

IV. Aefenglom - Litha (21st - 23rd) Meanwhile, for those who have chosen to stay above-ground or those who have left early, Litha comes once more to Aefenglom, bringing with it beautiful pink and purple skies, a far departure from last year's red tint. It has the city in a much cheerier mood for the celebrations. While they know that several Mirrorbound left for a while, they don't seem too aware of the actual mission, and have very little to say on the matter - they'd rather have a nice Litha, after last year's bad omens! Many of the activities from last year return, better than before, including the brothels opening up their doors (showing off all the wonderful new styles in lingerie!), collecting flowers to put under one's pillow in order to dream of future partners, and wandering the hedge mazes that have been magically constructed in certain parts of the city. Seeing off ships happens regularly as well, citizens setting floating candles into the harbor and river to wish them luck. a. Love Boats A new attraction for Litha is being rolled out this year right on the River Temese! Near the gate, an enterprising Faun has set up a few small boats, each just big enough for two and shielded with fine gauzy curtains for privacy. Couples are invited to buy a ride down the river together, assured it will certainly set the mood. Those who have no partners are offered (or cajoled) to be randomly paired with someone, because perhaps it's fate! The boats drift lazily down the river and stop on their own next to a small dock right before they reach the Harbor. Unless you're willing to swim, hopefully you like your boat partner, because you're stuck with them the whole ride. b. Predictive Pools One bathhouse in the Entertainment District has laid an enchantment on one of their semi-public baths for Litha. When two people stand in the water together, bare, it will begin to glow and take on one of a handful of colors that they say will predict the pair's compatibility level! Sexually, romantically? Well, why not both? The only thing is, they've lost the instructions, and cannot seem to remember what color means "most compatible" and what color means "not compatible at all"... As a reminder, all sexual content should be clearly marked in comment headers, or else moved to a comm-locked log or personal inbox! Be good to each other.

Welcome to June's Event Log, What Lies Beneath! The Underground will be open until mid-July at minimum, and possibly longer. Characters can come and go if they're willing to make the trip multiple times. As always, please direct your questions here! The NPC threads will take place here. Aaand, the Action Tracker is right here! Make sure to let us know what your characters have been up to, good and bad, by July 7th, as this will help determine how Mirrorbound-Underground relations might proceed in the future!

Comments

[petcromancer]

Pretty sure if we cut you open, you'd bleed spite instead of blood.

[Hector's eyes are darting everywhere, from the crops of mushrooms to the luminous mosses that line the walls. This is putting him in a great mood. There's so much data to collect here.]

It's a little like a candy. Or maybe I'm lying and they're awful. You'll never know.

[There's a lightness in Hector's step as he walks over to the first rows of mushrooms that can only be explained by mood-enhancing drugs.]

[inlikethebrume]

Strange? How so?

[There's usually meanings behind it but call Mira curious. Or maybe it's a segway for her to hear about his world. It's always interesting to hear about faraway lands and what they're like.]

[supersoldier]

Likely not. Though the option of wording it in a curious way, devoid of judgment and seeking explanation instead, might have a better result. Rarely do others take to strangers telling them how their lifestyles should be.

[There's irony in that, for a man who technically works for Shinra, but. Ah, well.]

If you learn anything more about the moss, I'd like to be privy to this information.

[silentsavant]

[ His nose twitches. He licks his lips. Keeps his ears open. His expression twitches in displeasure, and his voice has softened to a murmur. ]

Soft footsteps, but many. Steel, iron... weapons, most likely. Fur, musk, and filth. But worst of all, I smell traces of Cwyld growing stronger.

[ Given these facts, a plausible conclusion can be drawn. ]

It must be the nomadic tribes spoken of by the city dwellers. They're coming this way, and —!

[ Two spears hurtle expertly through the air. One collides with where Soren had been standing a moment ago, before he spun into a quick dodge. It clatters against the mossy rock wall and is enveloped by the plant. It came at an angle from the ceiling, thrower disguised among the stalactites. The other had been aimed at Caster, naturally.

Spiders are good at crawling on ceilings. And they have many arms... ]

[glitzandglamour]

[Three Turnskin, a Naga, and a robotic Puca all walk into a bar, and...

Mettaton hates this already.

There's clawing and punching and biting and growling, and one of the Turnkin has her teeth latched onto Mettaton's shoulder guard. MTT, too, bares his teeth, his ears being yanked back by another Turnskin while the Naga wraps his tail around Mettaton's legs, binding him thoroughly. They should bounce, but Mettaton isn't in any condition to be doing any bouncing. The third Turnskin's biting at Mettaton's arm, but to no avail. Still, metal begins to whine under the force of jaws and teeth, scraping and clenching...

Well, the robot's shoulder guard gives somewhat, at least, bending under the pressure of jaws.

Mettaton just writhes, but he's well restrained by the Monsters, legs bound, arms held in jaws, and head pulled back by his ears. The Turnskin yanking Mettaton's ears back pipes up:] "What is this thing? Can't even bleed like a Puca... Is this some kind of joke? What are you people trying?"

[He shoots a glare at Mikasa, as if the Fae will have an answer. It's not outright hostility, but more like... bafflement. The way the Turnskin regards Mikasa is with incredulity, as if asking: what is this joke. Mettaton is fake. They question whether he's alive at all.]

[needsteaplz]

[She had to do a double take.]

Eat y-What?! No, Hector. I'm not into eating sentient beings, literally and uh...actually let's not go into that subject matter.

[She manages to break away from Hector's grasp only to cup his face with both of her hands. ]

Look, the point is that I got excited when I found out you were here so I pounced because I thought I could surprise you for fun but I was an idiot, alright? Despite some of your actions in your past and your lack of self-preservation at times, I want to know you better and well I am in an open relationship so that is an option on the table if...Do I need to explain what a friend with benefits is?

[ Really smooth, Saori. ]

[inlikethebrume]

[How many times will she need to shock him for that to get through his head? The world may never know.]

You had asked and not assumed so I would say that this is not forced. [This time.] I think it will be alright.

[And then she stops because did...did he just propose to be like fake courting or something? Where in the hells did that idea come from? Was it because it was Litha and just as he said? But to her, it doesn't make much sense as well as her weighing how good his idea actually is. So assuming that she goes along with it, Mira can assume Mettaton will act as someone in love would be...but what about her? Her fear is that it will not be as convincing on her end and the idea just falls through. Probably not the best way to go but the offer is nice.]

Wouldn't they already be assuming we would be if we are already standing together? Besides, I'm not sure if I would be able to pull it off as good as you would.

[petcromancer]

I don't think you wanted to actually eat me. I meant the instinct behind it.

[This isn't making the conversation any less awkward. He loses Saori's hand, but she touches his face and he finds he doesn't mind her touching him like that.

He wouldn't have known what those terms, 'open relationship' and 'friends with benefits' meant, if he'd just arrived here...but he's been in Aefenglom for months now, and he's a faun. The topics have come up before.]

...I understand. I am the same.

[In terms of being open. Most fauns are, if they have relationships at all.]

Come with me. [He doesn't grab her hand again, but he starts doubling back the way they came and glances over his shoulder to make sure she's falling. It's amazing how a faun's survival instincts dry up the moment sex is on the table.

He leads the way to a little alcove he'd found shortly before they ran into each other. A little dead-end nook with a bench where lovers might meet for a private word, or a kiss, or more, if they were feeling adventurous.]

[glitzandglamour]

[Mettaton is king of dubious ideas. And what his definition of Bonding is, is equally questionable. Who knows what goes on in that head of is? Her response has him laughing easily, however, as it's the sort of reply he'd expect.]

I doubt many could compare to my talent for acting, yes... But don't sell yourself short, Mira-darling. I'm sure you know how to be Bonded. Just like I do. Yes! You do know how to act, based on experience!

[Does Mettaton know how to act... platonically Bonded? Is that a concept to him? Once again, a dubious plan. He thinks it's a good one as he smiles, though his smile's taken on an edge of smugness at his own genius.]

Though if you're content with my presence alone to indicate our, ahem, "Bond..." Then let my brilliant company express to all onlookers that you are Bonded, and occupied.

[Electrocution's a thing of the past as Mettaton stands tall at Mira's side, hands on his hips and with distance that exceeds distant company. He doesn't flinch at all, but when does Mettaton ever flinch at boundaries broken? Does he have any?]

[yesdoubt]

[Momo's angle was more that wanting to impose their opinions on him is more controlling than just worrying, but he keeps that to himself for the moment. He has been meaning to ask one of the others from that world for a third party opinion, since he figures that both people actually involved in the bond are probably going to be a bit cagey about it.

Which is a problem for later. Momo's not surprised Guangyao isn't one to talk personally, and he can't help but grin a little self-consciously.]

We were picking Iunerberries earlier in the month. Apparently their fumes make people a little bit drunk and a lot more honest than usual, so it was a bit of a weird conversation. [Momo had said a few things he didn't necessarily mean to, but he'd managed to keep a lid on any particularly volatile opinions.] He definitely didn't say much about the blame stuff, though, unless you count not taking any of it as saying much.

[He will at least point that out. If Xichen is already aware to some degree that he's naive to certain realities of the world, Momo doesn't think sheltering him from it further is that great of an idea.]

[yesdoubt]

[Oh boy. Momo's certainly noticed that some of the clothes here are a bit...less than what gets worn on the surface, more what he'd expect to see in his own world (and in some cases, only in private even then), but he mostly just figured that worked for some Monsters. He can't say he's at all surprised there's people into it for other reasons, though, and he grins knowingly.]

Mmm, I've seen worse, but it's a lot less than most of what you see around the surface. Outside of the red light district, at least. [He did a little helping with the Litha costuming before he came down here, so he's seen some of the more questionable offerings they have holed up there.] So you're saying I was kind of right about you wanting to talk about your kinks?

[He just got the wrong kink with that initial bondage remark, clearly.]

[yesdoubt]

[It still feels somehow off, but Momo doesn't have much to compare it to in this world, so he tentatively takes it at face value for now. Nonetheless, this probably isn't the place to be burning it off either way.]

Do you want to go somewhere a bit more open, then? I feel like the library probably isn't the best place to be trying to deal with that kind of energy, you know what people can be like about their peace and quiet.

[He gives a slight, encouraging sort of grin. If it's a problem with the underground, maybe going back towards the surface for a bit might help.]

[zewu_jun]

[Lan Xichen will always be too forgiving and indulgent of those he loves. To Jin Guangyao, who is the most obvious issue, and to Lan Wangji and Nie Mingjue as well, because he wants them to be happy and doesn't always have the heart to be judgmental or strict even when he should be. He frowns slightly at the thought of Jin Guangyao in a drunken state, spilling out his thoughts to someone he isn't so close to. He really must have been upset to let go like that.]

It is quite a lot in his case. What did he say?

[Maybe it really was an enchantment. If that's true, then Jin Guangyao might have said something he didn't want to. Lan Xichen has to be sure, to avoid any conflict that might arise from secrets accidentally spilled. Although judging by Momo's reaction there weren't too many details let loose.]

[zewu_jun]

In many cases Lan Xichen is not quite as helpless as his mild demeanor and warm nature suggests he might be in the face of danger. He's an accomplished fighter, so of course Jin Guangyao doesn't have to worry as much about his general safety as he might even his own life. But it is probably true that having a connection that will alert the younger man to an emergency would be a good idea, since the more Lan Xichen explores, the more he seems to find himself in troubling situations. Certain things just can't be prepared for. Emotional venom is always a risk and timing is the difference between life and death.

But to Lan Xichen it's just a nice gesture. Even if it's only casual, just a nice gift to please him, he likes having Jin Guangyao's thoughts on him. If he's teasing him just a bit and trying to encourage that, then no one that they know is there to scold him for flirting in return for the gift. And it seems to be working quite well, much to his personal satisfaction.

"Yes, my lord," he says with a bit more silk in his voice. The faint smile playing at his lips is brief, there and gone, and only for Jin Guangyao. "This witch eagerly awaits any tasks you have for him. Your pleasure, as always, is my own."

[bloodwit]

Yes... I've heard opinions that I would not be considered even "human with draconic features" any longer.

[ but it gets worse: if someone loses all their energy, and thus they're forced to become a tiny dragon, doesn't that just make them a tiny dragon? that had to be spelled out for him. viren will never mention that particular to anyone else. ]

That will never change the fact that this was again my will. Most people's wills, here. We are still human at heart.

[bloodwit]

I would hope the staff would know to make everything much more than decent. But, yes, the cocoa is excellent.

Ozpin. And my name is Viren. A pleasure. I will pass the information on, then.

[yesdoubt]

Makes sense. [Now that she's more directly pointing out what her take on that is, he follows her gaze a little further upwards. It's interesting that they would've been led down here after people ended up losing things to it, before they even had the dream.]

A little. Or maybe some of the merchants do know, but are quiet about it. Now that you've brought it up, I'm wondering if the dream of here in particular had anything to do with Mirrorbound losing things to the city, or if it was just a coincidence and the timing is more about us crossing paths.

[It'd be nice to have more rhyme or reason for the dreams, but it doesn't look like they're getting that anytime soon.]

[weiward]

[wei wuxian has drank in a number of places: on steps and in caves and on the roof. a crate for a chair and one for a table is downright dignified. he places the cups down before uncorking the bottle and filling the cups, finally sliding hers to her with an awkward little laugh.

as far as wei wuxian's legacies go, that's not the worst one.]

Ah, yeah. In more ways than one now. [he rubs one of his ears.] The babies are half-grown and you still haven't came to see them.

[he picks up his own cup, taking a drink of the wine and holding it in his mouth for a moment before swallowing. it's sweet like fruit, without too much burn. he hopes he chose well for her.]

Could you spend time with your friend without drinking? I'm sure he wouldn't want you to push yourself into anything.

[bloodwit]

I didn't politely inquire with the worm if it had one, no.

'Animal familiar' is fine with me. [ a tragedy he doesn't remember bugpal nickname. ]

[fulgency]

[Ozymandias hums thoughtfully before he says,]

You have far more patience than I would in that regard.

[He is no performer, but he is a king. One that comes with a mighty and world-renowned ego. Not having an audience of some kind to display his talents would drive him practically mad.]

[He offers a smile to Momo.]

I imagine then when you are able to perform again, it shall be a greater performance than you have ever managed before with that much practice.

[fiddlestick]

[Look considering the size of Class VII cooking for this many people is normal to him okay]

Aha, yeah...the numbers add up quick when there's food being offered. [Go figure. He listens to what Shinjiro is saying, nodding along. Yes. Fie's cook knows his stuff] Yeah, that's a good idea. Hopefully there's something else they serve down here.

[Look it's...it's probably just a Fie thing. She has always been a bottomless pit ok]

Right! If you see anything that gives you ideas, just let me know!

[Onward to shopping!]

[darkcharge]

What? You don't think some of these wouldn't go over well in a soup?

[ Well maybe certain types of curry... ]

[cryptsleeper]

[There's a flick of a smile across Alucard's face at the mention of silver. There's an old and familiar problem, although he'd never say as such out loud.]

I think my spells will be fine, however the angle--

[There's one or two that are just beyond the elbow, making seeing them properly a slight task.]

If you could simply tell me if I miss a spot?

[cryptsleeper]

Oh, and you wouldn't be much the same?

[Alucard snorts in disapproval, but fine. Spite is spite, and he'll give into peer pressure only because it lets spite continue.]

Give me one then and we'll finish this stupid argument.

[darkestbefore]

I think at this point, there's a great deal that we could do to offend them.

[ She gives a wry laugh at that, shaking her head.

...Like telling them maybe they shouldn't feed their people to their strange moss.

Seeing his face, she laughs again. ]

Like making faces like that at the food they do have here.