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

[turmoiling]

Jin Guangyao has played a lot of roles in his life, and this wouldn't be his first time playing with Lan Xichen in a more flirtatious, entertaining sort of way. It was just that this was a bit of a role reversal, to imagine Lan Xichen as somehow beneath him, which was clearly an impossible thing.

But there was no harm in it Lan Xichen felt like playing that for bit, while they visited this unusual city for a while. It wasn't as if Jin Guangyao hadn't already been trying to present himself a little more formally to the citizens (if less so to fellow Mirrorbound.)

It didn't take too long for Jin Guangyao to get used to the basics of moving around on his long snake tail, as a keen student via observation of other nagas. But he's clearly picked up a few tricks, as he shifts and rises up on the tail so that he's a little bit taller than Lan Xichen. It's a funny perspective, being able to look down into Xichen's eyes with a smile.

"It has been a long day. Here you go," he says kindly, offering up the small packages of clothing. "Let's see to it that no one faults your manners. Come along with me, and I'll take care of our evening meal. "

The cooked rats he'd seen at some of the food stalls smelled rather unfortunately appealing to what he can only assume are the more snake-y parts of him, but there has to be something more palatable among the open-air restaurants of the marketplace.

[zewu_jun]

For many cultivators, even pretending to be below their status would probably be too much to bear, and if they were still in a familiar city where sects controlled the territory, Lan Xichen probably wouldn't have dared to play with such matters. There was just too much potential for injury and misunderstanding to treat his position lightly; too many people who would spit blood at hearing a Lan behave that way for anyone, but especially Jin Guangyao no matter what part of his life it involved. The scandal would have been yet another problem on his plate. But here at least there seems to be a ready excuse, and Lan Xichen has been considering his own life a bit more carefully since the fallout over dinner. If one good thing could be said about that, it was that it forced him to step back and reevaluate himself more closely. And he found that he didn't exactly mind the idea of living without so much of the assumed authority of being the Lan Sect Leader.

It's not something he is entirely willing to give up, but it is something he will think about. How much does he have to raise himself up here?

Taking the packages with both hands, he lowers his eyes and leans forward with a slight bow, mimicking with gentle movements the way he has seen another do before him on countless occasions. Good posture, careful, demure gestures. If Lan Xichen can't quite match the subservient expression, then he at least replaces it with a warm calm like some of the confident ladies-in-waiting he has observed before.

"Wherever my lord wishes, I will follow. But his consideration is too kind. This follower only needs to hear his voice to be well fed."

He does cast a quick, somewhat subtle look toward Jin Guangyao as he walks a step behind him. Even if their eyes don't meet, the brief emotion felt across the Bond is definitely a small thread of pride.

[turmoiling]

It's almost too much to see Lan Xichen of all people being so deferential, even for Jin Guangyao, knowing he's not being so serious. There's a tiniest flicker, a fleeting urge already to laugh it off already with a gentle smile, it's so patently absurd. But even playing the servant, it hardly even seems to demean him, with Lan Xichen's grace in executing formalities indisputable. Even if it was rather improper, well, this wouldn't exactly be the first improper thing they'd done together either.

"Even servants should be fed well. Only a lesser lord would think otherwise," he replies easily, returning that smile with benevolent fondness.

The extra 'height' doesn't really stick; he's gotten used to moving in a certain way, and it seems easier to balance without an extra foot of height. With a little more practice, it might come more easily. Jin Guangyao casts his own look behind him every so often as he slides through the market; even though it's fairly busy still, naga are common enough here that people casually make enough room for the long curves of his tail.

That glance back is enough to catch sight of an Arachne with his eyes on Lan Xichen, picking hs way along towards them. Jin Guangyao calmly slows a little for Xichen to catch up before laying his hand possessively on his Witch's shoulder and, though his smile doesn't waver, stares down the Arachne for a moment before the fellow decides to take his chances elsewhere.

"I rather think it's not the lone witch that's the rude one in this city," he says, pleasantly, if a little disdainful of the other monster. "How obviously must it be to get through to them?"

[zewu_jun]

"My lord is the greatest in the city in that case," Lan Xichen says with a voice that is soft velvet, only managing to hide a playful smile with his eyelids lowered. "I am proof of how well he keeps his things."

Jin Guangyao apparently gives up on his extra height in favor of movement, which is more important in keeping up his image anyway. Still, Lan Xichen's gaze continues to drift to his side, always on his Bonded a little more than just for appearances, admiring him and his smooth slither that is becoming more natural as he gets used to it. He's so distracted that he misses the venomous gaze cast his way by the arachne he'd offended earlier by helping Percy, breathing out a little at the touch of his hand. Through the bond, there's a feeling that tugs like a magnet, a desire to get even closer despite the public area. It's not as strong or as sharp as Jin Guangyao's hatred was when it came through unintentionally, but the wave of warmth is probably unconscious on Lan Xichen's part. Who would have guessed that Jin Guangyao could cut an imposing figure? He usually acts so demure and sweet that it catches the Lan by surprise.

"Perhaps I simply forget myself when I'm not directed properly. It's not their fault. My lord, you must forgive them. Not everyone can be as noble as my master. That is simply a natural gift."

[turmoiling]

Deciding not to read too much into that 'forgiveness', Jin Guangyao removes his hand from Lan Xichen's shoulder, if inwardly a little reluctantly. He's being proper, within the odd set of changing boundaries that comprise life in this new city and Aefenglom mingled with old rules.

He rests his hand on his sword hilt for a moment, as if the idea of more violent threat crossed his mind -- when, oddly enough, there was nothing of the sort. Perhaps if the Bond didn't exist, if he was more suspicious still of Lan Xichen's behaviour and less confident in his affection, those feelings might be different. But for what he assumes to be only an approach on an unbonded witch, when there are these feelings between them, it really wasn't worth thinking about beyond the slightest bit of real disdain.

"Very well," he agrees after a moment, magnanimously. "An innocent mistake, perhaps. His eyes were blinded by the sight of something too precious. Walk by my side then, until your lord might find an appropriate means to mark you as his own." Lan Xichen was free to read that as he liked, Jin Guangyao figured.

There were places to paint one another, but Jin Guangyao really did have some thoughts of getting some small item or another for his Bonded regardless, and gold would go well with the bland tones Xichen had been wearing lately. For a moment, he wanders through the maze of small market stalls, considering. If Xichen actually has a preference, he'd find a way to tell him in this little game.

Or possibly surprise him, the way things had been going lately.

[zewu_jun]

Jin Guangyao isn't the only one saddened when the contact ends. He knows they have to present a proper image, but Lan Xichen misses the hand when Jin Guangyao takes it back. He walks a little bit closer to his Bonded's side even before he's invited to do so, smiling with open amusement he has to fight down when Jin Guangyao says those flattering but exaggerated words. Precious indeed.

"Blinded by something. Perhaps the plants underground are distracting," he says lightly. There was definitely a confrontation and that arachne wouldn't have been gentle if he didn't have doubts about facing an armed naga. Lan Xichen, partly oblivious to the danger, is just entertained by the way his Bonded plays the part so well. He wonders what that arachne would think of Jin Guangyao if they met like this.

"You are quite distinguished today." The words have a slight musical quality as he indulges in the connection between them. "My lord must have been very successful on his business. It appears like a halo around you."

The teasing tone Lan Xichen uses is softened as he gives Jin Guangyao a more serious look, although it is no less warm.

"If it is my lord's mark, I will wear it gladly. It can keep me company when we are apart. And you can admire your work when we aren't."

[turmoiling]

As much as it really is inappropriate, Jin Guangyao is enjoying himself with the teasing and light wordplay - and glad to see his Bonded just as entertained at least in this moment. Even if they can feel each others' emotions, that doesn't mean he can truly understand, in more than a technical sense, why Xichen is struggling with some things on his own.

But it seems mostly forgotten, in moments like these, and the fondness in his eyes is a little out of character when he replies, "It always pays to conduct oneself well in a foreign land. If the ways are different here, one should at least show some acknowledgement of the local customs."

He pauses at a stall of small elegant trinkets. Even if the food is not so refined here, the metals and jewels the cavern dwellers have access to is quite good. His fingers brush over a white tassel, a thin golden chain belt, presumably for the flimsy silken outfits seen around here... his mind flicking though ideas that are too much or too little. Finding a balance between something tasteful, that perhaps Lan Xichen might keep more permanently, and something trivial but obvious enough to prevent hassling from other Monsters.

Finally deciding it's almost impossible to balance the two, the latter seems far more practical. And if Mingjue or Wangji happen to have questions if Xichen doesn't put it away somewhere after they're done playing, how much worse would it be, really?

"Perhaps something to simply tie us together in the eyes of the uncouth, for now," he says, and if he can think of other ways less visible that he might, in theory, mark Lan Xichen at some point, that thought is not-quite-so-strictly kept to himself with the Bond there. He purchases a couple golden ribbons from one of the vendors instead, creamy silk laced with metallic threads. "Turn around, if you would," he says, that smile lightly amused. His intentions are quite innocuous, but he rather wants to see Xichen's reaction.

[zewu_jun]

Their little game reminds Lan Xichen of the better parts of their past, times spent together in pleasant conversations and on night-hunts, sharing company without any tension between them. Of course those were times when he was far less knowledgeable and the tension was avoided mainly because of how little he really knew about his friend, but they were good times nonetheless. He can't say he doesn't miss them.

Just as he can't deny that hearing Jin Guangyao speak with authority sends a certain familiar shiver through him, leaving him hanging on the fondness he sees from his Bonded a little too long. It's not only a playful act as Lan Xichen watches the way Jin Guangyao examines the different items at the market. He seems distracted by his own thoughts -- maybe one in particular after that casual remark sparks a certain unspoken desire that Lan Xichen is not opposed to. In fact, he has been thinking that it's a shame they haven't spent more time together. He'd originally wanted to let Jin Guangyao be able to move freely without him, showing his Bonded that he could indeed trust him without question, but now that they are together he can't help feeling a bit disappointed that they haven't been sharing a room.

When Jin Guangyao tells him to turn around, he's still musing with his eyes on the naga's tail, wondering if it was hard for him to raise himself upright with so much body to support. It seems strong and Jin Guangyao's human half isn't as thick as some, but it still seems like a hard task... He starts a bit out of those thoughts, belatedly realizing he's been staring.

"Yes, my lord." The murmur is soft and slightly flustered as Lan Xichen obeys, maybe partly to avoid facing Jin Guangyao with his embarrassment.

[turmoiling]

Folding it in half in his hands to find the right point to attach, Jin Guangyao reaches up to tie the gold ribbon neatly to Lan Xichen's existing hairpiece. If Lan Xichen has decided, for his own reasons, not to wear his sect headband, Jin Guangyao will have to live without having ever really touched it. But he can at least appreciate a slightly different aesthetic, with the long tails of ribbon hanging down against the long dark hair. And it does look distinct against the muted tones of Xichen's clothing, and not in a bad way at all.

The second piece he keeps for himself, pulling his hair over one shoulder and tying the long ends together. Even if the color wasn't enough, they properly matched now.

"There," he says, lightly brushing his hand against Lan Xichen's hair, with the excuse of smoothing down the bands of fine cloth. "I should think that enough for anyone to understand plainly, when we're together."

[zewu_jun]

If he were hoping that turning around would alleviate some of those embarrassing thoughts, having Jin Guangyao tie the ribbon in his hair removes that thought completely. He's well aware what message his Bonded is sending even if no one else in the entire underground is aware of it, and that gesture means more to him personally than it might someone else. The significance behind the Lan head ribbon is deeply ingrained in him. Even that touch, so light against his hair that Lan Xichen barely feels it, makes the urge for closeness coming through the Bond spike a little bit between them.

"In that case, my lord shouldn't let me out of his sight," he says. The amusement is still in his voice, but there's more hunger behind it that carries over just slightly to his eyes when he turns around again to face his Bonded. "That way there will never be a misunderstanding."

He smiles with genuine admiration mingled with his amusement at the matching ribbon in Jin Guangyao's own hair. Against the Jin colors, it really does complete his outfit.

"It is lovely." And that is true. Even the simple ribbon is exquisite with the metallic threads and delicate look. "But it only enhances my lord's own beauty and I fear I shall be unable to work from being unable to look away from him. Are you sure this gift isn't enchanted? I feel overwhelmed by it."

[turmoiling]

"Surely not, by the price," Jin Guangyao smiles indulgently. He has the distinct suspicion that some of those words were quite true, if too bold to say under normal circumstances. And if he had some vague thoughts in his own mind, he didn't really expect the feeling that came back upon him from Lan Xichen to be so intense. That is noted with careful consideration for the future. "If it isn't, then, perhaps my talented witch would be able to place one upon it."

Which actually isn't a terrible idea, though he doesn't believe Lan Xichen has spent so much time on enchantments. "Perhaps so that I might come to his side when I feel he is in need," he teases. There is probably a better enchantment idea, but it's the first one that comes to mind, in the context of their Bond.

[zewu_jun]

Ah, Jin Guangyao says it again--his witch--and Lan Xichen's heart skips in response. It might only be for fun, a part of their game of the moment, but on some level he still knows there is a seed of truth to it. He cares for Jin Guangyao deeply, and from their history and how much they've managed so far, Jin Guangyao cares for him. Maybe it isn't quite a romantic ideal such as the one they are playing up, but it's still enough of a connection that hearing those words spoken out loud to him sends a warmth over his skin.

"Would you come? If I were in need?" The playful pitch turns soft and just a bit enticing, although Lan Xichen keeps his mild and submissive posture. "If I enchanted my lord's gift so that he would always know when I needed him, would he come to protect this foolish trinket from being stolen?"

The thought of Jin Guangyao rushing to his side is actually entertaining. It's certainly out of character for the younger man, and Lan Xichen doesn't have any false expectations of his friend resisting his own nature, but the mental picture it presents is quite charming. More likely, if he were in need Jin Guangyao would find a splendid way of cheering him up later, which Xichen wouldn't mind in the least. But if they are playing lords and servants, he still likes the image of Jin Guangyao as the war hero.

[turmoiling]

Generally speaking, Lan Xichen was more than capable of looking after himself. But there were some times... Even if the cause of it had been himself, through the power of the Bond, Jin Guangyao can can easily recall the panic he'd felt at being unable to find or contact Xichen easily, and the state Xichen had been in when he was found at last.

So perhaps it's not the romantic image Lan Xichen has in mind, but it's not the worst spur of the moment suggestion either.

Practical thoughts are a little harder to maintain when it comes to the sweet tone of Lan Xichen's voice, and if he had some improper thoughts about his sworn brother in the past, they were really going a little too far in that moment of consideration.

"My witch is not such a cheap trinket, if others would risk the wrath of Lianfang-zun to try to steal him away," he returns, a little more over-the-top this time, as if to somehow make up for his own mild embarrassment at the thought of defiling Lan Xichen like that. "I should think he knows that this lord would come to his aid, whenever needed. Now come along. I think there are a few more stops to be had before we return to our quarters for the evening."

[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."

[turmoiling]

It remains completely and utterly absurd, enough of a transgression that no doubt any of the other cultivators would be horribly shocked by the way they're acting. But fondness can't help but make its way back into Jin Guangyao's expression at those words. This play is a little secret between them, one that will leave no-one hurt for holding it between them.

He swishes past Xichen, but with his eyes slyly watching his Bonded until the moment he sweeps past, clearly expecting to be followed. With such an obvious shared symbol of the Bond between them, at least there's less chance of anyone trying anything.

If Xichen speaks of pleasure, well... it's still unfortunate how things are, right now. But they can certainly spend a bit more time together tonight, unfettered by judgemental eyes.

He meanders past some of the other wares in the market, and there absolutely are some stunning items to be found, gems and precious minerals, or exceptionally well-crafted weaponry. But he's only window-shopping, pausing now and then to look back at his Bonded -- not just to check that other Monsters don't have their eye on him and the ribbon has worked, but also to to lightly touch on that feeling that warms him upon seeing that glint of gold adorning Xichen's hair.

They're not so far from the food stalls by now -- he can smell them from here. Jin Guangyao fishes out a few coins - local currency, from a few small trades he's done - and stops, turning to hand them to Lan Xichen. "I think those around us are suitable aware that you are already taken. Here, go fetch us something to eat back at the residence while I finish my business here." There's no business, only browsing, really. But with the unfortunately delicious smell of fried rat off in the distance, he's not sure he trusts himself to find something they can both enjoy.

[zewu_jun]

It's inappropriate, but harmlessly so when there are no other cultivators around to be dismayed by the sight of a Lan speaking so beneath his station. Even if he did essentially forsake his position, the lingering connection wouldn't be discounted so easily. But at least now in the Underground they are blending into the crowd in their own way and nobody is there to catch this little game.

Xichen might not have minded even if they did. It's a pleasant feeling to be relaxed alongside his friend again, sharing light exchanges the way they did in the past. The golden ribbons now linking them are particularly nice to him. He will never say that Jin Guangyao isn't charming -- the man continues to shower gifts and praise over him like flowers, and Lan Xichen can't help but be flattered by them.

Following just two steps behind his proclaimed master, Lan Xichen makes sure to carefully meet the modest posture and meticulous attention of a dedicated servant. He keeps his gaze lowered and his steps light, not lagging or going too fast, letting Jin Guangyao lead with smooth sliding motions that take them past several booths he doesn't look at. All of his attention is put toward staying near his Bonded, only ready to fetch an item or move something out of the way when it seems that Jin Guangyao might be inconvenienced even slightly by having to move it himself. If he's not quite at the other man's level of anticipation, he does at least try his best.

When they stop and he's handed some money, Lan Xichen accepts the coins with a low bow, a faint, serene smile still playing on his lips. "As my lord wishes. His follower will carry out your wish promptly."

He probably gets a bit too much satisfaction out of saying that, breaking the immersion a bit, but he manages to keep a composed expression as he withdraws, still bowing, until he can turn and peruse the food stalls for an appropriate meal they can both have. When he finally picks out what he thinks is good enough, he returns with some wrapped packages neatly stacked in his hands and melts like a shadow behind Jin Guangyao again as if he were never gone. That much he's actually pretty good at.

[turmoiling]

Jin Guangyao's gaze lingers a little on the gold ribbon when Xichen turns and leaves, feeling a little pleased with himself, before returning to his browsing. There's more he'd like to buy, but he's not so rich anymore. Will they still be able to come here after those selected speak with the Matriarch? He hopes so. Even if the bravado and pugnacious nature of Monsters here isn't really to his tastes, there is opportunity, Jin Guangyao thinks.

When Lan Xichen returns, he first gives him a careful, quiet look, slithering around him as if to check that his Bonded has gone unmolested, as if returned from a much longer journey. "You weren't bothered this time, were you?" he asks pleasantly, but with concern for the wellbeing of his witch.

[zewu_jun]

It is a little harder for a Witch to manage in the underground city, but Xichen also wants to keep visiting. He is curious about the different culture, and despite the slight run-ins he has had with some overly-aggressive locals, he's enjoying the experience as something refreshing and educational. And, really, if he comes out of these little trips with more small gifts from his Bonded, he won't complain either. Having Jin Guangyao willing to play along with his act feels like they are getting away with something, even if he doesn't think exchanging compliments or kindness inappropriate. They should do that more often.

When he comes back with his packages and Jin Guangyao examines him, Lan Xichen dutifully holds the food to one side and turns to display himself for close inspection. It's approaching too exaggerated, but he executes the move with confidence and a calm expression as if this were routine between them.

"I believe my lord has demonstrated his intent quite effectively. The people I spoke to were very respectful." Really, nothing had changed and the locals were as bold as ever, but it's true that seeing the two of them demonstrating their Bond had curbed at least the strong persistence of those who wanted to push that connection. And even if Jin Guangyao was a smaller Naga, his Monster status made more of an impression than Xichen's did.

"All the same, I could only think of coming back the whole time."

Okay, that was definitely too much. But at least it was just between the two of them.

[turmoiling]

Those words don't feel entirely in play, when he considers his Bonded with a fond look. Maybe it had been the right thing then, to leave Xichen be for a while. Even if there were still, perhaps, some issues elsewhere in his life, judging from Lan Xichen's continued rejection of his old robes, Jin Guangyao appreciates the sentiment here more than anyone would know to look at him - not only from the sweetness of Lan Xichen's thought by itself, but in contrast to thoughts of a time, only a few short months ago, when he questioned and doubted how much remained between them.

Settling beside Xichen, he sets his hand lightly on the other man's arm, breaking the illusion of their little amusement. He looks up at him, smiling. "I'm glad you came back to me unharmed. But I think I'd prefer the company of an old friend for dinner tonight, over that of anyone else."

[zewu_jun]

If he cannot earn the right to the Lan sect's honor on his own, then what good does it do him to wear the markings of one? Being naturally born into the clan made certain things stand without question and now Xichen is finally daring to question them. But not reject them. If he can find the comfortable place within himself, then maybe he can be accepted back and be the better for it.

As a cultivator, isn't he supposed to push beyond the boundaries of what fate has ordained? Perhaps being brought down from the blessings of his position is better for him in the end. He wants to believe that it will lead him to more understanding.

The hand on his arm softens Xichen's gaze and he straightens, shifting to stand almost protectively next to Jin Guangyao instead of playing the shy servant.

"I found some fish that look very nice. I hope you'll enjoy them." Along with what he thinks are vegetables more simply prepared, since eating rich food is still a bit hard for him.

[turmoiling]

"That sounds very nice," he replies. Much better than some of the alternatives. Trust Lan Xichen to find the most tasteful option. Really, he'd expected something vegetarian they could both share, but he supposes since they were fooling around a little, he would have gotten something for his 'lord'... well, it was of no real significance.

"Is there anything else you'd been thinking of looking at before we settle for the evening?" he asks, curious. The markets are interesting, craftsmanship on some of the weaponry and jewellery outstanding, but they're still just markets in the end. The library and some idle chatting with locals had been more productive, for him.

And he hoped that they really could, in fact, simply settle down and talk for the evening. If things had been uncertain since Wangji's and his own angered reactions, and Xichen's own uncertainties... somehow it felt a little better for that small break and Lan Xichen's willingness to be a bit playful. Yes, they should just enjoy each others' company and lay some of the awkwardness from events not so long ago aside.

[zewu_jun]

They might have shared the vegetarian meal, but Lan Xichen is happier finding something he thinks Jin Guangyao would like. There's a bit of personal satisfaction in picking out food that suits his Bonded and his new monster needs, even if those needs often make Jin Guangyao uncomfortable. He enjoys their little game, but he also just wants his partner, his friend, to be comfortable again. Maybe things can't go back to the way they were.

Maybe they really don't have to.

"I just want to go home," he says honestly. There has been too much uncertainty in his life since coming to Aefenglom, and Lan Xichen is finally starting to find his own sense of desires now that they've ventured to the strange new city. He still doesn't quite know where his own place might be, but if Wangji still wants him as a brother and Jin Guangyao still cares enough to stay with him when things are this unsure, then maybe it isn't impossible to ask for a place of his own right in the middle. He rests a hand on Jin Guangyao's arm, expression turning more sincere. "If I can spend the rest of the night beside you, then that is all I would want to see."

[turmoiling]

"I think that can be arranged easily," Jin Guangyao replies, looking up with a soft smile. Even if that softness is half a game all on its own, it's one he's been playing for long enough that it's comfortable in its own way, much like settling at his former height when he could, in theory, stand up on that tail to match his Bonded eye-to-eye.

With Jin Guangyao slithering alongside Lan Xichen steps, the two of them meander back towards the residences, with gentle words and banter, the gold ribbons in their hair shifting only slightly in the cavern's breeze.