▶ ORIGINAL TEST DRIVE 2 POST IS LOCATED HERE ▶ ALL NEW TOP LEVELS SHOULD NOW BE POSTED ON TAKE 2
▶ ALL CARRIED OVER OLD TOP LEVELS SHOULD BE LINKED, NOT COPY AND PASTED
【 Thank you for choosing the Golden Peacock, 5-Star Resort and Casino. You are currently registered as a WILDCARD in our system.
Due to unprecedented high demand we are temporarily unable to check you in to your reserved room. We apologize for the inconvenience. We have arranged for a temporary room while we work on processing your reservation as quickly as possible. We appreciate your understanding.
As a special wedding gift from us, we have arranged for you and your new spouse to stay in one of our junior penthouses while you wait. Congratulations on your new marriage. We are so pleased you have chosen our resort for your honeymoon.
You will be notified as soon as your official reservation has been processed. Your comfort and happiness are our utmost priority. We hope you enjoy the provided amenities and lose yourself in marital bliss. 】
EVENS
EVENS: NEW CHARACTERS
Music plays. Instrumental, the tune gentle enough not to disturb peaceful rest. The sudden insistent beep of the Watch is a cutting cacophony across an otherwise sweet lullaby. Upon opening their eyes, new arrivals will quickly discover that something is wrong. The quilt snug across their body is weighty. Crystals glint in a weave of embroidery and cotton shimmers with threads of silver. Dozens of decorative pillows surround the bed. The gauzy curtains of the canopied bed are drawn, obscuring the rest of the room.
Extravagant for a kidnapping. Too extravagent. What’s more, these new guests will find something even stranger than this new diamond-studded suite tucked into bed beside them. Someone else. Who are they, what are they wearing? What happened last night?!
Guests are encouraged to explore the resort from here! There are paper maps available for those who would like and staff are happy to recommend locations if they have any preferences. Enjoy your honeymoon, you lovebirds!
ODDS
ODDS: SPECIAL RE-ARRIVAL
Never trust a hallway in the Golden peacock.
Cross the wrong threshold and time begins to slow. A short hallway becomes long, sheds its doors, only leading to turns without end. Guests too eager to explore the resort have gotten lost before. For how long always varies, dependent upon capriciousness of the resort. Hours? Yes. Years? Yes. Every guest caught in the winding hallways has reported the same thing: time is different there and too difficult to discern.
Some wayward guests have been caught in the endless hallways since the FIRST TDM. Weeks pass before a single doorway appears in the distance. It creaks upon opening before everything goes topsy-turvy. These guests have been let out of a trap door in the depths of Crane's Respite.
All water corridors will eventually lead back to the populated areas of Crane's Respite. The waters are warm, the scent of bath salts returns, and staff are wild with joy at finally finding all of you. They have been beside themselves searching ever since you vanished!
NOTES
PROMPT NOTES
▶ Because we love all of the new characters premiering on this TDM, we kindly request that our Evens prompt be top level exclusive for new characters. Current characters are encouraged to tag in to these prompts with the caveat that they’ve been picked up from their assigned suite (or wherever else they were before) and dumped into the new arrival’s bed. We would like for new characters to have this prompt unique to their top level comments!
▶ Players are welcome to have their current character riff off of these prompts in the log community with the exclusion of the new arrival element. This request is just for TDM top levels.
▶ Current characters and new characters are both welcome to freely mess around with the Odds prompt with the exclusion of the arrival element. For new characters, players may participate with the idea that their character is exploring Crane’s Respite after their unique arrival in the Evens prompt. The Odds arrival element may also be utilized by current player characters who may have been on an unofficial hiatus in January and did not tag as much as they would have liked, to explain any long IC absence.
▶ Octopi may be killed. If a character decides to eat one of the octopi they may find themselves taking on some of its traits. Which traits are up to player discretion.
ELEVATORS
ELEVATORS
The house has recently ordered a full changeout of art in all high traffic areas. The elevators in particular have received special attention with many different famous artworks and portraits studded to the walls for guests to admire. These artworks are treasures of the modern world that one would typically see behind glass at a museum. Guests may even find works from their own world hanging in the elevators. Even famous works that maybe have been lost to time. So this is where they ended up. Is that Vermeer's The Concert?
Guests may find their elevator suddenly stopping without warning. The portraits on the wall stir, curiously studying them, but there are three main portraits calling the shots. The portrait that controls that particular elevator will make their demands known with the threat that, if they are not obeyed, you will be trapped forever.
Elevators will function after the portrait's demands are met. Guests that hold out and refuse may find themselves trapped upwards of twelve hours. Guests with the ability to do so may crawl out of the top emergency door, free to go wherever they want from there.
GREAT TIT!
GREAT TIT!
Great Tit! is the Golden Peacock’s popular dessert bar and cafe. With its bright pops of color and whimsical treats, guests simply can’t resist stopping in for a butt shaped cookie and hazelnut coffee. After catching wind that the resort has decided to celebrate a dessert shop's most lucrative holiday, Great Tit! is ready to impress the masses. Advertisements for limited edition drinks and desserts rain the main lobby; one can’t go three steps without slipping on a neon pink coupon for 10 percent off nipple buns. Guests that decide to pass by the cafe will find themselves assaulted with confetti cannons and eager employees ushering them inside.
Guests will find a temporary communal shower room upon exiting Great Tit! where they can wash off after a fun day of rolling around in sugar. All guests will be gifted a tee branded with a, CHOCOLATE IS MY LOVER logo.
NOTES
PROMPT NOTES
▶ This portraits prompt has been triggered by several characters expressing interest in and investigating the lore of the resort paintings. This is just dipping a beginning toe in, but congrats to all for poking around!
▶ Portraits in the elevator should not be destroyed, purely for continuity’s sake. If a character would go far enough to attack one of the portraits, the portrait will slap them back with ghostly power.
▶ Characters may also figure other ways out of the elevator if they have specific abilities to do so. While the portraits can control the elevators, they cannot control your character(s). Any destruction to the elevator itself is liable to result in a rush of security dragging the culprit(s) away to the Iron Net.
▶ Great Tit! is running a massive sale! Even characters who are on the broke end of the spectrum will be able to afford to join in on the fun and indulge in sugar at these prices.
▶ Players are encouraged to make up any other elements for the Hall of Chocolate. If it’s a dessert and edible, it’s there. Enjoy your sugar coma!
▶ While the chocolate boxes are ICly limited due to Alessandro’s skills as a chocolatier, this is only an IC mechanic. There is no OOC limitation on this prompt as far as chocolate rarity goes.
THE NEST
ALICE AND THE PARROTS
Fashion boutiques are a dime a dozen in the Nest. The shopping hub is massive, lined with stores all trying to aggressively appeal to guests. A challenge in itself — but the guests of the Golden Peacock are no ordinary people. Used to being pampered and fed excitement, if these boutiques don’t bust their bottoms to appeal to the fickle nature of their patrons, they won’t be in business for much longer! One particular boutique, Alice and the Parrots, is riding winds of romantic thrill and churning out a couple of brand new fashion lines sure to draw in loads of chips.
Guests are welcome to try on clothes in Alice and the Parrots' dressing rooms. These dressing rooms are small and can only accommodate two people sharing at a time. Such is the life of a small boutique store. Sharing is no big deal, right? And there’s no way you can buy clothing this expensive without giving it a test first.
NOTES
PROMPT NOTES
▶ Players are encouraged to make up whatever cute outfits they would like for this prompt.
▶ Wedding clothes do not have to be cute and frilly; this section accommodates tastes of everyone.
▶ Alice and the Parrots is more expensive than Love Dove. Their clothing quality is excellent but their price tags are high. Staff may watch low ranks extra diligently to cut off any stealing. Thieves will be chased by NPC security! Anyone caught gets a day in the Iron Net.
CASINO CHAPEL
CASINO FLOOR
A Pop up Chapel has appeared in the Phoenix Casino. Guests are delighting in playing out weddings and pretending to get married — and a few guests are even tying the knot for real. They aren't worried about the sanctity of marriage; they can divorce tomorrow if they get bored of each other. And everyone knows that getting married doesn't mean you can't fuck whoever you want!
Since the resort isn't keeping track of how many marriages a guest has, all guests are encouraged to marry as many people as they would like. The more the merrier!
Wild wedding events will continue all throughout the month of February, until the guests find it's gotten stale. A divorce rush will round out the fun at the end of the month.
NOTES
PROMPT NOTES
▶ Weddings are not legally binding. Birdvis is not registered as a real officiant, but he does have an excellent beak and pompadour.
▶ Prizes from easy mode slot machines are automatic and do not require mod thumbs up to claim.
▶ Chip prize from difficult mode slot machines is automatic. The special prize is 5 reward points to add to your bank on rewards. Players who wish to claim the special prize should link the finished thread (the kink in question has been completed) under their rewards header with the header, Wedding Slot Machine. If you do any combination of 6/6 (finger hand lol) we ask you somehow make this sexy or involve a climax in order to claim the points.
BLANKET CW: Aphrodisiac; Compulsion; Costumes; Dubcon; Entrapment; Foodplay; Gambling; Lingerie; Matrimony; Tentacles; NSFW Images and Language; NTR; Nudity; Roleplay; Sacrilegious Themes
▶ All new characters on the TDM are WILDCARDS, which means they have not yet been assigned a card value. The house is still observing and deciding. As rank and suits are assigned upon acceptance your new character's suit will not manifest until they are accepted into the game.
▶ All TDMs are game canon. This TDM acts as the game's February event.
▶ Current characters may top level on the TDM. Please make sure to review the arrival prompt notes! Any current characters posting to the TDM should note they are current in their subject header.
▶ The top level directory is for new characters only. We want to make sure new characters are priority and receive attention!
▶ If you aren't satisfied with the prompts on this TDM please feel free to check out our LOCATIONS to explore more of the resort.
▶ Smut threads that take place on this TDM can be used for rewards. If both parties in the smut thread join the game, you may retroactively apply the character's initial card values to your 52 bank. If one character does not join the game the thread will not be applicable toward rewards (as that character would not have a card value). The character that does join would still receive a small payout for the encounter. Hopefully it was a fun thread anyway!
▶ We ask you to kindly add content warnings to your threads as appropriate.
▶ If you do not currently have permissions and kinks listed in your character’s journal we suggest leaving a note in your top level of any limits or boundaries for other players to reference.
▶ Thank you for spending Valentine's Day with us! You're our sweetheart this year. 💕
[Or, more importantly, he wasn't sure what this place had! Mingjue had only arrived a few days ago. Within that time, his little food experience had been different and unpredictable compared to nearly anything he had ever eaten!
But then again, perhaps nothing was worse than the type of food Mingjue had to endure in Reparacijia.
Eugh.]
Well, first, I still have to decide if this is what I will be getting or if I should try and find something I'm more accustomed to.
[Mingjue lifted his arms, turning one direction and then the other, as if trying to gauge how he felt about the strange foreign attire. Tone muscle flexing beneath figure forming clothes and lace. It wasn't anything near as scandalous as what he had to wear in the last world but--]
I still am not used to clothing that hugs so tightly around the body.
[He turned back to Sizhui, serious.]
Do you have any opinion?
[He can always, at least, trust a Lan to tell him the truth if something looks strange on him or not.]
hey, no worries!! i hope life is less crazy for you now tho!
[compared to prison food, nearly anything they could get here at the golden peacock would be a luxury. most of what lan sizhui's realized is there's a nice mix of pretty much any and everything and, if they're so inclined, they can even buy ingredients to make their own food.
if that was something nie mingjue might want, he wouldn't mind spending the chips to get whatever they need! he also has a suite with a kitchenette where they could cook anything, so they have options. until then, he has to figure out how to answer the question he's currently being asked without exploding because following the inquiry, his attention drifts again, considering.
it's really all about the other man's comfort; if he's fine with what he's wearing, why shouldn't he wear it? he looks nice, and he has a coat over it, so he shouldn't get cold . . . ] My opinion? If you are comfortable with what you're wearing, I say get it. If not, we can find something less tight and revealing, they certainly offer options. [he clears his throat, upturns again and shuffles forward a couple of steps, one hand raising to gesture idly over nie mingjue's torso.]
What you're wearing is quite flattering, but if it isn't comfortable for you outside of more, ah, intimate times... I would suggest maybe something similar to what we're already used to wearing?
Getting there! No longer power writing apps so all the time to tag now~
[It was true that this wasn't a style he was used to, but if the young Lan could respond so enthusiastically, then... Perhaps?]
You said they sell things more similar to what we wore back home.
[Mingjue stated back, his interest obvious. So far, all he had been seeing had been lingerie and tight clothing like he had been wearing now. He assumed that was normal in this realm since he saw so many others wearing similar styles until he ran into Sizhui.]
You are far too gracious, young master. Especially so, considering we have not even been properly introduced. Your actions are quite commendable.
[Mingjue offered a formal bow in courtesy, his view of Shen Qingqiu improving tenfold. Only then did he slowly stand straight, his posture growing more prominent as if gaining a new sense of resolve.]
I promise to repay you with interest with whatever funding I win in compensation.
He mainly told me about how you somehow managed to trap him and the grand majority of the cultivation world in a cave and left them for dead.
[Which, truthfully thinking about it, left even someone like him morbidly impressed. How did you find a cave big enough, Guangyao? How did you manage to get rid of that many cultivators' powers? How many fierce corpses were there that it was such a threatening situation?
He had so much he needed to know.
It only reminded Mingjue of the many years in all the other's lives that he missed out on, how much of an age gap now existed between him and Guangyao.]
And we have spoken about it. But it seems that, despite all our arguing, there are quite a few things we seemed to gloss over. Especially so considering how dire some of those "things" were.
[How the fuck did he forget to mention the second siege? Whoopsie. He sighed deeply and hung his head.]
I'll tell you everything. Just not in the middle where it is so noisy, can we sit somewhere quieter?
[He looked up at him, his shoulder sagging.]
Da-ge, It's not like I was hiding it. I...With the prison, I had bigger issues than that. I was dealing with the fallout of my death, my wife's death, and the betrayal of two of the people I loved the most. The prospect of having sex again after so many years, with all of my everything. And all my other crimes I had to explain. It was a lot and it slipped my mind at the time.
I apologize. Come with me Da-ge. I'll buy you a drink from Birdbucks and we can talk about it over tea?
[He took his hand, in a pleading way.] You know I do not make the best decisions when I am cornered...It was like that. Someone sent Qin Su a letter about us and it led her to kill herself.
The same day, I received a letter to either admit my crimes to the world or die in seven days. There would be no trial for me, the choice is always death or death.
[Well, leave it to Guangyao to lay a bunch of information down on him all at once. How was it that his small lover had always managed to get so wordy whenever he felt the need to defend himself?
And yet, Mingjue did his best to try and listen. Despite all the twists, turns, and many, many times that he wished to speak up in protest. Mingjue instead took Guangyao's hand as he allowed the other to lead the way.]
.... Yes. I think a drink is a good idea.
[He had no idea what a "Birdbucks" was, but at the moment, that was the least concerning of this man's questions.]
Okay, so let me piece this together. Before you drown me in further exposition. I remember you bringing up your wife's tragic death and how it was because she found out about--
[He glanced around, suddenly conscious of how many people were around them.]
About the information you were keeping from her. I don't remember you mentioning anything about receiving a death threat on the same day as her passing, though.
That is probably because he is trying to act agreeably with you.
[Mingjue continued to state rather matter-of-factly. He folds his arms and nods to Qinghua's food offer.]
He is the type who does his best to be amiable with everyone, whether he agrees with them or not. But when certain matters come up, nothing will make him bend.
[Of course, those matters have to do with some rather severe and tricky topics they have repeatedly argued over, even today. But it still stood that their constant arguing was more than enough proof of Guangyao's hard-headedness.]
Do they have a decent meat selection there? It has been some time since I've been able to eat anything hearty.
I don't think that's the case. [Because he's trying to act agreeably with him, hm? Shang Qinghua doesn't think so. He'd know if it was - game recognizes game, after all.] Ah, he and I can't just enjoy each other's company naturally? We haven't really had an opportunity to disagree.
[Not that they probably never will, but man, it makes him want to come to his friend's defense a little, the way he phrases it. They're just shady lil guys who do what they have to!
Shang Qinghua turns, motioning for Nie Mingjue to follow him as he heads toward the exit, leading the way toward the Red Cardinal. It's a little bit of a walk from here.] It's traditional Chinese food. I'm sure they can accommodate.
I see. So you do understand the weight of the situation.
[Mingjue was glad. His previous two commitments seemed to take the situation with far less seriousness, doing their best to dissuade him from his new dedication towards them.
But, unlike the others, he knew Julieta. His arms folded into his sleeves as he nodded with approval to her mutual seriousness on the matter.]
Very well, then, it has been agreed upon.
[With that, he slowly strode his way further into the room, placing the shared meal and drinks he had brought for them both and placing them onto the table. A spread mix of small bao and buns, from egg tarts to coconut bread to meat buns, with dried pork on top.]
As my third wife, you are more knowledgeable. But that being said, although we seem to come from similar positional situations, I don't think either of us has ever spoken about our histories entirely.
[Mingjue sat down on the couch in the center of the room, waiting for her to take a seat with him.]
What do you say? Before we embrace our newly wedded situation, do you not think it is time we finally get to know a bit about one another?
[His aura seemed to hold a heaviness to it, a dour feeling coming from the broad man as he looked up at her. As if, despite how open he spoke, he had been reserving something.]
[ She's been wanting to get to know him better but it was even more important now. The food was tempting. She went for a meat bun and sat down. There was a lot to talk about so she made herself comfortable. She didn't talk about her past often but she was sure he was someone that could understand. ]
[It pained him to see Huaisang cry like this. After so many years of tolerating the younger Nie's gripping and sobbing, Mingjue thought he had grown immune to such behaviors. But this was different from Huaisang's usual moping about. There was a deep visceral emotion to these tears. The acknowledgment that Huaisang must have dealt with so much after so many years alone was enough to move Mingjue's usually hardened demeanor.
Oh, how Mingjue had tried in earnest to prepare Huaisang for it. And to think he had failed so miserably. To think Huaisang was so very frail and so very hurt--
Standing straight, Mingjue was slow to approach his younger brother. His expression could not hide the emotional strain such a sight was taking on him; his eyes reddened but did not spill as he allowed Huaisang to embrace him delicately.
Slowly reaching out his arm, he lightly, delicately placed his hand atop Huaisang's head. Patting at the soft hair upon the more petite man's head in a small sight of affection, not at all fighting back the comforting, familiar warmth of his brother so sweetly clinging onto him.]
You fought so hard, Huaisang. I hear you have become quite strong in your way.
[When was it that he last spoke so affirmatively? Not since Huaisang was young, to be sure. But now, there was no pressure of politics and succession. Now, despite all odds, he could enjoy the knowledge that he had this chance to see Huaisang again.]
[It feels like it's been a lifetime since Nie Mingjue had spoken to him with such care. Surely, not since they were both still children. The truth is that Nie Huaisang had been left completely unprepared for taking on the role it'd been his singular purpose in life to fill to the best of his ability once the leadership had fallen onto him. He's struggled to carry the weight of a responsibility that belonged to someone else without any of the strength or life experience needed to do it well. But as an adult himself now, he understands that Nie Mingjue had done the best he could with the situation he'd been forced into as well and bears him no ill will.]
Dage, I tried my best. I keep trying but I can't do this anymore. I've been trying to protect everyone from another war for so long and get justice for you and his other victims. I.. I thought if they didn't know. If no one knew but me, if I slipped up or made a mistake that they'd only kill me and might spare everyone else if all the blame could all be traced back to just me and me alone...
[Nie Huaisang continues to cling shakily to his brother, looking positively shell-shocked as he finally lets his mask fall, revealing a glimpse of the constant emotional turmoil and mental trauma he's relived and coped with every waking moment since the day his brother had grown cold and stiff in his arms on the steps of their ancestral home. The same home he's lost every family member he's ever loved and witnessed so much death in. So few remember that Nie Mingjue wasn't the only member of the Qinghe Nie Sect that fell that day.
He's not going to mention the disciples Nie Mingjue had killed during his qi deviation to him, though. Or his personal vow to never place those looking to him for leadership in that kind of danger, even if the outcome had been, well, all of this.]
I... I broke everything you built. We're not even considered a Great Sect anymore because of me.
[And there's the deep shame Nie Huaisang's felt for never being able to live up to the demands and expectations the Qinghe Nie Sect required of him, usually hidden behind a mask of carefree indifference. The conversation he'd had with Lorenz on their date comes to mind, the one about aristocratic responsibility and how there's things that people born into their position simply shouldn't want. He doesn't disagree but at this point in his life, he's also wise enough to know that human hearts have a way of rebelling such constraints whether it's convenient or not.]
Edited 2024-02-29 08:56 (UTC)
I know you dropped the game, but don't mind me as I slowly but surely tag back to this cause BROOOOS
[Mingjue had recognized the expression which stained Huaisangs face. He had seen such looks on plenty of his soldiers in the months after the Sunshot Campain. The look of haunting defeat, of experiences one could not leave behind.
Dropping his hand from atop Huaisangs head, Mingjue listened carefully to the frail words his younger brother spoke next. Something which he had personally feared most. The possibility of their clan spiraling, failing, after all the history and strength they had built throughout the decades.
It required Mingjue to think, to take time to figure out how to respond to his younger brother considering the state he was in.]
[Mingjue could not help but look aghast at the implication. His eyes widened, and his face scrunched up at the thought of Huaisang and him being partners in that way. Leave it for a world like this, for that to be the first thing people would jump to.
At least a father somewhat made sense. He did practically raise him, after all.
His frown settling as he recovered from the initial shock, Mingjue crossed his arms and lifted his head slightly unapprovingly as he quickly made to clear up the situation.]
Nie Huaisang is this one's younger half-brother. And, yes, cultivation partially requires harnessing my spiritual energies, or my qi.
[He sighed, settling a little more as he at least got that bit of information out of the way. Snatching the long black robe and draping it around his shoulders.]
I take it you have already run into Huaisang here, then?
[ So Reign got it wrong, huh? Trust him to make wild mental gymnastics and coming up with ridiculous conclusions before getting the facts straight. Instead of being intimidated, the vampire is pleased to be properly corrected. It would have been hilariously unfortunate should the misunderstanding drag on. ]
Oh! I guess I can see the similarities between the both of you somewhat. [ A little, actually. Is it the nose? Maybe. ]
Yes, during a single's mixer gathering. He's a very interesting man to talk too. [ With artsy hobbies that Reign finds quite fascinating as well! ] I haven't seen him in a while though, but it seems you've already met your brother. I'm sure he'll be thrilled to have you here. [ Debatable, really. In a sex casino, no less?! ]
[It was far from his first time dealing with a challenge case. It felt like that was the hand he had always been dealt. In work partners, lovers, and family, it only made sense that marriage would be just such a case. Standing back to his full towering height once more, Mingjue crossed his arms and could not help but notice the second ring that adorned his hand. Something that most certainly wasn't there the day prior.]
To warn you, you are the second wife I have taken on since my arrival here.
[Lifting his head, slightly startled, Mingjue quickly turned and faced whoever approached him. His posture suddenly grew upright and alert as he met the stranger's gaze. Perhaps even, he was a bit too abrupt with his actions as it most certainly read as someone who'd be prepared for anything at any moment.]
Ah. My apologies.
[Oh. It was just another resident of the hotel attempting to use the tiny room. Was he being a nuisance by standing in front of it?]
I did not mean to be rude. I was trying to figure this mechanism out. You may pass.
[Mingjue was even considerate enough to offer a quick bow in apology before he took a large step aside!]
[If he was bothered by little nuisances, he'd have entered seclusion years ago. And likely been less stressed for it.]
It's no trouble. The elevators take some getting used to. They're very unlike anything this master ever saw around his sect too, though there is appeal.
[Ever polite, he returned the bow to the younger man.]
This master is Mu Qingfang of Cang Qiong Sect's Qian Cao peak.
Nie Mingjue | Mo Dao Zu Shi | Reparacijia CRAU | New Character New Person!
For Lan Sizhui
Mnn, truthfully, I am not too sure.
[Or, more importantly, he wasn't sure what this place had! Mingjue had only arrived a few days ago. Within that time, his little food experience had been different and unpredictable compared to nearly anything he had ever eaten!
But then again, perhaps nothing was worse than the type of food Mingjue had to endure in Reparacijia.
Eugh.]
Well, first, I still have to decide if this is what I will be getting or if I should try and find something I'm more accustomed to.
[Mingjue lifted his arms, turning one direction and then the other, as if trying to gauge how he felt about the strange foreign attire. Tone muscle flexing beneath figure forming clothes and lace. It wasn't anything near as scandalous as what he had to wear in the last world but--]
I still am not used to clothing that hugs so tightly around the body.
[He turned back to Sizhui, serious.]
Do you have any opinion?
[He can always, at least, trust a Lan to tell him the truth if something looks strange on him or not.]
hey, no worries!! i hope life is less crazy for you now tho!
if that was something nie mingjue might want, he wouldn't mind spending the chips to get whatever they need! he also has a suite with a kitchenette where they could cook anything, so they have options. until then, he has to figure out how to answer the question he's currently being asked without exploding because following the inquiry, his attention drifts again, considering.
it's really all about the other man's comfort; if he's fine with what he's wearing, why shouldn't he wear it? he looks nice, and he has a coat over it, so he shouldn't get cold . . . ] My opinion? If you are comfortable with what you're wearing, I say get it. If not, we can find something less tight and revealing, they certainly offer options. [he clears his throat, upturns again and shuffles forward a couple of steps, one hand raising to gesture idly over nie mingjue's torso.]
What you're wearing is quite flattering, but if it isn't comfortable for you outside of more, ah, intimate times... I would suggest maybe something similar to what we're already used to wearing?
Getting there! No longer power writing apps so all the time to tag now~
[It was true that this wasn't a style he was used to, but if the young Lan could respond so enthusiastically, then... Perhaps?]
You said they sell things more similar to what we wore back home.
[Mingjue stated back, his interest obvious. So far, all he had been seeing had been lingerie and tight clothing like he had been wearing now. He assumed that was normal in this realm since he saw so many others wearing similar styles until he ran into Sizhui.]
Where did you receive your clothing?
oh that would definitely help!! but aw ye, the good stuff
Aaahhh! I'm so sorry I lost this in my inbox!!! >.<
it's okay!! these things happen, just pleased to see your tag again!
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
For Shen Qingqiu
You are far too gracious, young master. Especially so, considering we have not even been properly introduced. Your actions are quite commendable.
[Mingjue offered a formal bow in courtesy, his view of Shen Qingqiu improving tenfold. Only then did he slowly stand straight, his posture growing more prominent as if gaining a new sense of resolve.]
I promise to repay you with interest with whatever funding I win in compensation.
no subject
[ Shen Qingqiu bowed back in the way he always did for polite greetings, and to bestow that aloof scholarly air. ]
We can look out for each other, and that will be even.
no subject
[Mingjue could not help but look somewhat perplexed with the commentary. Lifting his head to glance at Shen Qingqiu over.]
Not to be outspoken. But you are then, indeed, one of the best-aged elders I have ever seen; you do not look like you could be much older than me.
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
For Jin Guangyao
He mainly told me about how you somehow managed to trap him and the grand majority of the cultivation world in a cave and left them for dead.
[Which, truthfully thinking about it, left even someone like him morbidly impressed. How did you find a cave big enough, Guangyao? How did you manage to get rid of that many cultivators' powers? How many fierce corpses were there that it was such a threatening situation?
He had so much he needed to know.
It only reminded Mingjue of the many years in all the other's lives that he missed out on, how much of an age gap now existed between him and Guangyao.]
And we have spoken about it. But it seems that, despite all our arguing, there are quite a few things we seemed to gloss over. Especially so considering how dire some of those "things" were.
cw suicide mention
I'll tell you everything. Just not in the middle where it is so noisy, can we sit somewhere quieter?
[He looked up at him, his shoulder sagging.]
Da-ge, It's not like I was hiding it. I...With the prison, I had bigger issues than that. I was dealing with the fallout of my death, my wife's death, and the betrayal of two of the people I loved the most. The prospect of having sex again after so many years, with all of my everything. And all my other crimes I had to explain. It was a lot and it slipped my mind at the time.
I apologize. Come with me Da-ge. I'll buy you a drink from Birdbucks and we can talk about it over tea?
[He took his hand, in a pleading way.] You know I do not make the best decisions when I am cornered...It was like that. Someone sent Qin Su a letter about us and it led her to kill herself.
The same day, I received a letter to either admit my crimes to the world or die in seven days. There would be no trial for me, the choice is always death or death.
cw; mention of death and death threats
And yet, Mingjue did his best to try and listen. Despite all the twists, turns, and many, many times that he wished to speak up in protest. Mingjue instead took Guangyao's hand as he allowed the other to lead the way.]
.... Yes. I think a drink is a good idea.
[He had no idea what a "Birdbucks" was, but at the moment, that was the least concerning of this man's questions.]
Okay, so let me piece this together. Before you drown me in further exposition. I remember you bringing up your wife's tragic death and how it was because she found out about--
[He glanced around, suddenly conscious of how many people were around them.]
About the information you were keeping from her. I don't remember you mentioning anything about receiving a death threat on the same day as her passing, though.
For Shang Qinghua
That is probably because he is trying to act agreeably with you.
[Mingjue continued to state rather matter-of-factly. He folds his arms and nods to Qinghua's food offer.]
He is the type who does his best to be amiable with everyone, whether he agrees with them or not. But when certain matters come up, nothing will make him bend.
[Of course, those matters have to do with some rather severe and tricky topics they have repeatedly argued over, even today. But it still stood that their constant arguing was more than enough proof of Guangyao's hard-headedness.]
Do they have a decent meat selection there? It has been some time since I've been able to eat anything hearty.
no subject
[Not that they probably never will, but man, it makes him want to come to his friend's defense a little, the way he phrases it. They're just shady lil guys who do what they have to!
Shang Qinghua turns, motioning for Nie Mingjue to follow him as he heads toward the exit, leading the way toward the Red Cardinal. It's a little bit of a walk from here.] It's traditional Chinese food. I'm sure they can accommodate.
no subject
[After a year of other-worldly prison food, just about anything else sounded like a delicacy.
Regardless, he looks down towards Shang Qinghua; interest piqued with the others objections about Guangyao.]
You speak as if you know him intimately. Just how long have you and Guangyao been friends now?
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
For Julieta Juris
I see. So you do understand the weight of the situation.
[Mingjue was glad. His previous two commitments seemed to take the situation with far less seriousness, doing their best to dissuade him from his new dedication towards them.
But, unlike the others, he knew Julieta. His arms folded into his sleeves as he nodded with approval to her mutual seriousness on the matter.]
Very well, then, it has been agreed upon.
[With that, he slowly strode his way further into the room, placing the shared meal and drinks he had brought for them both and placing them onto the table. A spread mix of small bao and buns, from egg tarts to coconut bread to meat buns, with dried pork on top.]
As my third wife, you are more knowledgeable. But that being said, although we seem to come from similar positional situations, I don't think either of us has ever spoken about our histories entirely.
[Mingjue sat down on the couch in the center of the room, waiting for her to take a seat with him.]
What do you say? Before we embrace our newly wedded situation, do you not think it is time we finally get to know a bit about one another?
[His aura seemed to hold a heaviness to it, a dour feeling coming from the broad man as he looked up at her. As if, despite how open he spoke, he had been reserving something.]
no subject
[ She's been wanting to get to know him better but it was even more important now. The food was tempting. She went for a meat bun and sat down. There was a lot to talk about so she made herself comfortable. She didn't talk about her past often but she was sure he was someone that could understand. ]
/appears from the ether
[Parting himself from her, Mingjue looked down at Julieta with a softness in his eyes, something rarer still than even a smile.]
Well, perhaps we can start with what we do know.
You were a warrior back in your original realm, correct?
(no subject)
(no subject)
For Nie Huaisang
[It pained him to see Huaisang cry like this. After so many years of tolerating the younger Nie's gripping and sobbing, Mingjue thought he had grown immune to such behaviors. But this was different from Huaisang's usual moping about. There was a deep visceral emotion to these tears. The acknowledgment that Huaisang must have dealt with so much after so many years alone was enough to move Mingjue's usually hardened demeanor.
Oh, how Mingjue had tried in earnest to prepare Huaisang for it. And to think he had failed so miserably. To think Huaisang was so very frail and so very hurt--
Standing straight, Mingjue was slow to approach his younger brother. His expression could not hide the emotional strain such a sight was taking on him; his eyes reddened but did not spill as he allowed Huaisang to embrace him delicately.
Slowly reaching out his arm, he lightly, delicately placed his hand atop Huaisang's head. Patting at the soft hair upon the more petite man's head in a small sight of affection, not at all fighting back the comforting, familiar warmth of his brother so sweetly clinging onto him.]
You fought so hard, Huaisang. I hear you have become quite strong in your way.
[When was it that he last spoke so affirmatively? Not since Huaisang was young, to be sure. But now, there was no pressure of politics and succession. Now, despite all odds, he could enjoy the knowledge that he had this chance to see Huaisang again.]
cw: mental illness/ptsd symptoms
Dage, I tried my best. I keep trying but I can't do this anymore. I've been trying to protect everyone from another war for so long and get justice for you and his other victims. I.. I thought if they didn't know. If no one knew but me, if I slipped up or made a mistake that they'd only kill me and might spare everyone else if all the blame could all be traced back to just me and me alone...
[Nie Huaisang continues to cling shakily to his brother, looking positively shell-shocked as he finally lets his mask fall, revealing a glimpse of the constant emotional turmoil and mental trauma he's relived and coped with every waking moment since the day his brother had grown cold and stiff in his arms on the steps of their ancestral home. The same home he's lost every family member he's ever loved and witnessed so much death in. So few remember that Nie Mingjue wasn't the only member of the Qinghe Nie Sect that fell that day.
He's not going to mention the disciples Nie Mingjue had killed during his qi deviation to him, though. Or his personal vow to never place those looking to him for leadership in that kind of danger, even if the outcome had been, well, all of this.]
I... I broke everything you built. We're not even considered a Great Sect anymore because of me.
[And there's the deep shame Nie Huaisang's felt for never being able to live up to the demands and expectations the Qinghe Nie Sect required of him, usually hidden behind a mask of carefree indifference. The conversation he'd had with Lorenz on their date comes to mind, the one about aristocratic responsibility and how there's things that people born into their position simply shouldn't want. He doesn't disagree but at this point in his life, he's also wise enough to know that human hearts have a way of rebelling such constraints whether it's convenient or not.]
I know you dropped the game, but don't mind me as I slowly but surely tag back to this cause BROOOOS
Dropping his hand from atop Huaisangs head, Mingjue listened carefully to the frail words his younger brother spoke next. Something which he had personally feared most. The possibility of their clan spiraling, failing, after all the history and strength they had built throughout the decades.
It required Mingjue to think, to take time to figure out how to respond to his younger brother considering the state he was in.]
Huaisang. You are a Nie, are you not?
we can continue because bros are my weakness <3
truthfully saaaaame
For Reign Fear
Ughh-!!
[Mingjue could not help but look aghast at the implication. His eyes widened, and his face scrunched up at the thought of Huaisang and him being partners in that way. Leave it for a world like this, for that to be the first thing people would jump to.
At least a father somewhat made sense. He did practically raise him, after all.
His frown settling as he recovered from the initial shock, Mingjue crossed his arms and lifted his head slightly unapprovingly as he quickly made to clear up the situation.]
Nie Huaisang is this one's younger half-brother. And, yes, cultivation partially requires harnessing my spiritual energies, or my qi.
[He sighed, settling a little more as he at least got that bit of information out of the way. Snatching the long black robe and draping it around his shoulders.]
I take it you have already run into Huaisang here, then?
no subject
Oh! I guess I can see the similarities between the both of you somewhat. [ A little, actually. Is it the nose? Maybe. ]
Yes, during a single's mixer gathering. He's a very interesting man to talk too. [ With artsy hobbies that Reign finds quite fascinating as well! ] I haven't seen him in a while though, but it seems you've already met your brother. I'm sure he'll be thrilled to have you here. [ Debatable, really. In a sex casino, no less?! ]
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
Lets end this thread with an arrow straight in the feels~ Shall we?
\o/
For Maomao
You will learn.
[It was far from his first time dealing with a challenge case. It felt like that was the hand he had always been dealt. In work partners, lovers, and family, it only made sense that marriage would be just such a case. Standing back to his full towering height once more, Mingjue crossed his arms and could not help but notice the second ring that adorned his hand. Something that most certainly wasn't there the day prior.]
To warn you, you are the second wife I have taken on since my arrival here.
no subject
Then you can focus on them.
/slowly peeks in here
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
For Mu Qingfang
Mn?
[Lifting his head, slightly startled, Mingjue quickly turned and faced whoever approached him. His posture suddenly grew upright and alert as he met the stranger's gaze. Perhaps even, he was a bit too abrupt with his actions as it most certainly read as someone who'd be prepared for anything at any moment.]
Ah. My apologies.
[Oh. It was just another resident of the hotel attempting to use the tiny room. Was he being a nuisance by standing in front of it?]
I did not mean to be rude. I was trying to figure this mechanism out. You may pass.
[Mingjue was even considerate enough to offer a quick bow in apology before he took a large step aside!]
No worries for late!
It's no trouble. The elevators take some getting used to. They're very unlike anything this master ever saw around his sect too, though there is appeal.
[Ever polite, he returned the bow to the younger man.]
This master is Mu Qingfang of Cang Qiong Sect's Qian Cao peak.