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peacockstop2024-08-15 09:00 pm
goldmods) wrote in peacockstop2024-08-15 09:00 pm
TDM 05
【 Thank you for choosing the Golden Peacock, 5-star resort and casino. You are currently registered as a WILDCARD in our system.
Due to a high volume of check-ins, temporary accommodations have been made in our KING SUITES for all new arrivals. We will endeavor to have all guests moved into their reserved rooms as soon as possible. We deeply apologize for any inconvenience.
As a token of our gratitude for your understanding, front reception has arranged for a GRAND FEAST to welcome our newest guests. The attendance of all guests is required. The house will enforce compliance.
Please note that rank-appropriate attire is mandatory. Guests found breaking social code may be disciplined. We hope you enjoy your stay! 】
ARRIVAL
DIVINE AWAKENING
All King suites have been set to the Heavenly setting for the comfort of these new Wildcards. To call this place a room feels like a misnomer; all of the senses scream that this is a real temple at the top of a crisp oceanside mountain. The only clue that this place isn't what it seems is the door in the distance. It stands dark against light, a stark rectangle distinctly out of place.
New arrivals aren't waking up alone. Reception would never expect their guests to wake up in a cold bed. All new guests will be waking up next to another Wildcard or a current guest snatched up from the hallways. Guests waking up in these heavenly King suites will wake dressed in sheer white tunics and togas that leave very little to the imagination.
GILDED CAGE
AN ENDLESS FEAST
Rugs and cushions have been laid out for low rank guests. All high rank guests have thrones and benches covered in crushed velvet and delicate linens. Wildcards have a seat of honor amongst it all, each fresh new divine lead to the grand dais for their own semi-private tent with daybed and eager servants.
Low ranks are carefully watched by security and wait staff. Some low rank guests may even be dragged in by resort staff to assist serving high rank guests and Wildcards. All high rank guests and Wildcards are revered and catered to during the feast. Low rank guests are expected to feed them, rub their feet, and comply with any whimsical demands. Any low rank guest that defies a higher ranked guest is at risk of being shackled, forced to scrub chamber pots, and other humiliating punishments.
PHOENIX CASINO
ALEA IACTA EST
The game tables are abuzz. Special games have kicked off in honor of the new godlings that are waiting to check in. Even here, those of different ranks are distinct from one another. The lowest ranks wear small slips of clothing. Some are even collared to show they belong to a particular royal or Wildcard. Royals and Wildcards dress luxuriously in thick robes and golden jewelry.
Game managers clap and encourage guests of all ranks to join in on the fun. While there are numerous card games, slot machines, and raffles happening around the casino, staff are promoting three events in particular.
BEAK
ENTERTAIN YOUR BETTERS
Beneath the open arena is a smaller closed arena and the warrior’s bunk. Warriors will find cold showers, rustic wooden benches, and training weapons available for their use. Deep in the earth is a grimy prison where servants who refuse to battle are thrown to wait for their turn. There are also cages where the hungry “animals” wait to go out and entertain the masses.
A long track rings around the perimeter of the arena. Gone is the standard green fuzz and white lines, replaced with stone and dust to elicit the real feeling of running beneath the hot Grecian sun. Foot and chariot races take place throughout the day.
TALON
SHOW OF STRENGTH
Servants that appear too fragile to handle mud wrestling have been conscripted into the oil bearer role. Their job is to slather the warriors in oil from head to toe, and otherwise prepare them for their matches in either the arena or in the pit. This includes styling their hair, tending to their wounds, and wiping the sweat off of their bodies if so desired.
The locker rooms that connect Beak and Talon have been fully stocked with first aid kits and luxury bathing supplies. Warriors that have won their matches get first pick, leaving the dirty towels and shampoo that smells like ass for the losers to sift through. Those sneaky ghost hands are having a field day, snapping rat tails at unsuspecting bathers and locking naked warriors together in the supply closet. Guests lacking vigilance may find their bottoms unexpectedly pinched.
INDULGENCE
DESIRES FROM THE VOID
Things begin to move around the resort. The forgotten and the old exhale a dusty breath. Like the hunger that the Wildcards woke up with upon arrival, as its heart begins to beat quicker, there is a tension in the air of those things hungering to feed. To join in, and indulge. To get what they want.
And they’re coming out.
OOC NOTES
▶ BLANKET CW: Alcohol; aphrodisiacs; battle; blood; bondage; compulsion; costumes; discipline; dominance; drowning; dubcon; fears; fighting; food; hierarchy; humiliation; indulgence; kidnapping; noncon; paranormal; power imbalance; roleplay; servitude; stalking; submission; supernatural; terror; violence; weapons
▶ All characters on the TDM are WILDCARDS, which means they have not yet been assigned a card value. Suits will not manifest until characters are accepted into the game.
▶ All TDMs are game canon. This TDM acts as the game's August event. Changes to the above locations will ICly be present from August 15th - September 1st.
▶ Current characters may top level on the TDM. 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 prioritized and receive attention! If you would be interested in a game invitation, you can note that in your comment header.
▶ If you aren't satisfied with these prompts, 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 regardless!
▶ Wildcard tokens from the GILDED CAGE prompt may be redeemed even if the newbie(s) in question do not join the game, but only for the small item reward; the token does not carry over to Game 52.
▶ 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.
▶ Don't forget to relax and enjoy the end of your summer! ♥
▶ All characters on the TDM are WILDCARDS, which means they have not yet been assigned a card value. Suits will not manifest until characters are accepted into the game.
▶ All TDMs are game canon. This TDM acts as the game's August event. Changes to the above locations will ICly be present from August 15th - September 1st.
▶ Current characters may top level on the TDM. 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 prioritized and receive attention! If you would be interested in a game invitation, you can note that in your comment header.
▶ If you aren't satisfied with these prompts, 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 regardless!
▶ Wildcard tokens from the GILDED CAGE prompt may be redeemed even if the newbie(s) in question do not join the game, but only for the small item reward; the token does not carry over to Game 52.
▶ 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.
▶ Don't forget to relax and enjoy the end of your summer! ♥
no subject
It appears to be a type of bergamot tea, though I am less familiar with black tea than I am green. [ which, unfortunately, does not deter him from seguing into a tea lecture all the same. ] But it is pleasant and tolerable to the tongue. The scent, as well, leaves one feeling relaxed. The fragrance of the citrus does not overpower the delicate flavor of the leaves, and it pairs well with the melon cakes being served with today's meal.
[ literally no one asked but okay.
there's a wave of his hand—and then a servant is appearing, rushed footsteps slowing before they hold out a teapot and another cup. truly, how convenient. he cannot say he misses the deference from his archon days, but there is a certain convenience in having someone ready to bow to one's every whim. ]
Shall I pour you a cup?
no subject
The question remains, though: is this tea cool and refreshing, as it seems to suggest, or still warm in its traditional form?
He flicks his fingers at a servant, who quickly steps forward, producing a fresh teacup with the efficiency Sylus expects. At least there's that.] Good, [he offers the servant, and they preen happily at the praise. Never let it be said that Sylus doesn't offer rightful compensation when necessary.
His red eyes flit to stay fixed on Zhongli, curious to see if the gentleman would accept the offer. ]
Very well, [he finally says, a faint smile curling at the edges of his lips, leaning on the daybed leisurely.] Let’s see if this tea lives up to this reputation you're building.
no subject
though—well. there is still a step remaining, is there not?
with the tea still hot in its cup, zhongli takes it between his fingers of both hands and lifts, the rise of his arms accompanied by the unfolding of his legs as he rises from the floor. the movements are graceful, surprisingly so given all the fabric swathing him, and his footsteps light as he approaches where the other man lounges.
the cup is offered out, steam still slowly rising from the surface. ]
If you find it not to your liking, I can request several other of their teas for you to sample.
[ just how much tea has this guy been drinking, exactly? ]
no subject
As the cup is offered, steam curling lazily from the surface, Sylus sits up slightly, accepting it with a nod. The heat radiates through the porcelain, warming his fingers as he brings the cup closer to his face, inhaling the delicate fragrance of bergamot mingled with the underlying richness of black tea.]
Hot, then, [he murmurs, more to himself than anyone else, though the observation is clear in his tone. It’s traditional, classic—yet something is refreshing in the simplicity, in the confidence with which it’s presented.
He takes a slow sip, letting the flavors unfold on his tongue. The citrus is there, subtle but unmistakable, balancing the tea’s natural bitterness with a light, fragrant note. Sylus swirls the liquid gently in the cup, considering.]
It’s... adequate, [he finally says, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips.] How many teas from here have you tried?
[As if on cue, a servant brings back a new wine. Semi-sparkling wine, this time, frizzante, as they call it. Sylus arches an eyebrow, still looking bored out of his mind, and unimpressed at how slow they were bringing up a new one. He waves his hand to the bottom of his daybed, where Zhongli can sit.] Well, would you care to try this one with me? [Only fair, after all.]
no subject
the small polite smile on his face grows wider, more genuine. he's spent enough time around the traveler, as well as childe, director hu, and the other citizens of liyue to know that most don't share his particular fondness for tea. a passing grade from a stranger is more than satisfactory.
and, since fair is fair, he takes the offered seat at the bottom of the daybed, one hand carefully sweeping fabric out of the way so he can sit. ]
My thanks for the invitation. Are you perhaps a wine connoisseur then?
[ where is his informative lecture about wine, sylus.... ]
no subject
He chuckles softly at Zhongli’s question, the sound low and rich.] Wine connoisseur might be taking it too far, but I do have high standards.
[He takes a sip, letting the wine hit his palate. The initial crispness is refreshing, a light fizz dances on his tongue. There are bright citrus notes, unexpected, but the underlying sweetness is balanced by that subtle acidity. It’s lighter than what he usually prefers, but it’s pleasant in its own way. His lips quirk downward in a brief expression of actual pleasant surprise.]
Well, I’ll give credit where it's due, [Sylus says, setting the glass down with a thoughtful hum,] this one’s not bad.
[He leans back again, his gaze flicking to Zhongli, intrigued. He has high expectations of peepaw already ok?] But what about you? I assume you have something to say about this wine as well, given your apparent expertise in tea. I’m curious to hear your thoughts.
you would make me write another dissertation
he takes the goblet of wine offered to him, bringing it first to his nose in order to breathe in its aroma. sweet, a little fruity. the color, too, is pleasing, translucent and tinged copper-gold.
but instead of sipping from his cup right away, he waits for his companion to make his judgement, content to watch as he drinks and judges, the fluidity of his movements and easy drawl of his voice slowly beginning to paint a picture of the man next to him.
zhongli dips his head and his cup. ]
Very well.
[ his turn to drink and judge, as he carefully lets the cool liquid spread across his tongue and tastebuds before finally swallowing. another moment or two for him to ponder over the words that might best describe the wine and then.... (now for me to repeat what you put in your brackets but twice as verbose.) ]
Mmm. The taste of the wine matches the scent but with more depth, the residual sugar from the fermentation process balancing out the acidity of the grapes themselves. The addition of the effervescence adds a layer of complexity that intrigues the palate. Though this wine would be easily overpowered if paired with most meals, I find it suitable as a refreshing drink on a day like this one.
[ it isn't the osmanthus wine of old but it'll pass. ]
can you blame me for enjoying it when this man speaks
He's seen people try to fake this plenty of times.]
Well said. You have a way with words. It seems your taste is as refined as your manner.
[He lifts his own glass once more, taking another measured sip. The lightness of the wine and the subtle dance of flavors are not what he would typically choose, but he can’t deny that it suits the moment. There’s a refreshing quality to it, a break from the usual intensity of his preferred choices.]
A suitable choice for the setting, [Sylus muses, setting the glass down again.] I'd pair this with a dessert, if there was any.
[His gaze sharpens slightly, curious and probing, the mere suggestion of a pairing for the drink making keen-eared servants perk up and flit to the kitchens.] Tell me, do you always carry such extensive knowledge of drinks with you, or is this simply a fortunate coincidence?
(pensive) you're not wrong though
I work as a consultant. I would be remiss if the breadth of my knowledge were not up to standard with the requirements of my job duties.
[ it also helps that he's been around for thousands of years, but. no need to let that particular tidbit loose just yet. for now, he's content to remain just another ordinary guest of this resort, no more and no less han any other person here. ]
I simply have an interest history and customs passed through time, many of which often feature food and drink. Surely you have many interests of your own, Mister....?
[ they never did exchange names ]
no subject
[He usually doesn’t bother with introductions—his reputation often precedes him—but this conversation feels different. Worth engaging in on a more personal level. He’s also interested to see how Zhongli reacts, whether the man will match the honesty Sylus is about to offer.]
Sylus, [he finally says with a demure (not mindful, not cutesy) nod, the name slipping out as if it were of no consequence, though the weight behind it suggests otherwise. His gaze remains steady on Zhongli, measuring his reaction.] I run a small business, [he adds with a faint smirk, the understatement almost amusing to him. The truth, of course, is far more complex and expansive than those few words suggest.
He pauses, fingers tapping lightly on the armrest of his seat.] And what name do you go by, consultant? It’s not often I come across someone with such a grasp on... fine details of life.
no subject
but for now i put it off, opting instead to focus on the introductions that are way more important. ]
You may call me Zhongli. [ said calmly with a dip of his head. ] Consultant for the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor.
[ which maybe is a weird thing to consult for, but he doesn't look at all bothered by the admission. there's nothing wrong with soliciting a second opinion for nearly any activity and business venture. in fact, it's often more valuable to have a learned outside opinion than not. imagine walking into an antiques store and purchasing a fine jade pendant only to realize it's a forgery two days later.
but we digress.
he takes another sip of his wine, savoring the crisp taste, before answering again. ]
What do you know of mineral ores, Mr. Sylus? [ of the as-yet unnamed business ]
no subject
The mention of a Funeral Parlor is curious, but Sylus has long learned not to judge a book by its cover—or a man by his profession. After all, appearances are often deceiving, and those who deal with death might know more about life than anyone else. Even what causes death.
Sylus’ curiosity sharpens. His fingers, which had been tapping rhythmically on the armrest, still for a moment as he leans in slightly, intrigued by the unexpected direction of the conversation, an eyebrow arched.]
I’ve come across quite a few in my line of business. I have a particular fondness for gems and stones.
i made that edit and then i completely forgot where i was going with it
there's a visible lift to zhongli's whole demeanor, from the slight lift to his shoulder to the widening of his eyes. his interest in rock and stone may have been born out of a more educational interest, a need to both understand and preserve his dominion, but there's no denying that he has a hobbyist's interest in the subjec too, appreciating the beauty and luster of stones just as much as the history that lies within.
his voice grows a touch more animated as he speaks, the wine goblet set aside so he can raise his hands to gesture. ]
Are you aware then of how many gems and stones are formed, and the processes that define a crystal's growth and shape?
you're doing great sweetie
The slight excitement in Zhongli's voice and the way his hands start to gesture with enthusiasm is endearing, really—seeing someone so genuinely passionate about something as seemingly mundane as rocks and stones. But then again, he supposes there's a definite charm to them. Say, like someone's penchant for creating stories over plushies in claw machines.
Still, the curiosity gnaws at him. How does a funeral consultant end up with such detailed knowledge about mineral ores? Is there some esoteric (ha) ritual involved, perhaps some ancient burial rites that utilize gems?]
Heat, pressure, and… [Sylus begins, trying to recall what little he remembers about the formation of crystals. He trails off, a small smirk playing on his lips as he admits,] I’m afraid I’ve forgotten the third. Something about time, perhaps?
no subject
there's a small hum of pleasure at sylus's willingness to contribute to the subject; all conversations are far more engaging and pleasant when both parties are alert. he might have known this gentleman for all of twenty minutes but sylus has proven himself to be a most knowledgeable and witty person. pleasant company indeed. ]
Changes in temperature and pressure are two of the most common methods of crystallization, yes, as well as simple sedimentation - a form of erosion where the remnants of the old combine to create something new.
[ or something like that. i hope no professional geologists are reading this thread. ]
But there's a fourth, less common method, that of elemental reactions. [ can't believe i have to dive into rock bullshit and genshin terminology bullshit. ] Are you familiar with the elements?
no subject
Wind, water, pressure, heat… and of course, temperature changes overall,[he recites smoothly, his voice calm yet thoughtful.] I’ve seen how the elements can shape and wear down the hardest materials, bending them to their will over time. But elemental reactions creating gems? I'm afraid I may not know enough.