TDM 05

[goldmods]

【 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

A cool breeze lofts across the room. Gentle, soothing. Cotton sheets and silken covers slip with the tired stretch of limbs. New arrivals dozing in the comfort of their king-sized beds wake to the balmy warmth of a hazy sun and the rhythmic lap of waves on the shore. Clouds mist around the floor, granting ethereal ambiance. Gauzy curtains flutter, revealing a majestic stretch of sky in all directions. This temple is nestled at the top of a mountain, one where the sea somehow meets its edge.

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.

MARK OF THE GODS

None of the traditional suits have manifested on these Wildcards. Instead, all new arrivals will discover intricate patterns winding their arms and legs, each one different from the next. Thorns, vines, stars, or moons — the commonality of these marks is that they come in either glittering gold or shimmering silver.

► BENEVOLENT DIVINE: Those with marks of gold running along their skin have been identified as benevolent deities. The powers that be have sensed the kind spirit within. All benevolent Wildcards may experience the effects of any RED SUITS over the course of the next two weeks.

► MALEVOLENT DIVINE: Those with marks of silver running along their skin have been identified as malevolent deities. The powers that be have sensed the muck that lurks beneath the surface. All malevolent deities may experience the effects of any BLACK SUITS over the course of the next two weeks.

MADDENING HUNGER

Itchy throat, dry mouth. Headache. Hungry. It comes on slow, at first nothing of note. But, surely, it begins to deepen. Grapes don't feel filling. Water barely quenches thirst. All new arrivals will wake up in a state of hunger. They will find that despite the complimentary snacks left in their room by room service, nothing hits the spot.

No matter how much food they eat, these new arrivals, who have been dubbed as divines, won't find any satiation from food or wine. This gnawing hunger is exhausting; as it increases, their strength decreases. They cannot continue on like this for long.

All Wildcards, regardless of divine differentiation, will need to be worshipped for sustenance. Otherwise, they risk falling into a frenzied state.

There are many ways they can be worshipped. While having their bodies worshiped through sex is the most effective, they can find minor relief in acts of praise, affection, offerings, service, and so on. The longer a Wildcard goes without being worshiped, the more their god mark will leech their energy, and the faster they will lose their sanity. Loss of sanity can result in any kind of frenzy, from general mania to breaking from reality.

GILDED CAGE

AN ENDLESS FEAST

Doors to the grand banquet hall of Gilded Cage have been opened. A singular massive table stretches throughout the entirety of the restaurant, every available inch loaded with trays of food and goblets of wine. Waiters seamlessly dip in and out of the kitchens with platters over their shoulders, bringing delectable cuisine from all avenues of every earth around for guests to enjoy. Vibrant fruits, roasted meats, and decadent desserts funnel into the hall without end.

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.

ROYALS

► Royal cards are King, Queen, and Jack ranks. All ranks beneath them must comply with their demands, no matter how whimsical or stupid. They are waited on hand and foot, with low ranks throwing themselves forward for the honor of pleasing them. Royals do not need to obey the commands of anyone aside from Wildcards. While it is good manners for a lower royal card to defer to a higher royal card they will not be punished if they decline.

► Royal cards are encouraged to eat, drink, and be merry. Be selfish! Be greedy! Take everything you want! There is no end to the pampering and indulgence offered to royals. Long-standing guests line up to flatter them and give them gifts. Resort staff are desperate to make them laugh or smile. A royal card frowning strikes terror every servant. Resort staff will insist that they seek their own pleasures and not worry about the feelings of those lowly cards. All numbered cards exist to satisfy the royals; being concerned about their peasant feelings is unnecessary.

► Royals can command any numbered rank. If they find a numbered rank they particularly like they may monopolize them for their exclusive use. The word no does not exist. Whatever a royal wants, a royal gets. They can also issue punishments to numbered ranks that do not please them. There are guards prepared to discipline servants at their command. They may also dominate unruly servants with their own hands if that pleases them.

SERVANTS

► Servant cards are ranks A - 10. Hierarchy exists within the servants as well. While a rank 10 servant must flatter and please the royals, they may issue orders to any servant rank beneath them. This continues down the line — a rank 6 servant must obey and adore any rank above them but may command and bully any rank below them.

► The Ace rank shows its fickle nature. All Ace cards are bottom-barrel servants sitting at Rank 1 that anyone can bully. They are automatically ordered to clean up trash, scrub sticky floors, and dance provocatively for any rank that demands a show.

► Servants must obey anyone that outranks them. There are guards standing along the walls waiting to discipline any servant that defies the hierarchy. However, the guards are mostly for show — suits enforce real compliance. Any servant that disobeys an individual who outranks them is at risk of their suit flaring. If their suit does flare, submitting and obeying or an orgasm can abate suit effects.

WILDCARDS

► Wildcards are akin to deities. There is no greater honor than to serve or possess a Wildcard. Royals want to own them and servants want to please them. All Wildcards are showered with endless adoration. Fights break out for the chance to feed them grapes or rub their calves. Wildcards may do whatever they want without consequences, even toward royal ranks.

► Wildcards are encouraged to indulge in the finest of everything. Servants must tend to them and obey their commands. While royals do not need to obey them, there is great prestige in claiming a Wildcard’s affection. Wildcards are encouraged to be selfish and enjoy themselves to the fullest.

► Any royal or servant that satisfies a Wildcard can collect a Wildcard token. This is an electronic token that appears in their bank account once a Wildcard has climaxed during sex. Physically pleasing two Wildcards bring about great blessings. Players may submit two Wildcard tokens under their rewards thread to collect a small item voucher.

PHOENIX CASINO

ALEA IACTA EST

Phoenix Casino has been reborn in antiquity. Stone pillars line the aisles and embroidered linens cast a gauzy filter over every corner of the gambling center. The number of statues has increased, with every corner decorated with marble figures in provocative poses. The feast continues into even here; scantily clad servants and waiters carry around platters of succulent fruits and pitchers of wine.

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.

WILDCARD AUCTION

► All shiny new Wildcards have a unique number pinned to their robes. Early in the night these nubile virgin Wildcards will be paraded across the stage and asked to introduce themselves to the crowd. After, the bidding will commence. Don't miss this opportunity to claim a resort virgin and beloved divine!

► Bidding for a Wildcard can get intense! Numerous long-standing guests are already obsessed with these stunning new arrivals and are quick to bid high. Bidding wars can break out at any time. Some very eager long-standing guests are willing to get violent if it means they get to monopolize one of these Wildcards. Security is on stand-by for cases of Wildcard theft; some guests are so desperate for these Wildcards that they'll even try to kidnap them if they see the chance.

► The hierarchy is temporarily set aside for auction purchases. Any rank can dominate a Wildcard if they have the means to bid high enough and buy. In the case of Wildcard purchases, their god marks will force compliance to whoever buys them during the auction.

CASTING LOTS

► This special game of lots is designed for a high rank and a low rank to play together. In the case of guests of the same rank playing together, a coin flip will decide who plays the "low" rank for this game.

► The high rank guest will roll a six-sided die. The number rolled will reflect the game rule by which the low rank guest must try to satisfy the high rank guest. If the low rank guest manages to satisfy the high rank guest they will receive a large payout. If the high rank guest is not satisfied they may discipline the low-rank guest in any way they see fit.

ONE: Without using hands.

TWO: Using only mouth.

THREE: While blindfolded.

FOUR: Using only butt cheeks.

FIVE: Using only legs.

SIX: While remaining on knees.

► The high rank decides if and when they have been satisfied. Work hard, low rank!

HEADS OR TAILS

► What's a casino without a bit of risk? There's a special game of Heads or Tails happening at the game tables. All guests must bet their rank in order to play. Winners of the game will have the option to either swap ranks with the loser, or keep their rank as is and move on to another game. With a little bit of luck, even a Rank 2 can experience living the high life.

► All rank swaps are temporary. Winners that choose to swap ranks with the loser of their game will have 24 hours with their new rank before they revert back to normal. They may continue playing on with their "new" rank if they want to test their luck.

► Heads or Tails is played with a physical Golden Peacock coin. Players will take turns as the coin flipper, with their opponent guessing if the outcome will be heads or tails. The first guest to reach three correct guesses is the winner.

BEAK

ENTERTAIN YOUR BETTERS

A massive circular arena has been erected in the middle of Beak. Staggered seats rise up to the ceiling, where royals lounge in luxury viewing boxes. The gaping mouth of the arena is wide and desolate. An assortment of weapons, such as spears and shields, hang along stone walls. It waits for the taste of blood and stench of battle. The sound of the audience cheering and booing echoes throughout the Wellness Quarter.

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.

BATTLE ROYALE

► Numbered ranks have been conscripted into battle for the amusement of the Wildcards and royals. While high ranked servants may be able to wiggle their way out of a fight, low ranked servants will be thrown into the arena without mercy. Warriors that win their battles will be showered in accolades and payouts while losers will be mocked and pelted with rotten tomatoes. Warriors that try to forfeit their match will be stripped naked, strung up on a pole, and mocked for 24 hours.

► Battle rules are simple. Any means and methods of fighting are acceptable when in the arena. The arena’s overseer will decide if a battle will end when first blood is drawn or if it will continue until one side can no longer continue. There are rare instances of battle to the death, typically reserved for warriors who have deeply offended a Wildcard or royal.

► Royals and Wildcards are welcome to join in the royale if they wish. They will not be forced and they will be given any armor they want before stepping into the arena. Low rank warriors are given no armor — some may even be forced to fight nude.

SUBDUE THE BEAST

► Any numbered ranks that have displeased a Wildcard or royal will be thrown into the arena to fight barehanded against hungry tigers and lions. If there are no troublemakers on hand to throw into the arena for entertainment, low rank servants will be forcibly volunteered instead.

► Those alleged hungry tigers and lions? They are other servants dressed up in sexy animal costumes. While staff will take genuine volunteers for this role first, they will forcibly volunteer low rank servants into the role if needed. All costumes are revealing and offer little protection. There is an assortment of looks to choose from, not just tigers and lions, though whether or not a servant gets to pick their outfit depends on how charitable the arena master is feeling.

► Matches will end when one party can no longer continue or the audience is sufficiently amused. Royals and Wildcards are permitted to partake if they please, and there will be no consequences if they decide to withdraw.

RACE TRACK

► Royals and Wildcards are invited to participate in horse racing. Only, there are no horses to be found — all the “horses” are servants! Any chosen servant must carry their master over the finish line. While piggyback rides may make the most sense for a race like this, many of the high class prefer more elegant positions, so anything goes. Horses are required to wear a bridle at all times during the race.

Servants are also allowed to participate as jockeys as long as they observe the hierarchy. Servants may ride any servant of a lower rank. Aces are ordered to walk around with a poop shovel and bag, even if there won’t be any real horse poop lining the track (probably).

► Royals and Wildcards are also invited to participate in private horse racing. These races involve no track, taking place in the back of Beak in private rooms furnished with cushions and silks. Like with the public races, royals and Wildcards may select any servant that catches their eye. Unlike the public races, the goal here is to make their ‘horse’ orgasm as quickly as possible. Times will be saved on their Watches. The faster a master makes their horse come the more bragging rights they have.

Servants are once again allowed to participate as jockeys as long as they observe the hierarchy. The higher ranked servant must make the lower ranked servant orgasm as quickly as they can. While the ‘horse’ may offer mutual comfort they will receive no accolades for their skills.

TALON

SHOW OF STRENGTH

Talon is bustling with warriors training for the arena. Several strength building stations have been set up, including benches for royals to perch on while warriors bench press them. Additions have been made to Talon as well; multiple mud pits have been dug for warriors to participate in some mud wrestling between arena battles.

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.

MUSCLE CONTEST

► Who can appeal to the royals and Wildcards most? It’s a competition based on aesthetics! Strip down, oil up, and flex your muscles to earn a high score from the judges. Royals and Wildcards may issue a score between 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest.

Wildcards and royals are welcome to join in the competition. For some reason, their scores always end up being 10 no matter how skinny or noodly they may be! The flattery and praise for their stunning looks and bodies is endless. No need to work out, my lord, my lady. You’re stunning as is! Truly no body is more perfect!

► Servants are not only allowed, but encouraged, to bribe royals and Wildcards into giving them a high score. While chips and gifts can certainly be offered, isn’t the most compelling argument some hands on experience? Staff will hint to competing warriors that offering sexual favors to the judges may help improve their scores. What better way to prove their physique is the most superior than to put it to work?

► Royals and Wildcards may purchase warriors for their exclusive entertainment if they so desire. Staff are eager to impress these nobles and make a pretty penny in the process. While this isn’t an official auction, these sneaky staff aren’t above making sure the elite and their requested warrior are left alone in a locked room. You grease my palms, I’ll make sure that sexy warrior greases yours.

WRESTLING MATCHES

► Guests will find that a deep mud pit has been added to the front hub of Talon. Servants are stripped and oiled down before being thrown into the pit to wrestle for the entertainment of the nobles. While staff will take volunteers for wrestling matches, they will also grab whoever looks good, even if they’re just passing by! On-lookers place bets during the matches. The winner of the match will receive a small cut of the prize money.

► Wildcards and royals may enter as well. Servants are expected to throw their matches if they’re facing a noble… and if they don’t, they may be facing some unexpected consequences! All suits are sensitive to the hierarchy and will suddenly flare if a servant starts thrashing a noble.

► During a match-up of nobles, it is expected that the lower ranked noble will throw the match in favor of the higher ranked noble. While royal suits will not flare if this isn’t adhered to, discipline between royals isn’t unheard of!

► Some matches are held under “Special House Rules” — which means that the winner of the match gets to claim and fuck the loser. On-lookers will jeer and demand that the winner publicly fuck the loser where they can watch, but private rooms are available for the winner to claim their spoils of war without sharing.

WAYWARD ARROWS

► An archery range with targets has been established for warriors to show off their shooting skills. Like the arena, there are benches and boxes for the audience to admire this graceful art — or to throw tomatoes from when a warrior misses the mark! Both servants and nobles are welcome to participate as archers.

► Servants have been conscripted to act as moving targets across the range. They are told to heckle the archers while avoiding their arrows, and only advised that the arrows won’t pierce their bodies if they get hit. It’s all fun and games. We can’t have all of our servants dying en masse!

During this portion of the games, archers will be given an assortment of charmed arrows with chalk tips that elicit different effects:

RED ARROW: Chalk powder from red arrows will trigger an intense need for physical release by grinding, humping, or frotting.

BLUE ARROW: Chalk powder from blue arrows is pure aphrodisiac. Inhaling this powder will cause close spike to near-orgasm, one that the target will find that cannot be completed by their own hand.

GREEN ARROW: Chalk powder from green arrows will stir neediness. The hit target will suffer cravings to be sticky and hug, climb, and generally latch on to another person.

PURPLE ARROW: Chalk powder from purple arrows will cause a bad case of loose lips. This may manifest in a compulsion to loudly speak in pretentious purple prose, dirty talk, or say otherwise hilarious things for the amusement of the audience.

► Effects from the arrows will wear off within the hour. Multiple hits from differently colored arrows can create fun new effects so feel free to get creative!

INDULGENCE

DESIRES FROM THE VOID

The spirit of the festivities rouses something primal. With emotions heightened, the core of the Golden Peacock responds in kind. It drinks in the sweat of the warriors in the arena. Inhales the laughter of the royals using servants as furniture. Basks in the brilliant glow of fresh Wildcards. The portraits in the elevators are rowdier than usual and the chandeliers lining the hallways gleam with new vibrance. Energy is palpable.

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.

GALATEA

► Statues around the resort begin to stir. First it’s with a hazy blink, moving to the slow creak of their stiff mouths. Eventually they break off of their pedestals and out of their poses before clumsily making their way down the hallways, stone feet an emphasized thump with every step. They tremble, their cold stone bodies aching for warmth and human embrace.

► Statues around the resort have begun trying to kidnap guests for themselves. Once they’ve spotted a guest they want, they will stop at nothing to try and drag them back to their pedestal to spend forever locked in love’s embrace with them. They do not need food, drink, or rest.

► There are two ways to put a statue to rest. One is to engage the statue in battle and break off its head. Once the head is broken off, it will cease to have a spirit and crumble to dust. The second is to involve the statue in a physical act of intimacy — have a threesome with it! Or twosome, if someone is willing to watch. In the case of the second, statues will return to their pedestals satisfied upon completion.

► Statues that end up destroyed may drop a small lore hint. They will wheeze as their stone begins to disintegrate, their stone eyes dripping liquid gold tears. “I just wanted to feel alive again… I wanted to feel like you again… to be whole,” will slip past their marble lips before they crumble away.

NARCISSUS

► Gaze into the water. Admire your pretty face, the curve of your lips, the squint of your eyes... wait, are you winking at yourself?! Over the next few weeks, water-based reflections will begin acting of their own free will. They have the ability to move within the scope of the water and speak, their voices muddled but understandable.

► These reflections are extremely flirtatious and charming. They smile and bat their lashes, pretending to be innocent while drawing the original owner in closer. How about a smooch? How about more than a smooch? Their whispered promises are sweet. Salacious. Loving. Anything to get closer to you. Leaning in too close to the water is dangerous — these reflections will reach out and try to drag unsuspecting guests in. Whether this is out of malice or affection is unclear, but how can they possibly make love to you unless you join them in the water?

► Once caught, it is challenging to escape from their phantom limbs in the water alone. Several long-standing guests need to be saved from The Nest’s decorative fountain because they keep coming close to drowning after trying to kiss their reflections. Unfortunately, not every location with water is as prepared to save unsuspecting would-be lovers. No body of water is safe — not even a cup of it!

► Reflections will become increasingly indignant if they're ignored. Their sweet words will take a sharp turn into insults similar to, "I'm the better looking one between us anyway!" They may also let slip some personal secrets like, "This is why Johnny will never love you back! You're so cold, ignoring even yourself!"

Any mention of the fact that they'll end up drowning the character in question will earn a scoff and another small lore hint along the lines of, "Why are you being such a baby? Only the resort can really kill you anyhow. It's not like you'll die forever if I fuck you in here for a while!"

PANDORA’S BOX

► A spider's web threads through the resort. Invisible, but audible to those that are willing to listen. One of the Punishment Rooms on the maintenance levels is unlocked. Without the padlock on the door to keep them silent, silvery whispers drift up from the basement. A brush of thought, a tickle of an idea that won't quite go away — come down… come down and see… what is inside… don't you want to know?

► Those that heed the call and explore the maintenance levels will find the unlocked Punishment Room. The closer one comes to this door, the stronger these voices grow. They will continue calling, eagerly encouraging whoever stops in front of the door to step inside.

► The inside of this Punishment Room is plain. White walls, a single card table, and two plastic chairs. A single lightbulb offers a dusty glow. There is nothing particularly interesting upon first glance. Slowly, the door behind will creak closed until it is closed, locking itself in the process. That small lightbulb will begin to dim until everything inside the room is plunged into darkness.

► This Punishment Room senses the worst memories and fears of one of the captives inside and forces them to experience them in real time. The manifestation of memories or fears inside this room are realistic, to the point that it's impossible to discern whether or not this takes place in reality or the mind. The Punishment Room will randomly select which prisoner to dig from if there is more than one, but all guests inside will experience the room's effects.

► The door cannot be unlocked from the inside. Someone must either open it from the outside or captives must wait until the punishment is over and the door unlocks itself. How long that takes is random, ranging from a few minutes to a few hours. That’s what you get for listening to disembodied voices!

OOC NOTES

INVITES | RESERVES | APPLICATIONS

▶ 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! ♥

NAVIGATION • LOG • NETWORK • OOC • MEME

Comments

[peacewithouttyranny]

[Nope, he won't stop petting the rabbit. Stampy is definitely enjoying the attention she's getting. That aside, Soundwave is honestly indecisive between wanting to see those pictures and not seeing them. Although it could be undeniable proof but it could also be faked, if they have access to an image editing software.

Somehow though, he's leaning towards them not being faked and he may likely have his brain fried.]

My mask? I suppose if we've bonded enough to be that close....

[Hm. Then maybe it makes reasonable sense that he'd lower his guard around her and takes off the mask. At least he's relieved to know that he'd still wear it in public because he can't ever find himself be comfortable without a mask to hide his face behind.

Now the next doozy?

Yeah, no. He finds that one hard to believe. He smiled? More than once, even? Her voice dropping into a whisper only makes him think that she's just messing with him.

Soundwave doesn't notice her attempt to shove Stampy away, fortunately(?). Though she seems stubborn about leaving Soundwave's lap, however. Now back to Soundwave, his eyes are narrowed behind the visor.]

You're lying.

[holeinwall]

[ She almost doesn't hear his accusation. She's too preoccupied with glaring down at Stampy. What a stubborn little jerk! Even when the guy's clueless about her, this rabbit can't resist soaking up all his affection! They've had an agreement to be civil to one another, seeing as she's Monika's only consistent cry buddy company when he's away. Maybe she needs to rethink that!

Her next attempt to shove Stampy is more obvious. Monika bristles as her foe crawls her furry butt back into Soundwave's lap. No, never mind rethinking the agreement. Maybe the resort needs a new helping of flamin' hop skewers...!

Wait. Soundwave said she's lying. Nothing distracts her from violence better than being told she's wrong about something. ]

Oh, am I?

[ Her eyes narrow along with his, and she leans in closer to make sure he can see it through his visor. ]

Then why do I know the color of your optics?

[peacewithouttyranny]

[... Are these two fighting? His eyes are still narrowed at Monika, but it's kinda difficult not to notice her attempt to push Stampy away, only to hop right back into his laps. Be nice to your pet, Monika! His head tilts down to Stampy as she settles her big furry butt firmly on his laps.

Seriously, are these two beefing over something? Ignorant that these two are fighting for his attention, Soundwave rests his hand on Stampy and turns to look back at Monika, only to be met with her face up close.

Whenever someone leans in close to him like that, a similar strategy he'd employ to terrify someone, he'll stand on his ground... Or rather, stay firmly in his seat without leaning away.

He's not certain how this segue into her knowing the color of his optics. Did she mix up on what he's calling her a liar for?]

... What color are my optics then? [Then, he adds.] And I do not smile, Monika.

[Just to make sure she knows that.]

[holeinwall]

[ Her answer's immediate. ] Bright yellow. Just like sunshine.

[ Just as she'd said to him when he treated her to something incredibly rare. Granted, she took advantage of his offer for anything she wanted, but hey, he kept his word. That means the world to her.

For now, she's going to put aside her eternal battle with her dumb, mech-stealing pet. There's a method to her madness here. If he'd let her in enough to see part of his real face, wouldn't it stand to reason that he'd grant her a gift more precious? Something like a smile? ]

Oh, but sure. Grumpywave would never smile. [ She coos like a baby. ] He's way too sewious!

[ There's a laugh and she leans away--not as a show of submission, but rather to search around on her Watch. She won't obliterate him with a picture of his smile until it's necessary. That needs to remain tucked away until the moment's just right. Instead, after finding the picture she was seeking, she projects it for him to see. Just the tiniest bit, she smirks as his avatar's face comes into view. ]

You're way better at doing this~

[peacewithouttyranny]

I wouldn't say my optics are like sunshine.

[But... Huh. So he really did show his face to her, then.

He's still not certain on what to think of this revelation that they've been close friends, but hopefully she doesn't expect him to take off his mask anytime soon. He'd probably sooner show the avatar's face than his own real face. At least the avatar's is technically fake, though he'd still rather not show emotions.

He still finds it difficult to believe that he'd smile willingly. Well, there were moments in his life where he had smiled, but those were so rare that he could probably count on one hand how many times he's smiled. She must've been really special and precious to even get a smile out of him.

His shoulders relax when Monika leans away. Finally, some room to "breathe". A rise of his eyebrow when she's playing around with her watch, then he turns to the projected picture of... Is that his avatar? No, that is definitely his avatar, but... Why is he making that face?

His head turns back to Monika.]

What... Why. I do not make that kind of face.

[She doesn't see it and he's not acknowledging it himself, but he is making the exact pouty face under the mask.]

[holeinwall]

[ She obnoxiously wags a finger. ] Too bad your opinion doesn't matter on that! Your eyes--excuse me, your optics--are sunshine!

[ And unless he calls fake news on her very real picture, she's considering this her first victory of many. As always, she can't merely settle with winning. She has to rub it in the loser's face. Why shouldn't she? She's earned the right from working so hard!

Her smirk worsens as she sneaks in a shove at Stampy. No luck. This little shit! ]

Ahhh, right. We've established you don't smile, you don't make faces like this... [ She's yet to close the picture. He has to stare at his shame until she says he's done. ] You definitely didn't allow me to put that flower in your avatar's hair, and we definitely didn't spend hours together in the maze that flower came from.

[ If only he knew just how often he's seen the crafty look she's about to give him. The definitive sign that he was expected to bow his head and submit to her whims. ]

Most importantly, we definitely didn't make love in front of a bunch of people once we reached the center~

[peacewithouttyranny]

[Yeah, no. He isn't going to call fake news on her picture there, as much as he wants to pretend that it isn't real. Also why is she smirking at him like that? What, she's going to gloat about how he made dumb silly faces to her?

There's no way he's going to be anything like the Soundwave in that picture.

His hand is getting tired from stroking Stampy's fur, so he settles with wrapping his arms around her and hefts her up into a hug. Good luck shoving her now.

His pout turns into a lineface when she reveals about the flower and how they spend hours together in a maze. Ok, the latter isn't entirely surprising because he did basically hung out with Monika for an entire day or two when they first met. But still... Those things sound too cutesy for him to be doing, so that just adds to the confusion about his past friendship with Monika.]

Are you sure you aren't mistaking me with someone else?

[What she reveled last gives him a pause.]

......... Excuse me?

[holeinwall]

[ One moment. She has to glare her eyes out at the rabbit skank being such a bold asshole, right in front of her salad. To make things worse, she swears Stampy gives her a smug stare. Monika's hands ball up into fists. Is she about to try to punch a rabbit? Maybe.

Sense returns to her before she can attempt to be a shithead to an innocent creature. If she does that, Soundwave is going to leave and most likely completely avoid her. Worse yet, he'll like Stampy even more. Ughhh, this is such bullshit!

Monika huffs to herself. Stampy: 1, Monika: 0. Back to taunting Soundwave with the truth while quietly seething over wishing she was in his arms instead of what's supposed to be their pet. ]

Oh, sure. There's tonnnns of giant mechs wandering around here, and they aaaall have cute avatars. How could I everrrr think it was you?

[ The sarcasm's dripping from every word. He should be proud of her matching his usual energy so well.

Anyway, time to lie. She pulls down the top of her skimpy party outfit, just enough to reveal the top of one breast. There's a thin scar there, barely visible. ]

Why would you leave this on me if you hadn't had such a good time, then?

[peacewithouttyranny]

[Don't be mean to the innocent creature, Monika.

Soundwave continues to be unaware of the intense (one-sided?) rivalry between Monika and Stampy, unconsciously hugging Stampy closer. Gradually, he finds himself liking Monika's pet bunny... not that he'll ever say as much, no matter how obvious it is when he hasn't released Stampy yet. ... Hm,. he's just going to get more fur on him, isn't he? He'll have to re-materialize his avatar later or change into a new set of clothes.

Later, because someone here in the room is taunting him over truths that he asked for but couldn't believe.]

Enough with the sarcasm, Monika.

[Sheesh, he doesn't like it when she used his flat tone against him.

His brows curve up in mild surprise when Monika suddenly pulls down her outfit. What is she-- oh?]

That... [Without thinking, a hand reaches towards her, a finger faintly brushing along the thin scar atop her breast.] What do you mean I leave this on you? Did I... hurt you?

[holeinwall]

[ Let's just say someone's getting pelted with their food tonight. She'll name no names for said victim, but it's happening. As long as he's not looking, anyway. ]

Shut up. I do what I want.

[ But before she can sass him further, he has her eyes widening. He's touching her. He's touching the scar. Instantly, she's shivering at the touch, craving more of it. It's the first time he's voluntarily touched her since they reunited, and there's no doubt that her want for him still exists.

She breathes out. Subtly, her thighs press together, but then she pushes his hand away, pulling her top back into place. For once, she's going to resist temptation. Their relationship remains too precarious. ]

It's not hurting me if I wanted it.

[ Her smile's a bit wan. ] It was one of the best moments of my life.

[peacewithouttyranny]

[His hand is pulled back when she pushes it away, resting it on his side, palm side down. He's not hugging Stampy anymore, so she's free to leave or stay on his laps. Probably unsurprisingly, she chooses the later but at least she seems satisfied with her "true" owner's attention.

He head tilts quizzically when she said that. One of the best moments of her life? He assumed he must've hurt her or something, but he still doesn't quite understand how or why he'd given her a cut, he'd presume, on her chest.

Curiosity is getting the better of him.]

I have to ask... What happened, exactly? During that, ah..... "lovemaking" and made me gave you that scar.

[Saying lovemaking is so embarrassing...]

[holeinwall]

[ Her smile fades, and she looks away. Her expression's hard to read, but he'll be able to sense a wild mix of emotions coming from her. Anger. Hurt. Happiness. Sadness. Yearning. Maybe even something like...love.

Eventually, she sighs. Her arms cross while she mentally debates on her words. ]

I'm not sure I want to say. It'll just make me want you more.

[ The truth? Say it ain't so! Then again, it's not like he knows how secretive she normally is. It'll be easy enough to pretend she's always been open with him, seeing as she's been that way with him many, many times. In fact, that'll probably make him see her in a better light. A nice bonus. ]

At least you got your best sleep ever beforehand. Not on purpose, but it was nice to let you have that. [ There's fondness in her words as she recalls that part of her memories. ] It's the most peaceful I've ever seen you.

[peacewithouttyranny]

[He senses the wild storm of emotions in her. Confusion. He's confused by some of the emotions he's sensing from her. But what can be said about wild mix, it is that she truly feels strongly towards him.

Meanwhile... He sees her, as a friend.

It's... sort of easy for him to empathize with her situation, all thanks to his empath powers. However, that power of his is still a closely guarded secret. Does Monika knows it? So far, she hasn't allude to anything of that sort, or that she tries to guard her emotions inward. Ultimately, it's best for him to not say anything about what she just felt from her.]

I see. If it's not easy for you, then you do not have to tell me now. Later, perhaps? [He can't force her to say more, if she doesn't want to. Although hearing her say it'll make her want him? Surprising. Even if he hadn't felt her emotions, it's surprising that she'd... straight up says he wants him. He doesn't think he's deserving of anyone attention or want, especially of that level.

He isn't sure what to say to that.

The next part certainly sounds nice, at least. The fondness in her voice sounds nice to his ears.]

Is that so.... I never thought I'll be able to know a peaceful sleep ever again. [Even after the war was over, it's difficult for him to have a normal sleep and never not be alert at the slightest movement or sound.] Was it thanks to you?

[holeinwall]

[ Isn't it so lucky for him that he never revealed the true scope of his powers? The worst she has to worry about is him hearing her do things she'd rather keep private. She'd be freaking out if she knew he's aware of what she was feeling. Even more so if it was clear he could easily dig through her mind.

So much of their relationship's foundation was shakier than they realized. Shakier now. It's a miracle she hasn't freaked out from that alone. ]

Yeah. Maybe later.

[ Probably not. Not unless he's showing signs of seeing her as more than a friend. ]

I wish I could say I gave you that rest, but no. [ She snorts quietly in amusement. ] Some of the roses had thorns that put us to sleep, so we got to play our best Sleeping Beauty roles.

[ There's a thoughtful noise. ] Then again, maybe I helped a little? I let you sleep as long as I could. As much as you've told me about your life...I felt like you deserved it.

[ Mostly because she spent so much time living in her delusions, but he doesn't need to know that part. ]

[peacewithouttyranny]

[It's one of his fear when it comes to revealing his power. It's reasonable to be afraid of the mech who's capable of sensing emotions and reading minds, even if he rarely ever used this power of his maliciously.

His fear about his power is that it will be a cause for others to fear him. It will remain a secret, until he's able to fully trust someone.]

Sleeping Beauty?

[His head tilts. Unsurprisingly, the reset Soundwave doesn't have any knowledge on the reference she's making.]

It's no secret that I took part in a war. Four million years of warfare... even after it was over I haven't known true peace. [It was headed that way, building up a peaceful commune and living out in space until a better home is found. Instead, he gets drag into battles, nonsense, and politics.] I suppose this place may help me learn to love a peaceful life. Especially if I have you to help. Assuming you are willing.

[He looks down to see Stampy sleeping on his laps, then he gives her a single stroke of his hand. Arms still engraved in golden star markings. What distasteful marks, after all the reverence he received.]

Although... I hope this entire deity and worship event would come to an end soon. Then, I might be able to learn peace, here.

[holeinwall]

[ Him not knowing her reference just reminds her of how much he's had erased. All they'd read together. The poems she'd written for him. The one he wrote for her. Her body hangs a bit lower before she slides her mask of forced indifference back into place. ]

It's a human fairy tale. The main character falls asleep for years after pricking her finger. A kiss woke her up.

[ She'd almost put "from her true love" in there, but she couldn't manage it. It'd probably lead to more questions she doesn't want to answer, anyway. ]

Anyway, forget that. [ She looks up after being quiet for too long. ] I'm willing to help. Always have been.

[ Her head tilts a bit. ] I can't tell you when this whole thing is going to end, but it tends to be for a few weeks at the very least. [ Her laugh's got genuine amusement in it for once. ] Sorry, but you're going to have to deal with people liking you for a while. So terrible, isn't it?

[ Poor grump, dealing with actual positive emotions. Tears will be shed for this travesty. ]

[peacewithouttyranny]

[Oh, so the whole thing is based on the story. A story he has never heard of, but neat.

Fortunately, he has no further question, so he moves on from it and I stead is grateful for the help. Always has been, huh....

Her laughing gets his deadpan stare under the mask.]

What? It was terrible. I did not have a single good time during that. The worshipping and reverence and attention were all so.... Uncomfortable.

[And the fact that he needs to be worshipped too otherwise he'd starved...]

And so was watching servants being pushed around and forced to do tasks.

[Now that sounds reasonable to be mad about.]

[holeinwall]

It's terrible for someone who treats socializing like the plague. Me? [ She sighs in want. ] I'd love having so many people treating me like a goddess...

[ If he knew her like he used to, he wouldn't be surprised to hear that. Even so, how she's treated Stampy so far might clue him in: she's an attention whore. ]

But I get what you mean about the servant thing. [ She grumbles, crossing her arms. ] I haven't been bothered too much, but I've learned some people let power go to their heads.

[ It's her. She's people. Thankfully, she hasn't been bossing anyone below her rank around.

Yet. ]

I dunno. You kinda just get used to it after a while. [ She shrugs a shoulder. ] The best I can do is help out the lower ranks when I can.

[peacewithouttyranny]

I wouldn't consider worshipping and reverence a normal part of socializing.

[C'mon, he's terrible at socializing, but that stuff was excessive. Slightly surprise that Monika want people to treat her like a goddess, but thankfully what she said next tempered whatever fury he had in him.

Well, so long as she isn't abusing her status or whatever. He may be fundamentally uncomfortable with the whole ranking thing, but so long as people treat each other as equal or at least not a giant douche, he can ignore a person's rank.]

My history with class division wouldn't allow me to ever be comfortable with that idea... But, I suppose it is just a game at the end of the day.

[He hopes it's just some roleplaying game thing at the end of the day. Because that whole thing did not sit right with him at all.

Huh... Another surprise. He sort of pegged Monika to be selfish, especially after she said that she'd love people to treat her as a goddess. But she's also willing to help out the lower ranks, too?]

That is... Nice of you, Monika. I would've share more of my offerings and allow the servants to sit on my throne, but that only get laughed at by others as some "outrageous joke". [They are lucky he has enough self control to not starting punching them right then and there.] Like you said, some people let power go to their heads. They become greedy and start treating others like they are beneath them.

[And then the next thing you know, low ranks might be forced to work in the mine and forever be branded a lower class with no hope to climb up the ranks! ... Maybe he's just projecting things will go as terrible as past Cybertron was. Hopefully the resort doesn't go down that path. This place would've make for a nice vacation...... if he's capable of relaxing.]

[holeinwall]

[ Welp. There go the winds in her "being a goddess" sails. Her face falls, then she sighs. A fantasy to indulge in later, then. Or...maybe make into reality when she realizes he's temporarily under her full control. ]

Sorry. I haven't forgotten about how rough you had it. I don't want that kind of oppression. I'd prefer to have my worshippers be willing and all.

[ Her selfishness has limits, you know. For the most part. Yandere Mode™ can alter her morals in questionable ways, as he knows. Er, knew. ]

And I dunno if I'm being "nice" or anything. I just have a lot of friends that are lower in the ranks. Like, super low. [ Suddenly, she holds her forehead. ] Ugh, I'm going to have to get over the constant déjà vu feeling of telling you things I've already told you...

[ Her head shakes. ] Anyway. Just keep up being generous while you can, even if you get pushback for it. Who cares what the dummy weirdos think? You're a free bot. [ Instinctively, she pokes his arm. ] You can do what you want!

[peacewithouttyranny]

I suppose I've already told you of my past... Or perhaps, Cybertron's society past.

[Regardless, it's good to know that Monika isn't that level of selfish. Otherwise, he wouldn't know how this other Soundwave has gotten along with someone that selfish.]

You are already nicer than the ones I know who were in power.

[An amused huff leaves him when she made the déjà vu comment.

Soundwave doesn't care if someone wants to bow or be. Heck, he's seen some servants happily playing their role. He even bowed his own head down to someone for so long time. As long as it's willing, he doesn't care. It's only a problem when those in power abuses their power.

Eyes widening slightly behind visor, his head tilts down to the arm she's poking at. If she hadn't established way before that she'd randomly grabbed his hand sometimes to drag him away to places, he would've smacked that hand away. Not that it stops Soundwave's entire body from freezing on the spot for a split second, though.]

You are right, and I agree with you. Only I can decide what I want. [Everyone should be able to choose on their own. That said...] I am in an unfamiliar place and our captors has yet to make themselves known. I do not know the consequences of not playing along, so I was playing it safe.

[It's a smart decision to continue with the flow, even if it was at the cost of his own comfort.]

[holeinwall]

You did.

[ Her? Trying to approach a touchy subject carefully? Somehow, she's capable of that! Only because it's him, probably. He's earned the privilege. ]

And, I mean. I try to be nice. [ Her shoulders hunch. ] Especially to you.

[ If you don't count all the times she fucked him up. That's definitely an exception, because he liked it.

She suddenly notices his response to her poke. Oh, right. No touchy. Her sigh is inward. Great, another habit she's got to break, lest she push him away. Why can't he be normal! ]

Right now, you don't have to worry about the "playing along" thing. But I think that's what we bonded over the most, deciding what we want. [ Among other things... ] We both had lives that were out of our control. Now, we don't. So we helped each other figure things out. Together.

[peacewithouttyranny]

[Especially to him? Whatever has he done to deserve such friendliness?]

I am not certain I am deserving of that.

[But... he can't say that he doesn't appreciate it, even if he's still mostly confused over this situation.

Well, no point to think it over too much. He's seen the proof, and though he would like to see more, he's convinced that he apparently had several visits to this resort. Bonded over deciding and figuring out what they want, huh. Together...]

We both have found our freedom in this resort.

[He had several years ago, but now... Now is the only time he realizes he actually have a completely free schedule. It's odd to... not have a duty, honestly.

Free time aside, he'll find out about what his other self has done together with Monika, how deep their friendship has gotten. Whatever he'll learn about the other him, he still decides for himself what to do in this unprecedented situation. With that, he gently eases Stampy off his lap, reluctant at first but she eventually listens and hops off onto the floor. Soundwave then stands up, before tilting his head down to Monika.]

So... Monika, let's decide what we should do next. I suppose you aren't opposed to going outside?

[After all, he's "new" to the resort.]

[holeinwall]

[ He gets another genuine giggle out of her. ] I guess that's one thing that never changes, you insisting you don't deserve good things. What a dummybot. [ She holds a hand up before he can get offended over that. ] And I mean "dummybot" in a nice way! Don't get grumpy!

[ She's asking the impossible there, but whatever. ]

We have, though. [ She smiles. ] You and me, living our best lives~

[ And look at this! He's finally gotten tired of the little shithead who stole him away! She smirks. To really rub it in, she'll probably eat some of Stampy's kale and spinach right in front of her cute little face. Nothing feels better than one-upping a rabbit with a delicious salad.

Monika's celebration's short-lived. Her eyes widen as he stands. Slow your roll, sir! ]

Hey! No! I don't want to go out yet! Sit back down so we can enjoy a little more time away from everyone else!

[ People might try to steal him away! ]

[peacewithouttyranny]

How do you expect me not to after that unnecessary insult, idiot.

[So, yes. He is being a big ol grumpiest grumpy grump who's ever grump under the mask. What is she going to do about it, huh?

Childish insults aside, Soundwave is raring to go outside again. Hopefully without any staffers coming up at him again and lavishing him with offers or praises again. Actually, he gives Stampy one last pet on the head before he watches her hops away to her pen.

Too bad, he missed her smirk and instead gets an earful for wanting to leave?

The mark is active, so he sits back down as commanded. Once again, Soundwave is confused as he finds himself back on the chair.]

What... Why am I so compelled to listen to you today?