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

[hira]

[ oh he sees that hand. he certainly doesn't recognize her by that alone so there's a stubborn sort of willfulness to his steps as he's tugged off stage quickly to meet up with whoever has had the gall to purchase??? him??? feels a little fucked up but no one's asking him.

there's the muttered grumble of "i'm telling you i've been here before i—" before he hears marina through the door and pauses, low, borderline feral snarl building and then dissipating. ]


... Trouble. [ softer, with a little bit of gruff affection as he steps closer to that door ] No... picking's been real dry. Guess I should come back to my old favorites... yeah?

[sleepyone]

Oh.

[It's him. The same him. Really? Truly?

Marina bounces on her toes, fingers pressed forward into the door. She nudges her forehead against it, a feeling of anticipation keeping her from just opening it up. Her guard is still up, though she's become so much more open hearted in the time since she last saw Artemy, there is still a part of her very afraid of hurt,

She teases, drawing out the reunion with a chew of her bottom lip,]

Which ones are those? There's the one about a grouchy, patch eyed stray in checkered pants. You might like that one, still.

[hira]

[ ohhhh don't do this to him. ]

Still fond of that one, certainly... a good read. But... Say... you happen to know the one about a curious girl? Twin tails, full of surprises. Read a man's palm once in a restaurant where they ate themselves full before they fell asleep...

[ some shuffling ]

Hey—don't touch me. Enough. You didn't pay.

[ because apparently that means something here and he'll take advantage of it get people not to touch him.

he shifts a little as someone reaches out one last time to adjust some of these stupid clothes on him, white drapery that feels far too breezy - this is maybe as bare as his legs have been below the knee since childhood. the heavy wool shoulder cloak suits him more, a deep evergreen, and a half-worn drape of fabric over the crown of his head, like an oracle's veil. ]

[sleepyone]

[Marina is smiling against the door as Artemy recalls her story.

A smile that quickly crumples when she hears him say "-don't touch me."

The door is pulled open from her side and there has never stood such fury in a five-foot-four package. She barely looks at Artemy, immediately revving up, locking in on the threat, which body part to target, and attacking.

The staff member gets a swift kick to the kneecap with a stiletto. Truly, the girl is full of surprises. The staffer goes down only to get scolded by her ferociously,]

Hooy- back off! I have dibs!

[hira]

[ !!!!

someone is being kicked. wow what a shoe. what a young lady. artemy immediately feels the tension in his shoulders lower a fraction as he muscles his way forward. quite the heroine she is... he doesn't feel bad though, he just instead is already taking steps to get beside her because bye he doesn't need handlers please leave him alone and refrain from touching him. ]

You heard her—make yourselves scarce and harass someone else back there.

[ :/

for a brief moment there is something very deja vu about this, watching the one that's been scolded immediately go placating, being ushered away by their fellow companions. he huffs. ]

... Afraid I've got no idea how to pay all that back, basaghan. [ but... warmly ] But aren't you a sight for my sore eyes.

[sleepyone]

[The staff shuffles away quickly, not wanting to incur anymore wrath from Marina. Fury which immediately drops out of her when she turns to Artemy and really, fully looks up to him.

She's so glad to see him again. To know it's really him. The same him she got to know, however briefly, when this all began.

Marina jumps up into his arms. Throwing both of her own around his shoulders, she anchors onto him. Immediately, she's trying to climb him. She's not high enough until her feet don't even touch the floor anymore, despite her tall heels. She wants to just hang off of him again! She has simple desires!!]

I missed you! You- you big chad! You owe me all that time you were away. [she squeezes him, not about to let go]

Where'd you go? Back home? Do you remember how long it's been? [so many questions, whoops, she might be a bit rapid fire for him to process]

[hira]

[ she can jump all she wants, the moment she indicates she wants up, he bends at the knees to scoop her up into his arms, tucking her in close against his chest so she doesn't have to hang off of him for very long. he presses his cheek to hers, hugging her back tightly as she scolds lightly then interrogates. ]

As much time as you want.

[ a low rumble of a laugh, letting his eyes shut for a moment as he just focuses a bit on the sound of a heartbeat, the distinct thud-thud-thud of excitement and reunion. ]

... A gauntlet of questions. I don't know - certainly not home, I don't believe. I woke in a bed, which I suppose is a far cry from last time.

[ a shake of the head. ] Beyond that... everything is unclear. I'm afraid I have no answers.

[sleepyone]

Just... can't remember? There's worse things. [Marina's a master of coping, she had to be to survive back home. A necessary skill for all the horror protags in the room. To know Artemy just couldn't recall what happened is better than hearing he had been suffering. That would be truly awful to hear.

She'll digest this idea more later, that people could come and go from this place without necessarily returning home...

For now, she squeezes Artemy like he'll escape if she lets go again. Turning her head towards him, she nuzzles into the soft of his throat, feeling the bristly underside of his stubble. A deep breath in of his scent, fueling her own memories all over again. She presses a firm kiss to Artemy's adams apple,]

You're here now. That's what matters. Welcome back, handsome.

[hira]

There are... wish I had some idea, though.

[ she nuzzles into his throat and he lets out a slow, long sigh, arms clutching tighter around her as he snuggles into the top of her head. ultimately, he tells himself it doesn't matter. he's either here or here's home and at least there's some kind of stability to it, beyond the strange things he's woken up to.

his hand slides up her back and he cups the base of her skull, fingers rubbing gently back and forth behind her ear as he squeezes her. ]

You are certainly a most welcome face. Here I thought I was going to end up face to face with some stranger... but here you are.

[ a small laugh. ]

What have I missed, hm?

[sleepyone]

I wouldn't let a stranger have you. Not a chance.

[Marina is trying to not melt into that rubbing of her scalp, beneath her hair. That's the good stuff. Artemy's hands are so large and strong and rough and she wants them all over her again- oh.

Well, a lot has gone on. Where to even begin,]

Oh, I moved up in rank! I'm a Jack now, which means I get the royal treatment. [she nuzzles against him, thinking] And I became a cat girl for a bit, twice!

And I got married, at least once, [maybe twice, shhh] and also divorced! What elseee...

[hira]

Marriage and cats—you've kept yourself quite busy. Hope the whole divorce wasn't... too messy?

[ the rubbing does inevitably stop as he pushes a bit of hair from her face and offers her an easy, tired smile. the way it feels almost effortless to speak with her again, to even hold her again. if he puts her down on her feet, it's only because they should exit this hallway, yes? ]

And my how you've climbed, no wonder they seemed rather timid towards you. I'll count myself lucky then...

[sleepyone]

[Fine, fine, to the being put down on her feet. Her heeled shoes click to do so, Marina finding her balance again, even if she isn't close to letting him go, she can loosen up.

She holds his hand by wrapping her entire hand around his pinky finger. A fav move of hers with these wonderfully big men in her life, Wrio gets that hold, too.]

It was a huge mess! But it was still fun, I don't regret anything. That's a waste of time.

[She walks with him, not really sure where they're going. Some penthouse room set aside for winning buyers to take their new objects of worship? Sure, that would work, but Marina is scarcely focused on the journey or the destination.

She only care about the company with her for it.]

You're the special one, having come back like this. Everybody is praying at the feet of this batch of wildcards. I heard you're stuck feeling hungry until someone is worshiping you! That true? Because it must suck. [She likes praise and attention, but also that sounds so awkward! And to be stuck hungry over it, wow, so tedious...]

[hira]

I'm surprised this place would go around marrying people to begin with.

[ her fingers curl around his finger and he chuckles a bit, walking but a step behind her, as perhaps one purchased might. were it anyone else, he might have tried to bolt with a hasty thanks, but with marina, he's content to allow her to do what she will.

she brings up the hunger and there's a perfectly timed growl that's... well. incredibly telling. ]

... It's not so dissimilar from home. The director... he used hunger as a punishment often enough I've stopped paying much attention to it at this point.

[ a face being made then, mild nyeh vibes. ]

My people back home already hold me with reverence, I have no need for it here... it's more attention that I care for.

[sleepyone]

Marriage here is deeply unserious. [truly a noncommital commitment. No big deal at all. AHem...]

The Church was like that, too. Don't obey? Don't eat. [she swings his hand in hers. Popping a shoulder up and tossing him a cute look over it,]

Would you accept some worship if it's just from little me? I hate the idea you're going hungry again.

[hira]

[ yeah ok he Definitely believes you. don't you give him a cute look like that immediately out the gate. she is so insufferably incorrigible and he just gently squeezes her hand in turn, and after that look he just tosses her something that maybe to most might look a little like a grimace. instead, it's just a disused smile. ]

"Little" you still packs quite the punch, Mari...

[ the laugh that leaves him is soft, thready, but very much real as he gives her a look that is... debating. ]

That's not something I'd foist on you. I'm used to hunger.

[ a squeeze, three fingers, the pinky still as stone. he wears what seems like an archer's leather glove for the time being because i got my acceptence and knowing her she gets to be the first to see that part of him is still a little bit stiff (not horny). literally. ]

[sleepyone]

[Marina swivels on a heel and starts walking backwards so she can face Artemy. Both her hands reach out and cup around his, squeezing back against him,]

Just because you're used to it doesn't mean you should have to keep suffering it! If this place has one great thing about it, it's all the good food.

[She loses track of where they're going until she bumps her back against a wall- oh! There they are! A fancy suite set aside for "buyers" to enjoy their prize. And what a prize Artemy is. Marina is sure it's money well spent, keeping him all to herself! She pulls a hand from him just long enough to flick it by the door lock and open it up for them.

Then, her hands are right back to his hand, tugging him into the room with her,]

I'll make sure you don't leave hungry. [close the door behind you and kiss her already, Artemy!]

[hira]

[ this girl, as always, will be the death of him, but he doesn't deny her, following her easily, his steps could overtake hers, but they do not as he slowly joins her. the way this entire place is set up he is hardly surprised that they've run into something that caters to their precise needs. were it someone he hadn't already come to know, perhaps he'd be more reluctant.

but as it stands, it is very hard to tell her no. he doesn't want to, even like this.

she baits him, and of course he bites - he's hungry, even if he can will himself to survive, it isn't just food and part of him feels somewhat stupid for having just arrived and already become pawn in this stupid little game again. but it's too late for lingering in that now, right?

it's automatic, for him to shut the door behind him - borne from caution and politeness both. once unfamiliar eyes are far behind them, artemy hesitates all of a moment. ]

The look in your eyes tells me you might be just as hungry.

[ the animal thing in his body keens as he slides a hand to her waist and draws her towards a wall, pressing her against it and bowing down like a great tree to kiss her squarely on the lips. the other hand, callused and big, cups her cheek, pushing fingers into her hair. his suit prickles just a little bit, familiarity, affection he'd give to her in his open palms. ]

[sleepyone]

Oh, I am... handsome, [she coos softly back to him as he guides her back against a wall, looming pleasantly over her. Artemy's size has always been so appealing, but she feels she misremembered how truly attractive it was to be in his presence. To make him lean down to catch her, to bring such an obviously imposing and powerful man to bow.

Marina's lips part to meet his, eager to deepen the kiss right away. A kiss full of longing and happiness that he returned. They hadn't known one another long, but that hadn't mattered for her bond with Daan or Olivia or anybody else she got attached to quickly. Artemy fits right in with that company. What mattered was how strikingly deep their connection was in so short a time. Marina needs that, the chemistry, the magic; one and the same.

She nuzzles her face into his callous palm, not the least bit turned away by his roughness, but drawn to it with all her being.]