【 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 parking garage for all new arrivals. We aim to have all guests moved into their reserved rooms as soon as possible. We deeply apologize for any inconvenience!
All are invited to There Is No Tomorrow, a Phoenix Casino soiree to celebrate our beloved guests. The festivities will begin at 1800 hours on January 20th and end at 1800 hours on January 27th. Please look forward to 168 hours of delight.
In an effort to raise happiness and encourage better guest relationships, attendance is required. The house will assist guests that are too shy to appear of their own accord. Please note that black tie attire is mandatory. As always, we hope you enjoy your stay! 】
PARKING GARAGE
ANY CAR IN A STORM
PHOENIX CASINO HALL
WELCOME TO THE NEXT 168 HOURS
Phoenix Casino is a-flutter with activity and packed to the beak with guests. As a famously ever-changing space, the staff would be remiss if they didn't deck the crown jewel of the Golden Peacock out. The casino glitters from top to bottom, shining brighter than diamonds, rubies, sapphires, opals! Party-goers are shiny and glamorous with picture perfect makeup, fluttering gowns, and sharp suits. Card tables are packed and the slot machines are a-ringing as guests play, play, play! Prizes, luxury, booze, attractive people, it's the place that everyone wants to be at.
Those people being dragged inside by some invisible force...? Silly, they were so excited to come that their bodies moved before they realized what was happening. Those are struggles of joy and definitely not the casino's infamous ghost hands dragging unwilling guests to the party at the behest of the house. Look, they're literally hurling their bodies at the card tables with unrestrained glee!
All clocks indicating day hours and night hours have been removed from the casino. Once a guest has entered, their Watch will jam, making it impossible to keep track of the time. You don't need to worry about that tonight.
▶ 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 January event.
▶ 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. This month we also have an ongoing ATP / EMP where players can connect. Please feel free to utilize this for all of your peafowl needs!
▶ 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!
▶ 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.
( he leans slightly forward, so that he might catch a better look at the mark on her hand.
such a small thing, almost charming in its decorative appeal. it's difficult to believe something so trivial might have such powerful control over their minds and bodies, and yet he is here in a decadent hotel rather than back in his rooms in the palais mermonia, a fact that lends credence to her words. )
That does sound rather troublesome. ( to put things lightly. ) And how long is 'long enough'?
( the more he learns, the better he can prepare here. though who he might willingly seek out as a companion remains yet to be seen. )
[ she withdraws her hand, fitting her glove back in place and retrieving her champagne. ]
It is different for everyone. To some, it may activate as soon as a week or so, and others, over a month.
[ basically, you're fucked.
mona lifts her glass to her lips to take another small sip. the refreshing, fruity flavor is pleasant and offers some reprieve from the intensity of their conversation. then, upon lowering it again, her expression softens slightly. ]
the answer she provides, no matter how unpleasant, is enlightening. indeed, he would do well to be mindful in this place. which leads him to his next one, one that only comes after much internal deliberation. he almost takes a glass of champagne for himself, simply to give his hands something to do, then decides against it. )
If I may ask… Did you find it difficult to ( ah ) seek out partners here after your arrival?
( a deeply personal question, one he already regrets asking as soon as the words leave his mouth. )
If it is too personal a question then you need not answer. I do not mean to offend, or to pry in areas where I am unwanted.
[ oh, what a bold question. however, neuvillette himself seems to recoil upon having voiced it. the reaction isn't overt, but mona still does recognize the flicker of remorse that flashes across his noble features. she pities him once again, but does not fault him, either.
reassuring someone isn't something she often does, but... mona will do her best. ]
It was not difficult. Rather, the opposite. I believe this world accommodates everyone. It will purposefully create situations in which you can find a partner.
[ throwback to the day she arrived here and a magic leash and collar latched her to another guest before demanding mona refer to the stranger as her master. unmentionable events ensued afterwards, lest the charmed item never release them.
there's a hint of a flush in her cheeks, but she does stand proudly. ]
And it is alright. I'm not offended that you asked. I, too, would be concerned about my fate.
( that is....a relief? is it a relief, to know that this game 52 has been so carefully refined that even factors such as these have been taken under consideration. neuvillette looks unconvinced, but files the information away for later use nonetheless. )
I see. That is good to know.
( at the very least, she's painted a much better picture of the expectations set out for them here in this place. )
Thank you, Miss Megistus. ( sincerely. ) I owe you a great deal. If there is any way I can repay you, within reason, then I will do my best to accomodate your request.
( a favor from the iudex himself....don't waste it, mona. )
[ mona tilts her glass to one side as she peers up at neuvillette. the stare lingers, the sharp, striking hue of her eyes vibrant under all of the chandeliers above them. and then, seemingly satisfied with what she's decided, a smile returns to her lips.
her chin is lifted again, and mona makes a little noise of amusement. ]
If I may, I would like to demand three things.
[ yep. very greedy. ]
Firstly, that I may refer to you by your first name. Secondly, that we remain in contact after this party. And thirdly... that you escort me to the floor for a dance.
( how.....demanding. and yet he had said she could make any request within reason. in truth, the majority of her requests are quite reasonable, and he cannot see any need to turn them down. however... he lifts a hand to his chin, thoughtful, before lowering it again. )
I'm afraid I will have to decline your first request. ( because what even is his first name. ) You may, however, refer to me simply by my surname without the use of any title.
( it is, perhaps, a paltry concession, but at the very least she can count herself as one of the few comfortable enough - or privileged enough - to speak to the chief justice of fontaine so informally. though he supposes the title of chief justice means nothing here regardless. )
I will grant you your second request. Indeed, I believe it would be in my best interests to remain in contact with you for the duration of my stay here.
( there is so much he has yet to learn after all, and mona seems a reliable and pleasant source of information. )
As for your third.... ( another sigh. ) While I have no immediate objections, it has been quite some time since I last took to the dance floor. You may be better served in the hands of a different partner.
( there had been some insistence from furina in the early days that he learn, as dancing would be a necessary and integral part of all the salons she would be attending—and of course the great chief justice must attend as well. but between his dislike of attention and the mounting case files on his desk, his attendance at all those parties had dwindled rapidly towards near zero and what little skill he had gained had been left to wither away, unused. surely mona doesn't want her feet stepped on. )
Alright. I shall adhere to those terms and use your surname. I quite like it, too.
[ although neuvillette gently rejects her first demand, the second two are met with amiable agreement. mona is ultimately satisfied. though, it is also a shame; she would've liked to speak his first name aloud. when was the last time the iudex heard it from another? has anyone ever been so familiar? mona will have to quietly stash ▆▆ away, a lovely title that she perceived through her magic alone.
there is further amusement to be found in the weariness of his sigh. rather than the small noise she made before, mona actually giggles now. the sound is relatively quiet, but still cusps on something cute and feminine. ]
However, I do take enjoyment in being the first of your dance partners in a long while. Dancing is often something I do sparingly, but since we are here... I thought it was only fitting to make an attempt.
[ she takes a final sip of her champagne and passes the empty glass off to a waiter. then, like a gentleman would do for his lady, mona lifts out her palm with her fingers slightly curled.
the gesture is clear: please take my hand in yours. ]
( happily for all parties involved, he remains blissfully ignorant of her divination.
less happily, his caution goes rebuffed, and he has no choice but to place his hand in her waiting one, gloved fingers wrapping around hers firmly but not tightly. she will only have herself to blame if toes are stepped on in the course of the next five minutes.
since she has gone ahead and made the first move, it seems only prudent to ask, as he guides them towards the dance floor: )
Do you also plan to lead then, Miss Megistus?
( will he take on the role of blushing maiden tonight? )
[ admittedly, their height difference is... something, but mona isn't anything but determined. she'll devote her attention her blushing maiden and guide him as she has been, short stature and all. the bit of alcohol she consumed will also numb some of her embarrassment should she make a mistake. though, if neuvillette is really as out of it as he says, then it likely won't matter.
once they've gotten themselves some room, mona adjusts their arms and hands so that she has a proper posture. her gaze is then lifted up to meet his. ]
Follow me. And do not fret, we won't go quickly.
[ and with that, she carefully steps out and begins. ]
( please, he does not fret. if anything, he merely....considers. perhaps overmuch at times, but nevertheless.
but he does follow her lead, and places his hands dutifully in hers as directed. there is no embarrassment to be found in being the follower rather than the leader; factors like height or gender ought not dictate what role a person plays on the ballroom dance floor. he wouldn't be much of an impartial judge if he made decisions based on stereotype alone. )
Very well. I will do my best to match your movements.
( and, if nothing else, the first few steps are blissfully accident-free. )
[ each step is small and deliberate enough that even mona doesn't find difficulty swaying in her heels. she even thinks it's pleasant. her memories of dancing have all been instigated by others, such an half-year parties celebrating the success of the steambird, or, more embarrassingly, in inebriated stupor after a few rounds of drinks in the tavern. those instances are celebrations in their own right; sometimes she just barely manages to complete her column piece on time.
mona's expression softens as she looks up at neuvillette. her grip on his waist and hand naturally tighten as she prepares to speak again. ]
Monsieur Neuvillette. [ a small pause, one punctuated with another step. ] You are welcome to my suite and my amenities once you have settled here. I fortunately live in comfort on a higher floor.
[ an eight, to be exact. ]
I had those support me at the start, and I'd like to extend that grace to you.
( her offer takes him by surprise, and there is a moment where he nearly misses his step before he quickly catches himself again. is it due to his status as the chief justice? even if it means nothing here, surely she must know that he would never accept her generosity without the proper recompense? )
That is...very generous of you, Miss Megistus.
( it feels almost too generous, leaving him at a loss of how best to respond. )
[ despite her arrogant demeanor, she does, on occasion, offer her support to others. mona can be fussy about it, though. she finds it difficult to be honest with her feelings if there's nothing to be gained. therefore, she'll most often presents these offers as a give-and-take. it's better than admitting she has a soft spot.
the seriousness of her offer lightens up with what she says next. ]
However, if you do outrank me, then I would be pleased to visit your suite.
[ how will it reflect neuvillette's personality? ]
( dear mods, if you're reading this: please make him a 2.
but her tongue-in-cheek reply does earn a smile from him, along with a raise of one arm in preparation for a small twirl in tune with the music. )
But of course. It would be the least I could offer in repayment of your generosity thus far.
( she is welcome to his bathrooms at any time should he be so lucky as to acquire himself a suite with a personal bathroom attached. provided, of course, she gives some advance notice first. )
Do you still practice astrology here in the resort?
( can he still read her columns in his free time )
[ with their height, there's plenty of room for mona to enact that little spin. she's unpracticed, admittedly, but his hold on her prevents her from stumbling over her heels. mona directs a pleased smile up at him once they have returned to their original positions.
and, oh, a change of topic she is very excited to lean into, too. ]
I do. I won a wager against a person in power and restored my Vision's magic. It has been possible to do readings wherever I like. The 'sky' here functioning similarly to that of Teyvat's [ false sky, etc., etc. ] has made it so that there have been no issues performing divinations.
[ this time, she nearly trips as she adds, ]
But I wouldn't recommend wagering as riskily as I did.
( now that he hadn't expected, surprise briefly coloring his voice.
then again, from the various games laid out for them to dabble in for the duration of this party, along with what little of the opulent decorations he's been allowed to see thus far, perhaps the risk and reward that comes with making wagers is only to be expected for a place like this.
even so: )
I am not much a gambling man, no. You need not worry in that regard.
( he has little with which he would be willing to gamble away, and little worth risking it all for save the price of his freedom. )
If you seek higher rewards, then I would say so. The wager I participated in was not mandatory, but I thought myself capable enough to make that bet.
[ she essentially got to avoid spending hard-earned points that way, instead receiving restoration immediately rather than cashing in. although mona won, she did learn of acquaintances that lost their wagers and were subjected to inconveniences or humiliation.
regardless, mona does shrug a little. ]
Beyond that... well, a majority of games here do involve gambling. An inevitability, I suppose, given the location.
[ sir neuvillette, look away from the debauched ones, please. ]
You will likely find yourself playing one eventually.
( they step forward and back, some of the tension to his movements softening now that they have gone some time without accident, ice melting to water. )
It appears I will be playing many of their games whether I wish to or not.
( resignation colors his voice, a dissonance in his otherwise smooth tone. but it will fade with time. he is stiff but not inflexible. water is not, after all, and his very being belongs to the sea. )
I suppose I should accustom myself to this place sooner rather than later.
( which means looking directly at the debauched ones....his poor eyes. time to go play some games after this. )
[ his defeated tone causes her to chuckle, her expression softening similarly to his motions. ]
It will be alright. New experiences may come to you, but I believe you'll handle them as excellently as you do Fontaine's business.
[ mona's long, black hair flows out with their next circle. aside from her slight stumble earlier, they have managed to dance together with sufficient poise. she's rather proud of them both, but especially neuvillette for taking the floor after such a long while.
this 'never-ending' night will be a tedious one, but she is certain they will continue to enjoy each other's company. ]
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peacockstop2025-01-15 09:00 pm
no subject
such a small thing, almost charming in its decorative appeal. it's difficult to believe something so trivial might have such powerful control over their minds and bodies, and yet he is here in a decadent hotel rather than back in his rooms in the palais mermonia, a fact that lends credence to her words. )
That does sound rather troublesome. ( to put things lightly. ) And how long is 'long enough'?
( the more he learns, the better he can prepare here. though who he might willingly seek out as a companion remains yet to be seen. )
no subject
It is different for everyone. To some, it may activate as soon as a week or so, and others, over a month.
[ basically, you're fucked.
mona lifts her glass to her lips to take another small sip. the refreshing, fruity flavor is pleasant and offers some reprieve from the intensity of their conversation. then, upon lowering it again, her expression softens slightly. ]
Please be mindful.
no subject
the answer she provides, no matter how unpleasant, is enlightening. indeed, he would do well to be mindful in this place. which leads him to his next one, one that only comes after much internal deliberation. he almost takes a glass of champagne for himself, simply to give his hands something to do, then decides against it. )
If I may ask… Did you find it difficult to ( ah ) seek out partners here after your arrival?
( a deeply personal question, one he already regrets asking as soon as the words leave his mouth. )
If it is too personal a question then you need not answer. I do not mean to offend, or to pry in areas where I am unwanted.
no subject
reassuring someone isn't something she often does, but... mona will do her best. ]
It was not difficult. Rather, the opposite. I believe this world accommodates everyone. It will purposefully create situations in which you can find a partner.
[ throwback to the day she arrived here and a magic leash and collar latched her to another guest before demanding mona refer to the stranger as her master. unmentionable events ensued afterwards, lest the charmed item never release them.
there's a hint of a flush in her cheeks, but she does stand proudly. ]
And it is alright. I'm not offended that you asked. I, too, would be concerned about my fate.
no subject
I see. That is good to know.
( at the very least, she's painted a much better picture of the expectations set out for them here in this place. )
Thank you, Miss Megistus. ( sincerely. ) I owe you a great deal. If there is any way I can repay you, within reason, then I will do my best to accomodate your request.
( a favor from the iudex himself....don't waste it, mona. )
no subject
Is that so? Well, I won't refuse the offer, then.
[ mona tilts her glass to one side as she peers up at neuvillette. the stare lingers, the sharp, striking hue of her eyes vibrant under all of the chandeliers above them. and then, seemingly satisfied with what she's decided, a smile returns to her lips.
her chin is lifted again, and mona makes a little noise of amusement. ]
If I may, I would like to demand three things.
[ yep. very greedy. ]
Firstly, that I may refer to you by your first name. Secondly, that we remain in contact after this party. And thirdly... that you escort me to the floor for a dance.
[ she's very pleased with herself. ]
no subject
I'm afraid I will have to decline your first request. ( because what even is his first name. ) You may, however, refer to me simply by my surname without the use of any title.
( it is, perhaps, a paltry concession, but at the very least she can count herself as one of the few comfortable enough - or privileged enough - to speak to the chief justice of fontaine so informally. though he supposes the title of chief justice means nothing here regardless. )
I will grant you your second request. Indeed, I believe it would be in my best interests to remain in contact with you for the duration of my stay here.
( there is so much he has yet to learn after all, and mona seems a reliable and pleasant source of information. )
As for your third.... ( another sigh. ) While I have no immediate objections, it has been quite some time since I last took to the dance floor. You may be better served in the hands of a different partner.
( there had been some insistence from furina in the early days that he learn, as dancing would be a necessary and integral part of all the salons she would be attending—and of course the great chief justice must attend as well. but between his dislike of attention and the mounting case files on his desk, his attendance at all those parties had dwindled rapidly towards near zero and what little skill he had gained had been left to wither away, unused. surely mona doesn't want her feet stepped on. )
no subject
[ although neuvillette gently rejects her first demand, the second two are met with amiable agreement. mona is ultimately satisfied. though, it is also a shame; she would've liked to speak his first name aloud. when was the last time the iudex heard it from another? has anyone ever been so familiar? mona will have to quietly stash ▆▆ away, a lovely title that she perceived through her magic alone.
there is further amusement to be found in the weariness of his sigh. rather than the small noise she made before, mona actually giggles now. the sound is relatively quiet, but still cusps on something cute and feminine. ]
However, I do take enjoyment in being the first of your dance partners in a long while. Dancing is often something I do sparingly, but since we are here... I thought it was only fitting to make an attempt.
[ she takes a final sip of her champagne and passes the empty glass off to a waiter. then, like a gentleman would do for his lady, mona lifts out her palm with her fingers slightly curled.
the gesture is clear: please take my hand in yours. ]
no subject
less happily, his caution goes rebuffed, and he has no choice but to place his hand in her waiting one, gloved fingers wrapping around hers firmly but not tightly. she will only have herself to blame if toes are stepped on in the course of the next five minutes.
since she has gone ahead and made the first move, it seems only prudent to ask, as he guides them towards the dance floor: )
Do you also plan to lead then, Miss Megistus?
( will he take on the role of blushing maiden tonight? )
no subject
[ admittedly, their height difference is... something, but mona isn't anything but determined. she'll devote her attention her blushing maiden and guide him as she has been, short stature and all. the bit of alcohol she consumed will also numb some of her embarrassment should she make a mistake. though, if neuvillette is really as out of it as he says, then it likely won't matter.
once they've gotten themselves some room, mona adjusts their arms and hands so that she has a proper posture. her gaze is then lifted up to meet his. ]
Follow me. And do not fret, we won't go quickly.
[ and with that, she carefully steps out and begins. ]
no subject
but he does follow her lead, and places his hands dutifully in hers as directed. there is no embarrassment to be found in being the follower rather than the leader; factors like height or gender ought not dictate what role a person plays on the ballroom dance floor. he wouldn't be much of an impartial judge if he made decisions based on stereotype alone. )
Very well. I will do my best to match your movements.
( and, if nothing else, the first few steps are blissfully accident-free. )
no subject
mona's expression softens as she looks up at neuvillette. her grip on his waist and hand naturally tighten as she prepares to speak again. ]
Monsieur Neuvillette. [ a small pause, one punctuated with another step. ] You are welcome to my suite and my amenities once you have settled here. I fortunately live in comfort on a higher floor.
[ an eight, to be exact. ]
I had those support me at the start, and I'd like to extend that grace to you.
no subject
That is...very generous of you, Miss Megistus.
( it feels almost too generous, leaving him at a loss of how best to respond. )
I would not wish to be an imposition.
no subject
[ despite her arrogant demeanor, she does, on occasion, offer her support to others. mona can be fussy about it, though. she finds it difficult to be honest with her feelings if there's nothing to be gained. therefore, she'll most often presents these offers as a give-and-take. it's better than admitting she has a soft spot.
the seriousness of her offer lightens up with what she says next. ]
However, if you do outrank me, then I would be pleased to visit your suite.
[ how will it reflect neuvillette's personality? ]
no subject
but her tongue-in-cheek reply does earn a smile from him, along with a raise of one arm in preparation for a small twirl in tune with the music. )
But of course. It would be the least I could offer in repayment of your generosity thus far.
( she is welcome to his bathrooms at any time should he be so lucky as to acquire himself a suite with a personal bathroom attached. provided, of course, she gives some advance notice first. )
Do you still practice astrology here in the resort?
( can he still read her columns in his free time )
no subject
and, oh, a change of topic she is very excited to lean into, too. ]
I do. I won a wager against a person in power and restored my Vision's magic. It has been possible to do readings wherever I like. The 'sky' here functioning similarly to that of Teyvat's [ false sky, etc., etc. ] has made it so that there have been no issues performing divinations.
[ this time, she nearly trips as she adds, ]
But I wouldn't recommend wagering as riskily as I did.
no subject
( now that he hadn't expected, surprise briefly coloring his voice.
then again, from the various games laid out for them to dabble in for the duration of this party, along with what little of the opulent decorations he's been allowed to see thus far, perhaps the risk and reward that comes with making wagers is only to be expected for a place like this.
even so: )
I am not much a gambling man, no. You need not worry in that regard.
( he has little with which he would be willing to gamble away, and little worth risking it all for save the price of his freedom. )
Is that a common occurrence here?
no subject
[ she essentially got to avoid spending hard-earned points that way, instead receiving restoration immediately rather than cashing in. although mona won, she did learn of acquaintances that lost their wagers and were subjected to inconveniences or humiliation.
regardless, mona does shrug a little. ]
Beyond that... well, a majority of games here do involve gambling. An inevitability, I suppose, given the location.
[ sir neuvillette, look away from the debauched ones, please. ]
You will likely find yourself playing one eventually.
no subject
It appears I will be playing many of their games whether I wish to or not.
( resignation colors his voice, a dissonance in his otherwise smooth tone. but it will fade with time. he is stiff but not inflexible. water is not, after all, and his very being belongs to the sea. )
I suppose I should accustom myself to this place sooner rather than later.
( which means looking directly at the debauched ones....his poor eyes. time to go play some games after this. )
no subject
It will be alright. New experiences may come to you, but I believe you'll handle them as excellently as you do Fontaine's business.
[ mona's long, black hair flows out with their next circle. aside from her slight stumble earlier, they have managed to dance together with sufficient poise. she's rather proud of them both, but especially neuvillette for taking the floor after such a long while.
this 'never-ending' night will be a tedious one, but she is certain they will continue to enjoy each other's company. ]