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ɢᴏʟᴅᴇɴ ᴘᴇᴀᴄᴏᴄᴋ ᴍᴏᴅs ([personal profile] goldmods) wrote in [community profile] peacockstop2025-05-15 09:00 pm
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TDM 009



【 Thank you for choosing the Golden Peacock, 5-star resort and casino. You are currently registered as a WILDCARD in our system.

We are pleased to announce that several films have begun production in the resort! All guests are encouraged to participate as actors and crew during this time. Two highly anticipated blockbusters are part of the filming block and will have an opening night premiere at the newly renovated Hatchbox Theater.

We would also like to extend a gentle warning to all actors. New tabloids and journalists have snuck into the Peacock alongside production, so please be cautious of aggressive reporters. We would hate to see our beloved guests embroiled in public scandal.

Please look forward to your debut on the silver screen and all of the new artistic content soon available for your viewing pleasure! 】



HONEYWAGONS
A STAR'S WELCOME
WELCOME TO THE LOT ► All of these new stars are being welcomed to the Peacock in style. The Nest, the resort's premier massive shopping complex, is now lined with dozens upon dozens of trailers, each with a glittering gold star on the door. While unassuming on the outside, the inside of these honeywagons are pockets of luxury in tiny square footage. The catch? Why, characters are stuffed up to 4 in a trailer, of course. We're sure you'll figure something out.

► Characters still wake up naked save for a robe, as is standard for the Golden Peacock. This round’s robes are a mixed bag of gaudy glitz and old money velvet, reflecting the dual faces of Hollywood. Whether you're sporting some classic luxury with a pipe or draped in cheetah faux fur, these robes are skimpy, potentially giving a raunchy photoshoot to those pesky paparazzi!

Existing characters are welcome to take up residence in any empty slots in these honeywagons. Just because you're not the newest ingenue on the block doesn't mean you're forgotten. Besides, we need you experienced actors close to set for quick costume changes and touch-ups. No need to ask to be moved! It’s all taken care of already.
HIRED HENS ► Several security guards have been newly hired to protect the actors from paparazzi and potential threats. These burly cocos and hens all have three things in common: tight black suits, rippling muscles, and owl heads. These heads aren't just for show; this elite group of guards can swivel their heads 360 degrees to provide the utmost level of surveillance.

Unfortunately for actors, these owls are both nocturnal and way too into their jobs. They particularly like doing rounds during night hours and staring into the windows of the honeywagons to watch the actors sleep. Some owls will creep into the trailers to watch over their charges by sitting at their bedsides. An owl may be there, staring, where you least expect it. However, their diligence may not necessarily be a bad thing!

► Alongside owl security, actors may find themselves bombarded by paparazzi. These photo-hungry tabloid journalists are all after shots that will fetch a high price, willing to do anything for a scoop. The majority of these new paparazzi, in contrast to owl security, have hummingbird heads. They're just as quick too, zooming in and out of both backstage and the sets in search of a scandal.

Be careful, because hummingbirds aren't the only paparazzi. That's right — guests, new or existing, may find themselves scouted to play ball with the tabloids. They may not be as obvious as those aggressive hummingbird reporters; some may even be working undercover in search of a scandal to sell to the highest bidder. All actors are at risk of embarrassing or defamatory photos being published in resort magazines or posted to the bulletin boards.
ACTOR RESUME

WELLA WARBLER


Height: 4 inches
Weight: 5 oz
Age: 3 years (24 in bird years!)
Eye color: black
Hair color: yellow

TYPECAST & SUITABLE ROLES

• animal sidekick
• emotional guide
• damsel in distress

KINKS & FETISHES

• berry licking
• mating dances
• hardcore bdsm

SPECIAL SKILLS

• singing
• flying fast
• speed sudoku

ROLE REGISTER ► What better way to get to know your colleagues than to check out their resume? All guests will have access to the actor registry, which provides an overview of actors and basic information about them.

The registry, with the help of the Golden Peacock's AI, can also flag complementary resumes. An actor that may have good chemistry, match the requirements for a particular scene, or has unique experience relevant to an upcoming job may reappear at the top of the search several times.

► Actors can communicate through the registry. There is a general messaging board where everyone can see what is posted and personal inboxes for private correspondence with an actor. Actors are encouraged to collaberate because many of the scenes in the available movie projects involve intimacy.
COPYABLE CODE
COSTUME DEPARTMENT
GET INTO CHARACTER
PICK OUT YOUR DUDS ► The trendy clothing boutiques of The Nest have been transformed. The walls between these small stores have vanished to create a vast costume warehouse divided by department, seemingly overnight. Actors may freely browse the racks to select suitable costumes for the roles they've been cast. The directors aren't picky about how their actors dress as long as it suits the part, allowing guests creative freedom as part of the process.

Actors that choose costumes that are extremely unsuitable for their roles will be forced to change into something chosen by costuming staff. These mandated costumes will be on theme but will always be slutty, sexy, and enhance an actor's unique "assets". An actor blessed with a bountiful bosom may find themselves wearing a tight little lace bra while an actor with a thick ass may end up in assless chaps. It's all about giving the people what they want, you know?

All articles in the warehouse run the risk of being possessed. There are no clear-cut signs as to which pieces are cursed and which are not before putting something on. Possessed costumes come in two flavors: Type A and Type B.

Type A possessions are straightforward. The actor wearing a Type A costume cannot remove it alone — they will find that no matter how many times they grab a button or tug on that zipper tab, nothing will unfasten. Someone else must remove the costume for them. Good thing there are a bunch of changing rooms just big enough to fit two people inside around, huh?

Type B possessions are unique. The actor wearing the costume will begin to feel influenced by it. They may feel inspired or compelled to act out the role it embodies. This possession will not be satisfied until some level of resonance between actor and role is achieved. While the possession isn't satisfied the costume cannot be removed. But hey, you're an actor headed to set, so surely this is only gravy for your performance!
DOLLED UP ► Done getting into costume? Head over to hair and makeup! After all, clothes are only half the battle. Whether you need to get glammed up or slapped into some monster makeup, the makeup artists are here to help. Mostly. Actually, they're super understaffed, and there aren't enough makeup artists to meet demand. Though they hate to ask, could you guys potentially help each other get ready?

Actors confident in their makeup and hair styling skills (or just confident) will be allowed to use any tools to help get their fellow actors ready. However, any actors kind enough to jump in and assist will be warned that many of these products are made at home in the Golden Peacock. If not used with discretion, they can potentially make the actor being worked on ... extremely horny! Like a game of Russian roulette, one in five of all beauty products are created with aphrodisiacs. Ironically, this isn't even for the sake of getting guests into the Game 52 spirit — their supplies are just like that.

► Fill-in artists shouldn't fret too much. The majority of those products only have aphrodisiacs in minuscule amounts. When applied carefully they typically cause minor arousal or sensitivity. Artists that spray and paint with reckless abandon, however, may find a new problem on their hands!


GRAB A GIG
FIND YOUR BIG BREAK
GETTING TO SET ► The Golden Peacock is buzzing with excitement for two big blockbusters that are currently in production: LORD OF THE WINGS and STAR WARBLERS. Both of these films come from movie franchises that are adored resort-wide for their iconic blend of story, romance, porn, and action.

► Directors will be filming dozens of scenes with different actors in lead and supporting roles. Actors are given creative freedom on how to approach their roles, with barebones scripts that offer a general idea of where the scene should go and some spicy lines here and there. One actor’s take on a role may be different than another’s.

For example, three different actors portraying the Dragon Lord in Lord of the Wings may take their portrayals three different ways. A lonely Dragon Lord, a villainous Dragon Lord, and a misunderstood Dragon Lord are all fair game. Supporting characters such as the elves and faeries the warriors meet during their travels are completely free game within the bounds of “elf” and “fairy” in classic movie tropes.

► Two new floors have appeared in the ever-changing Peacock, each dedicated to one of the films, due to their massive and comprehensive sets. Guests will discover two new buttons on every elevator’s operating panel. Actors and fans are invited to enjoy these sets even when the camera isn’t rolling — this blend of high-tech VR and real world elements comes at a very high budget, so guests are encouraged get their fill while they’re available!
INDIE HITSIn addition to the two massive blockbusters, several spin-off series and porn shorts currently casting and underway. The directors of these major motion pictures have kindly permitted the filming of smaller projects using these unique movie sets when they aren’t already in use. Smalltime directors and film enthusiasts are eagerly pitching their porn scripts in hopes that they’ll get made!

Several smaller sets can be found around the Peacock for these homegrown productions. While some scripts utilize locations that can already be found in the Peacock, other long-standing guests have pooled their money together to establish a handful of sets not already available in the resort. These sets are open for use at any time.

► Unlike the large production crews of Lord of the Wings and Star Warblers, these smaller porn projects do not have a big budget for staff. Some projects utilize AI and drones to film, so actors that are shy about getting down and dirty around a physical cameraman need not worry! Both the producers and the Golden Peacock staff want their stars to be as comfortable as possible to fully enjoy the experience.
SPIN THE WHEEL ► It wouldn’t be the Golden Peacock if there weren’t some kind of game-like twist! While actors are encouraged to go out for any roles or films they find interesting, those looking to win large and extra-large chip payments can spin the fetish wheel to up the ante. Actors that spin the fetish wheel must incorporate what the ticker lands on into their next role.

► Can’t manage to work it into your scene? Those that fail their fetish task will find a huge chip deduction from their bank account and a punishment waiting for them. Any actors that fail the game must dress up in sexy costumes and go around the Golden Peacock handing out fliers for the premiere of Lord of the Wings and Star Warblers, with strict instructions to dance sexily for anyone that accepts a flier. Hey, the directors have spent tons of money on these movies, they’ll take free advertising however they can get it.

SPIN THE WHEEL HERE!
LORD OF THE WINGS
AN EPIC (AND SEXY) JOURNEY
【 Once upon a time, in a magical land far, far away...

The Lord of the Wings, a massive dragon with no equal, demanded a bride tribute from all of the kingdoms across the continent. Every month each province was required to send their most beautiful men and women to become the dragon's next bride(s). Ever greedy, the dragon was not satisfied with having one bride. Not with twelve brides, nor two hundred brides. The dragon always demanded more. The number of hot people around to bang dwindled. Things were looking grim.

Soon, a group of brave warriors gathered to travel the lands and slay this dragon. They enjoyed adventures of fucking their way through sirens, fucking their way though the faeries, and fucking their way through the mage school and beastmen tribes. They reached the dragon's crystal lair where the dragon, who took beautiful humanoid form, approached them.

The dragon promised that if any warrior could satisfy them sexually, they would return all of the brides to their homes. Each warrior took a turn trying to satisfy the dragon — but only with their efforts combined in one massive orgy was the dragon finally satisfied.

All of the brides were released and the warriors moved into the crystal lair to live a loving polyamorous relationship with the dragon. All was well. The end. 】


A FANTASTICAL SET ► Guests taking the elevator to the new floor labeled 'LORD OF THE WINGS SET' will are greeted with a cool, damp breeze as soon as the doors open. Unlike any other area of the resort, this set evokes a very real sensation of stepping out onto the earth to embrace snowcapped mountains, lush forests, and wide-open sky. The size of this set is massive with different climates depending upon where filming is happening. Towns, villages, and tribes can also be found.

► The set is teeming with background actors that have been instructed to stay in character at all times. Actors may encounter both friend and foe while exploring the set, regardless of whether or not the cameras are rolling. Lord of the Wings features a wide range of character types ranging from humans and elves to monsters and beasts.

► Key locations in The Lord of the Wings are: human villages; siren's cove; fairy's forest; Beastmen wilds; Elven mountains; and the dragon's crystal lair. But these are not the only locations in the set! Actors will find a fantastical range of areas to explore and enjoy.
MAGICAL DANGERS When it comes to movie magic, the Golden Peacock is more magic than movie! While sets are generally safe and violence is simulated, there are elements of the film that can affect actors for real. If guests aren't careful, they may really find themselves in a sticky situation and need a clever Hollywood way to get out of it. Or maybe they'll need to live out a classic trope for real.

LIEBERRIES: Found in the Elven mountains. Delicious but cursed: you can only lie for 20 minutes after consumption. Beware misunderstandings!

SNUGGLEBLOSSOMS: Found in the Fairy forest. These charming blossoms produce an immense amount of pollen. Breathing in snuggleblossom pollen is lethal. The only cure is to fuck within two hours of inhaling.

THERAPANGO: Found in the Siren's cove. Anyone eating it will spill their emotional baggage to the nearest object (tree, statue, enemy soldier). It's cathartic, if not dignified.

RAINBOW CRYSTALS: Found in the dragon's crystal lair. Contact with a rainbow crystal will increase endurance but delay/deny orgasms. No wonder the dragon was so hard up!
STAR WARBLERS
A THRILLING (AND SEXY) SPACE OPERA
【 Once upon a time, in a galaxy, far away...

The Palm Warblers and the Pine Warblers, two different legions of the massive Warbler fleet, began to battle. Whenever their ships would meet in space they would fight with the winner taking prisoners of war. After one such battle, a captured Captain of the Palm Warbler legion held in prison met a Lieutenant of the Pine Warbler tribe. After some rivalry, the two fell deeply in love.

They had a ton of kinky prison sex. However, the two were not satisfied with fucking between prison bars. They wanted to properly marry. But how could they with their two legions at war?

They each gathered friends and more sex was had between all. More matches between the Palms and the Pines happened, leading to even more kinky space sex. Bolstered by friendship and newfound fetishes, they gripped their laser guns and seized the science lab where some important keystone gemstone was being examined and researched by space scientists. This stone was very important for the future breeding of the Warbler race.

By holding the lab hostage, the ship's Commander put down their weapons and handed over the keys. The Palm Captain and the Pine Lieutenant held hands as they steered the ship off to find a new planet where they could live in peace together. The war between the two tribes ended because of good sex. All was well. The end. 】
A TASTE OF OUTER SPACE ► Guests taking the elevator to the new floor labeled 'STAR WARBLERS' will greeted with the ethereal hue of stars and planets outside of crystal-clear windows. While the set of Star Warblers is smaller than Lord of the Wings, it's far more detailed, completely imitating a starship traveling through the vastness of space. All of the elements of the spaceship are dripping in high-tech science fiction.

► The set includes background actors that have been instructed to stay in character at all times. Actors may encounter both friend and foe while exploring the set, regardless of whether or not the cameras are rolling. The background actors of Star Warblers are primarily Warbler Troops wearing helmets, highly ranked Warblers in sharp military uniforms, and white-coat clad scientists.

► Key locations in Star Warblers are: the prison hold, the ship's bridge, the command deck, and the ship's research laboratory. But these are not the only locations in the set! Actors will find a range of futuristic areas to explore on the ship.
ALIEN THREATS Why keep the science fiction fictional when the Peacock can provide the real thing? While sets are generally safe and violence is simulated, there are elements of the film that can affect actors for real. If guests aren't careful, they may really find themselves in a sticky situation and need a clever Hollywood way to get out of it. Or maybe they'll need to live out a classic trope for real.

'TORTURE' BOTS: Found in the prison hold. Robots programmed to 'torture' prisoners into revealing information. These bots are equipped with dildos, vibrators, pussy pocket hands, lube jets, feather ticklers, etc. These bots can be controlled by the wardens for more intimate 'torture' sessions.

SPACE RATS: Found in various locations. Small, neon rats that run around the hallways and in cargo areas of the ship. If bitten by a space rat, their bite will continue to swell until the bitten person has sex.

GREEN GOOP: Found in the research labs. In syringes and in massive bubbling pods. When not watched, the goop will move on its own and try to absorb anyone around into it.

GEMSTONE EGG: Found in the research lab. The gemstone egg that the scientists are evaluating, important for the future of the Warbler race. Any physical contact with the gemstone egg will inspire the sudden urge to mate and breed.
SHORT FILMS
THE GOLDEN PEACOCK SUPPORTS THE ARTS
【 Ladies and Gentlemen!

Peacock Productions is pleased to announce the following short erotic films. Actors interested in participating in filming are welcome to arrive on set to shoot at any time. Various accommodations are available depending upon actor comfort.

FILMS
• ALIENS PROBED ME!
• ARRANGED MARRIAGE WEDDING NIGHT
• BIG TIDDY NUN NEEDS PUNISHING
• BIRD IN THE BUSH
• EXORCIST KIDNAPPED BY DEMON LOVER
• FELINE ATTRACTION
• GUARD TOPS MASTER IN BED
• HORNY NERD CREAMPIE
• HOT FOR TEACHER
• INCUBUS SEDUCES SLUTTY PRIEST
FILMS
• JEALOUS SPOUSE DISCIPLINES LOVER
• LONELY TENTACLES WANT LOVE
• MAGES GONE WILD
• PIZZA DELIVERY BOY IS HOT
• PLANTS HUNGER FOR SEX
• SAMURAI PLEDGES AND SERVES
• THEY WERE BOTH BOTTOMS
• TOP ON TOP ACTION
• VAMPIRE’S AROUSING BITE
• VIRGIN’S FIRST TIME
• WHOLESOME COUPLE MAKING LOVE
• WOLFMAN TAKES A MATE


… and many, many, many more! We look forward to working with you. 】
BOX OFFICE BOOM ► "And many, many, many more!" is no exaggeration. Smalltime directors and long-standing guests are producing dozens of pornos and these pornos are in need of actors. The above is not the extent of possibility. Players are encouraged to make up any kind of porno scene they want! Characters may take advantage of open sets to make videos or take photoshoots for their personal use, general public release not required.

► These pornos typically lack story and focus more on fetish and kink. The plots are loose, the lines are ad-libbed, and if there are any crew around it's one guy in a hoodie eating a donut. However, the cameras available for rent are just as high quality as the ones used on Lord of the Wings and Star Warblers. If that's not your style, all Watches have the capability to connect via bluetooth to film through standing cameras.

► Actors that participate in filming will receive a large payout per role. The more jobs you take, the more money you'll make! Alternatively, actors that don't fill any roles may find their bank accounts suddenly plunged deep into the red, no matter how rich they may have been before.
EXTRA SETS Current Peacock locations and all of the Lord of the Wings and Star Warblers sets may be used for pornos. However, the world of kink is vast and variety is the spice of life. Several smaller open sets not usually available have appeared around the resort for actor use.

CASTLE(S): Sets featuring the aesthetics of historical castles. Numerous versions are available, each influenced by a different culture (eg, English; French; Italian, Spanish; Russian; Chinese; Japanese; Korean; etc).

CHURCH: A church stylized after Catholic/Christian aesthetics. Includes a confessional, pews, altar, and worship room.

MANSION: A luxurious mansion designed to evoke high-class old money. Includes a servants' quarters for clandestine cross-class affairs.

BEACH: An enclosed set with powdery sand and an artificial ocean. Includes grottos, a lifeguard station, and a large rubber shark.

OFFICE: A plain work office lacking any particular unique qualities. Includes cubicles, copy machine, manager's office, and conference rooms. Smells like soul-sucking capitalism.


PREMIERE
YOUR BIG DEBUT

WALK THE RED CARPET ► We’re rolling out the red carpet! Lord of the Wings and Star Warblers open the same night. All actors that participated in any film, be it one of the blockbusters or a smaller project, are invited to dress to the nines and blow kisses to their adoring fans while strutting their stuff. Actors will have the chance to take fabulous glam photoshoots and share their thoughts about filming with reporters. Be careful, anything that happens on the red carpet can become tomorrow’s hot new gossip. Some of those pesky hummingbird journalists are so eager for a scandal that they’ll make something happen, sneakily!

The Golden Peacock has upgraded its formerly dinky little theater into a grand multiplex for the occasion, so actors and audience can enjoy these films in delicious IMAX. The multiplex is lush in red velvet and fabulous “bed” seats — each seat is designed to couple two guests together. You won’t be lonely during the screening since cuddling up with someone else is mandatory to enjoy the movie(s).

All premiere attendees will be gifted expensive swag bags upon entrance to the theater. Inside each bag guests will find a bottle of champagne, chocolate truffles, gourmet popcorn, trendy sodas, gummy candies … and one random sex toy. No harm in spicing up a special premiere, right?

The note included with the sex toy explains: 【 Get your seat partner off with this toy before the film ends for a special prize! 】 What’s the prize? Those that get their seat-partner off during the film will be given a Golden Globe. This exclusive gold statue comes in two styles: penis with balls or vagina with breasts. Congratulations!


OOC NOTES

INVITES | RESERVES | APPLICATIONS
BLANKET CW: cameras; compulsion; costumes; dubcon; nudes; pornography; roleplaying; recording; sex tropes; stalking; video

▶ 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 May event. Since April's event was a bit serious, we're leaning in the opposite direction and going full camp for this meme.

▶ 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 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.
NAVIGATIONLOGNETWORKOOCMEME
paperpusher: (I've been big and small)

the curse of the bottoms separatist commune!!!

[personal profile] paperpusher 2025-05-16 11:02 pm (UTC)(link)
[He knows that voice.

It takes a lot for Natori to get genuinely distracted on set-- after all, he has a lot of experience ignoring the distracting things that are sitting right in front of his nose-- but this would do it. He turns completely away from his scene partner to stare off to the sidelines, his mask slipping just for a heartbeat as it always does in these moments.

Matoba was here? Here, when they're filming a dirty movie (some portion of Natori's brain is exceedingly grateful that he's been dragging this out and that Matoba spoke up before they got to the main event, because he really can't compartmentalize his two jobs when Matoba is around) in some sort of strange ayakashi realm? He suppose he shouldn't be surprised-- there were enough people here that this incident had to be on the exorcist community's radar-- it's just that... it's very hard to square the idea of Matoba Seiji, of all people, with their gratuitous sexual surroundings.

That's probably why he looks so dangerous, honestly. Natori pities whatever ayakashi had been foolish enough to try to engage with him before now.

Natori has long since dropped his poor partner's hands and tuned out the director; he tosses out a matter-of-fact]
Taking five-- [and just walks off the set towards Matoba. This production is so low-rent that Natori doesn't even have a lav mic to worry about, so all he has to do to keep this conversation somewhat contained is pitch his voice low.]

Very funny, [he says, gracefully ignoring that jab (because he's the older, more mature one (haha)). He never usually gets embarrassed at the sort of nonsense he spouts when filming, but then again, he's not usually caught filming a ridiculous porno movie while he should be doing his exorcist work like Matoba must have been.] What is-- you're alone?

[At least Nanase wasn't here also watching this-- he can spare a second to be grateful that Matoba will still insist on going off on his own.]
worldbent: (pic#15523710)

[personal profile] worldbent 2025-05-16 11:30 pm (UTC)(link)
[Matoba doesn't move from the spot as Natori approaches. His usual, faux-casual stance of arms-folded in his sleeves endures unmoved, a gesture any outsider would take as relaxed. Natori surely knows better. An exorcist's tools must always be at the ready.]

[But oh, it's so easy to knock him off his guard just by existing, isn't it? And so the moment that the other man is in range, voice pitched low for privacy and thus a little too close, Matoba's hand darts out lightning-quick, a catpunch that twists fingers into hair and pulls him even closer--]

[(--He's used to this, too--)]

[--And bites his lower lip on the way in, a swirl of tongue into Natori's mouth to take a taste of his own. Like hell he's letting anyone else get first dibs.]

[Considering the taste for a fraction of a second, Matoba whispers on the edge of his lips:]
If I was an ayakashi, you would already be finished. Tsk.

[He releases the other man again with a small shove disentangling his hand from blond, staring after him half-lidded with the typical sort of disappointment that his encounters with Natori now brought.] So Natori has been captured? How interesting.
paperpusher: (was destroyed by global warming)

[personal profile] paperpusher 2025-05-16 11:58 pm (UTC)(link)
[That's.

'Unexpected' isn't really the right word, because they have done this before-- this exact thing with Seiji ambushing him and then negging him, though it's been a while (for the former, anyway). Still, Natori isn't expecting it, because he's still thinking of this as an exorcist job first and foremost, and Matoba has never, ever been the sort who would put their dalliances before the work. That was always one of the things that came between them. 

Natori's mouth opens in surprise, so Matoba doesn't meet any resistance, but neither is he actively participating-- truthfully, it's probably a more nostalgic kiss than any they've had since Natori started getting coached in exactly how to sell a kiss for an audience. And all Matoba had to do was spend a year in a horny ayakashi hotel to get the authentic reactions back.

It's when Matoba scolds him for his inattentiveness that Natori also shoves back to get some distance between the two of them, heedless of the hand still in his hair.]
What are you doing?

[--well, no, he knows that Matoba will say to that.] Besides complaining that I didn't attack you on sight. 

[The thing is: he's not just mildly annoyed at Matoba deciding to give him a lecture on #trust no bitch ayakashi. Matoba's pressed on a bruise that he would have no reason to suspect was there: Natori has been taken in by an ayakashi like this in the past two days. He let his guard down for a heartbeat, and he spent a day playing pretend in his uncle's house as a result. He doesn't need Matoba to tell him how stupid he's been; he already knows.] Shouldn't we be figuring out what the cause of all this is?
worldbent: (pic#15912340)

[personal profile] worldbent 2025-05-17 12:17 am (UTC)(link)
[So easily poked through. Surely, the jokes have all been made about the cowardly paper-users. Matoba hardly needs to do much to look satisfied with his results when Natori stumbles about like this, already knowing that he's lost this trade.]

[Unfortunately, he has to go and dig himself a little deeper. The first question doesn't need an answer; he already surely knows what Matoba is after, or some approximation of why he would make such an unexpected move, if he thought about it a little. This is merely the sputtering of a delicate heart. But it's the second one that has Matoba's brow gently lofting, a motion that speaks volumes.]


Oh, dear.

[It's murmured, but clear enough- just another stinging reprimand. But it wouldn't be Matoba to just explain. He has to twist the ropes a little tighter.] Natori, have you read the rules of this game yet?
paperpusher: (this is the sound)

[personal profile] paperpusher 2025-05-17 12:35 am (UTC)(link)
[Predictably, Natori bristles at that quiet little oh dear. They're in something close enough to private (the beleagured ayakashi director doesn't count; if he wants a chance to have his very hot star return to the shoot, he's just going to have to deal with whatever this is) that Natori doesn't need to put on the polite face and swallow all of Matoba's little barbs, like he would if the entire contingent of the Matoba clan were in the room with them. That doesn't mean he doesn't have to swallow them anyway; he just has the wiggle room to bite back a little.]

The-- [He gestures vaguely with his left hand, the one sporting the watch; he'd tried to take it off before to no avail. (Honestly, he was surprised the director didn't insist he take it off, but-- look, there were a lot of half-assed things about this shoot.)] --with the trump cards? About collecting the...

--You're not actually playing it?
Edited 2025-05-17 00:35 (UTC)
worldbent: (pic#15912343)

[personal profile] worldbent 2025-05-17 12:48 am (UTC)(link)
[Matoba's head inclines just enough when Natori exasperatedly raises his Watch to confirm-- yes, that is exactly what he means. But he isn't surprised when the other man's disbelief comes. After all, it is so like him to have not considered the end-game, the implications of those absurd rules.]

[Still, his derision is absorbed easily by Matoba's immovable gaze. He holds Natori's, conveying the natural obviousness of the answer.]


You will play, [He says, unwavering,] As all who are brought here. That is this realm's "law".

[Men did not choose whether or not to engage with the games of ayakashi. Like Ten Loony Nights, like shadow tag, like any other- humans might outsmart them, they may win by their rules, but no matter what, men were beholden to the whims of those unknowable beings called ayakashi.]

[The "Peacock", the "house", and all the trumps, too.]
paperpusher: (both sides are slippery and enticing)

[personal profile] paperpusher 2025-05-17 01:13 am (UTC)(link)
[Natori's disbelieving look shifts to something more pensive, calculating, as Matoba drops that pronouncement. It's not as though Natori is a stranger to the idea of the little games that ayakashi become obsessed with-- this sort of thing is par for the course, if a little more... salacious than the sort that usually lands in his lap.

(Even Mitsuru, the one the Matoba clan had insisted would be perfect for Natori to track down and eliminate, was merely said to 'lure in young men' with the end goal left unstated.)

But Natori can see the contours of it. Like the Omibashira scam on a grand scale: lure in a bunch of weaker creatures, then feed off them. Why not a more parasitic relationship, something that could be devoured more slowly than a single feast? Sex was perfect for generating the sort of emotions that a particularly pernicious ayakashi could live off of for a long time. It's not the fact of the game that surprises him; it's that Matoba has resigned himself to playing it.

A creature powerful enough that the Matoba would bend along to their whims... it would be a god, or something strong enough as to be indistinguishable. Natori knows it could happen. What he doesn't know is why Matoba has already made the determination that they must play. Either this place is giving off some sign that Matoba can pick up that Natori can't, or he's had more time to investigate it, or both.

Instead of replying to either the explicit or implied statement that Matoba makes, Natori tilts his head to the side, considering.]


...How long have you been here, Matoba-san?
worldbent: (To keep it all inside)

[personal profile] worldbent 2025-05-17 01:36 am (UTC)(link)
[Sometimes, all Shuichi needed was that nudge to focus him. Spite-motivated, Seiji had very early discovered that the best way to bring out his talents was by igniting that competitive spirit. A charmpoint, certainly. But at this point in their adulthoods, it was a chore. When, oh when was he ever going to improve past the point of these needless distractions...?]

[The acting. It was definitely the acting's fault. Of course he ran off trying to investigate with these wasteful parlor tricks of his, instead of his true skills.]

[At least it sinks in quickly. As to all it implies, Matoba doesn't offer anything. It's obvious enough, he thinks. They are all trapped here. He has information to offer- details that will paint a clearer picture of their opponent- but none of that is important until the big picture is understood. The question Natori finally settles on brings a small smile to Matoba's face, at last something a little more approving than impatience.]


Time is said to pass differently in ayakashi realms. I suppose that means that no one has noticed anything amiss, hm? I thought that perhaps I would be like Urashima-san, and return home after a century.

[But, going by the timekeeping in the resort... After a moment's consideration,] A little longer than a year, I suppose. One and a half?
paperpusher: (the pretty lies)

[personal profile] paperpusher 2025-05-17 02:04 am (UTC)(link)
[As annoying as it is to have Matoba condescend to him about something as basic as the weird flow of time in ayakashi realms, as if he's still a green teenager showing up to an exorcism with his school bag stuffed full of supplies from the storehouse, it's at least confirmation of what he had suspected. So Matoba has been playing this "game" for quite a while...

He keeps his face at dismissive exorcist neutral, but he can't stop his eyes from widening in surprise once Matoba explains just how long 'a while' it's been. There's no point in asking if he's sure, or if he's serious; Natori knows that he is, and besides-- what exactly is there to say about it? Matoba has been... having sex with a bunch of normal human beings trapped in an ayakashi realm for over a year? So it would seem. It would explain the way he approached Natori, at least.]


...I can confirm that the head of the Matoba clan has not been missing for a year and a half. [Even if the clan were covering it up (they would, obviously.), they would never be able to hide it for that long. Putting aside the fact that he had seen Matoba in person fairly recently, with the whole mess with Ban and Natsume in the pottery village.] Though I have no doubt that Nanase-san and the others could cover for you for quite a while if they needed to.
worldbent: (pic#15845042)

[personal profile] worldbent 2025-05-17 03:19 am (UTC)(link)
[Truthfully, it is a relief. While he does have faith that Nanase would hold down the fort for a while, complications would arise soon enough, and word would travel. And inevitably, when that person found out, moves would be made...]

[Really. For the best that neither of them explain too much right off the bat. Things like this should be absorbed at a healthy pace.]


Haha, yes, well I am not worried about it...

[A bald faced lie. They both know that. But he also predicts that Natori is not so cruel as to take aim at that target. Anyway, speaking of absorbing the atmosphere...]

Of course, I would like to return as quickly as possible, so I am doing all that I can in the meantime. [Fucking. Sucking. Wheeling and dealing.] Given current trends, I suppose that you, with your [slut! harlot!!] talents, may do so as well.

How convenient for you, hm?
paperpusher: (keep on moving)

[personal profile] paperpusher 2025-05-17 03:48 am (UTC)(link)
[They both know it's a lie, and yet as Matoba predicted, Natori doesn't call him on it. Partly it's because they're both professional exorcists in an environment designed to be emotionally compromising, and there's no point weakening either of their armor any more than they have to. Partly it's because Natori knows exactly how sore a subject it is. And partly, honestly, because the conundrum of Matoba needing to debase himself for some ayakashi game is a way more interesting line of conversation than getting an easy shot in.

Natori raises an eyebrow at that gentle euphemism for Matoba's own activities. (Honestly, he's still picturing more of Matoba's traditional wheeling and dealing over the other options; he won't look at it too deeply, but he finds it hard to picture Matoba doing that sort of thing with... just anybody.)]


Why, Matoba-san, are you jealous? [Of the possibility of Natori getting to return quickly, thanks to the work that Seiji has always hated, he means; it doesn't occur to Natori that there could be another strain of jealousy involved. Not even with the almost possessive kiss Matoba gave him on meeting him.] I wouldn't worry. I don't even have a "suit" or "rank" at all, so I didn't realize I was actually meant to play.
Edited 2025-05-17 03:49 (UTC)
worldbent: (III'M GONNA SWIIING FROM THE CHANDELI~HE)

[personal profile] worldbent 2025-05-18 08:58 pm (UTC)(link)
[In order to debase oneself, one must have set certain standards in the first place. Not that Seiji has no standards (despite what many have implied), but the thing about being willing to do just about anything to get what you want is that floor is very, very low.]

[Surely, Natori already knows that deep down, but needs it hammered home. Like many things about the Matoba, it simply came with the territory. Literally and figuratively.]

[It's because he couldn't accept that baseline in the first place, that they are like this now.]


Haha. [He reacts like it's a joke, like everything Natori says always seems to be, to him. But he isn't thinking of it in the same way as Shuichi. He's been here long enough to not even consider the possibility of Natori being allowed to leave so easily.] Yes, you're too new to have been claimed just yet. But that is a curse that you will come to know very soon.

I wonder which one will claim you? I'd like to say I have my guesses, but I don't know if you could survive that one for long. [Too soft-hearted, he dangles it like a threat, but he is already thinking ahead of how to maneuver Shuichi so as to counteract it. This is really a problem.]
paperpusher: (this、my surrender、)

[personal profile] paperpusher 2025-05-18 09:33 pm (UTC)(link)
'Claimed...' ['Curse,' too. The way Matoba is talking about it doesn't sound like it's something merely assigned, like handing out numbers along with the room keys. That makes it sound like something sentient is choosing them. Multiple sentient somethings.

That's not particularly surprising, he supposes. Wherever and whatever this hotel is, the ones in control of it must be extremely powerful. To have trapped so many people for so long, and grown the space to something this size... whatever this is, it's deeply entrenched. And thus the "game" rules: a self-sustaining power source, feeding... what, exactly?

Anyway, that's the sort of vague statement Matoba would say without elaboration: something knowing and a little backhanded about the circumstances they're trapped in. He also knows Matoba isn't likely to say more even if asked, but he might as well try.]
No hints? I won't get mad. [now, is the unstated part of that sentence; they're mature adults now, so Matoba can feel free to stop throwing his behavior as a teen in his face any time.] ...Or hold it against you if you're wrong.

[Natori can also stop acting like a teen at any time in exchange.]
worldbent: (pic#17857640)

[personal profile] worldbent 2025-05-18 10:50 pm (UTC)(link)
[It always takes some grounding to ensure that Natori focuses in on the real problems. Too easily riled up, too easily distracted. It was one of the many nuisances of his always-wavering nature.]

[To accuse him of being the one holding grudges, Matoba thinks, is pretty laughable.]


Don't let your guard down, [Is how he answers simply. That is what it comes down to: if Shuichi cannot steel himself, he will not go unscathed. The many weaknesses that he never could quite shave off will be picked at, peeled away, and corrupted.]

[He isn't smiling when he says it. He looks at Natori for a long moment in silence after that, and then finally passes it back over the "production" that Natori had been engaged with. Moment passed, the smugness cracks over him again.]


Couldn't land a better role than this? Now that's really a shame.
paperpusher: (me to make you my art)

[personal profile] paperpusher 2025-05-18 11:20 pm (UTC)(link)
[It's serious advice, and Natori recognizes it as such. He doesn't like the advice, but at least it's something. They always had to guard their hearts around ayakashi, but to stress it now is something important to keep in mind: the inherent ridiculousness of this place isn't all there is to it. He knows better than anyone the usefulness of a flighty, facetious mask.

They hold the moment of understanding for a beat, and Natori gives the smallest of nods in acknowledgment-- and thanks, truthfully, because again. Matoba did answer.

Of course, then Matoba had to bring up the idiotic film production. Natori looks over at the poor director with a wry look; the guy obviously can't do anything about one of his stars taking an extended break in the middle of the shoot to catch up with a colleague from home. What was he going to do, fire Natori? It's clear he's desperate to hold onto the commodity he managed to snag, and that means putting up with Natori's whims.]


Mm, I don't know. I'm bringing a lot of pathos to the character. 'There are no small parts,' as my senpais always say. [He turns back to Matoba with an eyebrow raised.] How long were you standing around watching, anyway?
worldbent: (Can't feel anything)

[personal profile] worldbent 2025-05-18 11:43 pm (UTC)(link)
Oh? A lesson you've gained from your true work, no doubt.

[Matoba's shining, bitchy smile is back in rare form.] Long enough to know that you are wasting an inordinate amount of time on something that will gain you absolutely nothing of worth.

Or do you plan to follow through with production?

[Matoba's eye lids silkily, knowing. Their relationship may have been torrid, it may be on ice, but Seiji knows his hangups (and his tastes) better than anyone. Was he really going to bare it all so quickly for a few pennies from the ayakashi?]
paperpusher: (keep on moving.)

[personal profile] paperpusher 2025-05-19 12:18 am (UTC)(link)
[Ouch. Again, prodding against a bruise that's particularly tender in the wake of discovering his uncle's planned betrayal, of having to explain to Natsume exactly where the Natori clan falls in the exorcist hierarchy. Matoba might have just meant it as an every day sort of jab, but it lands a little harder today. 'No small parts' indeed.

That informs his response more than anything else, shapes the direction that their usual push and pull goes: Natori leans into the self-deprecation.]


Well. It's just my fake work, after all. Who cares how I waste it?

[Of course he wasn't. (Director-san is frantically trying to overhear what Matoba is saying, suddenly nervous with the way the energy between them has shifted.) Natori can't even keep his eyes open when he kisses unless a scene explicitly calls for it; he's not going to create a record of him going so much further and leave it behind in an ayakashi's hands. The honest truth of how he ended up in this production is: he was snooping around the set when the crew showed up and the director desperately latched onto having Natori in his production. Natori played along to get a closer look at the equipment, because it struck him as deeply unusual for a bunch of ayakashi to have access to such expensive cameras and gear, and he wanted to see how they'd interact. And, of course, it took very little effort on his part, so long as he kept being a tease.]
worldbent: (Moving in an another direction)

[personal profile] worldbent 2025-05-20 12:46 am (UTC)(link)
[There he goes again. So easily shaken, so easily checked. That makes his words no less true. Wandering about and wasting time on useless things as always, Shuichi had been in this state for all the time Seiji has known him. And, stubbornly, no matter how he prods and teases, no matter how he tries to coax and entice him into usefulness, or even to be frank of his wastefulness, the other man remained as stubbornly stuck in place as ever.]

[Endlessly frustrating. It was what had, ultimately, diverted their paths in the end.]

[And it shall be no different here, Matoba expects. A slight sigh escapes through his nose with a quiet air of finality. The director has already become suspicious, so Matoba turns slightly, indicating that he won't keep this pointless production any longer.]


That is so.

[He gazes back at Natori with one of his slight smiles, always knowing something he doesn't voice. Always seeing something. Then his head turns, leaving the other man with only his hidden right.]

Let me know when you are checked in, Natori.
paperpusher: (listen)

[personal profile] paperpusher 2025-05-20 12:50 am (UTC)(link)
our paths diverted because you just fuckin' say shit you little brat.
paperpusher: (and I keep on smiling)

[personal profile] paperpusher 2025-05-20 02:43 am (UTC)(link)
[What really pisses him off, Natori decides as he's left smolderingly, self-loathingly mad, is that for all Matoba complains nonstop about Natori's acting work, he's the one who's been sleeping with ayakashi for a year and a half. Surely that's more intimate than Natori's on-screen romances with beautiful human women, and yet Matoba takes every possible chance he gets to needle at Natori for them, even when he's apparently been doing... whatever.

But then again, Natori doesn't know why he expected any differently.

He tilts his head back towards the poor director, knowing that his smile isn't right and not being able to do anything about it, per usual.]
I'll be getting back to it, then.

[he says, immediately lying. because once Matoba walks himself out of the set, Natori runs a hand through his hair and then declares]

This isn't working out. Sorry.

[Director-san's dreams, squashed in five words.]