rainswords | • golden peacock inbox

[Usually, Aak could find something fun about the games the house put on. This is the first one he's really struggled against, with its emphasis on obedience and his low rank. The way he normally leads his life is just causing his suit to darken and darken. The Spade has tendrils going through his soul, urging him to try and vent the frustration on some passerby. Someone, anyone, needed to relieve some of this pressure from him.]

[He considers shredding some clothing. The clothing prepared for new wildcards, and being sold at a mark-up for the veterans, seemed like it would tear at the slightest pressure. If he did that, though, he might face a consequence from the staff. They may just send him back to playing waiter and servant for the freshmeat. Still, his fingers are twitching as he thinks about using one of his ill-gotten scalpels to cut up the flowing, toga-like clothing.]

[then he spots another pair of clothes]

[There's a Yanese flair to them, although with some additional ruffles and bit and bobs he doesn't care for. With the clothes as a focal point he's able to actually stop and see where his fitful wandering has taken him. There's a staff member talking to some other guest, a guy about his height, and he puts it together. Someone else was being tugged along by this game and had been forced to change...]

[... and it all snaps into place the little prank he can pull. The young man's original clothes are scooped up and Aak sets about scattering them to the corners of the store, where they can't possibly be found. The finale, the cherry on top, would be discarding the undergarments in the nearby ornamental fountain. It's satisfying, even if it's just a childish prank, and it's even more satisfying to imagine the other guest stuck in that barely there fabric and nothing to change into.]

[And imagining isn't enough, so Aak is hanging around to try and catch a glimpse for himself. The criminal lingers at the scene of the crime!]

✨✨ Hello there! It's me, Hiyori Tomoe, also known as "Eve"! ✨✨😊✨✨ I'm the one you spoke with on that Network post who got crudely punished alongside Senku-kun. But I'd rather not talk about that, since my curse is over and done with.

I was just reaching out to see if you wanted to meet in the library. There's a book I'd simply love to show you. If you're busy planning for the holidays, I completely understand. Just let me know when you're available, and then we can read over cocoa~☕🤎

Greetings Hiyori Tomoe,

Your elation is evident from your message alone. This is wonderful news, and it means our common friend should also be free of his affliction. Admittedly, there were moments when it became difficult to interpret his words. They completely devolved. Anyway, despite leaving that in the past, I hope it remains a lesson learned for the two of you.

As for time, there is plenty of it. My schedule is free. I have made no plans for the upcoming holiday. It isn't celebrated here, but if I wished to prepare a little something, there are ample opportunities. Now, if you want to meet at the library, we can do so today. I don't plan to go anywhere else, and I am intrigued. If this book so fascinates you, then it must contain a compelling tale. Please make your way to Swan Lake. I'll await your arrival.

Right? That's **so** true! He was barely intelligible! I felt so sorry for him. Or at least I would have, if I wasn't busy dealing with my own curse. And if he didn't use his curse against me on purpose to say crude things I didn't like!

But what's done is done, and now we have our cozy library date! 😊✨ We can continue to gossip about Senku-kun there if you want, but I also have other topics to bring up. And that book I wanted to show you!

So I'll meet you there with that book, and a cup of hot cocoa! You might recognize me by my comfy holiday sweater, or my dazzling good looks. Either way, I'll see you soon.

[And then he's off. He walks into the library ten minutes later, carrying a tote bag and a cup of hot chocolate as promised (though no marshmallows, since those are still reserved for "Ranks 8 and above," and he's still a so-called 7 for the duration of the mix-up).

Although Hiyori told Xingqiu how to find him, he did also look at his profile. He keeps an eye out for someone with short blue hair, a cute face, and asymmetrical bangs. When he spots that person, he heads on over.]

Hello there~♪ I'm the one known as Eve. You must be "Hongli," correct?

That's a sentiment I can agree on. While I, too, wished to sympathize with him, it's obvious he wasn't too bothered over the ordeal you two went through, so it begs to wonder if it was truly a punishment for him. More than likely, he probably collected some data. Hm. Maybe I should ask him one day.

Right. That's embarrassing. I guess I got too caught up talking about him to realize this could be labeled as gossip. And I am distrating you if I keep sending you messages as you make your way here to Swan Lake. Well, I'll see you soon. There is something I could show you too. Then I'll be waiting for a dazzling prince in a holiday sweater.

[ That should be the last message. Honestly, he needs to stop replying, but it may come off as rude.

Now, all he has to do is wait for Hiyori Tomoe to appear, and the wait isn't long. And just as described, he does truly have dazzling good looks. For once, he is prompt to set his book aside and stands up to greet this friend of Senku's. ]

Xingqiu is fine. Welcome. Well, the library isn't a place I can call my own, but I am here often enough.

Nothing wrong with a bit of gossip! I don't mind when people discuss me, for example. It means I occupy their thoughts, and perhaps their hearts! 💕

But yep, see you!

[It's fine. He can walk and type at the same time (somehow). But he does prefer talking in-person, where he can see people's face and hear their voice, and where they can see his face and hear his voice. There are all sorts of things you can only notice in-person!

Like how short Xingqiu is, for example. Around the same size as Nazuna-kun! Cute!]

Xingqiu it is then~♪

[He pulls out a chair for himself.]

Right, we all have our haunts. If there was nowhere we felt comfortable, this place would be simply unbearable.

[He sets his cocoa down, hangs his tote bag over the back of the chair, and sits down, legs crossed underneath the table.]

I don't come here too often. I find it easier to gather info just by talking to people. But I did meet here with Senku-kun here a long time ago. We discussed whether this place was a "virtual reality" simulation. And I also showed him this book!

[He turns in his seat and reaches into his totebag to withdraw something. By now, his case file has grown so much from its original incarnation that he had to organization his notes in a binder. But the cover still remains: a doodle of two people snuggled up together with hearts surrounding them, and the words "ROMANCE NOVEL (In Progress)" written above.]

It was more of a short story back then, though. Now it's a true novel...♪

[Because he's been stuck here so long. Ugh.]

Despite the endless distractions?

[ He agrees, of course. Not everyone is keen on what the resort caters toward. If not for everything else, maybe it would be impossible to exist here. Although, that is likely the aim. Keep them content and comfortable without complaint. Swan Lake does hold his attention, even if he must wade through unsavory novels searching for something he can enjoy. ]

Swan Lake is a good place to meet new people. However, it is best to do so during the daytime—whatever that means here. But that does remind that I too first met Senku here. I invited him to meet in person, which is much the same as we're doing now.

You know, I've only become aware of the concept of virtual reality while here. Have the changes to the resort solidified that theory for you?

[ Presented with the binder, he has to take a moment to take in that cover. How can he not? He politely keeps his expression neutral, despite his curiosity. Right, these must be the notes—still an interesting choice of presentation. ]

And you're willing to share all this with me? You must have been here quite some time to have this many notes. Or you're quickly going through those interviews.

The distractions are what we need distracting from! ♪

[He does not like the games around here. Or the drugged food. Or so many other things. His complaints are numerous!]

What happens at night? The ghosts come out?

[As for the virtual reality thing, he frowns to himself in thought.]

It would explain a lot, but I just don't know. Most people here have powers, and they all believe in "magic" and not "technology." You wouldn't be one of those people yourself, would you?

[Like the ones he talked about on this page of his romance novel.

Hiyori's smile doesn't go anywhere, but it does become tighter when Xingqiu comments on how long he's been trapped here. Somewhat dully, he chirps back:]

You could say that. It was February when I first got here, so I'll hit the one-year mark before too long. Which means I have all sorts of knowledge saved up...♪

[He's under no illusion that he'll get home anytime soon. After what happened to Rinne, he's under no illusion that he'll get out, period. They may all be doomed: doomed to turn into statues, doomed never to leave this place. But he has to have hope, and by comparing notes with other people, there's always the chance he'll find some new breakthrough. So he lowers his voice and says:]

Go ahead and look all you want. The cover's just a ruse, so you don't need to focus on that too much. It's clever, though, isn't it? Plus it looks cute~♪

[But as for what's really inside the binder...

It's part-case file, part-diary. In the first few pages, he describes waking up at the resort and getting the lay of the land: learning about the House, the card suits, the rank system, and the fact there's no escape. He writes about the rules of Game 52 (with frequent disclaimers that of course he and the other ES idols aren't participating in anything scandalous like that), and then describes his trip to the Roost to meet with with J. He describes what happened to everyone during the Springtime game (or what he heard happened after the fact; he and Jun hid in his room during that event), what the Iron Net is like, and all about the time Rinne disappeared and woke up one month later with no clue he'd been gone. He also talks about the people he's met, the worlds they come from, and all the strange powers that they have, before reaching his ultimate conclusion: the resort is run by gods!

Or at least that was his conclusion almost a year ago.

A lot has happened ~~since I bothered to update that page,~~ so the notes continue on and on past there. He describes the Hearts game and the Spades game. He talks about the time he hosted the Magic Showcase, and all the powerful displays of sorcery he saw. He writes about Jin Mingming, the time he did a quest for her, what he learned, and about the special birthday gift she gave him. His notes will reveal that the Clinic revives people who've died, that disappeared guests turn into statues, that J and Jin Mingming used to be players in Game 52, and that J keeps severed body parts inside his office (and also, apparently, that he had a twin brother).

And then, most recently, Hiyori writes about Rinne's disappearance: about finding his statue in the casino and his possessions inside the storage room; about what J and Jin Mingming said when he asked why Rinne disappeared; about how he simply vanished with no warning. He doesn't talk about how he cried, or how worried he still is, but that probably comes through in his writing nevertheless.

Xingqiu is welcome to read for as long or as little as he wants. Hiyori will sip cocoa while he does, and be there to answer questions.]

This is Xingqiu, right? I’m worried about you with all these cherubs flying around. Guys like that like to bully pretty girls.

This message is surprising. Although, I suppose, I won't lie. While I did expect to hear from you sooner or later, I never thought you would show any concern for my safety. Maybe there is nothing to worry about. One of those things that you said about me isn't true.

Ah, come on. You’re very pretty. There’s no need to be humble.

Why wouldn’t I be worried? We’re friends, and those arrows don’t tickle. They’ve been leaving you alone then?

That's not... In any case, I can take care of myself. There is no need to worry. Although, admittedly, I have yet to come across anything strange. Maybe I should see what's going on. But I am occupied at the moment. Is it all that dangerous?

Hm. I guess even if I said we aren't friends, you won't listen, although I won't be unkind. I suppose, if it is for Dr. Baizhu's sake, then I don't see any reason not to attempt to get along with you.

I wouldn’t say it’s dangerous. It’s definitely a game, though it’s a bit chaotic. Some people are having strange reactions to getting hit, too.

We aren’t friends? But we get along so well…

And, wait- you know Baizhu? He’s mentioned me? What did he say? Is it about how much he likes me, because I’d love to know…

While I don't favor many of the oddities that stem from this resort, I do admit that people having strange reactions is preferable to them being injured. So what is the game? Don't get hit by an arrow? Well, that's not much of a game, now is it? It's not going to stop me from finishing this book.

We get along? I distinctly recall trying to avoid you. Although I think you're much more tame when we're not in the same room.

And, of course, I know Dr. Baizhu. We hail from the same land, and I suppose he mentioned you. Once. Although it was out of necessity. I think he likes to keep his secrets. Also, there are some things it is best that I know nothing of.

They’re calling it tag, though it’s quite different from the game I remember from my childhood. We used to chase each other around and try to stab one another with knives; the arrows are strange. But there are prizes to be had. You don’t seem to like games, huh?

You’re trying to avoid me??? Since when? We had a great time together whenever we met.

You’re right about him liking to keep his secrets. There’s so much more I’d like to know about him, but I also don’t want to push too hard and pry where he might not want me to. What can you tell me about him? I’ll really owe you one.

First off, tag does not involve arrows or knives. I am not sure where you got that idea. That's just plain dangerous. Not that our safety seems to concern whoever is running this establishment. The way tag works is that one person is chosen to chase all the other players. If they catch someone by tagging them, then that person is now the one that has to catch the others.

It's not that I dislike games, but all the games here are skewed.

Don't think I have forgotten what you did. Or all those inappropriate things you said.

You would make Dr. Baizhu very sad if he knew.

If you want to know more about him, you should be direct because this is still prying, although I suppose it is mostly harmless. Even so, if you really want to understand someone, you should find out what they really want.

In my clan, we used knives for most things. It would be unusual not to involve them. The game seems to follow similar rules here with some changes to what you said… I guess they figured the regular one wasn’t exciting enough.

What kind of games do you like?

Ah… come on, was I so bad to kiss?

It isn’t prying if you’re asking someone else behind their back. It’s called reconnaissance. I do want to know what he really wants… he’s like the moonlight over a still lake. Beautiful but distant, feeling within reach but never to truly hold within the cup of my hands no matter how I chase that teasing reflection upon the surface. But it’s such a pleasure to gaze upon him and bask in his ethereal glow, no matter how elusive he may be.

Or better, he’s gentle plum blossoms slipping away on a cool spring’s breeze, a coaxing flutter over my grasping fingertips before drifting away with an inscrutable but damningly charming smile.

It is unusual to involve them. In a game, that is. Doesn't it register that it would be dangerous? What if a grievous injury is caused? Then what? It's not a game. Just trust me on this. If there was another purpose... even so. I suppose I'll admit that I don't understand the logic.

Are you going to try to involve knives in the games I like?

Why are you asking me? Ask Dr. Baizhu. Just don't mention what you did. I don't think he would be happy with you.

Stop.

Stop.

Wait a minute. Since when do you compose poems?

Maybe start with that.

Maybe it's better considered as training? That's what we spent most of our time doing, so it would make sense that my brothers changed it up for fun. I wouldn't put it past them. We were all pretty competitive with one another.

No, I don't imagine you'd much like that. Unless you'd like me to.

Poetry is quite nice, isn't it? It's an excellent way to express how one is feeling, especially about another person. Like Baizhu — he's so like a tender, quivering flower, gentle in hand and soft to the touch. Fragile, yet resilient. Unknowable until his petals unfurl in the throes of pleasure. That's when he blooms like radiant dawn, flush from head to die with the kiss of sunlight breaking over a mountainous ridge.

That explains a lot. Remember, you once assumed that was the nature of my relationship with my brother. We have different roles; there is no room for us to compete. Still, what you're saying is a little concerning, but it explains much about you.

Let's pretend that I wholeheartedly agree with this idea. Where would you get knives from?

Please stop sharing intimate details about the activities you engage in when together. Believe me when I repeat this: I don't think your tender, quivering flower would be pleased to know you are sharing all this with me—especially me—maybe anyone. However, I can't say I disagree with you regarding poetry. That's why I said you should start there, but when I said that, I meant you should be taking these words to him. Honestly, how else would he know your feelings?

You know. Dr. Baizhu is an astute man. He probably already knows about your sentiments. However, that doesn't take away from your effort and form of expression. Hearing a poem weaved just for you from the one you love is always heartwarming. And he isn't the type to let these things go over his head.

True enough, getting knives here hasn’t been easy, but I’ve found a few ways. There are a couple of establishments that don’t notice when a nice knife goes missing from their kitchens. If you want one, I can certainly get it for you.

Oh, come on, now. These aren’t intimate details of what I do with him. Only how cute he looks! He’s truly a sight to see when you’ve cracked his calm, mature exterior.

Woah, woah, woah. Love is a strong word, Little Xingqiu. You can’t throw that around carelessly. Are you even old enough to know what romantic love even is?

What an enticing offer. I do mean it. It would be best to have something to use as a weapon. Although a knife alone? There is no point in complaining, so if you are willing to accept my request and do not mind acquiring a knife for me. Of course, I am limited in how to repay you for your kindness.

There is enough said there.

Anyway, you cannot expect me to see Dr. Baizhu as you do. Though I do suppose he is a man with many charms. He is generous and kind in his treatment of his patients. I am actually grateful that I am not here without him. Please don't mistake that to mean I could not survive without his presence, but it does put me at ease.

Just how old do you think I am? You messaged me out of nowhere, expressing concern for my safety. Please do not treat me like a child.

Consider it done. I’ll see what I can find for you.

Of course not, he’s old enough to be your father. But it’s good that you can understand his charm. I’ve been considering beating myself up so I can get some real proper care from him. His flushed, angry face as his eyes are shining with worry is particularly enticing.

Oh? You’re probably at least thirteen, right?

Then you have my thanks. I'll be waiting. It might be useful against those cherubs you spoke of. By the way, I saw that there weren't cherubs alone causing trouble. Do you suppose they would go away if you were to get rid of their leader?

Don't exagerate. Baizhu cannot be old enough to be father. And don't. If you hurt yourself in hopes of treatment and lavish attention, instead he might dispatch you to the clinic. Just ask him to spend time with you, he enjoys your company well enough.

No. I turned eighteen here. It was actually refreshing from the typical celebrations I have to endure.

Maybe. Since it’s a game, I imagine not, but who knows? They don’t seem especially smart.

What? He is certainly old enough to be a father. Frankly, you’re old enough to be a mother, though your child would be a baby or toddler at most.

If I were to take action, it would be a gamble. Maybe it's not worth the effort. Besides, I probably have more important things to do. Those things don't hurt anyone, correct? They only cause people to act oddly, as usual. Well, I guess it can be ignored.

Yes, to be a father. However, he isn't old enough to be my father. That's what you were saying. Please, don't even mention something like that. Do you know what kind of scolding I would receive if I had children out of wedlock? Wait! You know. Never mind.

Hey, the arrows hurt! They won’t kill you but they’ll leave a nice bruise.

Hmm… well, he could have had you young. I don’t think it’s impossible. As for children out of wedlock, of course, don’t do that! Young ladies should be properly married before children.

• golden peacock inbox

backdated to tdm 05 late with birdbucks

un: eve / backdated to a week after the statue/punishment post

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

sorry for the tl;dr infodump

text, un: swords

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject