ZHAO LUSI Madame Figaro China, March 2024.
Xuebing Du
One Nice Bug Per Day
Sweet Seals For You, Always

tannertan36
"I'm Dorothy Gale from Kansas"

Kaledo Art
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Andulka
he wasn't even looking at me and he found me
trying on a metaphor
Jules of Nature

祝日 / Permanent Vacation
Show & Tell
YOU ARE THE REASON
Lint Roller? I Barely Know Her
occasionally subtle

❣ Chile in a Photography ❣

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todays bird
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@mpxyingyue
ZHAO LUSI Madame Figaro China, March 2024.
Tilted Wonders
Open Starter - At the Sweet Inebriation Tent
Yue could not turn away to opportunity for alcohol, especially one crafted from the god of wine. Just a few steps in, she already felt swept away in that need to enjoy and indulge. There was something about the vibe of the tent. Chaos was meant to happen, and she had no desire to ignore that craving. Yue started with drinks, taking down that sweet yet strong wine. She knew it would not take long for the buzz to come, and she was a strong drinker. Again, bless the god of wine.
Slipping through the crowd, the demigoddess made her way closer to the middle of what was a raging dance pit, stirred by the melodies of the satyr band. Yue was quite a fan of the madness, and moving beside another onlooker, the demigoddess wrapped her arm around theirs, pulling them in.
"Come, dance we with me, love."
When she agreed to being carried, he nodded. The ladder could wait; more than likely, it would still be there when he came back for it after she was gone; though, honestly, he didn't think very much far ahead. It didn't even occur to him to wonder how she would get home--but then, he was also fighting the urge to immediately heal her then and there. "Hnn-nn," he hummed in protest when she asked if he minded; he wouldn't have asked if he didn't intend to follow through with his offer.
"It's nothing." he said with a dismissive shake of his head when she said she would owe him. No one owed him anything, not really. He was just happy to have his freedom and he didn't need anything other than that. He moved to a crouch down a bit before her. "...lean forward?" he urged and, if she did, he'd tuck his arms under her thighs to lift her with him as he stood upright again, carrying her piggyback as he started the trek back in the direction of the barn. Despite how thin he was, he didn't seem taxed at all by her weight.
Turning his head a little to look at her in his peripheral vision, he finally introduced himself. "...I'm Lian...nice to meet you..." He paused...
"...why...were you in the forest?" he asked carefully, curious as to what she could have been doing to have earned the attention and ire of a monster that big.
Lian had already done more than enough for the demigoddess. The fact that he was willing to do more, Yue was impressed by his character. Would she had done the same? Yes. But not everyone would. Where Yue could have been a burden by her forced entry upon his day, he treated her well.
When he crouched down, she leaned forward just as he requested her to, wrapping her arms around his neck. She never shied away from touch, especially when it meant she would be carried. Snug at first, once he seemed situated, she loosened her grasp to ensure that she was not accidentally choking him. Nearly immediately, she could tell how sturdy the rather thin man was. Did he have super strength? She wondered silently. Would make sense for a farmer to have that kind of ability? Regardless, the ease in which he carried her, Yue was a bit too comfortable.
Looking over at him, she smiled. "Lian, the pleasure is all mine! It's not everyday that I get saved by a handsome man." She states with a slight tease, chuckling to herself. Resting her head on the part of her arm on his shoulder, she responded. "My name is Yingyue. Or Yue. Whatever you wish to call me."
Her smile became sheepish at his question. Her curiosity had literally almost gotten her killed. "People kept telling me the woods had monsters. Means either two things. One, there are actually monsters in the woods... Which I clearly found out. Or, two, there was something cool enough to scare people out of the woods. Still possibly true, just not worth exploring anymore." Pausing for a second, she chuckled. "I guess, I have learned my lesson. And, you are the sole witness of my stupidness."
“Based on all the evident clues I have gathered about my mental condition so far, my memory loss is legit,” Alice replied to the pretty demigoddess with a rather playful smile, an attempt to make the whole situation more light-hearted for both her and her new-old friend.
She quickly noticed Yingyue’s equal effort to brighten the mood of their conversation, for which she truly appreciated the demigoddess. For this evening, Alice had planned to be moderately adventurous, and she had expected to learn one or two new things about the island. But the night took an interesting turn, and now Alice was learning that she had a pretty friend named Jiang Yingyue, whom she had helped in some ways to become her today’s confident self.
“It’s really nice to meet you again, Yingyue.” Alice reciprocated the kind gesture by tightening her hands around the other demigoddess. The smile on her face grew wider and brighter at Yingyue’s joke, and soon an urge to get to know the other naturally bloomed in her.
“Please tell me a bit more about how we met and became friends?” Alice asked, making a guess based on the sound of Yingyue’s name. “I guess we ran into each other somewhere in China?”
Yue watched her with a mix of shock and concern. To know someone she cared for that had gone through something of this extent, it broke her heart. However, Alice did not seemed to be too bothered by it, evident by the playfulness in her voice. She clearly had plenty of time to work through this. "It's been a few years since we saw each other. Time flies, but not enough for something this crazy to happen!" She ponders to the other.
To some extent, Yue did not mind the other forgetting their meeting. Alice met a rather tom-boyish demigoddess without the ability to style her hair in anything other than a ponytail or any sense of to what makeup was. While Yue naturally had a charismatic personality by her bloodline that got her through much, Alice had helped her step everything up a notch by allowing her to address her femineity that her monk brothers could not teach her.
"Of course!" Yue responded with a wide smile. "Yes. We met in my travels throughout China. Somewhere along my way to Wuzhen. I believe you were ordering something, and I ended up helping you. From there, we quickly began friends. Though, I'd say you've always been more of a mentor to me than just a friend." Yue states fondly, reaching over to grab the others hands. "Sadly, I could not stay too long. I was on my way to try and visit my father's temple, and I had a client who needed help."
Events of that kind always left a mark on a person. Even when growing up and becoming adults, childhood's trauma could come back at any moment. A sound, a smell () Anything could trigger such a memory. He had been free of them for a long time but now, after his meeting with Yanluo, Nephi's nights were full of nightmares of blood and beating hearts in his hands.
They might not see each other again but, at least, this meeting would remain engraved in his memory. It was fun and easy, no strings attached.
Nephi pondered her words for a few moments, thoughtfully tapping his chin. "I guess you could do that, it does sound fun." It wasn't something he needed though, able to read others' hearts at will, playing with their feelings and fears if needed. "What about you though ?" he asked, grinning. "Do you have any special wish ?" He considered her answer, he liked the logic of it. "Would you be interested to have siblings ?"
The son of Anubis leant against the booth as he waited. The evening was turning out better than he had expected it to be. Yingyue was an agreeable company and he somehow hoped that something could come out of this. Some friendship, even. "Oh, that looks delicious !" Nephi exclaimed, standing to help her with the glasses. "I hope you told them to put those on my tab ?"
She paused in thought of his question. What did she wish? Well, in many ways, Yue was quite satisfied with her life as it was. Even if she had gotten a bit materialistic to be able to keep up with her job, the demigoddess was raised in a rather simplistic lifestyle. As long as she got to be the chaotic person she was, she was happy. "My special wish? I just hope that when I meet my soulmate that they are a simple person. I don't have time to love a hero or villain. If you call that a wish, I guess." She reasoned.
At the mention of a sibling, she thought for a moment. "Of course. I assume siblings would have a similar range of powers. It would be nice to know more about what they have experienced. Some of the philosophy with my powers can be a bit... overwhelming." Yue did not mind being a child of Yue Lao, not the powers that came with it. But at times, they were hard to decipher, even more for her to believe were fair.
When Nephi spoke, she nodded her head with a light grin. "The food here, even the little snacks, are quite the treat, especially in the right company!" She said, taking a small piece off the tray before settling back in her seat. "Yes. Of course. You know, my attention is not free, no matter how intrigued I am to be here." She teases him, playfulness imbued in each word. While Yue was sitting with him because she wanted to, it was the culture of Sakura for him to pay for his maid.
For a long time, In-Soo had been persuaded that Hua was his soulmate. But the other had never been able to tell him exactly about their situation and now, the question wasn't even worthy anymore. Maybe there was no one for him and he didn't really mind after all. He was content with the way things were at the moment.
At least, the evening was a nice occasion to mingle with his fellow Chinese demigods, something he had less occasions to do now that he had moved out of the apartments. "Isn't it ? I saw some delicious looking mooncakes that I can't wait to try !" He smiled at the question. "Well... Xiwangmu is my aunt so I did come a few times already, with my father too. And you ? Is it your first time at the Golden Palace ?"
If In-Soo's cheeks had been red, his whole face was now tomato ! He could even feel the red hotness at the tip of his ears and he chuckled, a bit awkwardly though. "Oh. It's Juyeon, my best friend and roommate." Best friend with benefits, he should add. But this wasn't something Yingyue needed to know. "We've known each other long before coming to Mount Phoenix."
The demigoddess shook her head. She had never been to such a beautiful place before. It was definitely one befitting 'queen mother'. If she lived in a place like this, she would never want to leave. "I have never been here before. Never new a palace of this level. It's super gorgeous." She compliments freely. What a life of a goddess! "Yes. I had one of those. They were super yummy. I bet the chefs had centuries of experience making these treats."
Even though the other was rather nonchalant about Insoo and his relationship, Yue noticed the crimson tinge to his cheeks. There was definitely more behind the scenes that he is not being open about. But, they were strangers. Yue did not blame him from being private. However, that would not stop the love demigoddess from being nosey. It was one of her many specialties.
"Why are you blushing about a roommate then?" She asked, raising a brow. Her question might be pushing the boundaries, but she spoke playfully with a smile. There was no bad intentions between her questions. "Unless you have some feelings for him. A friend you might have secret feelings toward?" She had seen that in a drama she watched lately. Even if it was just tied to strings, love was one of her domains. And, this seemed like the brewing of it.
He didn't mean to stare at her, not really, but he was; Lian was still processing what had just happened. She had obviously been running from the monster, he could understand that much--but what was she doing out in the forest to begin with? Didn't she know it was dangerous? Or maybe she did know and she just met with some unfortunate circumstances?
It didn't really matter, though, did it? She was safe now. That was the important part.
"...uh...huh..." he replied quietly to her when she expressed her gratefulness toward him and the safe haven of the farm...though he pressed his lips together in worried thought when she went on to ponder her fate. Dinner or concussion? Or a concussion that could have ultimately led to her being incapacitated and thus becoming dinner anyway. At least there was a small chance she would be unconscious while devoured. Nevertheless, he didn't plan on telling anyone what had just happened, he was more concerned with the fact that she was covered in cuts and she had a limp.
He did smile a little bit when she seemed appreciative just to be alive; being hurt could be placed on the backburner. His lips did part, about to ask if she wanted him to heal her but paused when she changed the subject. A place to sit? "...yeah..." he continued, motioning toward the barn in the distance. "...do you...want me to carry you?" he asked, peridot eyes shifting back to the swelling ankle. "...you're limping..."
Yingyue watched him with interest. She had noticed his stare, but she understood why he might be. Yue thought she had to look like a mess. Hair loose from the ponytail it had been in, dirt smudges on her face. Plus, her beloved thick workout leggings and athletic jacket and top were now soiled with a combination of dirt and rips from the branches had got her. Yue did not mind getting dirty, but what a bad first impression!
The demigoddess seemed to become more aware of the aches on her body as time had passed and the man pointed it out. Her eyes drifted down to her ankle as he pointed out her limp. She could see the swelling, and she felt it, having all her weight shifted on her other leg. She definitely did not think she would be able to make it over to the barn without assistance. Even further, how was she even to get home? Yue knew the hospital could fix this rather fast, but she would have to stumble there.
Though she felt she had already caused enough trouble, she was greedy enough to ask for more. Yue was not one to ever turn down an offer like the one he presented her. "Do you mind?" The demigoddess asked, taking one last step to him no matter the pain that punished her for the movement. Looking up at him, she offered him a warm smile. "I will definitely owe you after this."
Having only been on the island for a few days, he was still the most comfortable on Houtu's farm, somewhere he could be found from sunrise to sunset. Now and then, he had heard a roar or howl that didn't quite sound like the beasts he had heard in the mountains when he was a child--but he had been reassured that these creatures, whatever they were, would not traverse the goddess's lands. While that was a comfort, it didn't stop him from feeling uneasy each time heard those loud noises in the distance. He just had to keep reminding himself that he was safe here.
Lian had been on the edge of the orchard, intent on retrieving a ladder that had been left behind by a couple that had just finished picking a basket of pears. What he hadn't expected was the arrival of a young woman who seemed to be high-tailing it from the tree-line in his direction. But when she tripped, he instinctively reached out to catch her, his expression wide-eyed and surprised as he put a stop to her descent and carefully ushered her upright. "Uhm..." he started quietly while she cursed and apologized, his arms still hovering in air where she had been. He watched her limping but then became distracted by the roar, shifting his gaze toward the forest.
It only dawned on him then--as she gave a broken explanation--that she was speaking Mandarin. "Oh..." he echoed, glancing between her and the trees where a large form shifted and paced at the edge as though uncomfortable with advancing any further, then skulked away. "...they don't...enter here..." he slowly and softly explained, his Wuyishan dialect thick while he shifted his attention back to her, noticing her reaching for the weapon. "...safe space..." he added, lifting his hands quickly in a nonthreatening gesture, glancing her over and noticing the scratches. "...you're hurt?"
Adrenaline pumping, Yue barely registered what the other stated. Her brain lagged just for a moment, but she did just in time prevent herself from full undoing her meteor hammer from around her hip. If it was running away, this ordeal was over, for at least as long as she was at the garden. So, she tried to catch her breath as she tucked the loose pieces back in the place, and she zipped back up her torn athletic jacket that had gotten loose. Thank god.
With safety established, she turned her head to the man who had stopped her fall. For someone who had been strong enough to catch her abruptly and with no warning, the male seemed to be rather quiet and gentle. "I am grateful. For you and this magical place. I was going to either be dinner or with a concussion." Instead, she had a sprained, or rather quickly swelling, ankle and several cuts from her sprint. In many ways, she was lucky. Though, this was going to be their little secret. There was no way she could tell Vitas about this. She did not want a lecture.
When he seemed concerned about her injuries, she waved them off. "A bit, but I am alive. I'll take that any day." And, it was not Yue's first time getting hurt like this. Though, it was rather embarrassing to do so in this manner, but it would not take long for her to regain her confidence. The demigoddess took a step closer to him, but quickly, she winced. Yue tried to hide it, not wanting to worry her new savior. "Anywhere I can just sit for a moment? I ran so fast I think my legs are about to give out."
Stumbling Block
@lianmp
Oh, this was a mistake.
After hearing of monsters and creatures along the mountain and forest areas of the island, the lack of snow had finally allowed Yue's curiosity get the worst of her. And having traveled in some of the wooded area along the base of mountain behind the residential area, she would find herself face to face with some loud, terrifying, four-legged monstrosity. What was it? Well, Yue could only call the absolutely horrifying.
Though the demigoddess knew martial arts and could fight, this was way beyond her scope, and so, she instead allowed her daily running exercise finally be a benefit to her. In a split second, she sprinted toward the edge of the forest, hoping to find some reprieve. Over fallen trees, under giant tree branches, through thick brush, the demigoddess's body was covered in small scratches as she ran for her life.
Just as she approached the edge, the demigoddess overlooked a protruding rock, sending her flying into the open area. Closing her eyes, Yingyue expected to either to be swallowed by some monster or slammed onto the ground, but instead, she felt something more... muscley? Finally looking up, she saw a man who had managed to stop her fall, and as she backed away in a limp, she looked back at the forest line, desperately pulling at the meteor hammer along her hips in case it had followed all the way here.
"Fuck. I'm so sorry." The demigoddess stammered in mandarin, panting as stared toward it. While she heard another roar, it seemed to be far from them "Monster. Woods. Ouch."
When her friend mentioned she would be able to lift barrels and chop down trees after her choice of drinks, silent laughter escaped smiling lips as she lifted one arm to flex proudly; she could DEFINITELY do those things (or, at least, she would BELIEVE she would be able to do those things even if she couldn't, because some good and strong alcohol do be like that).
And this being a celebratory dinner and drinking, yeah, Valerie was definitely going to be an absolutely horrible influence; odds were, by the end of the evening, the two women would be in a lot of trouble, possibly even ending up staying overnight in Hotel d' MPPD depending on how rambunctious they got; not a bad way to spend her birthday! Let alone her first night back in Mount Phoenix.
Sure, neither of them NEEDED all the food, but once they were drunk enough, odds were neither of them would even notice they were eating as much as they were. She nodded along with Yue's decision of the tortellini which, yeah, that did sound very good. And oh, steak, yes. Carbs and protein! Essentials for an evening of drunken merry-making!
As Yue gave the server their order, Val enthusiastically agreed with the decisions with double-handed thumbs up to both her friend and the server, even wiggling excitedly in her seat as the employee wandered off, and then propping her elbows on the table, resting her chin within upturned palms as she gave her friend a very interested expression, brows waggling a bit, encouraging, in a classic look of 'soooooo, dish! tell me all the deets!'
Yue beamed at her friend's enjoyment in her little joke. The drinks did have a rather Norse ring to them, and that was quite the image she got of the Norse. Though, she couldn't ever imagine Vitas throwing barrels, even though it was a funny image. Regardless, she was pleased to be able to enjoy any kind of alcohol with her friend. She was always down for a new treat.
As the food was finally ordered, the demigoddess could not help but get even more excited. The food at Noonas was absolutely to die for! She reasoned this had to be what good Italian cuisine tasted like, because it was "travel to a whole country" worthy. Regardless of what happened that night, she knew the two would have fun and be very very full!
At Valerie's look, she snorted, stopping a laugh. The demigoddess scooted a bit closer to the other. "I got to tell you. Sakura, that place is a mix of creeps and cool people. The owner... Well... He hasn't really been there, so I don't have a feel for him. But the dress code is a bit... interesting." The demigoddess mentioned. Valerie should be ready to expect a lot of cleavage, which she didn't think the other would necessarily despise either. "The other hosts and hostesses seem nice. Nothing crazy, despite what it could be. I guess I am the only wildcard on the docket right now."
Leaning back, she paused her conversation as the waiter brought their drinks to them, and she took a glass, raising it up to her friend. "To the birthday girl! Here's to another year of mischief and good looks! Happy birthday!"
Arawn enjoyed her energy. It was refreshing and delightful. "You do indeed boost the lovability of your pantheon for sure!" he laughed, also playful. the death god may look scary and intimidating, but his love for sweets overpowered his scary vibes by a lot. "I'm Arawn, delighted to make your acquaintance, Miss?" the god stated with a grin. Since she was giving him snack suggestions, he may as well introduce himself.
He nodded in deep thought as the girl voiced her recommendation and her opinion on the candied hawthorn. "Tart with a tinge of sweet, that sounds interesting. I'm intrigued to try it, and then we can go for other sweets," he stated, carefully stepping towards the vendor and asking for four sticks of the candied hawthorn. He got the sweet sticks and handed the girl two of them, slipping the strawberry tanghulu in his other hand.
"I enjoy sweets and even though this type of festival isn't all that common in my pantheon, I am still quite fascinated by everything," he said.
Yue did quite enjoy the praise. She did not get much growing up, typically known as the troublemaker in the group. So when she did get it, she ate it up. "Thank you!" Yue cheerfully spoke. While she was rather sure her pantheon had a variety of lovable individuals, there was something about the Yue Lao squad that really added to the group's personality. "Same to you! You are welcomed to just call me Yue. Oh, and I forgot to say. I am a daughter of Yue Lao."
The demigoddess nodded her head at his response. "Sweet and sour. It is quite the delicious combination." And, so, she watched the god move to the vendor. She was rather shocked to see four, but she did reason a god had much larger appetite. She pleased enough with this, though she had been surprised when the god gave her two of them. Again, she gave him thanks.
"That's the beauty of differing cultures. A bit of variety between the different pantheons allow for fun events for the others."
In-Soo would lie if he said he hadn't felt some jealousy towards the couples present at the feast. Seeing them holding hands or stealing kisses had brought back memories he'd rather forget or avoid. Fingers squeezing his own, red lips on his, gentle but often hungry.
He still missed Hua. It was the dull pain in his heart anymore, only a fleeting feeling of loss. The betrayal and the crushed hope had made place to nostalgia of the shared moments. And now, even if the other demigod would appear before him, In-Soo wasn't even sure if he still could give him again what he had already offered.
If he was truly honest with himself, the vet was quite happy about his little arrangement with Juyeon too and wasn't looking to change anything for the moment. He was getting the affection he so craved, in the safety of his friend's arms. What more could he ask for ?
In-Soo's attention quickly went back to the young woman as she approached and he moved on the bench, offering her to join him. "Ah ! That's quite a good idea ! I should do that too, there's still some desserts I'd like to try" he answered, chuckling. However, his hands automatically went to his cheeks at her remark. They were indeed warm under his touch.
"Oh. Why would I do that ?" he asked, feeling his skin getting even hotter.
Yingyue was rather intrigued by many of the pairs at the feast. It was a crime that the moon's light had been too pale for her. With so much red already decorating the palace, there had been no chance on getting a read on the pantheon's soulmate situation. Yue reasoned that she would just have to wait for another day, one much better. At least now, she knew who was pantheon members.
Yue found Insoo's acceptance of her reasoning rather humorous. Though, it was true. Yue could usually put back more than enough food for two people, and the feast's dishes were quite worth that. "Yes. The food is phenomenal. How often do you get to eat at queen mother's home?"
When he reacted the demigoddess's tease, she could only huff a breathy laugh. "Those poor things have been red all night, and the food has not even been spicy." She explains easily. "I noticed a guy seated with you. I have a feeling he is the culprit behind all of this."
All Tangled Up
Closed starter for the young woman with strings attached @mpxyingyue
Taking place during the Lunar New Year Feast at the Golden Palace
Erlang Shen seemed to always be on duty; it was difficult for him to just relax when at large gatherings such as this. Especially when odd things had been happening--odd things that were strangely reminiscent of a certain monkey's mischief. It was quite odd for those curtains to just catch on fire as they had--and luckily, there had when a couple of skilled practitioners of elemental magic who could douse the little fires. Quan was on the case, naturally, sniffing about in search of the culprit while the sage himself walked through the crowds of others mingling and enjoying the party.
He had been busy scanning others in the distance that he almost did not notice someone a bit closer to him and narrowly avoided collision with the young woman. "Apologies, ma'am," he said politely.
Yingyue had been rather interested in the feast at the queen mother's palace. While she had learned about much of myth in her time at the monastery, she had not ever expected to be this close to the gods and their spaces. So after having chatted with Insoo, she wandered around the garden much like the other guests. Her head had stayed to the ground, a bit lost in thought over a few things. There were quite some interesting things she had noticed over the night.
So, she nearly crashed in the god much as he did her. But, she had a rather quick reaction too. Yue looked up at him with widening eyes, but her features quickly relaxed to her typical smile. "Mine as well. My head was lost in the stars."
Oh, Nephi didn't mind the flirting. It was amusng, interesting even. A good way for him to see her strengths and weaknesses. He was too involved with Keonhee to have any romantic feelings for someone else.
He chuckled at her answer. That girl was truly growing on him, finally someone interesting. He was still on the defensive, as almost always when he was meeting a new person, but she was truly an agreeable person to deal with, someone he could have a stimulating conversation with. He felt no conflict in her heart so he knew she was speaking the truth. "I'm glad for you then !" he exclaimed, grinning. "Thunderstorms can be quite scary sometimes."
Nephi leant on the back of his chair again, tapping on his chin the same way Yingyue had done before. "This is a good argument" he commented. "Also, it depends what you intend to do with what you hear. Blackmailing could be quite a possibility." He got lost in his thoughts for a few moments, considering her answer. "It's quite a lovely name. But tell me... Do you happen to have a half-sister ? I know someone who loves walks in the moonlight."
The son of Anubis wasn't going to reveal much more. Keonhee and him had a lot of things to settle before knowing exactly where they stood. And not of this concerned Yingyue in any way. He jumped on the question, appreciating the diversion. "An Old Fashioned sounds good. And some snacks would be welcome. What about you ?"
Yue nodded her head. "Most definitely." Years ago, while traveling by foot to help one of her clients follow the red string to their soulmate, the pair had gotten stuck outside in the woods in a bad storm. The crash of thunder and lightning around them had been absolutely terrifying, and having been in dangerous conditions, those feels seemed to always come back at the drop of a storm. Nothing he needed to know. Yue wondered if they would even see each other after this.
Tilting her head in thought, she ultimately shook it. "No. Blackmail is rather boring. Why get yourself in potential trouble? I definitely want the fun route. Maybe internal thought to know how they really think about someone. Or, to know what their wants and wishes are. That definitely gives you an idea about someone." She reasoned, rather pleased with herself at the thought. At his question though, she raised a brow. The demigoddess merely shrugged. "While I do not know of one, I cannot say they do not exist."
The demigoddess smiled. "Sounds good. I think I will get me a lemon drop. It is the yummiest. But, give me a few minutes. I will be back with our treats." The demigoddess explained. With a smile, she slid from the table, and it did not take long for her to return with two drinks carefully balanced in one hand as a snack platter did the other.
Something she said had not occurred to him in the slightest--she was FLIRTING with him? That confession finally elicited a change in his expression, being a subtle furrow of his brow in confusion as he cast her a side glance briefly before returning his gaze to the fight. Did that mean she liked him as more than a friend? Because generally, didn't people flirt with someone when they were interested in a...romantic...correspondence?
Confusing.
"Your body is fine," he concluded flatly, keeping his eye on the fight ahead. When she went on about how he could know it was her, suggesting that he had studied her and her body, a slow sigh escaped his nostrils. Did she not remember? "Did you forget that I reconstructed the snow lady's face with only a a few seconds exposure?" he asked. "Did you think I would not recognize your body size, shape, hair color, eyes, the way you move?" And there she had it, the real answer--despite her flirtatious question.
Perhaps, in some way, it could be construed as flattering, to know that he had paid such close attention to physical attributes; then again, he was also unapologetically honest from the beginning regarding his memory.
When she compared the fragility of snow and the egos of men, Vitas was actually...impressed, and there was a subtle lift of his brow to reflect this, though his gaze remained on the ring. "Poetic. I like it," he replied dryly, but sincerely.
Despite the humor in her voice following his refusal of a kiss, it was WHAT she said that seemed to cause a complete shut down in Vitas--at least for a few seconds; those frozen walls built in an instant. Of course, she had no way of knowing that implying he would be unable to turn down a kiss--or intimate contact from anyone really--would be a triggering subject to breach for him. "Don't joke about that. It's not funny," he said in typical Vitas fashion, pointing out a faux pas, before moving on to a different subject without missing a beat.
He was interested in hearing her own experiences in the Pits, the sorts of opponents she had, her own experiences fighting them versus training at the monastery. A slow nod of acknowledgment toward the dangers of using powers. "Hm...many demigods have powers that are prime for fighting, and while it is admirable of Lady Hel to grant a physical outlet for these individuals, this space is not ideal for allowing those demigods to reach their full potential. One might wonder if that is intentional because the gods are concerned their children may rise and rebel...or perhaps it is simply an oversight. A larger arena would be beneficial, granting access to elements and weapons. Protect the audience by means of barriers because surely there exists a god or three on this island capable of creating an impenetrable shield. Plenty of blood, sweat, and pain when one's opponent is impaled with a spear of ice. Adds that extra level of excitement, I think."
It was true, though, he wasn't particularly fond of people choreographing and throwing fights for the sake of winnings and glory; to him, it was boring; he wanted to see true talent, true potential in these fighters, not...whatever this was. Disappointment? Yes, the disappointment that this was. Some fights had been genuine, but not this.
Out of his limited peripheral vision, he did notice her wince when she sat back, but he did not comment on it. Instead, he continued to watch this obviously choreographed fight, accurately predicting the outcome of each move and, just as he had said, the bigger guy ultimately came out on top despite the smaller one putting on a good show. The audience was into it, but Vitas continued to wear an unamused, stoic mask.
So everyone else saw what they wanted to see?
"I wonder what they would see if I went up there..." he murmured his thoughts aloud. Most likely he would be viewed as a skinny, weak twig of a person who looked like a light breeze could knock him over and thus wouldn't stand a chance.
Yingyue did quite enjoy his company. Though, while Vitas did have some quite redeeming qualities at times, Yue flirted with him as she did everyone else. So, she doubted he truly grasped what was coming out of her mouth. For someone as intelligent as Vitas, he did seem to struggle with emotional side of things. Yue was not an idiot. That was something she caught fast.
She scoffed playfully at his comment. "Just fine? You don't tell a lady that her body is just fine. Though, I guess that is quite favorable for your standards?" She reasons out loud. Some others might have had their feelings for such a statement made on their body. Yet, Vitas was not your typical guy. A smile pulled on her lips as she looked over to him. "That's rather sweet, even if it isn't by choice. At least, I can expect you to always spot me in a crowd."
Turning back to the fight, the demigoddess soaked up the compliment until she noticed a small shift in her friend. His comment quirked a brow. The demigoddess thought he would understand her not to be that type, that she was merely joking. But, if someone told her to stop, she would, without a second thought. However, as soon as he moved on from it, she found it best not to comment. Nothing to linger on now. She'd apologize to him later. So, she offered a simple thumbs up, a note of understanding.
His theories were rather... interesting. Though, she definitely did not agree. "I think it's so the other demigod doesn't die... Definitely would be interesting to watch though. Doesn't make sense though for an 'safe haven' island to allow something like that." She continues, not necessarily on the same wavelength as him "I get we have powers, but there is no way a demigod could ever truly match the powers of the gods. If I was a goddess, angsty demigods would be the last group of people I would be worried about. Gods in and outside of my pantheon actually pose a threat. But, the gods of today, they seem to merely be existing and carrying out their duties."
The fight was fine to her. Though, Yue watched the crowd. Even if it was rehearsed, it was quite the talent in her eyes to perform with such commitment, and the crowd clearly enjoyed it. Much like a dance, however, the two fought with fists. She couldn't help but chuckle at his comment. "I am sure you'd get treated the same way I am. Everyone had to think I was going to get destroyed. But, you are a child of Odin." She had done some research after learning that, to know who even the god truly was. "I'd expect you to excel. You don't need strength. You have your brain."
She wasn't a trickster, just resourceful? "That sounds exactly like something a trickster would say," he teased right back at her with a wink. He was playing, of course. So far, his first time at one of these maid things was kinda nice. She was nice. And while he was sure there were other employees at Sakura that were good at their job, entertaining the customers and being great company, Felix was convinced that--even beyond his natural good luck--his very first time at the establishment, he had just happened upon the perfect one for him. Maybe she could even be a good friend! She was just naturally clever, finding all sorts of loopholes and the like, and he found himself falling into that hyena-esque chuckle when she mentioned it was her superpower. "Just a natural talent, I guess," he said of her cleverness.
"Oh my god, you are soooooooo right," he agreed with a melodramatic swoon, ever the animated fellow that Felix. "Literally everyone on this island is sooooo pretty. Like, you HAVE to have a stellar personality just to stand out, and honestly, you're goooooooooooorgeous." A compliment, because he really did enjoy her company. "Yesssssssssssssssss~" he playfully hissed in confirmation to his love of snakes. Again, he laughed a bit at her comments. "No no, the reptiles, not the personality. I think that's kinda rude to snakes, really. To have their behavior be tied in to negative connotations, y'know? Kittens, though? Kittens are far more dangerous. Like, you get sucked in by the cuteness and the purring…and the next thing you know, you're covered in scratches and bite marks. Brutal, I tell you. Brutal."
He paused. "I kid. I love cats, too," he conceded.
As for the arcade, he chuckled again, nodding to her questions, ever the animated fellow. "Yeah, I work there--I mean, if you can call it work. I own the place and literally play games for a living. It's a pretty sweet gig, I think." He grinned that adorable grin though at the idea of them playing games together. "A'ight. Bet." If she wasn't worried about winning his heart, then he wouldn't worry about winning hers right back. Except…that he did. He did it well, though. He was more concerned about winning her friendship--a genuine friendship.
He snorted as he watched her tie the string to his finger, though. "Is this a thing? Is this a legit thing? So cool." Claimed, huh? Was this part of the whole maid spiel? When she told him not to go anywhere, he gave her a little salute. "Yes, ma'am!"
So while she was off to get their drinks, he turned his attention to the string on his finger and felt mild prickles of panic and sadness under his skin and behind his eyes despite the smile he wore…because he knew this was her job--to be friendly and make someone feel like they were on top of the world and all that…but once he was gone, she was no longer obligated to be his companion; so he didn't really expect her to stop by the arcade for games or to maintain any contact beyond Sakura. So he supposed he would just…make do with the time they had, right?
Where was her favorite sweet tooth? He snapped out of his thoughts, the charm returning with that bright grin. "Rrrrrrrrriiiiiiiiiiight where you left me~" he cooed back at her. See? Kept his word. Didn't go anywhere! He looked at the drinks with an approving nod. "Ooooo, that looks good. So like, Yingyue, when you're not busy being a totally awesome companion among the cherry blossoms, what do you like to do? Or is it, like, taboo to talk about the Yingyue that exists outside of Sakura."
Yue was definitely amused. A light scoff was what he received, but the mirth glimmered in her gaze. Though, she would not reason herself as far as a trickster, at least in this occasion. The concept was rather funny, and truthfully, it probably did fit her even though she did not accept the title. At the idea of a natural talent in her cleverness, though, there was an enthusiastic acceptance. Her grin brightened, and she nodded. "One of many." She boasts, though she meant more out of playfulness than some egotistical claim.
Her brows raised at his dramatics, but she raised a hand to cover her mouth and the snicker that immediately followed his actions. Nothing he said was incorrect, but it was funny in the ways he said that. "Exactly. No worries. I also have a stellaaaaaaaar personality. So, you are the one that has to be especially careful as you might leave her tonight completely in love!" Yue reached forward, playfully poking his dimpled cheek. Did she really expect that? Absolutely not. He seemed like someone who could be fun to play with, whether in his little games or else. "Hmm. I guess you have a point. I wonder what the OG snakes did to get that type of connotation. I have a friend who probably knows. He is such a weird source of information." But in the right ways at the same time. "Cats are lovely. I'm just too busy a woman to devote my time to having one."
Yue had made a mental note to make sure she visited his workplace. It was only fair of her to do so, and she did quite enjoy the fun. "Of course. That seems like the perfect gig for you. I bet you have a lot of fun and so do your guests." She states. When he questioned the string, she nodded. "Red string of fate. Feel connected." She stuck out her tongue.
With a smile, the moment she got back, her first business was to enjoy her drink. At his question, she chuckled. "Yingyue in Sakura is the same Yingyue outside. I picked this job because it's fun flirting." She admits, and she turned to him. Felix did not quite seem like the one that needed some image sold to him. "Hmm. I like to go for runs and I exercise a lot. I spend most of my time outside, and I am definitely more a night owl." She ponders as she spoke. And she finally adds. "Oh! And, I make it my mission to connect lost soulmates. That's probably the fun part. Haven't had a chance yet on the island."
[...] Her hands gingerly finished the act of cleansing his face to his arms from any grime or sweat that came from his match. A blank canvas to finally tend to some his cuts. Yue imagined even the surface level cuts hurt when they happen. "No need to thank me." She hums, taking a brush with a blob of ointment. She slowly spreads the medicine, fanning it with her other hand as she did so. "You both seemed like you had a lot of fun. Those types of fights are fun to watch. No matter how professional you are, there has to be passion. A clear desire to win, at least shown on your face." She muses warmly. He had her full attention, even if it didn't sound in her voice and nor in her gaze. "You will have to teach me one day, unless you are afraid I will beat you." Yue teased, snickering under her breath. While the smile was faint behind her veil, the mischief was evident in her gaze. Nodding her head at his question, she answered without hesitation. "Thank you. I learned that move at a young age. I spend many nights trying to nail it down." She explains contently. Tending to Lio was her chance to make a friend out of him, and she would not waste it. "The fight was nice. My opponent had a bit of anger problems tonight though. One or two of those hits will bruise rather ugly tomorrow. But, pain is a part of the fun, I suppose." While he had respectfully put distance between, Yue didn't allow him too much security, inching closer and closer as she worked to patch and paint his wounds with the medicine. She'd hate such a pretty face to be ruined by a fight here, even if a few scars added character. Nearly done with his face, her free hand moved to his chin, and she gently moved it around to ensure that she had not missed a single mark. "You are so wound up still." Her hand moved his head one last time so that she finally got to meet his gaze. "Relax. You don't have to be so polite around me. Let's be friends, not colleagues." With a content hum, she finally freed his face, letting her attention then turn to his arms, so she could give it similar assistance.
“Still, I’ve got a need to say thank you, for making the time to help me with this,” Lio insisted, as being grateful and expressing his thankfulness for genuine kindness had become a part of who he was. A slightest of wince fleeted across his face when the ointment first touched a cut, but the cool breezes made by Yingyue’s hand did help to ease the burn. When the first instinctive reaction past, Lio quick to regain control, keeping the muscles of his face still to make it easy for Yingyue to take care of the wounds.
“It’s no longer a legit fight if none of the parties involved have the desire to win, right? Though I admit, I tend to get carried away by that desire sometimes, and that’s when things aren’t as just fun,” he remarked. Lio kept smirk subtle and his words close to mumble, as he was refraining from making big movements on his cheeks and jaws, the two areas of his face that took the most damage.
He was still looking at the ceiling while she made the suggestion, but Lio believed that his ears registered the mischievous note in her tone and snicker, and when he cast his eyes down to meet hers, that was quickly confirmed. “We can practice together when you are ready,” he affirmed, the light smile on his face and the stability in his voice implied his confidence. Lio would never refuse the chance to sharpen his combating skills, all the better if it was with a new practice partner, as he could always learn new things from them. Yingyue was a competent fighter, her skillset was rather different from his, and so Lio already had a growing anticipation for their practice sessions.
A better part of his attention remained on Yingyue’s hand movements, as he had always got this urge to guard himself whenever someone or something came close to his face, no matter who or what it was. He knew well that the demigoddess meant well, and she was helping him, so Lio reminded himself to take a deep breath and try to loosen his tense muscles. One way to keep himself from being over-defensive was paying more notice to Yingyue’s story and holding a meaningful conversation with her.
“That’s dope! Meanwhile I didn’t learn to punch properly until I was fourteen or so,” he chuckled lowly, still being careful not to make big moves with his face until Yingyue finished applying ointment to it. As she mentioned her aggressive opponent tonight, Lio let out an understanding hum. “I saw the way he threw his fists at you, definitely will leave some nasty marks, but I bet he took it much more than you did. You were smart to dodge his critical hits, while most of your attacks landed on his weak points. That was an exciting match, to say the least.”
Lio tried not to move further as she once again shortened the distance between them, taking it as a chance to learn how to relax and let himself be taken care of. He moved his head side to side as guided by her hand, his fingers stopped intertwined tightly to rest on his thighs, but his shoulders were stiff still, and his back kept being so straight it almost guaranteed uncomfortableness.
So when Yingyue pointed that out Lio let out a silent chuckle. “Sorry, I’m still learning to relax, it’s not at all because of you though,” he explained, trying to relax his body a little bit more as her gaze suggested him to.
While waiting for her to work on the cuts on his arms, Lio still had this need to engage in the conversation so that his mind and body would not tense up again. He made a question, feeling it easier to look at her face this time. “If you don’t mind me asking, what got you into martial arts and fighting in the first place?”
Yue nodded her head at his need to thank her for her assistance. Even if she felt it unnecessary, as she knew fans would die to be in her spot, she could not resist someone's need to show their gratitude. "You are welcome. But don't think I am always this nice. I am just as greedy as I am kind. Helping you is merely an excuse for me to meet you, but I don't mind this either." Yue admits to the demigod as her tender touches does validate how unbothersome she finds this whole task.
Smiling, she chuckled softly under her breath. "I am sure it is only not fun for your opponent. The crowd must eat that up." She considers. With his raw strength and aggressive fighting, she could see where that passion could tip him past the edge. Yue definitely did not want to be on the other end, though she also did not believe she could ever get there. "I only do this for fun. Nothing is worst then a boring fight."
Lio was far different in person than on the stage. Yue believed she was much the same, just as playful and energetic. However, he seemed a lot more closed off and nearly jumpy. Yue's heart softened for the man before her. She definitely wanted him as a friend, and this cemented it further. Maybe, she could help loosen him up some more.
"I'm ready now. Once we are healed a bit better, you are mine." She teases playfully. "I go to the gym nearly daily. I am always down to train with you if you are interested. I just need you to keep up." Despite her efforts in tending to his body, the demigoddess's playfulness did not die down one bit. As they spent more time together, she opened up a bit more. While he seemed to be trying really hard to be polite, Yue reasoned that he could manage with her merely being herself.
Yue soaked up his compliments, and she nodded her head. She did have a few bruises on her cheeks, but she would handle. "Well, you throw a nice punch. I'd hate to be on the other side of one of those. But from the audience, they sure are exciting to watch." Yue's eyes looked over him. In her gaze of which she was trying ensure his body would healed within the places she had mended, there was obvious care written. "Thank you. I try to make my fights fun, and it helps that most people discredit me due to my size."
Lio's discomfort was obvious, and she felt bad. The demigoddess paused for a moment, and in a matter of seconds, she disappeared from his side to close the door before returning to him. "You know, it probably does not help the way I am right now either." She states genuinely. The mask stopped him from seeing the true smile on her lips or her full expression. Yue did not see any reason that the demigod would spill the secret of her visage, and so, a finger moved up to release the veil from her visage, revealing her image to him. Slightly bruised and with some swelling, Yue felt no sense of insecurity.
And as if nothing happened, she continued to finish the wounds on his arm and to answer his question. "I grew up in a monastery in China. Once I got to the right age, I learned and mastered tai chi, and then, when traveling on my own, there was a lot of other fighting styles I picked up out of pure interest." She spoke, slathering his last cut with the ointment before finally leaning back against the table behind her. "And you?"