avalaughs | TEST DRIVE MEME ⚔️️ 6

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TEST DRIVE MEME ⚔️️ 6

Check out the OOC intro meme for this month to say hi to new players/characters!

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⚔️️ Top-Levels Only ⚔️️

A ⦿ Soaking in Your Arrival

KERPLUNK, SPLASH!

Regardless of what you were in the middle of, you and your familiar have been magically pulled into the world of Avalon just above the Bay's waters. After a brief plunge into the Bay, the rush of water filling your ears and soaking up into every creak and crevice of your body, you may need to cough to clear your airways when you rise above the surface. It's still chilly, but not enough that you can't manage on your own. The Lady of the Lake is swimming around under the water, but seems to be focusing on coordinating a band of mossatees to help rescue any wayward new arrivals. Mossatees are a special Avalonian manatee that is green in color and has what appears to be a patches of grass or other short plant life growing on its back. While some are fully green, many sport blooming flowers or fairy circles of mushrooms.

If anyone tries to ask the Lady of the Lake for directions, she will direct you to Archimedes at the Rent-a-Ride. Those with animal magic may get their info from the manatees, though may notice that they're really overly friendly and have zero concept of personal boundaries. Everyone may notice they have no concept of personal space, as they will happily run right into someone's belly for a snoot squishing. The shores themselves are littered with new arrivals complaining their way up a staircase carved into the walls of the White Cliffs. There is no railing, so be careful, but if you do fall, be prepared for a mysterious sand hand to reach out of the side of the cliffs to catch you. The hand will pat you atop the head twice before retreating back into the wall. This is the Cliff Beast; despite the name, he is quite friendly.

*Reminder: Your character's familiar may or may not be with your character in their initial plunge. If the familiar isn't partial to water, it may meet your character on the beach or sit atop their head while they swim. Or if they are, they might splash about and swim alongside your character. Familiars have different personalities and body specs and we leave those up to the players.

B ⦿ The Caravan to Camelot

Once everyone is wrangled up to the top of the White Cliffs, the handsome owner of the Rent-a-Ride, Archimedes, will distribute smart phones, a pair of earbuds, and animal-themed ponchos and tell them to "Check the Shit Box." The "Shit Box" refers to wardrobe more formally known as the Wardrobe of Finding, a hammerspace-like wardrobe that opens to each person's items and pets when the person touches the handle. It was recently enchanted by Merlin to prevent people from having to fish their waterlogged possessions and pets out of the water with them. From there, Archimedes directs everyone to settle in groups into modernized carriages pulled by horses and gives them a basic explanation of why and how they've been brought to Avalon: The rest of the universe is frozen in time and your character has been brought here by a familiar that was able to bond with them. They'll have to learn magic to help save their own world from destruction, but first they've got to get them to Camelot. It is here that you have the first opportunity to decide who they will be in their new home. You'll have about an hour to wander around here, meet and greet, and pet the horses before it's time to go.

These carriages use fae technology that combats weight, so your character will be able to get in regardless of whether they're light as a feather or weigh two tons. The carts have air conditioning when it's hot, heating when it's cold, and a mystical shield to protect from bugs. There is also a mini-bar that pops out of the console with nip bottles. Characters can use their smartphones to connect to Camelot's internet service,

avalononline (AOL), to chat with other characters, watch dumb videos, learn about the world, contact Camelot Support (they'll answer any questions they can for you, from how to use a smart phone to where to find quests and resources to learn more about your magic). Be careful if you decide to use your phones while in the caravan-- if you don't use those earbuds and start forcing everyone to listen to your nonsense, Archimedes may make you walk. Which given the fact that it's pouring down rain in April? Not ideal. You were only given ponchos, not rain boots.

C ⦿ The Red Spring

The journey from the White Cliffs to the City of Camelot is a long one, and the first evening you arrive you'll end up spending at the Red Spring, a booming resort town. Because of the volume of new arrivals and vacationers, inn rooms are assigned two-to-a-room. The rooms have two twin beds, a bathroom, a mini-fridge and microwave, and a TV equipped with a couple of entertaining video games and a few free movies.

Unfortunately, due to a bee infestation and massive amounts of rain, the hot springs of the Red Springs are not available this month! Instead, an underground salt cave is offered as a way to relax and unwind. Gather around in the rejuvenating, dimly lit caves and breathe in the relaxing effects of salt crystals. Feel the sand between your toes, or if you don't like sand, try one of the many pools with tiny garra rufa for a fish pedicure. Or, lie down in a recliner and stare up at the "stars"-- magic sparkles in the ceiling that move to spell out single-word concepts you may be experiencing. (Maybe you're relaxed? You might get something like "Chill." Find your relaxation buddy hot? Just be careful to look away before the stars spell "Thirsty" to the whole room.)

The springs are also home to a large training grounds just outside town limits, where there are teachers who will teach basic magic safety and help you discover what kind of magic you have together with other new arrivals. Try target practice, obstacle courses, meditation circles, and other ways to try to figure out just what you can do... if you didn't already have an accidental discovery on the ride there.

As it turns out, a mythical land that's been around for a few centuries has a few things in common with many modern worlds. It's got the internet, and games have evolved a little bit past hoop trundling and draughts. April, being the traditional month of mirth and games and lots of rain making it hard to have fun outdoors, is the time for Camelot City Gaming Convention, affectionately shortened to CameCon. Come into the large convention center located in the south part of town, get dry, and check out some of the awesome things to do.

A ⦿ Couchless Co-Op

Fighting games

NASTAR Racing Game

rhythm dance game

Grand Theft Automation

really

B ⦿ Arthurian RP in your Arthurian RP

LARP as their favorite Knight of the Round Table

rock-paper-scissors-magic

dress-up

props that will magically give you sword skills

picnic on the concrete floor

C ⦿ It Figures...

A convention isn't a convention without a little shopping. Come check out what cool games are upcoming in the exhibit hall, buy figurines of your favorite game characters (or.. new ones you've never heard of since this is a new world, but are still cute and/or kick-ass), and most importantly, check out the cool magic you can apply to them. A spell available for purchase in the convention hall that's popular this year is Recipe: Figure Anima, which makes your figures move in place and say popular lines as if they're an actual, miniature version of the character. It's recommended you practice while you're in the convention hall though so figure experts can help if things go.. awry. People have been known to have their own emotions influence the spell, and sometimes toys have started taking on the attitude of the caster. There's nothing quite as tragic as your favorite angelic game character telling you they're gonna kick your ass because you were in a fighting mood. So OOC. Maybe you can find someone who's a little better at magic to fix the problem?

Of course, when the rain breaks through and floods the exhibition room, there's a lot of mass hysteria as people scream and climb up onto tables, trying to protect their merch above all else. Hurry, help someone else up onto your table before their ent dakimakura they just purchased gets wet! Only you can save the gamers from water! ..Or that's what you thought, until a second later the electricity goes out and you're left in a total electricity blackout in the convention hall. It may be a good idea to use some magic to try to light the way and find a way out of the flooded hall...

A ⦿ Keep Your Vines to Yourselves

overgrowth of prehensile, very friendly vines

destructive magic

without

tickle the person the vines have captured

B ⦿ Selfies with Selkies

very, very large flower

Take a trip up to the Archivist

Cereus de Anima

the Silent Shore

shirtless selkie

take a selfie

eventually

a cottage on the other side of the Pure of Heart Bridge

old man that Morganna tried to kill and save in a quest a couple of months ago

C ⦿ The Answer is No

Back in Camelot City, it seems that anyone who's been touched by the vines has been replaced by a doppelganger in their lives. They're just barely off from the original- they have all the memories, but may be slightly more skilled at things they didn't used to be, or may seem to make less ethical choices than they might otherwise. There's just something slightly off. But when people start using AOL to contact their friends and let them know they've been gone.. well, it may seem like the jig is up, or at least in question.

Those who find out they've been replaced may want to return to Camelot quickly to try to reclaim their lives. Doppelgangers will attempt to kill their original if they come into contact with them when they aren't around other people, so you may need to flee for your life if you haven't gotten good enough at magic to defend yourself yet. Around other people, the doppelgangers will do their best to try to prove themselves the real person and since they were made from the original, will have the same memories as the original character so asking questions that "only ___ would know" may not work. Eventually it will come out that the doppelgangers have occasionally wriggling vines instead of spines underneath their clothing, if you're willing to check that to see who's real, but that won't be common knowledge.

What can be found out from the old man at the Pure of Heart bridge if you choose to leave your doppelganger alone is that Cereus de anima doppelgangers can only live for a month without killing their original and absorbing the rest of their essence. However, if the original plant isn't taken care of with a special venom you can only obtain from certain creatures in the Forest of the Fisher King, the problem will just keep happening over and over until the city is overrun and becomes nothing but a breeding ground for the flower and its replicas.

MOD NOTES:
• All test drive prompts are open to anyone in the game at any time to create your own logs with, but this post should have top-levels by potential new characters only. Current characters may reply to any threads, but should not top-level comment on this post.
• If your application is accepted, you may accept TDM threads as game canon as long as both players consent. Characters may begin threading as soon as their journal is accepted to the communities.
• You can have any animal-style poncho you want! They are themed, not made from actual animals. No animals have been harmed in the making of these ponchos!!
• TIMELINE: The resolution to the third prompt will be in April's event! The first two prompt sets will be during the first week of the month. The doppelganger problem and obnoxious traveling and research will be occurring for the second and third weeks of the month.
• People with green magic may be able to fill something off about the doppelgangers, but may not be able to identify what it is right away. Blood mages will be able to feel that their blood feels the same as the original as they are essentially copies. Cognitive people will be able to use their magic normally except for hypnotic suggestion- the doppelgangers are immune to it, so while you may be able to find other ways to out them, hypnotizing people to tell the truth won't work this time. Doppelgangers are made from the essence of the person, so they will be able to access their phones and accounts. Note that the Cereus de Anima and doppelgangers are not fairies and cannot be contracted with. If a Death Mage attempts to possess a doppelganger, it will technically come in contact with the doppelganger's vine and may end up with more than one doppelganger depending on how many times they try it. Siphon magic can be used to destroy a doppelganger easily, however, the essence that was stolen from the original's soul may be destroyed in the process so it is not recommended as the original may start to feel as though they are no longer a whole person.
• If nothing here tickles your fancy, try one of this month's Quests for your TDM prompt.
• The first "Arrival" prompts are present on every TDM, but contain seasonal tweaks for flavor. All other prompts will change monthly. Make sure to read the Red Spring section on this month's even if you're normally familiar-- the springs are closed this month, check out the alternate prompts!
• Questions about this TDM's content? Comment here! If you have a question about the game at-large, please head over to the FAQ.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[ Despite her calm, it does fluster her to be lifted like that. Most people weren't permitted to touch her, and the last who was close enough was her childhood beloved and eventually the Demon King- though aside from their binding, he too, hasn't touched her beyond holding her after her rescue.

The way this one rests his head on her, though, she's reminded of when she'd cradle her younger brothers when they were tired. It's comforting, and rather than pull away, she moves an arm around his shoulder and gently brings a hand to his hair so that she can stroke it lightly, hoping to relax him. At his question, she hums a bit. ]

I do dance, but not as a regular form of work. For that, I pick flowers, or speak to the fae folk here for their assistance. People always need the aid for that...

[ As the carriage moves, she keeps herself steady and speaks in a softer voice so he doesn't feel disturbed. ]

I'm not a warrior or fighter... I can't do the things some of these quests require at times. So I have to do what I can to get by. Perhaps you can gain a title, if you catch the King's notice here, my Lord. You could become a noble or knight if you manage to help them. But... I'm sure you'll find your way.

[ His hair is so soft, too. ]

Would you like me to be quiet so you can rest?

No, I prefer to hear your voice. [Though the pets are soothing him in a way he can't even express!]

[As for gaining a title...]

[Weird thought.]

I didn't even want to be a Lord, you know. [He admired his father more than anything, and wanted to be like the war General, but his only reason to become head of the Oda clan was self preservation, and that of others.]

Nobuyuki didn't leave me any choice, and Nobutomo was so gripped by old ways, he would rather have led everyone to ruin than try something new.

I've never actually been under anyone else's rule, you know? [Even as a child, he was wild, running around playing with guns, and making up his own rules. And it carried throughout all of his adulthood. Making Hideyoshi: a commoner, a noble, was one of those things.]

We discussed at length, my retainers and I, whether to make me a shogun or emperor. I didn't want either. Always refused. The only title I really accept is Demon King. If what I do is wrong, then I don't care to be right.

[ That's interesting... one would have thought the great Demon King would have had aspirations to stay in power. Then again, she's not even sure hers is doing this for the prestige and power, from what little she experienced of him.

But she pays attention to this one, her fingers idly moving in his hair as she thinks over what he's saying- and she finally chuckles to herself. ]

... the Demon King did something similar. His predecessors reigned over the lands my family reigns now, and he had enough power to take the lands of the sky and sea and all in between. Yet, he claimed the darkest of lands- they say once you become the ruler of the shadows, you are doomed to them. But he's only ever grown his power through there... and refuses to let that stop him from his ambition.

[ She can't really figure him out, but she's beginning to wonder if there's another reason he remains in the lands their kind fear and treat as the lowest point of existence.

It's admirable, if not a bit frightening.

She lets her fingers run down the back of his head, while her free hand moves to cover the back of his. It's nice being held this way, too, and touch-starved as she is, she doesn't complain. ]

... what would you like to do here then, my Lord?

That sounds like me. I became the worst kind of demon so that no others could block Japan's greatness. Demons are simple. Not all can be cowed into submission, but defeat them, and they have no choice but to obey out of fear of destruction or annihilation.

Don't misunderstand, my ambition can't be quenched with any amount of territory under my rule, there will always be more. Power was never the end goal, only the means to hold everyone else in line. I can't say the same holds true for your Nobunaga though, only me.

[As for what he wants to do? First he just wants to lace his fingers through hers -- and he remembers to ask?] If I may, I wish to hold your hand like this. [Demonstrates letting her fingers fall through the gaps between his, and then holding onto them, but he's still ready to let go of permission is not granted or withdrawn!]

[Secondly: see everything! Learn everything! Dance, fight, learn how to grow even stronger do that he can direct the troops to fighting to conquer ALL THE WORLDS. Yes, ALL! And then they can't be destroyed!]. They'll all be his!]

[He toys briefly with serving under someone else, but there's no way he can. He doesn't know how. No, better to just take it.]

[With a soft chuckle, Oda gently nuzzles her neck.]

I know I want to learn more about the guns here. Perhaps grow an army to quell any uprisings and disorder, and then make it so powerful, whatever threat they speak of can also be conquered.

But selfishly, I just want to see everything. The music, dances, buildings, production, how the currency and taxes work. The farming. I want to pet a sheep if this is really NorthEastern Europe. I want to try pie, and Konpeito and sweets I've never heard of. And test the King. If he's strong enough, then I want to learn how. What gives his people prosperity and greatness. I want to be surprised by good things.

I'm sure I'll add more every day, things I can't think of yet because they're too new. That is what I want. [In a word: adventure!]

[ She allows it, letting him speak and hold her hand- giving him her permission with a soft "Go ahead." She doesn't mind her hand being held- she's only just getting used to safely being around people now that not only her limiters are functioning, but her curse isn't even active here.

The feeling of the nuzzle against her neck makes her fluster a bit, her skin going warm and pink from a bit of shyness. That felt nicer than she'd like to admit, and she gives his held hand a bit of a squeeze. ]

I believe you'll have all the time to do that, my Lord. There's plenty to do, and you may even have the chance to speak to the King here...

[ He does seem like someone who wants to experience it all- she can't really feel like that's a bad thing. Everyone deserves that much, after all. It's why she's in no rush to find a way home.

With a gentle exhale, she glances up and notes most others are too distracted or nodding off. So she turns her attention back to him, continuing to stroke his hair. ]

If you join the knights... you could rise in ranks and be able to command your own units. You'd have to do it in Camelot's name, I gather... but I can't imagine them not giving you reign to do as you said, if it's in their benefit. But- try to not wear yourself thin, my Lord. This place is a little much for even mortals.

[ Her gaze softens and she rests her cheek absently over the crown of his head. ]

How are you feeling now? You seemed tense before... I hope you're feeling more relaxed, my Lord.

Maybe.

[But he laughs at the idea of wearing himself thin.] Don't consider me a normal mortal then, I'm not. [But the warning is considered, he doesn't want anyone else harmed.]

Yes. Though I'm still not sure how real this all is.

[ Even if he weren't mortal, this place brings about a change in their selves- from their bonds with familiars to suddenly using new magic.

But she thinks he'll see that in time, and she gives his held hand a small squeeze. ]

... if this wasn't real, you wouldn't be holding me like this and feeling this comfort, would you?

[ Just— laying that out there. ]

Or are your fantasies just this intense, my Lord?

[Still more laughs!] They are extremely vivid, yes.

Though I'm not sure the kitsune would factor in. Unless I'm warily jealous of Mitsuhide or Mitsunari without knowing it. Mitsunari has been teaching Mai Go so she can put up a better challenge to me. And no one knows what Mitsuhide is up to, even me, except for what he simply tells me. [A quiet hum and another gentle nuzzle and hand squeeze.] But I think if it were a guilty conscience, we'd be doing something else, most likely.

You... have a Mitsunari too, then. That's the mortal name my father has. One of them, at least...

[ She remarks, finding it interesting that they've got so many similarities that are also differences.

The ride back to the Red Springs and eventually Camelot will be a long one, but she doesn't think she minds the company. ]

What sorts of things do you imagine doing, if it were a guilty conscience, then?

[ Surely he's realizing by now all of this is so very real? ]

[..............?!] Your father?

[Ishida, explain yourself!] Wait, who's your other father?

[As for what he'd be doing otherwise.] Either the Kitsuno I knew would be playing Go or distracting me to get me to confess my thoughts, I'm sure. [Or reminding him of obligations, that he shouldn't be selfish, trying to run away to realms that he's never seen, or telling him it's fine to move on, and maybe romancing Mitsuhide herself to really mess with his head.] I think if it were guilt, she'd be reminding me of obligations to Japan, to see through my ambition, not run away to foreign lands and skip the boring parts. [A headshake.] And my Kitsuno would never try to ease me into living in a different time and place. She might tell me not run wild, but she'd try to focus my ambition. I think.

My fathers— in the Mists, go by their titles. In the mortal realms— as you know, he has bestowed his name Mitsunari to the heir of the Ishida, and my other father— has opted to choose another, though his are more varied. Ikoma, is one of the more known family names— but also Mitsurugi and our ancestors were also called the Fujiwara by mortals. We don't use our given names freely in the Mists. Having our names gives mortals an in to our power after all.

[ She explains it gently, having not have the chance to talk about it much. ]

A mortal named Yaheji once came to our lands— he spoke of a sorcerer called Abe no Seimei, one who was also among our family line and lived among mortals. My father who goes by the name Mitsurugi is his descendant, so he said. We had many mortals who wedded foxes, it seems...

[ She had a lot of time to learn of this in her captivity. ]

My father who goes by the name Mitsunari, is a descendant of the Fox goddess herself. It's why he didn't take a name until he absolutely had to.

[ She strokes his bangs off his forehead and chuckles quietly at his explanation though. ]

She must have been free, then... to be able to think of responsibility. One doesn't dream of freedom if they do not feel caged. Perhaps that is where we differ... I would never discourage anyone from exploring until they had their fill to return to their duty.

[ She has no intention of turning away from what must be done once she returns. But she also turns to look outside the carriage window for a bit. ]

... do you want to return home already, then, my Lord?

She was. She was very free. I always tried to make sure of that.

[As for returning home:] Hell no. [Snorts.] It is impossible for me to have my fill of exploring. I don't think multiple worlds can even fill that.

[Those were by far the easiest things to address. As for her fathers and kitsune, and the rest...]

[Yaheji Dota was Kitsuno's first husband.]

[The Ikoma clan was her family.]

[What does it all mean? He can't begin to piece it out. He doesn't even really want to. It's such a deep rabbit warren he just feels is going to lead to bad things. Let her tell him what she deems important, and maybe he can avoid offering anything confusing.]

[Fate? Reincarnation? More things he doesn't believe in.]

[BUT one thing has been on his mind since she first mentioned it:]

What is the curse that the other version of me thought bedding you might remove? [Gently moves a finger over her lips so she doesn't answer right away.] I don't expect it to be relevant here, and I'm not suggesting I can fix it, I simply wish to understand you better. [Back to holding her!]

[ The short of it, when thought about, is that every tale in every other world becomes a re-telling, a re-imagining of some life that rippled far into the stars. Perhaps it sprang into motion through the actions of some beings with the same souls somewhere. What is clear is that while the identities have been shifted, the key people somehow end up the same.

And sometimes, so do the choices of their hearts.

It's not unusual to Kitsuno to know that other existences and worlds exist, because of it. She knew they did because of where she was born— for all she knows, the mortal Nobunaga who summoned the Demon King in her world has his own Kitsuno whose tale could have gone the way this Nobunaga's did. With those names she mentioned and an identity of their own.

The denizens of the Mists just bestow their blessings on them and have their own tales and times. That much remains consistent.

So it's not a surprise to her to encounter this Nobunaga- be it in this world, or back home. Her own Demon King would likely just expect it too, even if he's not the same mortal he blessed.

For now, though... she pauses when he brings his finger up to her lips, and lets him speak. All she can offer is a small smile to it, and she nods. ]

I've found the curse isn't in effect here, so it would be pointless to worry about it or ask for help with it. But you're kind for being concerned, my Lord.

[ She lets him take her hand again, feeling almost too comfortable here. The Demon King and her haven't shared such closeness yet— they haven't even fallen in love. Would be care for her this way? ]

... I just wonder if things would be different with us if we'd met differently. I don't know him very well... and he's done things I could never agree with. But meeting you makes me think he might have more of a side I've yet to see. Perhaps I can tell you a little about him, too... and why it's so shocking that we're bound at all.

I would greatly appreciate that.

[He debates nibbling on an ear. If it was Mai, he'd request another Go game in order to claim one, but he's not sure here and now. Is it still too forward? He just has to ask, right?]

[He tilts his head so his mouth is right next to her ear. And in a low, dark, nearly whispered voice:]

Can you keep talking if I suck on your ear? And may I?

[ It's a complete record screech moment as she blinks, eyes going wide and face going red. What is he— ]

My lord...!

[ It doesn't help that his voice just sounds so nice and deep. She already feels a bit flustered at the way it rumbles through her. ]

... as long as it's not too obvious. I can't imagine these mortals taking too well to it...

[ She's not refusing because it's not like it bothers her— it's just more touching than she's had in almost a few years so she's a little flustered that it's wanted of her at all. ]

[He LOVES that reaction and sets about claiming her ear with his mouth!]

[This dude could not care less what anyone thinks of it or him!]

[Imagine that kind of demon level confidence!]

[~~Indeed, later on in canon when he does claim Mai's ear, he just cheerfully nips it in front of his war council like it's nothing, and then later on in front of his entire army, because this man!!!~~]

[He is respectful enough to keep it as discreet as he can, however, since he meant it when he promised to respect her dignity as a lady.]

[And he wonders how well she can multitask, and if his distractions are just enough to ease any anxiety about the past and separate world (future?) or a little too much!]

[ He's so bold, it's shocking. Even the demons of the spirit realm like to be more careful about how they spring their affections onto people.

~~Poor Miss Mai, too! She must have wanted to melt into the ground.~~

A small whimper escapes her, and she releases his hand to cover her mouth with the side of her hand, face going as red as her robes. ]

H-He's always... been known as someone who carves his own path. M-My grandfather's sworn brothers serve him, a-and they often speak of how he's both mysterious and bold.

[ This is so distracting, but she's not about to let something as simple as an ear nibble trouble her! ]

When I was born, he... attempted to lay claim to my power... but somehow he was not only s-stopped but... as the Oracle, even a-as a child.. I was able to protect my home from his onslaught. Our powers clashed a-and... many years later, I.. somehow ended up summoning him again, wh-when I needed help. Something happened the night I was born- it bound us. And weakened him...

[ She glances away, her face warm as she tries to keep her voice steady. ]

One of his former subordinates... tried to lay claim to my power, and pl-placed a curse on me. It would make men go insane with my scent... and because of it, the Demon King was cursed too. Bound to me, and unable to be at full power so long as he was. H-He believed that if we wed and lay with one another, the curse would be subdued, b-but there was no proof of it. And I didn't want- to be his wife simply to break a curse. There's also another way to break it... if I appeal to the Fox Goddess for her aid... but someone with a strong will has to accompany me to her. A-and back home, so long as my fragrance is a threat, I can't leave the palace...

[ She exhales, finally, gently moving her head so he doesn't nibble much more while she catches her breath, but not moving away entirely. ]

... he's made no secret that he wants my Sight for himself. If we wed, I will have to leave my land and obey him... and as Oracle, I can't do that without risking my people who count on me. The Demon King can't leave the Shadow lands, after all.

[ She turns to look over at him, slightly troubled. ]

Forgive me... this isn't even something we need to worry about. I didn't mean to say so much.

[~~Mai openly says she wants to melt into the ground a couple of times when she realizes people were watching, yes!~~]

[He nibbles the shell, sucks on the very top, and licks down the back, all while not missing a single word!]

Power? [Dark and low again, because his mouth is BARELY off her ear, and indeed, he goes right back to his machinations, like the hellish fiend he really is!]

[Her stammering is the BEST, and easily the part he's enjoying the most, sadly. It is basically the kind of power he does enjoy; affecting people, freeing them to their real desires, without the fears of rigid castes or supposed punishing afterlifes to hold them back from enjoying every second of precious fragile life!]

[From just her reactions he can see how sheltered she was, even more than the words. How she was raised even more fragilely than Mai and his own Kitsuno, how being a noblewoman weighs on her just as he often felt trapped by being a Lord as a child. But still she perseveres, with quiet determined strength, refusing to let him get the best of her.]

[The night she was born?]

[He stops anyway, as she's getting a little distressed with just the memory of the curse, and the ways to break it. Being trapped in the palace. So he makes no move to pursue, just listens quietly.]

Why do you have to obey him?

[Puts a finger back over her lips when she apologizes.] I do not wish to trouble you, Kitsuno. [He can call her that now because he doesn't see them as the same anymore, and the pain is severely ebbed. And where the Princess thing had been his own pride before, now he just wants her to dance and enjoy Avalon.]

[He tilts his head.] Oda Nobunaga can't leave the shadowlands? [Well, the alternate Demon King, anyway.]

[Part of him wants to boldly claim he'll solve it. Deal with his imposter (?!) self, and if need be, accompany her to... wherever. He can't say he believes in goddesses, but then, he doesn't much believe in curses either, and magic and... so on.]

[But the hyper rational part of himself knows not to promise such a thing. He never says he'll do something without a direct actionable plan, and here, yet, he doesn't have one. He doesn't know how to leave Avalon, he only just got here, and doesn't want. Kitsuno doesn't want to leave, and that's part of why she was saying not to worry about it, too.]

[Hm.]

[He rests his chin over her shoulder again, and just more or less gives her a hug.]

I can't say I know what he's thinking. Whether his ambitions are really greater than mine or not. But never submit to someone else, not for anything. Hideyoshi, Mitsuhide, Mitsunari, Ieyasu, Masamune, all of them, they aren't submissive to me, understand? Loyalty has to be earned. Their goal isn't faith in me either. It's beyond that. When Japan is prosperous enough, I always wanted to see beyond it. It's such a small island. Being royalty is a real pain, you know? I did follow my father's footsteps, I learned everything I could from him, but Hideyoshi was a peasant. And in some things better than I am, by far. People will never get anywhere by preventing people like him from achieving their true potential, just because his great grandfather didn't smack as many people upside the head.

Maybe your Nobunaga knows if you're with him, he can fight off anyone else and his aura will keep everyone else at bay.

As for Sight... [Spreads his hands with a shrug, which probably feels extra bizarre with his chin over her shoulder!] I wouldn't need it to defeat him. So he sounds weaker than me.

[.... THAT ARROGANCE!!!]

[He wholeheartedly means it though. Who needs knowledge of the future to conquer in the present? Half of what he's fighting against is the use of fortune telling which somehow usually comes out to "sacrifice against the dark spirits!" The opposite of his better vision for Japan.]

[He squeezes his hug slightly!] Be free to dance, and do as you please, Kitsuno. As you say, you have no curse here. [He's not motivated by hormones anyway... at least, not anymore than with anyone else!]

[ She releases a soft breathy chuckle at the mention of him being weak, but she's relieved for the break in which to gather herself. Even if it's making her body warm from what he was doing to her ear— he may find that her skin not only tastes clean, there's a constant fragrance emanating from her, especially stronger around her neck. She lets him embrace her, this time leaning in to allow him his hold and just needing to lean against him a bit herself. ]

... the Shadow lands are where the dead and darkened go. Without a strong hand to reign it, those spirits- mourning and lost and angry, could escape to the Mists and the mortal realm. Some do at times, and cause chaos. He chose to reign it and grow his power from it... but if I became his queen, I would have to reign with him. Neither of us would be able to leave together unless we had someone strong enough to care for it in our absence. So you see...

[ She sighs. ]

It's not that he can't... more that he shouldn't. But he still ventures out through different hosts that summon him... like that, he's able to make use of those that call on him. It's how his reach is so far, despite his role. He's brought upon war and chaos in many places too... it's why he's so feared and revered. He's very much the image of the ruler of the hells that mortals imagine.

[ She smiles quietly at his words, though, nodding to him— though she does find it sweet that he's starting to use her name. In response, she lifts her hand to his cheek and meets his gaze with her own, watching him curiously. ]

I could see him bestowing his power onto you... just like he's done to the mortal Nobunaga. I haven't heard of anyone more victorious... so Master Yaheji claimed.

[ There's a fond smile at the mention of her mortal friend, who she's been forbidden to see again. But she brings her hand up to stroke his hair back as well. ]

... are you more convinced that magic could be at work here, my Lord? This isn't our world... but accepting it will help you make the most of it. I would like that for you.

[He has indeed noticed her scent, and he swears it reminds him of his own Kitsuno and wonders if they use the same soaps, oils, hair solutions, or flowers for perfume.]

[Ah right. The Demon King thing. Not too different from Oda. Well, it's actually just the same, isn't it? Just with spirit realm magic stuff. He's starting to wonder if his skepticism is actually just a trap by magic to keep him from ruling even beyond the mortal realm.]

I don't think I could ever believe someone else gave me power. My power is earned, Kitsuno. It can't be taken away no matter where I go. [Taps his temple.] It's up here.

As for magic. We'll see. [A head tilt.] I'm not sure I want to see into others' heads. That's something Mitsuhide could make use of, but I already can see the truth of people, and that's more than enough for me.

[Truthfully, it's too much for him. He hates it. He hates knowing how dark and corrupt almost everyone is. And the others just naïve and like flowers: easily plucked or trampled. How could the realm of the dead be any worse? Because they're angry and the good are what, reincarnated? If that's true, why isn't humanity better yet?]

I have nothing against embracing new or foreign ways. [Points to the gun on his hip next to the sword, next to Kitsuno's thigh.] But if I have to rely on spirits or fickle gods, then I'd rather just find my own way, one I know can't fail me. Or if it does, at least I'll know why, that it's my own fault.

Ah.. those aren't the only things one can do. I've seen others with different abilities... so perhaps, you'll gain something different, too.

[ Come to think of it, they haven't figured out Nobunaga's magic yet, have they? But his poor oni familiar... she's sympathetic because one of her own retainers who raised her is an oni herself.

She does listen to him, though, finding his words interesting. For all the arrogant airs he puts up, he certainly is determined to carve his own way too, isn't he? It's admirable, even if she wonders how many will have to fall to achieve his dream.

But she nods, before brushing the backs of her fingers against his cheek. ]

Then I hope whatever you set out to do, you achieve it without any setbacks, my Lord. I will hope that for you, even here.

[ He's a fascinating mortal, one who she fully intends to keep an eye on— and if he wishes it, give him the company he desires on her terms too.

She's found her freedom after all, and she doesn't intend to waste it. ]

... until then, if there's anything you wish to have from me— you know you only need to ask. It's... been a while since I've had company like yours.

[ It's a shy admittance but she's certainly not unhappy about it. ]

Only awhile?

[POUTS. He's very one of a kind, Kitsuno! Who else is like him? Since the Demon King can't (shouldn't!) leave the Shadow Realm!]

I haven't really gotten to meet too many people here...

[ Just a few, since she was keeping to herself. She did come from isolation in her own world, after all...

But, she does smile and tips his face up by the chin, her fingers brushing over it. ]

... I suppose you'll just have to be the only one whose company I'll have to think about like that, won't you? The other friends I've made here certainly won't be able to compare.

[Hums quietly.] I didn't mean physically. Though that's good to know. [He's pleased!]

[And makes a mental note that he'll have to keep her entertained and satisfied if he wants her to himself.]

I meant personality-wise. [Huffs. And pouts again!] No one is like me.

Hmm... I wonder.

[ To his remark about there being no one like him, but she's clearly teasing him right now, if the mischief in her expression is any indication.

She she may be, but she still is a kitsune- and they're innately playful regardless. ]

... though I'd have to be sure you're not like anyone else physically too, my Lord. Then again, I've not been this close to anyone at all in years.

[ She gestures to their position to indicate what she means! ]

Do you often take ladies into your lap like this?

TEST DRIVE MEME ⚔️️ 6

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Good place to end? 🤍

YUP! Waiting on Mitsuhide for an AOL post but soon!