December | Event: With A Bang

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With A Bang↲ OOC Plotting

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In the weeks following that rather heavy announcement, anxiety and unease become familiar emotions among the refugees. Eventually, rumors begin circulating throughout the city, as the "first" anniversary of the time loop's end draws ever closer. Even without concrete evidence, it seems some among the native population have started to believe that time will simply loop again as well.

But the refugees have more than a few powerful allies on their side, and with a little bit of work and a little bit of love, they'll find a way to move forward into next year.

For The Big Night

As the day of the potential loop draws near, all refugees will find themselves receiving a special invitation to a Winter Gala being held at the Imperial Palace in Nihonbashi on the night of the 24th. The refugees themselves are the guests of honor, with the Emperor of the East scheduled to be making an appearance. Surely this can't be a coincidence, right?

But unlike the casual atmosphere of the Western Emperor, here in the East, this is likely to be a far more formal affair. Thankfully, they'll have a few opportunities to prepare themselves before the Gala itself.

Dance Dance Perpetuation Yoshiwara, Tokyo
For a fancy Winter Gala being held in the Imperial Palace, it goes without saying that there's going to be dancing. And for those who don't know how, they'll find a certain dance troupe in Yoshiwara is offering free lessons for all refugees attending the Gala.

The dances range from a formal Waltz to traditional dances native to Nippon, with the instructors patiently teaching the steps and correcting dancers as they practice in their studio. They even offer to let the Refugees borrow some of their costumes to practice dancing in more restrictive wear.

But their patience has a limit, and their offer, an ulterior motive. Because the costumes they offer are no ordinary costumes. Built into the fabric is a special magic-conducive material that connects to a small magi-tech device hidden under the collar of each outfit. And when activated, this magi-tech will cause the wearer to move against their will, following the dance routines programmed into the device. Supposedly, these are used for training beginners, as well as ensuring that dancers who need to sync up with one another can do so seamlessly.

Of course, the reality is they're mostly just used for hazing newbies, because the sensation of having your body dance dance dance the night away against your will is unpleasant. But hey, at least you'll remember the steps!

Binary Blowout Shibuya, Tokyo
Over in Shibuya, the Central Station Department Store is holding a special winter sale for couples purchasing matching outfits for ringing in the new year. Thankfully, couples won't have to do anything embarrassing to prove they're together in order to get the sale, and merely need to buy one half of a matching set at the same time.

For the most part, these outfits will consist of traditional kimono and hakama sets. However, it seems gender equality was not taken into consideration for this sale, and with few exceptions, couples looking for up to 75% off luxury clothing may find themselves forced to pick who gets the masculine hakama set in muted colors and who gets the bright and colorful floral kimono set (complete with matching hair accessories). Unfortunately, this seems to extend into their more Western styles as well, perhaps to a more extreme degree. Flapper dresses and fancy suits? Well, at least the sizes are inclusive?

Thankfully, given the cost reduction, it's still worth it to buy the full set versus buying only one half. But seeing as the sets do need to be purchased at the same time by the couple, and the ever so helpful employees will insist on giving each person a proper fitting and even offer professional photos, this may just end up being a more embarrassing experience than they expected.

Winter Wonderland

At last, the day of the party arrives! The palace is tucked away in a large garden in Nihonbashi, set atop a man-made island with a moat surrounding it. No doubt a common sight when traveling through the city, this will be the first time any refugees have been allowed to enter the castle grounds.

Inside the castle proper, the entire main hall has been fitted with a wintry theme, complete with magi-tech powered snowflakes that aren't cold, but fall gently from the ceiling and disappear before touching the floor. As the guests of honor settle in, the Emperor himself makes an appearance, dressed in extravagant blue robes and speaking in a soft, gentle voice.

"Greetings, my dear time refugees. Although previous circumstances prevented me from extending you all a proper introduction sooner, tonight I shall hope to make up for it.

I am Karu, Emperor of the East, and the one responsible for initiating the Time Refugee Project. Although it is customary in Nippon to address me by my title, Tennō, I do not wish to impose such formalities on all of you. Call me as you will.

I am well aware of the many difficulties our world has imposed on you. Hence forth, I hope to become a more reliable ally for all of you in this world. It is my hope that together, we can move forward towards a brighter future, both here in Nippon and in all of your home worlds."

After delivering his speech, he can be found mostly surrounded by his attendants and just quietly enjoying the atmosphere. While guests are welcome to speak with him, they may be quick to notice that he's not quite as eloquent when his words aren't pre-written.

Sus Snax Imperial Palace, Nihonbashi
Beautiful decor aside, the Gala has a live orchestra supplying the music, which seems to be of a more classical affair, with a Nippon-like twist. Dances will shift from playfully energetic to slower and more romantic as the night draws on. Enjoy a slow dance with a sweetie? It might just be your last chance before time resets at the end of the night.

And of course, no party would be complete without plenty of food and drink. Drinks are unlimited, with no shortage of beer, locally-brewed sake, and very expensive wines imported from before the time surges made international travel too dangerous. Should the Emperor really be giving this out for free? If asked, the attendants managing the party will simply explain that the Emperor is not very fond of alcohol, and wishes to share the collection he's acquired over the years with those who will enjoy it.

But at some point after the party has begun, some rather mysterious snacks make an appearance. Although looking like perfectly innocent manju, just one sniff will reveal the unmistakable scent of Uki weed laced within the sugary treat. How did someone smuggle these into the Imperial Palace of all places?? Well, as long as no one's a killjoy, the attendants won't recognize the scent, and the snacks will remain until they've all been eaten!

But what of those looking for a little... privacy? There's far more to the palace than just the main hall, and with just a little sneaking around, they'll find a door that leads to the upper floors. Despite being closed off, it looks like some of them have been decorated for the season as well, although it only takes a glance to see that most of the rooms are clearly unused. Wasn't this the Emperor's home? Well, regardless, there's still plenty of futons to be found in the closet of each tatami-lined room, so there's no reason that guests can't have a little fun in secret.

Mistleno Imperial Palace, Nihonbashi
It seems there's some other sort of trickery afoot at this Gala. All around the main hall, and even in some of the private hallways and outdoor areas, colorful paper cranes can be found hanging from doorways and ceilings. There's only ever one, and they seem to following some kind of colorful theme. Naturally, it should come as no surprise that these little fellas are enchanted, with different effects triggering depending on the color of the crane itself.

The red cranes will cause whoever walks under it to kiss the first person they see. A second variety, with a glittery sheen, will instead make them seek out someone they've never kissed before for a smooch.

The orange cranes will cause whoever walks under them to spontaneously teleport to the side of the last person they were thinking about, whether they want to be there or not. It seems someone thought it was funny to stick one of these above the bathrooms...

The green cranes will only cause an effect if two people walk under one at the same time. This crane will cause their minds to switch places, putting them in the other person's body. Passing under additional green cranes while the effect is still present will cause another swap, until no one knows who anyone is anymore.

The blue cranes will cause whoever passes under it to suddenly confess something out loud to the first person they see. Thankfully, it doesn't have to be a major secret, and may even just cause them to offer a spontaneous compliment, or admit they've have a little bit of the Uki snacks from earlier.

The purple cranes will manifest a random Kizuna effect that may linger for the rest of the night. This can be anything, from a mild physical change like growing flowers in their hair, to a severe mental change like intense levels of possessiveness.

And the pink cranes are of the most predictable sort, causing whoever passes under one to become almost insatiably horny. Thankfully, these ones are the rarest.

But how long will the effects last? Good question! Although none will last past midnight, the range seems to be anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. If pointed out to the Emperor's attendants, they'll immediately begin trying to remove them, but the cranes will simply take flight and flutter to another hidden location. So they weren't intentional, after all... so who put them there?

Party Crashers

As the evening progresses, the source of the mysterious Uki and magical paper cranes is revealed, when a number of Yokai abruptly crash the party. But this is no ordinary group of party crashers, as they're all dressed in imperial regalia, and are joined by the Emperor of the West himself, Katsuragi no Mikoto.

"Salutations, my dear guests from another world! Please, do not let me and my entourage disturb you! You see, I simply have very important business with a certain Karu-chan who stood me up last summer... no regrets, right?"

After a brief kerfuffle, the two emperors quickly take their leave to the very private balcony that absolutely no one can sneak into or blatantly peek at from the windows, not at all. Those hoping for a steamy scene may leave a little disappointed, but the lingering glances and shy smiles shared between the two say plenty on their own.

Boom Boom Boom Nihonbashi, Tokyo
Although the party may have been winding down before, once the Yokai join the group, things grow very lively very quickly. The classical music playing on the dance floor is replaced with some swinging jazz tunes, and dancers may find themselves literally dancing on air, as the Yokai use their magic to allow for weightlessness on the dance floor. They're being very careful that no one falls, and those affected will find their dance steps unaffected by the chance in altitude, but it's sure to be a little disorienting for some.

In addition to the Uki-laced snacks from before, drinks bearing magical effects are also brought out, with each effect carefully labelled to prevent accidental ingestion. The blue soda bottles cause drinkers to grow or shrink in height or size, in varying degrees of strength. Some may simply grow to a respectable six-feet tall, while others may find themselves shrunk down to no more than six-inches tall! The red berry-flavored drink causes those who drink it to become overtly flirty and confident, earning it the nickname "suave soda". And the mysterious sparkling sake causes those who drink it to become imbued with powerful Kizuna magic, causing severe Kizuna side effects to manifest. Strangely, it seems this one effects Yokai very differently, as the intended effect is simply a magical amplifier. Oops?

But aside from escorting their amorous emperor to his long-awaited date with the other emperor, the Yokai accompanying him have one last present to offer the refugees to make the evening even more magical. As the night grows late, a special spell is cast upon the ceiling, making it entirely transparent. And following a brief countdown, a spectacular show of fireworks is played overhead, visible from all over Tokyo. Magical in nature, the colorful bursts often take the shape of creatures, bounding across the sky before bursting into a brilliant show of light and magic.

By the time the show comes to end, few will have noticed that the clock has long since passed midnight.

Your Best Friend Everywhere, Nippon
It's not until the sun begins to rise that the last of the party goers begin filtering out of the castle and into the streets. Although none of the people sleeping in their homes are aware, it seems yet another time loop has been successfully stopped thanks to the refugees!

...sure, they did cause this one, but it still counts for something!! Though it seems they'll be left with no definitive answer for exactly how the time loop was prevented in the end. Maybe someone just needed to let loose a little for once?

Over the next few days, things really do seem to be progressing as normal. And more importantly, the people seem to be in even higher spirits than before. As another year safely passes by without any word of another loop, the native population begins to feel a true sense of relief, as if this year was proof that the time loop was truly over. Perhaps this is why scienz_rulz_1899 was so insistent that no one else find out the truth: because she knew just how important this peace of mind would be for the people of Nippon.

As thanks for their efforts, all refugees will find a gift addressed them to delivered to wherever it is they're staying -- and regardless of where. How did it find their way to them? It seems she still has her secrets! Each gift will include either a box of fancy pastries, a bottle of wine, or a small amount of money for those who can't enjoy either. And alongside that, an item from their home world that they would be happy to see again.

And at the bottom of each box is a small card, printed in their native tongue: from your best friend, Tomoko.

OOC Notes
Welcome to Jikan's December event! Please direct any questions to the Question Thread in the OOC Plotting post.

• While there is no official dress code, characters will ICly be encouraged to dress up for the occasion! For outfit ideas, consider searching 1920s fashion trends and Taisho era fashion!

• Feel free to make the effects of the paper cranes and drinks as mild or as strong as you'd like! Only the sparkling sake is alcoholic.

• Attempting to destroy the cranes will cause them to fly away. With effort, they can be torn up, but the effects they cause will linger unless burned to ashes. They are not living creatures, so don't feel bad about it.

• Characters who are in one of the upper floors when the fireworks begin will also experience an invisible ceiling. However, thanks to the way the magic works, the floor will not be invisible, and those on the floors below will not see them fuckin'. Unless you want them to, in which case, exactly one room will have this effect for all you exhibitionists out there.

• The item received in their gift from Tomoko/scienz_rulz_1899 can be normal or magical in nature, but it must be something they would want to see again, and something that would realistically fit in a large box. They do not need to attend the Gala to receive this item.

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[lyingstars]

[Normally Kazuha is difficult to read, that near permanent smile on his face and steady tone masking much of what Scaramouche looks for when dealing with people. His way of thinking doesn't help in understanding, often being unpredictable enough to confuse or catch him off guard. It's something he can't stand, struggling just to figure the other Inazuman out whenever they're together.

However that's slowly becoming less the case in this moment. He notices immediately the moment Kazuha's smile falters, how tight he holds onto him, the way his expression shifts into something more displeased, and the Harbinger realizes he's upset him. It should be something he's pleased about, actually being able to tell for once, of an expression leaning towards those he often finds amusing on humans.

He can't stop the uncomfortable feeling that washes over him, that feeling of being sick but not that he often feels when Kazuha acts certain ways around him. Like he's unsure of just what he feels, of what he's supposed to feel. He doesn't like that the samurai's upset and he isn't sure what he's supposed to take from that.]

Friend... I don't know if I'd call her that.

[Friend, a word he's yet to really use for anyone in Nippon. A word he never really used back in Teyvat. Vennessa is someone he doesn't mind spending time with, someone that doesn't annoy him and he can talk to. But friend still seems a strong word to use.]

Should I be insulting you? I didn't want to interrupt your time with your friends, that's all--

[Kazuha pulls him closer and he practically splutters in surprise. His hand that isn't being held firm enough to stop him from leaving finally comes up to grab tightly onto the fabric of the samurai's sleeve. It's clear enough that there's no way for him to worm his way out of this. If he was going to be forced to speak with the man then he may as well try and explain.

Perhaps it would be enough to stop him from feeling whatever it was that was plaguing him, seeing Kazuha upset for once.]

If we're all going to forget then what's the point? Better to not waste the time thinking on all the things we're going to lose. Your heart is so sentimental, I had no intention of forcing that upon you.

[Despite his words it's not impossible to see how it's something he's trying to convince himself of as well, eyes refusing to meet the samurai's gaze. Building his walls so high and running at the slightest chance of even the smallest crack.]

[leafwhistle]

[Usually by now, Kazuha would have wrangled control of his expression and emotions again, reminding himself that he must remain calm. While feeling isn't forbidden, losing composure does not help resolve the situation. Yet, the frown lingers on his face. He can't seem to regain his smile, weeks of pent up feelings bared open like a fresh wound.]

What would you consider a friend then?

[It was early November when Kazuha had realized he'd grown close to the Harbinger. It had disturbed him at first, though he'd grown to feel calmness in his heart once accepting it to be true. He thought he'd be fine with it being inequal, to have his warmth met with the cold reception of someone who doesn't feel the same.

He finds he's not.]

You're insulting me by implying you'd be interrupting me.

[Scaramouche might not meet his eyes, but Kazuha keeps his eyes on him. As the music swells, the steps of his feet speed up. He manhandles him, dipping him since he has a grip on his sleeve, their hands still entwined.

The explanation just makes the flush to his cheeks deepen, but it's out of frustration than embarrassment. Was the immortal attempting to tell him that he was sparing him? The samurai has a hard time believing that to be the reason.]

So you thought it better to not say goodbye at all? To just pretend I don't exist? An unpleasant trait to pick up from your creator.

[Kazuha shakes his head. Though he's dressed quite well, much of his hair has come loose of his ponytail during the night. He looks slightly disheveled. Maybe it just helps reflect what's in his heart. Too sentimental, it seems, for Scaramouche. He is a fool for ever caring about the Fatuus.]

In the next cycle, maybe you'll strike me dead on sight.

[lyingstars]

You make it sound as though I have plenty of experience to decide such things.

[Witnessing friendships is much different than experiencing them, knowing what in most cases drew people together, what kept them close. How would he ever be able to feel the same when he lacked one vital aspect that everyone else had. The Harbinger has no reference for what criteria a friend to him needed to meet. If he would ever be so foolish as to want a friend.

He has no friends and yet he finds himself lonely for the company of a select few.]

Certainly there are other people you would rather spend your time with.

[Somehow Scaramouche manages when Kazuha decides to increase the speed of their steps, his grip tightening the moment the man feels the need to dip him, as though he's unsure if he plans on dropping him. But that would give him too much of an opening to run, and he wants to run, to get away from a conversation he didn't want to be having. Something he's aware the other man knows.

It's clear enough now that he won't be going anywhere, that the samurai wasn't going to let him go. Offering up his thoughts is all he can do, it should be easier with the knowledge that they won't remember this conversation soon enough, that regardless of what he says or what happens time will just loop and it'll be like it never happened. It should be easier, but Scaramouche struggles to put the jumble in his mind into words. He's not certain he wants to.]

I thought it would be a good way to lessen the pain of loss, seeing as we don't have a choice in the matter. It wasn't meant to hurt - the less you see of me the less you'll care.

[It's not meant to hurt Kazuha, and it's certainly not meant to hurt him - an ache the Harbinger hasn't felt in a long time. A part of him realizes that some of it is born from fear, that he's the one trying to avoid loss. Thankfully it's only a small part of him willing to acknowledge it, and he's able to push it to the back of his mind. This was for Kazuha's benefit and his alone.

The comment on similarities between him and his creator he lets slide - just this once - though the look that finds its way onto his face is telling enough that he's not pleased with it. A look that only seems to grow more irritated, brows furrowing, as the idea of him killing the other man is placed forward.]

I have no desire to kill you Kazuha. Even if I don't remember.

[leafwhistle]

Don't be daft. Surely you must have some idea to have formed at least an idealized concept, out of observation or just literature.

[Such harsh words were more usual for Kazuha's behavior with handling the immortal a few months ago; more recently, he's been much more gentle and patient with how he handles him. It seems that his patience has run out in the moment, his frustration bleeding through. His brows are knitted in plain irritation.]

You continue to insult me. Time is precious right now. I don't intend to waste it on people who aren't important to me.

[It's maybe not the tenderest of confessions, but with the hours counting down, Kazuha does not intend to conceal his feelings right now. That the 6th Harbinger had become a close friend, a confidant, wasn't something he could deny further. If it wasn't true, then he wouldn't feel this way at Scaramouche's rejection.

And it is rejection. The samurai wants to shake him. He has a little bit of a temper when he loses his patience, and it has no small part in the rough way he handles him, pulling him close again after the dip. He bares teeth.]

You don't get to decide how I'd feel.

[lyingstars]

[The words that leave the samurai are rougher than what he's grown accustomed to, akin to the way he'd spoken to him when the truth about what he was had come to light. It's a harshness that makes Scaramouche wince at how sudden and out of place it feels, something he believed they had moved past. An anger that bares similarities to before they were whatever it was they were, but there's something else there.

Knowing the reasoning for the shift in Kazuha's attitude does little to help. He lacks the ability to comfort himself, so how could he offer up anything to the samurai that would assist him - to soothe what he felt he had done to him. The twisting inside of him, the jumble in his head, it's all much too overwhelming for him to place, to work out in the time he's been given.

The Sixth opens his mouth, trying to find the words, anything that may be able to explain himself, but nothing comes out. How can he explain what a friend is to him when he has none? Scaramouche could explain what he's seen, what friends are supposed to be, but that's not what Kazuha wants, it's not what he's asked.

If the man wanted him uncomfortable, he's certainly gotten his wish.]

I know what others consider friends. That doesn't make it any easier when I've gone centuries without any.

[He finally meets the other Inazuman's gaze, his own pain concealed behind his eyes, voice coming out a bit more bitter than he intends. He doesn't want to be here, he doesn't want this conversation, but Kazuha is pushing him when he has nowhere to run.

It hurts, all of this, and he isn't sure if the Gnosis is to blame or the world itself. Perhaps he truly is weak.]

Important. Why do you even care, Kazuha? I'm a Harbinger, a creation of the woman you want dead - anyone else would be glad to be rid of me. Why do I need friends when I'm just going to lose everything again? To the time loop, to it turning out to be lies. I'm tired of it.

[leafwhistle]

[It's the pitiful lack of effort that keeps frustration bubbling in Kazuha's heart, because where he might drop into despair, he first fills with anger. Anger is almost easier to process, keeps him driving forward instead of retreating into himself. It's a terrible fault of his.

Centuries without friends? Later on Kazuha would look back on his actions and feel ashamed for the sharp laugh that comes out of his mouth. To him, it's obvious it's on purpose. The excited thrill he gets from his moment of sadism is short lived, effectively snuffed out by the questioning.

It's a good line of questioning. It's ones he's been asking himself for weeks now.

As Scaramouche can finally meet his eyes, the samurai finds he no longer wants to look into them; he uses the beat of the song to twirl the Harbinger. Taking hold of both his hands to twist him into his grip, crosses his arms in an X as he pulls him chest to back.]

I can control what my heart feels as much as a sailor can control the way the wind is blowing. Why does it feel the way it feels? Sometimes all I can do is follow it. You're right. I'm terribly sentimental.

[This hurts though. He feels like an idiot. The Harbinger probably feels the way his breathing hitches a little, and Kazuha imagines it probably feels like victory to him. He searches his thoughts, trying to organize them into an answer.]

You seemed to... care about me. Was I mistaken? If not a friend, then what is it you've been feeling towards me?

[lyingstars]

I--

[Scaramouche isn't expecting a laugh from Kazuha, a sound of snide amusement he's all to familiar with from his own experiences. Something he finds he doesn't like nearly as much when it's directed towards him, and he lets his face scrunch up into one of his signature scowls.

Sparks crackle along his arms though none make the jump to the samurai, and he can't bring himself to do anything more. Trapped and helpless in the grip of the person he's spent the most time with in Nippon. Someone whose company he found pleasant, who he found himself missing when he'd cut himself off from the other man to try and make sense of the impending time loop.

The electricity dies the moment the man spins him, pulls him back against his chest, and Scaramouche can do nothing but shut his eyes trying to focus.]

Why are you so intent of hearing me call you a friend? In a few hours it won't matter what I think. Why must I put to words how I feel. It won't stop what's to come. You're--

[He swallows down the rest of his words, mind reeling as he can feel the way Kazuha's breath jerks. A pain runs through him, his stomach tumbling into knots as he feels all too lost at what to do - to say. Hurting Kazuha is something Scaramouche realizes he doesn't want to do, but it only makes his mind struggle further in its attempts to latch on to the correct words.

Since when has he allowed himself to get close enough to someone like he had with Katsuragi. This wasn't quite the same, but it's a pain that's familiar enough, something the Sixth can recognize in some sense. He hadn't dealt with it well back then, and he's learned nothing to help him in doing so now.

It feels as though his throat is much too tight, that he's suffocating when he doesn't even need to breathe, and for some time he merely follows the steps in silence. Allows his feet to move along with the music.

When the moment of silence grows too deafening he takes a breath in and tries again.]

You're not just some way to entertain myself, if that's what's bothering you. The way you treat me is how I would expect a... friend to. And what I feel is--

[To admit that much is a feat in itself, though the Sixth still finds himself struggling. It's one thing to claim he feels that the vagrant treats him as though they are friends, but to call him one admits to himself something all too painful. It would be to claim that he cares, that there is some attachment there where there never should have been.

The Gnosis hadn't provided him with the heart he so desperately desired, could he even care in the way Kazuha wanted? If it wasn't enough, when the samurai realized, would he be discarded as he always was? Not human enough to fit in when it became apparent just how much he stood out. There's something about that idea that makes his mouth feel dry and his stomach lurch.

A bond exists between them, and Scaramouche finds his mind wandering in the direction of it. It was something he hated initially, though he'd grown to find some comfort in it, even if he wishes it didn't mean he'd find maples in his hair. If they had a bond would that mean him capable of what was wanted from him? Even if the Gnosis didn't work, would the magic of Nippon make up for what he lacked?

Was it even something he wanted?

Scaramouche's hands tighten against Kazuha's grip, unsure and unsteady. He finds they won't stop shaking.]

I desire your company. But friendships are terribly foolish when you last for an Eternity. More so when we only have a few hours left.

[He sighs, voice growing quiet that it's little above a whisper.]

Is it meant to hurt like this?

[leafwhistle]

No. But it does, sometimes.

[When he was talking to Diluc, the young master of the Kaedehara clan had been confident with himself that he could cut Scaramouche from his life cleanly, if he needed. He still tries to think he could, but he's realized that he's been untruthful with himself. It could be done, but it would wound his already scarred heart. He's bled so much in his short like— how much more?

Kazuha gives up the pretense of dancing. Their feet still on the edge of the dancefloor, his arms curled around the other Inazuman's chest as he traps him against him, his hands held in his hands. Stumbled words that make his heart ache and shudder with relief at the same time. It doesn't change the turmoil he felt, that Scaramouche tried to reject him and yet he feels lighter.

It's not him. He's not bored of him.

Letting out a heavy sigh, the samurai turns his head and presses his cheek against the back of the doll's shoulder, the weight of his head heavy against him.]

If limited time is a tenet against action, then why would humans do anything at all? We live short lives... Every moment is precious. Even if we forget, we'd not so easily be pried apart. Fate made us meet. I'm sure of it.

[He has faith.

Scaramouche smells good, he notices. He's noticed he smells good before, but it's not often the other allows him to be this close to him. This is a stolen moment, one he's taken for himself.

He knows it's only temporary.]

Would you like to dance with me somewhere more private?

[lyingstars]

[Hearing that what he's potentially feeling isn't meant to be as painful as it was, but happened on occasion, does little to help the Harbinger in understanding. The information offers no solutions, nor clarifications. Instead Scaramouche is left to wonder why it hurt to begin with if it wasn't meant to. How if it was a rare occurrence what caused it.

How is he meant to ease the ache when he could only place parts of the issue together, mind trying to focus on far too many things. There's only so much he's capable of working out on his own, so so much he was willing to acknowledge to himself. He's admit far too much already if he thinks too long on it.

Scaramouche feels the weight on his shoulder, the samurai's arms tight around him, still holding onto his hands no matter how much they shake. Glad that they've stopped moving finally. He isn't used to this, being close to someone, finding himself bothered at the idea of them being upset. Despite Kazuha's vaguely rough treatment he still can't work out why he cares so much. What he's done to endear himself to the man.]

Tch, fate. You really think that's responsible for this? That we have no choice in the matter?

[Fate has always been a strange subject for the Sixth, seeing no reason not to apply it to mortals - he knows they're bound to it - but hating the idea that it could also hold some sway over him. It had no rights to a divinely created being such as himself, yet there are moments where he questions.

Not that it matters. He would push back against it until it realized he wasn't meant to be touched, that he wasn't like the humans and could decide everything for himself. He had the right to make choices beyond it.

Would he want to be drawn back towards Kazuha after time looped? There's only been one moment they've spend together that he hasn't enjoyed in some way, and they were long past that. That he desires the man's company is something he's already admitted, but would it be wise if everything were to start over? If he could save himself the potential pain.

A thought he's unsure of, not that it matters what he decides at this point.

Taking in a breath, Scaramouche focuses on the now, tries to push everything else aside in his mind. Try to avoid thinking on things like feelings and working them out, of what's to come and what he might or might not want. It doesn't make his head all that more clear, but he can at least keep his attention mostly on the conversation.]

...That would be far preferable to here.

[leafwhistle]

[How could he explain what Scaramouche is feeling briefly? Kazuha would need a whole night to talk to him about how growing close to people is joy as well as suffering, and their actions play a large piece into it. Maybe more. They don't really have that time at the moment, do they?

He clutches at the doll like he's scared he'll run off the moment he loosens his grip. Part of Kazuha realizes he is— Scaramouche had been so determined to avoid him before. He didn't want this conversation at all.]

We've looped once before. We might have met in that life.

[He hates how desperate and weak he sounds, trying to justify reasons why he met the Harbinger, why he had grown close to him despite his feeling about the Electro Archon and the Fatui. Scaramouche is likely to mock him for it, he thinks— his weakness.

Kazuha slowly eases the tight hold he has on the other Inazuman, his cheek brushing against his shoulder as he lifts his head again. He keeps one hand tight on Scaramouche's own, tugging him along as he steps back and then strides determinedly towards one of the balcony doors. He lifts his other hand to push at it, the gust of cold winter air blowing strands of white hair like snow around his face.

Once the doors have closed behind him, he turns to look at the other man again.]

Why did you come here tonight?

[lyingstars]

We might have.

[There's no way to argue if they'd met in the previous loop, unable to recall anything that happened then, just as soon they would forget they had been... friends this time around. Had they met in the previous loop would it have been fate to draw them close this time around? Was that the only reason he and Kazuha had grown close? Scaramouche dislikes the thought, that his desire for the samurai's time was something he didn't choose for himself.

No, even if they had met previously, everything that had happened had been his choice. He enjoyed Kazuha's company because of all they'd done together, not because fate had compelled him into it.]

If fate is what you want to believe responsible for this, so be it. However, I would rather not give credit for our friendship to something outside of our control... can I not simply enjoy your company because I want to.

[The immortal shakes his head, allowing the samurai to pull him along until they're standing out on the balcony. He notices how despite not being entirely trapped in by the man's grip, the hold Kazuha keeps on him remains tight. With how he's acted, how he tried to run, he can't find reason to blame him.]

Am I not allowed? Perhaps I was tired of being alone.

[The Harbinger sees little reason to give much explanation, not when he's gone through multiple reasons in his own head. He's admit to plenty this night already, how much more detail Kazuha wants from him he doesn't know, but he's not certain how much more he can offer. How much more he has to admit to himself first.

A sigh escapes him, eyes fixed on the other Inazuman now that he can face him and they're alone. He's unsure as to what else he can offer, the feelings inside him not having dissipated. Everything about this is difficult, so he pushes his focus to something else.

With his free hand Scaramouche reaches up to tuck some of the loose strands of hair behind Kazuha's ear, pausing as though there's a particularly troubling thought he's working through. After a moment he pulls the tie from the samurai's hair, running his fingers through it as a makeshift comb. It's not perfect, but his hair loose looks much nicer with his current outfit than it does tied up.]

How is it that even when you dress up you can't keep your hair from being a mess.

[leafwhistle]

That's oddly sentimental of you, Scaramouche-san.

[Kazuha knows that the Harbinger has no interest or faith in fate like he does. The samurai has a deep rooted belief in that bonds like these happen for a reason, while Scaramouche clearly has distain for it. Still, he waits until they're on the balcony to respond, looking at the other man in the eyes when he says it.

He shouldn't let him touch him so freely. It would only hurt him more when the doll attempts to slip away from him again, not entirely convinced he'd stay. Kazuha's grip around Scaramouche's hand becomes more gentle and less like a cage, his hair fluttering in the winter breeze. It's curly and fine, like dragon's beard candy, not like the godling's dark perfection. They're two near opposites in ways. They should be incompatible.]

I didn't have someone to do it for me. It does what it wants.

[It's maybe a bit biting, a clear call back to the other's confession about their mutual friend doing his hair. He must find forgiveness in his heart, even if it's difficult to understand. His eyes flick downward and he takes a deep breath, his expression neutral.

Scaramouche does look beautiful. He always does. It would hardly be a compliment to tell him so. What stands out is his choice of outfit. He reaches out, smoothing the fingers of his free hand over the pale cloth at his shoulder.]

You're wearing the clothes I picked out. Are you sure you didn't want to see me? Did you think I wouldn't notice?

[lyingstars]

[The Harbinger clicks his tongue, refusing to justify the comment with an answer. He hardly finds himself sentimental, never caring enough to grow attached, he wouldn't normally consider himself capable of caring to such an extent. Perhaps that's why the thought crosses the samurai's mind, because he finds he does care even when he shouldn't. Was it possible that the man had rubbed off on him in some way? Was it the Gnosis or something else?

It's not easy to ignore his feelings as he wants - the pain he feels rooted deep in his chest and the concern that knits itself into his brow. The grip the other Inazuman has on him loosens and he would be lying to say that for a moment he doesn't think of running from the conversation again. But Kazuha doesn't deserve that, not after everything they've already said and how uncomfortable it had been to see him upset.

Scaramouche isn't sure if he's really fixed that issue yet. The way the samurai comments on his hair doesn't feel as though everything is resolved.]

I can fix it now.

[It's an offer, his hand pulling back still holding onto the tie. He hadn't given much choice in letting Kazuha's hair free, he has no actual comb or brush with him, but he thinks he can make it work. It wouldn't be the best he could do, but given how unruly he knows the man's hair can get, any effort would look nice.

He says nothing as the samurai brushes a hand over his shoulder, red creeping to his ears as a few small maples flutter into existence as though they're weaved into his braid. Why had he picked the outfit Kazuha had chosen for him back when they celebrated their birthdays?]

There's a lot of people here, why would I expect you to notice? I hadn't decided what I wanted to do yet... but you seemed to be having fun.

[leafwhistle]

[A breeze blows by them, cold enough that Kazuha's breath comes out in a puff of steam. His cheeks are slightly rosy, blushing from the cold, and against all the dark colors of his clothes the pink of his cheeks stands out starkly on his pale cheeks and hair.

He watches the concern etch across Scaramouche's features, wondering what he's thinking at the moment, the other man's eyes fixed on his hair rather than his face. His hand remains settled on the doll's shoulder, resting gently on his arm.

The offer to fix his hair drags out a fond look from him, more reflex than on purpose. Scaramouche is the one who pulled it free, causing it to need to be fixed, and now is offering to fix it. What a metaphor for the man's conduct in general. Despite how they have hurt and frustrated him, Scaramouche's flaws are one of the things that endeared him to Kazuha.

Kazuha keeps that thought to himself.]

I will let you do as you like.

[Hair down or up, it doesn't matter to him. It wasn't like it was a combat scenario anyway.

The samurai watches the little maples unfurl in the doll's hair, and for a moment his expression remains unreadable, his hand lifting from his shoulder to touch one of the small leaves that were a sign of their bond. They'd been absent before— why now?]

So you were watching me?

[lyingstars]

[Eyes fall to Kazuha's face, the visible breath and colour that spreads across his cheeks making the Harbinger wonder if perhaps the balcony was too chilly a place for him. It was quiet, far more private than being back inside, the samurai had chosen it as a place for them to speak - to dance - but was the other Inazuman sacrificing his own comfort for him.

Aside from the small indicators to the slight shift in temperature the man seems fine, but how often does he manage to read him correctly when it doesn't read clear on his face, in his movements.

At least his offer to fix Kazuha's hair is met with something positive, that much he can see in the slight change of his features. Though it's still odd that he's been able to read anything regarding the samurai at all.]

It would be easier if I had both hands. I won't leave if you let go... we could find somewhere warmer if it's too cold for you out here.

[Scaramouche does his best to sound like he means it, that once freed he won't bolt. Even as it had crossed his thoughts, mind struggling to understand his own feelings. Even after Kazuha had little reason to let him go with how much he tried to avoid him.

At the touch to his own hair a few more maples flicker into existence.]

It was hard not to notice you showing off.

[leafwhistle]

[The first step to alleviating some anxiety is pinpointing and addressing one cause of it. Scaramouche effectively acknowledges that Kazuha is fearful of him slipping away again, which gives him some reassurance and faith needed to trust him again. Trust. What an odd thing to apply to a Fatui Harbinger.

A few stars cluster in his hair, like tiny constellations.

Still, he's a bit slow to release his hand. Kazuha looks downward where their hands are grasped, searching his feelings why, now, he doesn't care to let go. His hand pulls away from the maples to join his other, clasping the hand between both. He brings their twined hands to his chest for a moment, thumping it over his heart.]

No, I want to be alone with you. And the stars are lovely tonight.

[His grip loosens, finally letting him go. He starts to turn his back to him, then pauses, looking over his shoulder at Scaramouche's face. His eye flicker over his expression, calculating, and the sly smile spreads across his lips.]

Maybe I was trying to get your attention.

[lyingstars]

[It almost comes as a surprise to see the tiny stars twinkle to life in the samurai's hair, the sight bringing forth the faintest quirk to his lips, and Scaramouche feels something akin to relief upon seeing them. There's not nearly as many as he's grown accustomed to seeing, however despite their bond he wasn't quite expecting to see any with the way he'd been avoiding the other Inazuman. That they're even there means Kazuha isn't as upset with him as he started, he thinks.

The Harbinger stands in silence, waiting patiently for the samurai to let go of his hand - if he would even allow it - yet instead he finds the other man's hand come to wrap it up tighter. He watches Kazuha lift it up, holding his hand against his chest, and he can practically feel the colour on his face deepen from the heat spreading through it.]

I suppose they are.

[He hasn't exactly looked at them once since showing up at the Gala, the sky and the stars nowhere near his focus for the night. When time was growing short, there were far better things to place his attention on.

It shouldn't fluster him so much to hear the samurai state he wished to have time alone with him. The man had stated as much on the dance floor, though with words less blunt. It catches him off guard and leaves him floundering.

When Kazuha finally lets him go he has to take a moment to focus himself, before he brings his hands up to gently run through his hair. Fingers carefully push some of the stars aside, but before he can truly start the man is glancing back at him and he's certain he must be saying these things as a way to punish him for what he did.]

There are far better ways to get my attention than using your vision to show off to your dance partner. You got lucky.

[leafwhistle]

[The pink tinting the doll's perfect features makes Kazuha glad he'd gotten the chance to corner him. This is better— rather than frustration and hurt, he feels laughter creeping into his chest again. He giggles softly, raising his knuckles to his lips to hide it, as he watches the Harbinger's expression.]

Did I? Would you care to enlighten me? Should I have called your name?

[His eyes linger on him a moment, a coquettish quirk to the corner of his mouth, then turns his head to let Scaramouche do as he'd like with his hair. It's been growing since he'd arrived in Nippon; not the longest it's ever been, but still an impressive mane of curly hair, the red like a bloodstain on snow.]

Hm, what did you think in any case? I've found, with my Vision, I can help enhance people's elemental abilities. Perhaps this is what the Gods had wanted when giving me my gifts— to perceive more and influence it.

[lyingstars]

[The samurai laughs and Scaramouche can't help the huff that escapes him, finding far less amusement in the situation than his companion. A laugh however is better than before, back on the dance floor when he'd clearly been upset. It means things are better, even if slightly.

Gently he tugs at the samurai's hair, a subtle warning to behave himself, though he's likely to do nothing if Kazuha chooses to ignore it. He finds he doesn't have the energy to to argue, nor does he actually want to hurt the other Inazuman.]

Absolutely not. You'd look like a fool just yelling out my name in there.

[Had Kazuha wanted his attention walking up to him and demanding it would have given more results than simply calling out for him. Hearing his name called would have pulled his attention but done nothing to get him to approach, not that the Harbinger chooses to voice any of this - if the samurai wants more attention from him he can work it out for himself, he has no intention of telling him how to go about it.

As the man turns he carefully runs his fingers through snow white hair, considering if he wants to do more than simply try and straighten it some with his hands alone. He could make less of it stick out easily enough, but with how unruly Kazuha's hair was perhaps he ought to do more than that.]

It was... pretty.

[He muses, unable to comment on how his abilities enhanced other elements. A useful ability he won't deny, but without seeing it in combat there isn't much for him to say on it. Kazuha is strong, he knows that much, though how strong remains to be seen.

Finally deciding to himself, Scaramouche separates some of the hair on the samurai's right side, sliding it between his fingers in three portions as he sets to giving him a small braid next to the striking patch of red.]

[leafwhistle]

[If Scaramouche was intending to sour Kazuha's mood again or punish him for his playfulness by pulling on his hair, then he clearly failed. As the white haired Inazuman's head is tugged back, his smile only turns more self-satisfied. He enjoys teasing the Harbinger a great deal, knowing how much he can get away with.]

You think so? Maybe you would have liked it.

[He should reel himself in some, for the doll's sake. He can't spend the whole night teasing and tormenting him, even as much as it might be delightful for himself. It wasn't like Kazuha wanted to push him into running off again.

For Scaramouche's sake, he doesn't say much while the other man brushes his fingers through and plays with his hair. Though his smile lingers, no new stars have emerged in his hair. Probably for the best, as the Harbinger's hands could easily push them out of the way for the moment.

He likes the feeling of his hands in his hair probably more than he should.]

Thank you. I've only had my Vision for a few years, though I'm proud of how I've learned to use it.

[How terrified he'd been at the thought of losing his Vision to the Decree. He thinks it would have been a fate worse than death itself. Yet... it's still possible, isn't it? As long as he has a Vision, there's always the chance of it being lost or taken.

His fingers brush over the Visions tied to his hip.]

I learned some good news tonight.

[lyingstars]

[Scaramouche scoffs as the words leave the samurai's mouth, unamused by the idea that he could have possibly enjoyed watching the man calling out for him in the middle of a party. There's no entertainment to be gained from that, just annoyance and unwanted attention. He doesn't need, nor does he want, more eyes on him than necessary.]

Why would I like you making a fool of yourself and dragging me into it?

[The immortal shakes his head, Kazuha didn't go that route and he's thankful for it. Though their meeting had been unplanned and unwanted on his part - the conversation difficult enough that he isn't certain if he's glad it happened - he does find moments like this pleasant, hands gently combing though the other man's hair. Scaramouche moves his focus fully to the task at hand, soft hair between his fingers as he works a neat braid into existence and allows silence to settle between them.

It looks nice he thinks, set to the side as the vagrant normally did his ponytail - far neater than the mess that had become of his head before he began to work on it. Still the Harbinger can do nothing about the hair that curls and sticks out atop his head, how wild all of it wishes to be even as he ties off the end of the braid. There's a charm to it, not that he'll ever admit to it, even as a smile tugs at the corners of his lips.

When Kazuha finally speaks up again he's pulled from his thoughts, expression returning to something more neutral.]

You're quite skilled from what I've seen. Though I can't say much for your combat ability. I imagine our one fight you were trying as much as I was.

[With the samurai's hair as good as it was going to get with what they had, he takes a step back. Definitely much better than the ponytail he sported earlier, and just as nice as it had been loose.

He doesn't want to forget any of this.

Turning his gaze away, Scaramouche quietly holds out his hand - a silent offering. A way to anchor himself to the moment, unable to flee should his own feelings grow too unbearable again.]

Oh? What good news could there possibly be tonight?

[leafwhistle]

[It might be romantic. The thought briefly crosses Kazuha's mind, though he chooses not to say that. He's only just really starting to consider that what he feels towards the immortal might just be a little... more than he'd thought at first. Friendship had terrified Scaramouche. He doesn't want to propose anything else.

It was unlikely to be reciprocated anyway— a human ronin like himself had nothing to offer. He's no one special.]

Oh, so you don't want people to know I was looking for you? Maybe I should have asked less people then.

[Please, Kaedehara, reign in the teasing. Though that was the truth at least— he'd asked a few people if they'd seen him around, knowing that he was present at the party but avoiding him.

It's been a while since anyone has braided his hair. It's very relaxing, which is a boon when he's been too emotional, and he lets out a deep sigh when Scaramouche ties off the end of his hair, leaving the braid dangling to the side of his shoulder. At first, he thinks maybe the other just braided his hair off center, until he reaches back and touches it realizing it's on purpose.

Oh, he... noticed.

His hand finds the offered one easily, almost on reflex, their fingers lacing together as he reaches out with his other to pull the other Inazuman closer by a hip. It's almost the stance they had while dancing, but Kazuha doesn't drag him back into step. He smiles at him, his expression warm.]

A friend of mine brought news of things I don't remember. He said I faced the Shogun in combat and lived. I'm traveling in Liyue.

[lyingstars]

I never said that. I don't care if people know.

[Despite the words Scaramouche's fading blush returns, dusting across his face once more in a deep red. He knows what the samurai is doing, attempting to embarrass him as though people knowing he was being looked for was something to want to hide. Why would he care that Kazuha had been asking around for him? While they didn't often spend time in public places, he never once hid their - friendship he reminds himself - never had he hid it.

It would have been annoying had anyone he asked - if he had actually asked - come up to him. The immortal's night however, had been free of many unwanted and overly chatty interactions. He felt no lingering eyes and no one was foolish enough to approach him to speak of the samurai.

There's an ease to how Kazuha slots their hands back together, as though he were waiting for it, pulling him closer. And he allows it, as he allows far too much when it comes to the other Inazuman. There's an odd comfort in being close, the hold on him gentle in comparison to earlier when all he wanted to do was run.

The news has him glancing up, peering into striking red eyes in surprise. He fought the Shogun and lived? It's not something Scaramouche would expect, humans didn't just come out of a fight with her intact - the samurai was much stronger than he predicted, and he feels something akin to relief wash over him.

Back in Teyvat, Kazuha doesn't die. He'll live which means that perhaps he'll stop being so reckless, acting as though his death has already been sealed. The thought has him offering a small smile of his own, though slightly strained.]

I'm glad to hear it. I expect details when you have them... if we remember.

[leafwhistle]

[Maybe it was Kazuha who was the only one self conscious about it at first, being seen spending time with a Harbinger knowing that they were involved with Inazuma's issues. He's stopped being worried at some point— sometime just before Scaramouche started avoiding him.

Watching the emotions play out on the other man's face is interesting. The samurai was aware that the immortal disliked it when he speaks of his mortality, the inevitability that he'd reach his end, though he had been uncertain if he cared or not. Scaramouche's small smile is met with his own, and he reaches with his other hand to rub the back of the doll's knuckles soothingly.]

My friend said I saved his life and blocked her killing blow. I... never thought. [He tilts his head, feeling humble now. Perhaps it was silly to talk of things he doesn't remember himself.] It doesn't seem possible.

[Would Aether lie to him to bring him comfort? He hopes not.]

I should know more soon.

[lyingstars]

[To hear that Kazuha blocked a killing blow to protect a friend isn't nearly as surprising as whose attack he blocked, so willing to give up his own life if it would protect someone he cared for. It's a trait he can both admire and hate, having seen the results of what such selflessness can bring far too many times for his liking.

Befitting of a samurai.]

While her power is not impossible to overcome, that doesn't make you any less of an idiot.

[All things could fall to enough force, his creator and her puppet are no exception. Just as Eternity had made Inazuma susceptible to tampering from within, it made the Shogun complacent, thinking herself in control when clearly she couldn't even grasp the power of her own people.

Still that does not change the fact that most in Kazuha's place would have been struck down, that his strength - while impressive - doesn't make up for how impulsive the decision to act was. No planning, no thought, he could have died, and that he holds a Vision is the only reason Scaramouche can think of that he was even capable of matching the Shogun's strength.

The Harbinger lets out a sigh, shutting his eyes and focusing on the soothing touch to his hand. If somehow time doesn't loop, if they retain their memories and stay friends then at least he knows the vagrant lives. He can berate the man for his recklessness then, when they have more time for it - not now, when there's so little left.]

No more fighting gods. If we're to be friends then I would prefer for it to last.