( open ) February catch-all

[diabolique]

⌛ Who: Wei Wuxian, Wen Kexing, Ouyang, Henry Silver AND YOU!
⌛ What: February catch-all
⌛ When: February
⌛ Where: various
⌛ Warnings: will be added to threads as needed

Wei Wuxian
+

Wen Kexing
+

Ouyang
+

Henry Silver

Comments

Wei Wuxian

[diabolique]

Wen Kexing

[soakedinvinegar]

General Ouyang

[theatrics]

Henry Silver

[inthewood]

[diabolique]

𝑂𝑜𝑑𝑙𝑒𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑁𝑜𝑜𝑑𝑙𝑒𝑠 (ota)

At least one day a week finds Wei Wuxian at his favorite noodle shop in Yoshiwara. Today happens to be that day. He’s dressed in his usual black and red hanfu, long hair tied back with a few feathers sticking out at odd angles. They don’t take well to efforts at being contained. If Wei Wuxian cares about that at all it doesn’t show. He’s sitting by himself, chatting happily with the server (maybe even flirting a little). She already knows his order because, well, he’s there every week at least once. A regular, basically.

It isn’t much longer before the server returns with a jug of rice wine and a bowl of spicy noodles. He smiles brightly, pouring himself a dish of wine before happily slurping at his noodles. It’s definitely not as good as something his shijie would make, but it’s good enough to remind him of home. He’s about halfway through his dish before he notices another patron who seems to be struggling with the menu.

“I recommend the dandan noodles,” he offers unprompted.

𝐼𝑡'𝑠 𝐺𝑜𝑛𝑛𝑎 𝑏𝑒 𝑎 𝐻𝑎𝑝𝑝𝑦 (𝐿𝑢𝑛𝑎𝑟) 𝑁𝑒𝑤 𝑌𝑒𝑎𝑟 (ota)

Celebrations for the New Year make Wei Wuxian feel more at home than he has since his arrival in Nippon. He can be found in Zhongguo Town enjoying the various shops and wares. Especially the food stalls. Any samples being offered are tried and he’s definitely walking around with a bag of mooncakes he may or may not be willing to share.

He joins the others lining the streets to watch the parade, grinning widely as the lion dancers go by. The colorful streamers and familiar dances help him forget he’s in a strange world celebrating a familiar holiday. And when evening falls, Wei Wuxian seeks out a quiet place to watch the fireworks… maybe with someone special (he’s looking at you, Lan Zhan).

𝑆ℎ𝑒 𝑊𝑜𝑟𝑘𝑠 𝐻𝑎𝑟𝑑 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑀𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑦 (ota, potentially nsfw)
cw: nudity

Wei Wuxian’s been a fixture at Sakuranbo since he arrived in Nippon— about a year ago by his reckoning. A year and the only thing that’s changed about him is the appearance of black feathers throughout his long black hair. It’s a recent change, too, one some might notice if they’ve been regulars at the voyeur club. They barely change his profile since he wears his hair down at the club.

It’s another evening at work so, Wei Wuxian finds himself in a private area with a screen between him and his patron. Everything has to be dramatic to come across in shadow, so he makes a slow, teasing show of untying the fastens of his robes. Turning his back to the screen, he rolls his shoulder, prompting the robe to slide down revealing the first glimpse of bare skin (should the patron be watching through a hole). The whole striptease lasts a matter of minutes until Wei Wuxian is kneeling behind the screen, long black hair spilling over pale skin. He glances over his shoulder to the shadow of the patron and flashes a sultry smile.

“Any requests?”

Noodles!

[raisedinchaos]

It wasn't that he was struggling with the menu, it was that there was quite a bit on the menu to try. Jiang Xiaoyu had no problems with menus. Alone, or with his didi, he had a bad habit of ordering far too much food. Food that was, essentially, good. He hadn't found a place yet that wasn't. He would have to drag his twin out to this one. That, however, would have to wait until he found out if the place was good enough or not.

There's a crack of a smile out of Xiaoyu and he laughs," Are you assuming that I like spicy things?"

[soakedinvinegar]

𝑇𝑎𝑠𝑡𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑇𝑜𝑤𝑛 (ota)

Does anyone have any cold weather recipes they’d be willing to share? Soups, stews, other hot meals that can be shared.

𝐴 𝐿𝑖𝑡𝑡𝑙𝑒 𝑁𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑀𝑢𝑠𝑖𝑐 (ota)

It’s been a while since Wen Kexing touched his xiao. He often listens to Yu Mingye play from that damned tree he loves so much he practically lives in. Not that he minds, really. It’s pleasant to hear the music. This particular evening, he decides to make some of his own. Not at Four Seasons Manor, though. Wen Kexing settles himself in a park just before sunset and begins to play a tune that any within earshot will find soothing.

𝐿𝑢𝑛𝑎𝑟 𝑁𝑒𝑤 𝑌𝑒𝑎𝑟 (open to Four Season Manor)

Wen Kexing doesn’t need an excuse to wrap himself in red, but if he did need one New Year is as good as any. He spent the morning cleaning and decorating Four Seasons Manor in traditional red decorations. He even prepared red envelopes to give to A-Xiang and Chengling (stuffed full of Zishu’s money). Once midday approaches, his work is done and so he begins preparations for phase two of his New Year plan: cooking.

He spends half the day in the kitchen, harrying out anyone who dares try to interrupt before his master plan is complete. By the time even comes, Wen Kexing’s paid out a large blanket and lit a fire in the firepit on their grounds. It is still winter, after all. He spreads out the foodstuffs he’s spent the afternoon making and gathers his nearest and dearest, all bundled for the weather, for a New Year celebration.

𝐸𝑖𝑔𝑜 𝑜 ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑎𝑠𝑒𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑢 𝑘𝑎? (closed to Zhou Zishu)

Trying foreign foods isn’t something Wen Kexing thought would make him happy but sitting across the table from his beloved husband with the giant dish of ice cream between them set his nine white fox tails wagging. He leans forward in his chair, white hair in sharp relief against his deep red hanfu. His ears are perked up as he accepts a spoonful of the sweet treat. His face scrunches up in delight as the mix of textures from the fruit and the smooth cream dance on his tongue.

Taste of the Town

[fierceprotector]

I am not willing to give out my recipe, but I'd be willing to cook.

[theatrics]

𝑆𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔 (ota)

Though he isn’t the General of the Prince of Henan’s armies in this place, he still values his status as a warrior. He may not look it at first glance, being quite a short and slight man, but he didn’t become a general by being weak or favored. And pride won’t let him forget himself just because this place is soft and gentle.

So he practices, every day, going through the motions to block, defend, and attack with the sword. He has a favorite spot: a clearing in a park. It doesn’t bother him if others see him. In fact, he chose a public place in hopes of luring out a sparring partner or two.

𝑀𝑜𝑣𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝐷𝑎𝑦 (closed to Runyu & Mingye)

It doesn’t take long for Ouyang to pack up the room he’s been living out of. His belongings could fit in one small bag. He has only clothes and his armor. The garments he packs neatly, the armor he dons for his walk to his new home. What a sight he must seem in his gleaming, mirror-bright armor, sword at his hip, bow on his back, and a box clutched in his hands. Whatever stares he might get, he ignores.

Today is a happy day. Today he moves in with his two most beloved people. Ouyang knocks politely and, once he’s inside, begins the process of stripping out of the armor. It was easier to wear it than to carry or pack the many pieces that comprise it. He’s careful in storing it; though it’s not needed in Nippon, Ouyang treasures it.

“Thank you both for having me.”

𝐴𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑛𝑎 𝐴𝑚𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑎 (ota)

He hasn’t been much of a social creature since arriving. Things are different now and Ouyangfeels different. Maybe it has something to do with affairs in his personal life or the move into a new space, but he feels refreshed. Which sends him out exploring areas he’s yet to see. Which, in turn, brings him to the Antenna America restaurant. He’s less interested in the fruity cakes and strange food than trying the beer. He seems in a good mood, maybe you should join him for a drink.

Lunar New Year

[amethystfiend]

Gu Xiang knows that when her master is in the kitchen to stay out of it. Anyone else that slips into that kitchen is on their own. She won't save them if they decide to do something stupid like step into it. Her master's cooking was something that she enjoyed, when they weren't out eating somewhere fancy. Something that was an old past time. Maybe she'd have to get him out to do it again.

She's dressed up nice and warm when he drags them all out to the firepit. She does, however, give him a soft smile. Everything smelled good.

Moving Day

[reliesondirtytricks]

Mingye did not do nerves. Or, if he did, they were normally of the good variety and not the bad. Like the first time that he'd allowed Runyu to take him. It had been just them for what seemed like forever and now they were adding another. Someone that they'd both fallen in love with. He didn't really think that was possible, not if he was being honest with himself. It was definitely a learning experience. Knowing that it was alright to love more than one man.

Ouyang was special to them both. Someone to be loved, cherished, and coveted. A strong, handsome, warrior. Someone that he would fight for if it came down to it. So, knowing that the other was on his way it takes a lot for him not to pace. Or to shift. The last thing he needed was something painful.

When their warrior does knock he uses his dark energy to pull open the door and his smile brightens a bit more seeing Ouyang. Sure, he could just pull the other to him like he did before, but he doesn't. He wants Ouyang to be comfortable.

So, there's a softness to Mingye's features even as he moves over to Ouyang," I'm going to kiss you." It was much like when they'd been under the tree, when the other's cat features started showing. He gives Ouyang an out even as he leans in to press lips against his. Of course, he also moves back a bit to allow Runyu to greet their handsome warrior too.

[dragonrising]

Compared to the vibrating energy of Mingye, Runyu was calm and collected. Just smiling as he enjoyed watching his lover while they waited together for the other. At the knock, he laughed softly before rising to his feet and letting Mingye greet him first. Then he stepped forward himself to gently tease him first.

"You live here, Ya'er. You don't have to knock anymore."

Then he cupped his face so he too could kiss him. Pulling back, he looked down at the armor. For a moment it pained him just because it reminded him of Xufeng but he kept those feelings to himself as he lifted his gaze back up.

"Here. I'll help."

Stepping behind him, Runyu moved to help carefully take the valuable pieces off of him.

[theatrics]

It's so strange to be in a place that feels lived in. As indicated by his sparse belongings, Ouyang didn't care much for anything beyond the necessities. Even in his homeland, he kept his household as minimal as possible. There was also the awkward fact that he had been among some of the slaves assigned to his household before he reached his rank.

Ouyang smiles warmly at Mingye, nodding and leaning in to accept the kiss. That same smile graces Runyu before their lips meet, too. Such a warm welcome, how could he not feel like he belonged with these men?

At Runyu's offer, he pulls the length of his hair over his shoulder to make the fastens more accessible. Even in pulled up in a topknot, his hair hangs well below his waist. Before he begins to help (as he won't just leave Runyu to divest him), he reaches out to brush his fingers lightly along Mingye's arm. He already feels at home.

"Thank you. I hope it will not be in the way."

[reliesondirtytricks]

There's a softness to Mingye's smile as he watches the two people he cares about most kiss. Ouyang had become a very important part of their lives and he's not sure he could ever see it any other way. Which probably made it even more hilarious considering their animal sides.

He lets Runyu help their cat out of his armor so it can be put up and placed aside, out of the way. However, he also feels those fingers trail down his arm, and that smile of his brightens. The fact that Ouyang could casually touch him like that was a big step. Sure, they'd had the erotic dream together and had done... well, things they never would have, but this was real. It was also good.

"It won't be in the way. What're your favorite colors, Ouyang?"

There's almost, almost a hint of amusement to his tone.

"And would you like some tea? A-Yu has every type of tea possible in this place."

[dragonrising]

"Not every kind."

Studying the armor, he noted the various pieces then waved a hand to create an armor stand at an emptier part of the room. Blue magic wove its way there and soon what was needed for storing the armor, as well as displaying the beauty of it, was available to them. Satisfied, he returned to helping Ouyang out of it until his lover was more comfortable before helping to carry the pieces over to be displayed.

"Just a fair few."

But his smile did say he enjoyed how Mingye kept teasing him about his tea habit.

[theatrics]

Yes, the casual touch is a big deal for Ouyang. It means so much for him to be able to share such affections with the men he loves. It means even more that they are patient enough to wait for his comfort.

Runyu's magic still takes his breath away. It's nice to have a proper place to display the armor, something he's so proud of. Other than clothes, it's the only thing he brought to his new home. It warms him to know it will be a visible reminder of his presence.

Once he and Runyu set up the armor on its stand, he glances to Mingye with a soft smile. He can tell they're teasing each other. He has to think about the first question. He's never really considered what color would be his favorite, though he's always leaned toward a certain set of colors in his clothing. "Blues, greens, earthy colors."

Then he adds, "Tea would be nice. I am fond of lapsang souchong."

[reliesondirtytricks]

It doesn't surprise him when Runyu uses his magic to create a stand for the armor. Even in that empty part of the room it looks like it belongs there, just like the man who wore it. Both of them belong in this room. In the lives of the dragon and raven that reside there. Neither of them are bound to let go easily, not when Ouyang means the world to them both.

"Oh no, don't you try to deny it, A-Yu. We have every kind of tea under the sun in here."

Yes, he's teasing over the teas and the habit the man has of drinking them. Not that he hasn't drank them too, he has. In fact, he's drank more tea than he can count while being with Runyu and he doesn't mind it. The other didn't drink alcohol anymore and he was fine with it not being in their room or anywhere near them.

"Do we have that one? You know the names of them more than I do. I just drink whatever you put down in front of me."

That? Was how much he trusted Runyu. That he would drink anything that the man put down in front of him.

"Blues, greens, and earthy colors. A-Yu can work his magic and make it look good, I'm sure," he teases. There was, after all, a reason that he'd asked Ouyang about his favorite colors.

[dragonrising]

Blues were already abundant here in their room. Between his preferred colors and Mingye's they were well covered there. Earthy tones though. He hummed in thought as he considered their room before sweeping his hand out to start adding green here and there to mingle with it all. Green and now and then a gentle touch of a rich brown to blend well with the darker colors that belonged to Mingye.

Satisfied at the adjustment, he nodded then went to his tea chest.

"If we have every type of tea under the sun then we do not have every type. I still have to collect those under the moon," he bantered easily as he sorted through the various blends and types he had until he found the one that Ouyang had mentioned.

"Please, make yourself comfortable. I'll prepare the tea. It's a skill I've become very fond of."

[theatrics]

How easily they accommodate him. How comfortable it feels to be with them as they banter back and forth. Ouyang can't help the smile that curls his lips. How lucky he is to be here with such men as these. How far he's come since the first time Runyu served him tea.

Ouyang takes a seat, glancing at Mingye with an expectant look. Surely he'll sit at Ouyang's side and enjoy some tea with them. After all, he's been nothing if not indulgent of Ouyang since they met

Sparring

[jinlingers]

Jin Ling has slacked off in training since arriving in Nippon and he really should get back in the swing of things -- though, no one has really been pushing him to do it. Still... maybe it would help calm his mind.

He has Suihua on him and he comes across Ouyang in the park. He stands to the side, watching him and his technique. It's similar to what he knows but different.

He considers joining him but isn't totally sure if the other wants a sparring partner and he doesn't want to speak and distract him.

Noodles

[jinlingers]

"Why do you recommend that?" Jin Ling asks his uncle, be specific! He's smiling though and luckily, Fairy is out of sight so there's no chance of the other running off screaming about beasts.

Lunar New Year

[littlesneaky]

"You don't want help?!" Chengling had exclaimed when he's being shooed out the kitchen. He pouts. Apparently he had ruined that ship with the whole chicken debacle! Fail to kill a chicken once...

So he waits patiently.

"Wow," Chengling says when he sees the spread the other had created. He runs up to Kexing and gives him a hug whether the older man likes it or not.

[inthewood]

𝑆𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑦 𝐶𝑎𝑡 (ota)

Ever the curious creature, Silver finds he must try out these steam-cycles. It takes a while for him to get the hang of piloting it and he’s by no means what one could say is good at it. But he can do well enough to keep from crashing into things and other steam-cycles.

Silver is still utterly enamored with everything Nippon has to offer, including the local yokai. Which leads him to, of course, attempt a rescue of the tiny Bakeneko. It’s not an easy task and the cat yokai seems to be a little averse to being rescued (not that Silver makes for a good hero anyway). He’s certainly worse for wear when he finally gets the Bakeneko to the ground.

After introductions are made (because Silver is a gentleman!), he turns to the nearest passer-by and comments, “Well, that was odd.”

𝐴𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑛𝑎 𝐴𝑚𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑎 (ota)

The food is somewhat familiar, as is the language (though there is an accent to his English ears). Silver’s enjoying the bar food and the happy hour drink specials. For a thin guy, he seems to be able to put away the beer. Of course, he has no preternatural abilities to ward against drunkenness ad he finds himself much more chatty than usual with any stranger who happens to be nearby. Silver even nudges his plate of fries close and asks, “Want to share?”

He’s also willing to pretend to be someone’s partner if they want to share a bowl of ice cream.

Night Music

[wu_xi]

Wu Xi hears Wen Kexing playing. He doesn't know it's him at first but he follows the sound and smiles when he sees the other. He comes close, bowing and not saying anything as he doesn't want to interrupt the playing.

He'll save any speaking for when the other is done.

Sparring except not

[eternalgrief]

Huaisang watches with no intention of trying to spar the general. He fans himself idly as he watches from the shade. What an exquisite man. He admires him and the grace of his movements, the strength. While he didn't have any interest in training himself he could very much enjoy the beauty of others who are meant for the sword or saber.

He claps, playfully, when it seems Ouyang is winding down.