April | Event: Skybound Travelers

[jikan_mod]

Skybound Travelers↲ OOC Plotting

Minimize

As everyone settles into a routine in Nippon, newer refugees may find that visiting the Western Kingdom is something of an undertaking. Although considerably faster than traveling by airship or on foot, the underground train that connects Tokyo and Kyoto still takes at least five hours. And not everyone enjoys the roller coaster-like experience of the Sunday-only time surge that shortens that ride into ten minutes. But lucky for them, the NRL are finally ready to release a special new travel system!

Developed in part thanks to the refugees for gathering the necessary etherblossoms back in March, refugees will now find teleportation terminals available at the NRL in Tokyo and MRU in Kyoto. These terminals only connect to each other, with plans to expand to other cities in the future.

Or at least, that's what they're supposed to do.


Nippon Traveler

With the announcement of fast travel between kingdoms quickly spreading among the refugees, many of them are clamoring to be the first to take advantage. After all, the train is rather inconvenient for those with friends and family in both kingdoms, and even more so for those who wish to work in one while living in the other.

Thankfully, the NRL took this into consideration, and made sure to add additional platforms and a timed queueing system to make things run smoothly, essentially creating a small station on the top floor of the NRL's main building. And with exclusive elevator access on the outside just for traveling refugees, it's certainly built for convenience.

Ready, Aim... Kyoto, Western Kingdom
Despite the fact that the NRL has been using these teleporters just fine for transferring between Tokyo and Kyoto for the past few weeks, the sudden inundation of users is causing the system to overload ever so slightly. As a result, the teleporter hasn't been sending people where it should, occasionally redirecting them to random areas throughout Kyoto.

On the one hand, magic is so commonplace in the West that no one really thinks anything about the Refugees popping in and out of existence, with most natives just assuming they're teleporting using the local magic. But on the other hand, this assumption means the natives will think it's intentional, resulting in a large number of refugees finding themselves in both literal and metaphorical hot water after teleporting straight into a public bath, fully-clothed. Hopefully it's a mixed bath, or they might find themselves being carried away by the patrolling samurai guards for questioning.

In addition to becoming a public nuisance for the natives, some may find themselves teleporting into the homes of fellow refugees instead. They may wind up as an uninvited dinner guest, or perhaps they'll appear during a private or intimate moment between lovers. Some may even end up appearing in a closet, giving them ample opportunity to hide until they can make their escape!

Thankfully, this bug is discovered quickly enough that it only creates a few days of chaos -- so don't let that put you off the technology forever!

Here Comes a Thought Higashiyama, Kyoto
But of all the locations the teleporters are sending people to, perhaps the most common one is Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto's Higashiyama neighborhood. As one of the most famous temples in Kyoto, its already a popular tourist destination, with beautiful gardens, a veranda overlooking all of Kyoto, and is home to a magic school that specializes in the Mizu Element.

Those who are lucky may simply find themselves suddenly standing in front of a very tall pagoda, or overlooking the view of Kyoto. But most refugees will instead find themselves standing before the Tainai Meguri, a dark underground passageway beneath one of the many shrines in Kiyomizu-dera. Naturally, it'll be assumed they want to go in, and they may find themselves ushered down by a shrine maiden or two who don't want them holding up the line.

Blanketed in an inky darkness, the Tainai Meguri is composed of a single hallway and a rope along the wall to help guide visitors down to the lowest part of the passageway, where a mysterious stone can be found. Glowing with a mysterious power, the stone is the only source of light in the tunnel. And those who touch the stone with a clear mind will see the carving in the center change, showing which magic element they have an aptitude for: Tsuchi, Mizu, Hi, or Kaze.

However, those who touch the stone without a clear mind will witness something different. Because the stone in question is a Memory Stone, an ancient magical artifact capable to creating illusions of a person's memories. Once the stone is touched, the light of the stone will jump out into the darkness, projecting illusions of their past on the walls around them. Whether these illusions appear as text, an exact replica of one's memories, or something more abstract, varies by the person.

Those whose memories are being projected may find themselves completely overwhelmed by the emotions they felt at the time of that memory. For this reason, no one is allowed into the Tainai Meguri alone, so those affected better hope that their partner in the darkness is prepared to drag them out of it.

Into the Unknown

As the technology powering these terminals is still quite new to the scientists at the NRL, actually releasing these to the public is still a way off. Although there's zero risk of harm coming as a result of using the terminal, they have noticed that occasionally the terminal registers another point of travel, as if another terminal exists. A reverse transfer always brings them back just fine, but little is known about where these objects are ending up.

To that end, the NRL is asking brave enough refugees interested in exploring to take the teleporter to these unknown locations and report what they find. But don't worry, they're not asking they do this for free! All participants will receive a moderate sum of money, as well as a week-long stay at the Ōwakudani Hot Spring Resort in Hakone, to be redeemed whenever they like.

Cold Cuddles Sapporo, Hokkaido
For the first mysterious location, volunteers will be bundled up in warm clothes, as objects that come back always arrive very cold. And indeed -- upon teleporting, they'll find themselves in the midst of a snowstorm, an ancient version of the same terminal below their feet, and strange ruins all around them. And stranger still, the walls of the ruins appear to be covered in dark blue ice that won't melt no matter how much heat is applied.

It seems this teleporter is somehow connected to Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Nippon. Due to an ancient curse, the land is perpetually snowy and plagued by unmelting ice called everfrost. And while those who visited the region prior may recognize their surroundings enough to know they're actually very close to the city of Sapporo, others may not be so lucky, nor willing to take the risk of missing their return window.

Worse still, they're just far enough away from the city that their magi-comms won't work! With no way of activating the terminal from their side, and two hours before the NRL reactivates it on their end to bring them back, it looks like they'll need to huddle together for warmth to ensure they don't freeze.

Thankfully, the terminal is located in a covered area, and the remains of an old campsite nearby even has some blankets and supplies. And upon their return, they'll be given hot drinks and no shortage of apologies for not considering the risk of giving them such a long window to explore.

Party in the Dark Jigoku, Shitaya
The second mysterious location is by far the most intriguing, as it's clearly somewhere that people have access to, and yet no one has tried coming back through the terminals. Instead, empty cans and half-finished drinks sometimes end up on the terminal, with no explanation as to who was drinking them prior. And as this phenomenon only occurs late at night, that's when the volunteers will be sent.

Upon arriving, at first they'll find themselves blanketed in a perpetual darkness, surrounded by some sort of stone tunnel, with the sound of music echoing from further in. They'll still be able to contact the NRL, leading the scientists to suggest that they may be in Jigoku, the catacombs of an abandoned subway system below Tokyo.

Should they be brave enough to follow the source of the music, they'll stumble upon what appears to be a secret speakeasy in the dark, run by the Hanyo who live in the neighborhood of Shitaya. As many Hanyo still possess the Yokai ability to see more clearly in the dark than Humans, the lack of lighting is more a feature than a gimmick.

Still, for having made it all the way down here, they'll be offered free drinks and a playful atmosphere -- so long as they promise to keep their illegal supply of Uki-based drinks and snacks a secret from the authorities. A popular recreational drug in the West made from the naturally sweet Uki Weed, Uki is highly regulated in the East, and causes lowered inhibitions, feelings of calm or euphoria, and even functions as a mild aphrodisiac.

Which might just be why many patrons are taking advantage of the dark and inviting atmosphere for romantic trysts in the dark, with futons set up in nearby tunnels for all your sensory deprivation needs. The Refugees can contact the NRL to return at any time, so why not let loose and join the fun?

Castle in the Sky

After a week of using the teleporters, Refugees will discover a new warp point is now listed alongside Kyoto and Tokyo: Tengoku, the nation of Tengu, comprised of dozens of airborne cities that float high above Nippon. According to the NRL, the technology used for these teleporters was developed thanks to the Tengu of Skytower, as a much belated thank you for the refugee's help back in March 1921.

And while Skytower itself remains off-limits, the Tengu Capital of Miyazaki has decided to open its doors to outsiders for the first time in centuries.

Fly High Miyazaki, Tengoku
The Tengu cities are unlike anywhere else on Nippon, comprised of a single, massive amount of land that towers upward, and numerous smaller islands that float up and around the main part of the city. Mysterious magic-powered technology can be found all around the city, though the appearance is quite different from the more modern magi-tech.

But perhaps the most notable thing is that these cities are not designed to be very accessible to those who can't fly. Very few actual pathways lead upward into the city proper, and the entrance to most buildings are located on the top floor, with only a small balcony in front to land on. But thankfully, there's a means around it!

Upon arrival to the capital of Miyazaki, all Refugees will be offered a small backpack with a tiny pair of wings attached to it. Upon putting it on and jumping, the wings will grow larger, acting like a part of their body and allowing them to fly! These backpacks will only function in Tengoku, but they're welcome to keep them should they decide to visit again.

Of course, just because they have the power to do so doesn't mean they'll actually be good at it. Refugees may struggle to become airborne at all, or may find it difficult to control themselves in mid-air, flying into walls, other refugees, or accidentally hurling themselves over the edge of the city. Thankfully, there's patrolling Tengu who are always prepared to catch those who fall, but considering it always comes with a lecture, it's really not the best experience.

But those who persevere will be able to fly up to the very top of the city, where they'll find a beautiful garden overlooking the clouds. The flora here is far more alien than anything commonly found in Nippon, with plentiful etherblossoms, crystal-like mahougi trees, and-- is that a nuruname bloom? Maybe stay away from that one...

Liquid Happiness Miyazaki, Tengoku
Being so high up in the sky, completely isolated, meant that the Tengu cities were designed to be completely self-sustaining. Although they do conduct trade with the mainland below, almost everything they need is either grown or produced by the land itself. Which might just beg the question: where is the water coming from? Because nearly every level of the city is accented by canals and waterfalls.

But those who visit on a rainy day will get their answer. As high as they are, the Tengu cities are close enough that they can draw from the magic properties of the ring that circles the planet of Gaia, which is only visible at night. Thus, the rain that falls in Miyazaki has magical properties: in audition to a rainbow color, it can be infinitely multiplied, instantly heal wounds and certain illnesses, and seems to cause feelings of euphoria similar to Kizuna when one stands in it. For this reason, the rain that falls in Miyazaki is referred to as liquid happiness.

But for Refugees, these effects are even more extreme. Those who visit Miyazaki during a particularly rainy week at the tail end of April will begin to manifest severe Kizuna side-effects, especially the supernatural variety. While ordinarily these effects are only possible when feelings of love are present, the power of the rain will allow Refugees to share their thoughts and feelings with the people around them, whether they want to or not.

So strong are the effects of the rain that these effects will linger well after they leave, and may even become contagious to those they meet later on the surface. In the end, the NRL issues a warning for Refugees to avoid lingering in Miyazaki in rainy days until a more conclusive study on this "liquid happiness" can be conducted.

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

• Characters will not be allowed into the Tainai Meguri alone, and must descend in pairs.

• Sapporo is roughly a twenty minute walk away, and characters who are familiar with their surroundings will be able to go to the city proper. Magi-comms will also begin to work again. More information on Sapporo can be found on the Setting page!

• You are welcome to assume there is Uki-based incense in the underground party if your character would need an extra nudge to participate.

• Given their isolated status, the Tengu cities only contain Tengu Yokai, who range from entirely human-like with wings, anthropomorphic birds, and the traditional long-nosed variety! Although Refugees may be treated as a novelty by the people there, only elderly Tengu will treat them rudely for being outsiders.

• Characters will find that inns and hotels are both plentiful and cheap in Tengu cities, as the cities are very far apart from one another, and it's very common for Tengu to travel far from home. Miyazaki, for instance, floats above Kyushu near the Westernmost point of Nippon!

↲ navigation

Comments

[historicallyloaded]

What does it want? [ He gasps as vines constrict around the both of them, ensnaring Bricks around his wrists and pulling them both tight behind his back, forcing his chest out. If he had to quickly theorize he'd argue against territorial or self defensive behavior—with this kind of tensile strength they both would have been tossed out of the garden already if that were the case, he's sure. It's almost like it's toying around with them.

That left food or fornication; Bricks is unfortunately not genre savvy enough so he was about to tentatively assume the former, and neither of which he wanted to verbalize for the fear he'd manifest it into action. However, too little too late for that as a throbbing bulb is suddenly thrust past his parted lips. His green eye goes wide with real fear as it slides over his tongue and hits the back of his throat, immediately spurting a thick gob of nectar.

The whole affair is so shocking and sudden he tries to scream which makes some of the stuff start to go down the wrong pipe. He tries to cough but with it firmly plugging his mouth all that slimy nectar is suddenly forced up out of his nose in a wet splatter. He has enough sense to turn his head away from Aether so he didn't coat him completely but some splash of fluids are unavoidable, this close. The bulb suddenly pulls out of his mouth with a wet pop. He whimpers, long and drawn out in disgust, nectar dripping from his nose and mouth.

This was awful, to think he was going to do this willingly just a few moments earlier...! The worst part is his body feels warm and heady all over. All he can taste and smell now is the dizzyingly sweet nectar. Aether so flush to his torso and groin doesn't help either. ]

Ah— Aeth—

[ Whatever else Bricks was doing to say gets cut off again as the bulb goes back in his mouth, stopping just short of the back of his throat and it cranes his neck back. His brows furrow as he desperately tries to bite it but his teeth don't sink in far at this angle, and it didn't seem to feel any pain for it. He's not into the idea of choking so he submits to it this time, forced to swallow, a shameful gulp and roll of his throat Aether would be able to clearly see. ]

[brilliantdiamond]

[Aether watches in wide-eyed horror as the plant plunges into Brickston's throat, all the while keeping his teeth gritted to avoid a similar fate. Maybe a few burns would be worth it if they managed to escape? Attempting to dodge the bulb threatening to force its way into his mouth, he starts to mutter a spell under his breath--]

[But all attempts at spell casting go out the window as the nuruname seeks out a different means of injecting those potent aphrodisiacs. It urges past his face and down into his shirt, forcing its way lower and lower before finally sliding into his pants. Even without being able to see what's happening, its final destination is all too obvious. Two vines work to force Aether's legs apart, as the one slithering under his clothes tries to force it's way up inside him.]

[He struggles harder then, biting back a cry of pain as he feels his eyes beginning to water. The size of those bulbs was nothing to sneeze at, after all. But it doesn't last, and it isn't long before the pain gives way to more pleasure than he knows what to do with. Was this what the plant wanted of them?]

[No longer able to fight it, he finds himself rolling his hips against Brickston's, hardly realizing he's doing it as his mind grows hazy from sheer arousal. He can feel it reaching deeper, practically pouring more of that sweet nectar inside him to make him comply. It's utterly humiliating -- but above all else, he hates how much he's enjoying it, frustrated grunts replaced with unmistakable groans of pleasure. This world has truly corrupted him, hasn't it?]

[historicallyloaded]

[ Even if Bricks wanted to ignore how the vines slither down Aether's clothes it's impossible to ignore how Aether's moans fill in the imagination of what's happening. Bricks is transfixed on the squirming writhing shapes just under his clothes as he rolls his hips into his own—he can feel everything. His own dick responds in kind, aching, squeezed inside the tight confines of his high-waisted pants.

His eye rolls up and his body relaxes, finally succumbing to the plant through a flushed face and winced brow. Sensing victory, the plant finally pulls to of his mouth with another wet pop. He coughs and sputters, tongue lulling past his lips as he lurches forward. He sniffs indignantly and pants. Words are sort of difficult to muster in this hot haze, but he manages. ]

...Fornication. It was fornication. [ He rasps. He didn't get the chance to verbalize any of his earlier theorizing, so the disjointed thought comes now out of context and in a ragged breath. Talking for the sake of talking, the only thing he seemingly has any control over now that there isn't a dick-shaped plant plugging his mouth. It's not long before that same plant squirms its way past his shirt and takes a similar path south. Warm slime cools quickly over his chest and skin, the plant itself bulges over the rim of his pants. ]

Shit— [ Discontent with the barrier of his tight pants, the vine sunders it in one swift swipe from the inside, popping the double row of buttons and splits it down the front. His underwear also doesn't stand a chance. He whines. ] Nghhha—! I paid good money for those...!

[ And further protest is immediately cut off by a loud groan of pleasure as the plant coils around him and starts jerking him off, flush to Aether's hips. It's distracting enough that when a second plant penetrates his ass he nearly comes on the spot, the tight squeeze of the vine coiled around the entire length of him is the only thing that keeps him from losing himself entirely. ]

I'm sorry... I'm— [ He starts rambling, babbling profusely between clipped moans. ] Hah—

It's so wrong... [This close, Bricks is forced to look at Aether as his whole body rolls against him. He's such a handsome lad, was so swift and noble and forthright trying to save him. He laments in this moment how he would have much rather preferred to get to know him, well... like this maybe but not like this. ]

Nn... I wish this were under better circumstances.

[brilliantdiamond]

[For all that Brickston babbles on the more the plant starts to manhandle him, Aether falls silent, eyes eventually sliding closed in concentration -- though it's impossible to do so. Whatever was in that nectar was strong, clouding his mind even further. But Aether is strong-willed, and even if there was some part of him that wouldn't mind seeing this experience out to the end, with someone else in danger, it's not a risk he wants to take.]

Shu... shut up a minute.

[More blooms have arrived by now, their dripping buds seemingly waiting their turn to join the others already pressed inside them. With Aether's teeth still gritted, the most they can do is eagerly press at his cheek and his lips, trying to find more ways inside. But perhaps that would have been preferable over what they seem to decide on instead, slithering down his shirt just as the first one had.]

I can still get us out of this, I just... I-I just need to remember the spell. But it's hard to think with this thing-- a-ahh!

[Any attempt at words is lost as a second bloom pushes inside him, forcing his body forward against Brickston's. Despite the stretch, it doesn't hurt, his body easily bending to the whims of the plant thanks to the nectar. But now with competition, the two vines reaching inside him begin to move, fucking into him with far more vigor and completely stealing away Aether's words.]

[The sheer force of it presses him ever closer to Brickston, their faces touching now as he gasps and moans against him. It feels so shameless to appear like this in front of a stranger, and one he tried to rescue no less. But as he feels himself coming for what's almost certainly just the first time, he finds it even harder to care.]

[historicallyloaded]

[ This close and on top of him, Bricks doesn't need to see the second vine penetrate Aether; he can feel the jostle of his body, the way he gasps and moans right in his ear and how he shamelessly comes all over himself. He's having a hard time holding back himself, if not from the over-stimulation of everything everywhere lighting his senses ablaze, then the very notion he recognizes what this is; it's a drug, it's in his body, he's acutely aware of the effect it's having on his body and he's all the more fascinated and enthralled by it. ]

It's so... [ He moans as the nuruname swells and spills more sticky nectar in his ass, as if reading his thoughts. The excess runs down his thighs in thick hot ropes. ] —good. It feels good. [ Verbalizing that much depravity does him in; his eye rolls up and he comes all over himself, comes all over Aether's torso, greasing the friction between them even more. His body goes more limp and loose over Aether's shoulder. The nuruname keeps driving into him, another snakes across his chest and latches on to one of his nipples, taking advantage of his relaxed state. Is another vine going to come and spread him wider too? Break him? How long before they pass out for sheer pleasure? It is possible to die like this?

Part of Bricks is beyond caring enough that he would not mind finding out, but, that whatever modicum of self preservation that last thought does bring manages to sober him, if for a brief few moments. If— if he had any of his tools or alchemicals or volatile mechanical devices he's sure he'd be able to help mitigate this situation... but he doesn't. He feels so useless right now and that thought brings, even if momentarily, any pleasure high to a grinding halt. He murmurs against Aether's ear. ]

Whatever you do— [ He starts. A nuruname bulb tries to finds mouth and he seeks reprieve by squeezing his eye shut and planting his lips on Aether's neck, teeth gently holding for security. The bulb prods his nose and his ear, unable to fit before giving up and going for the warm wet space created between them, coiling around both their dicks. ]

I— aah...! [ One nuruname pulls out of his ass and it's immediately replaced with another one, full of seed. By the devil spare him, it's bigger and thicker than the last. He wants it to drive into him deeper and nearly bucks into it. ] I know we've just met but...

I believe in you, Aether. Do whatever you can, whatever you must. [ If it's a spell he suspects there might risk of some collateral damage here, maybe. ] Don't— don't worry about me. I can take it.

[ He probably can't, but, it's his fault they're in this mess. It's the least he can do. ]

[brilliantdiamond]

[At some point between his last orgasm and Brickston's words of encouragement, another bloom has found its way inside of him. His whole body feels like it's melting to that pleasure, as he finds himself stretched in ways he never thought possible. Surely he couldn't possibly fit any more? Even the nectar they're pumping inside him has him fit to burst, sitting heavy in the pit of his stomach as he feels it swell against Brickston's abdomen. Just how debauched must he look right now? What if someone he knew were to see him like this?]

[The mere thought has him coming hard once more, and as the vines wrap around their cocks -- a third time. It feels good, and somehow that's even worse, making it all the more difficult to draw his thoughts together. It hasn't actually been that long, and yet it feels like they've been here for hours, time losing all meaning amidst the pleasure coursing through his nerves.]

[But the words that pull him back from the brink -- I believe in you -- break through the haze and draw him back to reality. He's not the only one here, and he can't allow himself to submit to this thing when someone else is suffering from it.]

[If he can't think of a spell, he'll just have to improvise.]

[From his hand, purple sparks begin to manifest, as the earth beneath them trembles. A sharp wind picks up,.and it swirls with electricity all around them, pulling and tugging at the vines and forcing them to start pulling back. The slow pull is agonizing in an entirely different way, feeling the slick lengths slide out and setting every nerve ending alight once more. Aether doesn't even register the cries falling from his own lips as he comes once more, tears stinging at the corners of his eyes.]

[But the moment he feels the last one leaving his body, he jerks an arm free and grabs into Brickston -- and then snaps his fingers.]

[The small spark of fire produced is all that's needed to activate the elemental reaction he was aiming for. The purple sparks expand and explode all around them, catching every vine caught up in the whirlwind. But the explosion will only feel hot for a second -- as the moment they touch the ground, a purple shield-like barrier surrounds and protects them.]

[As the smoke clears, the ravaged vines on the ground around them can only weakly twitch and coil, as most have been left as mere cinders. And for his part, Aether still clings to Brickston, panting hard as he fights to catch his breath and calm down.]

[historicallyloaded]

[ Between the vine coiled around both their dicks and then gentle pressure of Aether's abdomen swelling against him, another orgasm is coaxed out of Brickston in a way he didn't expect, keeping everything from their hips down covered in slick. One vine slides between the crest of his balls and also vies for entrance to his ass, trying to force its way past the bigger one still plugging him up. He's lost his mind, he thinks, when for a split second he mentally cheers it on. He ruts against it, groaning, rocks his hips against Aether's dick like an animal, finally no longer caring when it did squeeze through.

Time is a funny thing, how that moment of depravity seemed to last entirely too long and in reality, not long at all.

The jolt of energy and searing heat shocks him awake with an arch of his back. He wonders if he comes again in that moment but soon gravity fills the lurching sensation in his gut and they both unceremoniously drop to the ground. Bricks lands on his side, and Aether on his arm. Not knowing what happened or why, he wraps his arm over Aether's shoulder and the other up the back of his neck and cradles his head to hold him close protectively, while he himself tucks his forehead in to meet his. ]

What was...? [ He breathes, not realizing he'd been holding his breath. Clarity comes slowly back in bewildered blinks and whispered questions. Heat leaves his body like a sunburn to cool water. There's a gaping contrasting emptiness inside of him he's not sure he likes but he quickly adjusts, realizing Aether did something destructive to the plants. ]

...Are you alright?

[brilliantdiamond]

[Even once he's free and finally able to relax, he can't. The feeling of the plant's nectar pouring out of him has him trembling, as if on the brink of another orgasm -- but this time, he's far too spent for it. Instead, he clings to Brickston to ground him, burying his face into the crook of his neck as he fights to catch his breath.]

[When the feeling finally seems to have passed, he registers that Brickston spoke up -- and with a shaky voice, he manages a reply.]

...n-no. But I will be after a long shower.

[He needs five showers. Maybe more. And perhaps a good three hour soak in a bath after that, he feels nasty.]

Are you...? I-I tried to stop it sooner, I... sorry.

[historicallyloaded]

D-don't— s-shh... It's not... [ your fault. ]

[ Contradictingly, hearing he wasn't alright was some strange comfort, a real answer breaking through the utter surreality of the situation even as his cock throbs and he fights off a post-coital haze. Still, Bricks finds himself reflexively kneading his fingers through the other blonde's hair, nervous petting that was as much to reassure Aether as it was to reassure himself. ]

Ah... [ Not alright. Will be alright. Okay. Okay. That's... alright enough. ] I think.

[ He struggles with his own optimism for a moment and falls back on a more scientific assessment for further assurance, carefully sliding his arm out from under Aether and rolling on his back to sit up. He whimpers, his body sticky and sore from the waist down. He frowns at the tattered state of his pants, but otherwise... ]

Yeah still... still all put together. Thanks to you.

[ The same could not be said for the plants however as he finds a crispy vine and picks it up, limp and dead. He tosses it aside after a moment's consideration and turns to face Aether. The question is on his face but he doesn't outright ask. Instead he holds his hand out, willing and able to pull him in at least a seated position. ]

[brilliantdiamond]

[Aether takes his hand when offered, though sitting is hardly what he wants to do right now. It feels slimy and strange, and the soreness is just starting to settle in. But they can't very well linger here -- the burst of flames is sure to have caught someone's attention, and while he could go for a little healing magic right now, he'd rather not be seen like this by even more people.]

[Even once sitting up, he doesn't let go of Bricks' hand, if anything holding it tighter.]

I know somewhere we can get cleaned up... if you don't mind me using a little magic to get us there.

[historicallyloaded]

S-sure. [ His hesitation comes more from not even considering magic as an option. Here he was just blearily beginning to think about cobble together some modicum of decency between two pairs of ruined pants and the two of them trying their best to sneak and prowl into the nearest available bath and hope for the best.

Magic sounded a lot faster and less risky and more convenient. ]

I mean sure if it—

[ There's also something about the way Aether still holds on to his hands and Bricks looks down in concern, rubbing his thumbs over the tops and looking more carefully at the state of him. He wouldn't call himself a medic but he was the closest thing to one on his team, adept at tinkering with wounds and flesh and doling out medicine as needed after any sort of incident. Magic was still novel and new to him and the limits thereof, even Kizuna. Would Aether really be alright? Should he just try to trust him on this? ]

If it isn't going to strain you or anything of the sort.

[ Bricks would, admittedly, very much love to get cleaned up posthaste. ]

[brilliantdiamond]

Not at all. In fact -- I don't actually have to do anything.

[Other than check his pockets, at least. Thankfully, whatever belongings he had on him made it out unscathed, and soon he pulls out a curious little charm. He merely taps it with his thumb and--]



[The change happens so abruptly, Brickston would be forgiven for thinking he's hallucinating. In the blink of an eye, they're now sitting on the hardwood floor of a hallway inside a rather sizable house -- both clearly very new and built in the native style of Nippon. Though they aren't technically in Nippon right now...]

[But for his part, Aether feels he can finally relax.]

...welcome to my house. There's a bath down the hall, we just need to make it over there. Think you can stand?

[historicallyloaded]

Wh— [ Indeed, Bricks does blink a few times and then pivot around on his rear with a wet squeal on that nice hardwood, utterly bewildered. He looks up and down and all around and then finally back at Aether. Pointedly, he looks at that small charm. ]

That? [ That intense scientific curiosity and fascination makes itself quickly evident all over again as his tone rises with the mere context of what that thing just did. He assumes what it just did. ]

Instantaneous teleportation? In such a small piece of equipment? How?

[ He stands entirely out of excitement and almost regrets it, his face wincing as now cold and sticky liquid drains down his thighs. He does his best to not mind it as he squeezes them together. Modesty kicks in belatedly, despite everything, as he covers himself with one hand and offers his other. ]

[brilliantdiamond]

Something tells me that's not the question you'd be asking, if you knew we were in a space only about as big as a teapot.

[He takes Brickston's hand when offered, wincing as he stands -- the feeling of that plant's nectar leaking out is just downright unpleasant, and made worse by the fact that he's still vaguely aroused from it. But he'll do his best to ignore it for now, instead leading Brickston down the hall to the bathroom.]

[Thankfully, this place was designed with comfort in mind -- so beyond a small changing room, the shower itself occupies a small room of its own, before opening out to a large tub to soak in, clearly designed for multiple bathers at once. There's even a sliding door that opens to a little outdoor garden for some added ambience. His own little personal onsen.]

It's probably cheating a little to say it's magic, but I wouldn't be able to explain it beyond that. This place was a gift I received back in my world.

[historicallyloaded]

Oh that— is absolutely the question I would be asking, dear Aether. [ He nearly laughs, though he's quite serious. Even as he's lead down the hall Bricks lets himself get distracted by soaking in the atmosphere of the place while conceptualizing it into something he does understand. ] I suppose it's not all that different from the ghost field, where I'm from. A um, a sort of intradimensional space where ghosts and spooks and spirits and all manners of supernatural and arcane energies traverse in and out of.

...This though is much nicer. Much. [ An understatement. He thinks it's incredible, especially if this is supposed to be as big of a teapot. For once he manages to put aside any further curious conjecture about the potential applications of such a pocket dimension when he's patently reminded, pertinently, a private space to clean up is very much one of them. He's appreciative. ]

Let's get cleaned up, shall we? [ He looks to Aether for silent approval/permission to leave his tattered soiled clothes on the changing room table before proceeding to strip out of them. Despite their state he still neatly folds everything into perfect squares and leaves his shoes neatly together underneath them. He's able to do a more thorough self check and really the only things to note are the still cloyingly sweet smelling gobs of nectar spattered across his skin, some more in some places than others... and that he's still half-hard. He shouldn't be embarrassed after all that just happened but Bricks still modestly tries to angle his lower body away from Aether, or hide himself behind his hand.

The only article of clothing he hesitates with is the eyepatch. ]

[brilliantdiamond]

I'd certainly hope it'd be nicer than a place full of ghosts?

[Rude.]

[For his part, Aether isn't nearly as neat with his clothes, peeling them off and regarding them with disgust before throwing them into a laundry basket. They splatter with a wet sound that's even more unappealing, leaving him wondering whether he should have aimed for the garbage can instead.]

[By the time he's bare, he glances over at Brickston, noticing the eyepatch. When he doesn't immediate take it off--]

Do you want me to wash your hair for you? That way you can keep your eye covered. Or...

[Eyes... trailing downward.]

...do you want a hand with that?

[historicallyloaded]

[ Rude! ] Some ghosts are nice! [ He chirps briefly on their defense. Most ghosts weren't so nice.

Anyway, Bricks is caught a little off guard at the offer, stiffening his shoulders and feeling unexpectedly warm; Aether offers so selflessly and casually it draws more attention to his own insecurity about it, and partly it was something he'd expect his butler to dryly remark about... not someone as cool and capable and heroic as Aether.

...but maybe he should when Aether just as casually offers a hand in another way. ]

I wouldn't want to poke you out.

[ He visibly winces at himself, forces a smile, laughs nervously. ]

Um. Put you out.

[brilliantdiamond]

[Poke............]

Sorry. I know we've only just met, so... maybe that was too much?

[Or maybe he's understandably a little sexed-out after being fucked by a plant??]

But I really wouldn't mind helping with your hair. And then... maybe you could help with mine? I have a lot of it, and my arms are a little tired.

[Contrary to what certain fanartists may imply, he has a full head of thick blond hair, and not just some weird anime mullet. And unfortunately, it was not spared the gooey pollen either.]

[historicallyloaded]

Oh, n-no it's not— I know I would like... it would feel good, ah—

[ He stammers and mutters. It's completely illogical, especially in the face of everything they just went through, but perhaps it's exactly because not long ago they were being railed by horny plants and covered in sticky gobs of aphrodisiacal laden nectar and how he felt Aether get stretched and filled on top of him that the offer for something more human and intimate and tender is flustering him so much. And the more Bricks is flustered the more blood damningly flows between his legs, his body still chemically primed to cater to whatever residual arousal is there.

He takes the distraction and runs with it head first, answering a little too eagerly to keep his composure. ]

Yes! [ A little quieter. ] I mean yes of course, I understand what it's like. I'll gladly help.

[ His hair is not nearly as long, falling just past his shoulders in crimped and curly ends as he decides to undo his pony tail and gives it a quick tussle. Unkempt as it seems it's shiny and healthy, well cared for between luxury, privilege, and his own ceaseless attention to detail/neuroticism. There are portions that stick together from wayward gobs of nectar which he frowns at as he pulls his hand back, feeling it between his fingers. He'll leave the eyepatch on for now, having honestly forgotten about it as he laughs softly, maybe a little awkwardly. ]

We'll help each other. [ He ventures into the bathroom but idles in front of the shower, trying to mind his house guest manners... but is also immediately distracted by any available selection of toiletries and sundries as he runs his fingers over the bottles. ]

[brilliantdiamond]

[...maybe he'll make a second offer once they're in the shower. After all, Bricks isn't the only one still at half-mast from how many aphrodisiacs were in the plant's pollen, though Aether is really trying not to call attention to his own.]

[Aether doesn't have guests too often, so the selection is limited to what he and Paimon use. Which means one set looks like something a child would use, the bottles bright in color with cartoon mascots on the front, and the other just a plain and cheap set of shampoo and conditioner. Aether's are obvious, if only because there's about five bottles of the latter -- this man has a lot of hair to condition.]

[There's a few fancy soaps as well, including a make-up remover that does not being to Paimon-- but before they can use any of the good stuff, the one they'll need is what Aether brings in from the changing room: a big ol' bottle of the heavy duty shit.]

This stuff won't smell as nice as what I have up there, but it should help take all of this... goo off.

[Let's just call it goo.]

[But if Brickston won't go into the shower, Aether will give him a nudge. Thankfully, there's two showerheads, so they won't have to take turns for everything! Though they're still rather close together.]

[historicallyloaded]

[ The heavy duty shit, they're definitely going to need that.

Curiosity satisfied with the sundries, he's quick to work the shower knobs into a pleasant temperature on both sides and steps aside so Aether can come in. Already it's an immediate relief as warm water starts taking some of the sticky icky factor out of everything and soothing some budding aches. Doesn't do much for simmering his arousal but it's still ignorable for now. ]

Here, allow me.

[ He offers to undo Aether's braid before it gets too wet and unmanageable and to squirt him first with the shampoo. Since Brickston has a few inches of height over him he's able to give due attention to his scalp as he starts working it in and fluffy suds start to form. He's usually the one being pampered or serviced in a situation like this—by his butler or a professional at a luxurious spa—but there's something very deeply fulfilling for him to use his hands in this way and be of service to someone else. ]

Really, um... thank you for everything, Aether. For your hospitality and heroics.

[brilliantdiamond]

[The warm water against his skin brings immediate relief, Aether letting out a sigh as his eyes slide closed. Should he be concerned that he's grown accustomed to things like this happening? He's not even sure how bothered he is now, already thinking more about how he'll need to clean the floors after this, and replace the clothing that was damaged.]

[Perhaps it hasn't had enough time to settle in his mind.]

[In any case, he hums a soft thanks as Brickston starts working on his hair, another sigh falling from lips as he feels himself finally starting to relax. If he weren't standing, he might even be able to fall asleep like this. But Brickston's words quickly bring him back to wakefulness, eyes peeking open as he stares as the water circling the drain on the floor. The nectar dripping off and out of him brings a sweet scent to the air, though he can only really find it off-putting now, even as he finds himself shifting uncomfortably in place.]

It's the least I can do. You're welcome to stay here and rest a while if you need it, too.

[historicallyloaded]

Sure, if you don't mind. [ He says it a little reflexively, himself relaxed and pliant to suggestions. Logically it makes sense—there's still the matter of figuring out how to fix his own clothes enough that he can get home too. A minor detail he manages to keep in the back of his mind as he continues to work Aether's scalp.

Between that heady smell rising in the steam and his own close contact with Aether he notices the discomfort. His own chub hasn't simmered and the combination of pheromones and seeing Aether's nude body and how the suds wash over his wet skin has most blood slowly pooling in it again. It's impossible to hide it anymore and he starts to suspect Aether may well be feeling much the same. ]

Hey um... what you offered earlier— I could also...

[ He thought he could have resisted a bit longer but no such luck. He steps a little closer. ]

[brilliantdiamond]

[Why hello there, is that a bottle of shampoo at his hip, or he just happy to see him--]

[Aether perks up when he hears Brickston stepping closer, turning to look back at him over his shoulder. The mood here was strange, but not unpleasant. And a part of his is aware they might still be under the influence of that plant's nectar. But he can't help but feel a little thrill all the same. He's had encounters in baths and hot springs, but-- a shower is a first.]

Are you offering to lend me a hand?

[He still feels pretty tired -- honestly, they should just get out after the shower if they don't want to risk falling asleep in the tub. Perhaps more so if they opt to fool around a little more first.]

[historicallyloaded]

[ The mood was strange but he's found sometimes the best antidote for it was to embrace it. He's still residually horny. So's Aether, and he already offered to help. They're both in a relaxing warm shower, nude, and Aether's all lathered in suds. ]

Yes... I mean my hands are good for... a myriad of things. [ Salacious as it may have felt, there was nothing illogical about how his hands move from the back of Aether's scalp and slowly follow the suds down his neck and shoulders.

And Bricks feels he owes his savior a great deal. ]

When they're not tangled up in vines, anyway.

[ Fine he'll be indulgent. He's behind Aether and maybe because of the eyepatch he hasn't caught his little over the shoulder gaze. He'll permit himself to stare down at Aether's pert butt, shiny and wet. His hands subconsciously follow, his palms moving down his shoulder blades and slide over hips and press into his lower back in circular motions. ]