May | Event: Flowers of Buffoonery

[jikan_mod]

Flowers of Buffoonery↲ OOC Plotting

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The month of love is in full swing! But there are some who are probably wondering: why is May the month of love, and why only in the West? Over in Tokyo, no such celebrations are being made, and even the Hanyo of Shitaya aren't gunning up for any major festivals of any sort, despite most of them having come from the West. But it's not because it's a new holiday. Rather, it's simply a Yokai specific one.

Because traditionally, May is the period where a Yokai's sex drive is the strongest. And while for most, this simply manifests as a desire for deep, emotional connections, for others, it's a month-long orgyfest.

And as the mysterious little flowers continue to bloom across Kyoto, something else begins to bloom between the refugees themselves.

The Season of Sex

Towards the middle of the month, refugees are sure to notice a change in the way the Yokai are behaving, particularly the group known as the "beast Yokai", which includes Kitsune, Bakeneko, and Inu Yokai. As it turns out, these three are among some of the only Yokai who still occasionally undergo a heat-like event, with most of these falling around the month of May.

But what does this have to do with the refugees? As many of them will quickly find out: they also will experience a heat-like state through the rest of the month. Upon contacting the scientists, they explain that because the Yokai were the indigenous people of Nippon, bonding with Nippon seems to have caused the refugees to become part Yokai in a way that differs from the native Hanyo. This is why they're able to use magic, and why many of them grow Yokai body parts when experiencing high levels of Kizuna.

"Oh, don't worry your pretty little heads! Sure, you lot seem to be more afflicted than us Native Yokai, but no one's going to judge you for your... biological needs, teehee!"

As the Yokai researchers explain, heats have become less common in the modern era, so it's entirely possible that some refugees won't experience anything at all. Feel free to use this to opt out of anything that makes you uncomfortable!

You All Know What This Event Is About Maryouku University, Kyoto
When a Yokai goes into heat, they tend to adopt one of three characteristics, known collectively as KSJ. Although most Yokai will always lean more heavily towards one in particular, some may experience all three throughout their heat:

Daikoh (大攻) causes Yokai to develop unusually dominant and possessive tendencies. While some may search for a single partner to keep to themself, others may try to gather as many partners as possible. Even passive and friendly Yokai may become inclined towards violence or unusual roughness, including marking their partners. Some may experience an inexplicable desire for passionate romance, while others may feel a desire to breed.

Daishoku (大食) causes Yokai to give off a magic aura that may trigger a heat in those around them. These Yokai are insatiable, seeking endless pleasure from anything and everything they can find, be it food, entertainment, or sex. It's not uncommon for them to have one thing in particular they become fixated on, though others may simply desire everything. They may even find it hard to sleep without some kind of stimulation to calm them down.

Daijuu (大受) causes Yokai to develop unusually submissive and needy tendencies. They crave physical affection to such a powerful degree that going without it may even become painful. It's not uncommon for these Yokai to only feel comfortable when wrapped up in a nest of blankets to simulate being wrapped in the arms of a lover. They may feel a strong desire to be cared for by another, or even impregnated by a mate, regardless of gender.

Obviously any of these would be pretty inconvenient, but perhaps the worst part is they can strike at any time. One might simply wake up in heat, while another may find themselves suddenly overwhelmed upon seeing a familiar face. And the truly unfortunate may find it happening in public, or even on a long train ride.

While most heats tend to be very mild, often to the point where one might not even realize they're going through one, some Yokai have the misfortune of going through an extreme heat, where the effects of KSJ becomes far more pronounced, even to the point of appearing to have a complete personality shift. Daishoku Yokai may fuck until they pass out, Daikoh Yokai may peruse individuals they would never otherwise be interested in, and Daijuu Yokai have been known to crawl into the beds of strangers to satisfy their need to be held. Heats can be as brief as a few hours, or as long as a few weeks, with varying levels of severity throughout. While most only occur once a year, you're free to utilize heats as a Severe Kizuna Effect at any time!

Discount Dildo Emporium Gion, Kyoto
Just in time for the month of love, a new shop has opened up in downtown Kyoto. The elderly owner of Iyarashii Ryuu, an infamous dildo shop in Tokyo's Shinjuku, has partnered up with an equally amorous young Kitsune to open up a sister store in Gion. And if the large painting on the wall is anything to go by, their relationship probably goes beyond business partners... that's one feisty old lady.

Iyarashii Ryuu specializes in every shape, size, and function of dildo one can imagine, but unlike the Tokyo branch, the Gion branch of Iyarashii Ryuu specializes in enchanted dildos. These dildos are capable of moving on their own, growing in size, changing in shape, and even glowing in the dark! Because why not.

However, these are still a very new product, so they're depending on customer feedback to improve the spells! As such, anyone willing to test out a prototype enchanted dildo will both be allowed to keep the prototype, as well as select from any finished dildos in the shop free of charge.

Of course, some may not realize what they're getting into when they agree to test a prototype. One is designed to change size on command, but contains a bug that may cause it to grow larger than intended, and even develop a distinct knot. Another is designed to allow the one wearing it as a strap on to feel sensations as if it were real, but has a bug that instead causes both partners to feel both sensations, resulting in an extreme case of over-stimulation. Another is designed to move independently like a fucking machine, but seems to lack a means of turning it off. And another glows in the dark so brightly that it can be seen from the outside. Which isn't necessarily a bug, but it sure is something worth seeing.

And hey, for all you natural-dildo-havers, they're also testing a line of condoms designed to do the same things, with the added security of safe sex practices. Very sexy! Just watch out for that size-changing one, though. Some have reported feelings of insecurity upon watching their dangle return to its smaller size.

Fickle Flower Petals

In the midst of everything happening this month, refugees will begin to hear rumors of strange symptoms popping up around Kyoto. Flowers growing out of people's hair, sprouting from the ground with every step they take, or even tumbling out of their mouth. It's only then that the people realize what's happened: those little flowers from before weren't entirely harmless. They're sprouts from a Hanahaki, a very rare ayakashi that possesses flowers, named for the curse it inflicts on those who inhale their pollen.

Thankfully, Hanahaki is treatable, and can even be cured without the need of a specialist. But until the sprouts wilt, those living in Kyoto will simply have to bear with the symptoms.

Post Secret Kyoto, Western Kingdom
In its mild form, Hanahaki causes flowers to grow from a person's hair. These flowers range in size and species, and can grow over the course of mere minutes or many days. Those affected will be encouraged to allow the flowers to wilt naturally, as plucking them may cause permanent bald patches.

While this form can seemingly effect anyone, those hiding secret feelings of love or desire may instead develop a form that causes flowers to bloom on every surface around them. Although certainly the most charming, it's also the most conspicuous, with tiny gardens building up around them whenever they stay in one place for too long.

The true extent of the curse will become obvious to anyone riding the trains, as the entire inside of each car has become blanketed in thick green foliage and flowers. Some may discover that the flowers can even sprout on the other side of walls, potentially filling their neighbor's apartment with unwanted greenery. And let's not even get into the personality types that cause a nuruname to bloom. Best stay away from those folks!

So what's the solution? Well, seeing as not everyone is open to the idea of sharing their thoughts and feelings openly, a workaround has been discovered. All around Tokyo, refugees will find small wooden plaques known as ema hanging in populated places. Those affected by the Hanahaki are encouraged to write anonymous confessions on the ema and hang them up where they can be seen. After enough people have seen their confession, the effects of the Hanahaki will begin to go away.

Just make sure you're not seen hanging a confession up, or it'll defeat the purpose of it being anonymous!

To submit play-made secrets for characters to see in Kyoto, please see this post!

Tell No Lies Kyoto, Western Kingdom | cw: This prompt contains Hanahaki-adjacent body horror.
With most cases manifesting as mild, some may be wondering why the curse is referred to as Hanahaki, meaning to spit flowers. In truth, the name is derived from the severe form of the curse: in which flowers begin growing internally.

The most common location is the throat, causing those affected to cough or hiccup flower petals throughout the day. But for those who are especially unlucky, they may grow down into the lungs, causing severe pain, a bloody cough, and trouble breathing. Due to the likelihood of choking in one's sleep, this form is considered the most dangerous.

This form of the curse manifests in those prone to frequently keeping secrets or telling lies, be it intentionally or as a result of being a rather private person. Much like the mild form, it can be treated naturally through open communication. However, the workaround used for the mild form will not work here. Only by opening up about themselves or the secrets they've been keeping will the flowers begin to wilt.

For those who are still opposed to the idea, a healer can forcefully remove the flowers with a spell. However, this method carries a 25% chance of losing whatever memories are tied to those secrets, ranging from the secrets themselves, to all memories of the people they wish to keep in the dark. Surely such a risk isn't worth it, right?

Party Time

Although the Emperor of the West has grown busy these last couple of months, far be it for him to forget his beloved Refugees during the month of love! And so, on the 25th, all refugees will be extended an invitation to an exclusive party in the Uji district of Kyoto.

Those who assisted in clearing it out earlier will be shocked to see the transformation the building has taken in just a few days, as bright and colorful décor can be found on every corner, and the scent of incense hanging in the air.

It may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it would be most rude to refuse an invitation from the Emperor himself, wouldn't it?

With a Bang! Uji, Kyoto
Taking place at one of his many private villas, refugees will be met with an extravagant affair, filled with Humans and Yokai alike. During the day, there's no shortage of musical entertainment and dancing, along with free food and drinks, and a large outdoor garden to relax in. But at night, the mood of the party shifts dramatically. After a full day of pheromones tickling their senses, and no shortage of uki to go around, it was time for the main event: an orgy to celebrate the season of love.

"Greetings and salutations, my dearest friends from another world! I am Katsuragi no Mikoto, emperor of the Western Kingdom, and on this day, I invite you all to enjoy the many pleasures our world has to offer! Please, those who are inclined, make merry! And rest assured, this is a safe place to indulge."

The main room of the villa itself is designed with an array of sliding doors that can become walls to quickly close off corners for an illusion of privacy, as well as private and secret rooms for those who desire it. In the upper floors, rooms filled with all sorts of enchanted toys and costumes can be found, in addition to a small outdoor bathing area. And in the basement, there's what can only be called a sex dungeon, filled with all sorts of restraints and gear for whatever one's heart desires.

Any guests who stick around for the orgy will be asked to select from a number of colorful kanzashi they'll pin into their hair to convey what they're looking for:

Pink: Platonic, non-sexual physical affection only.
Red: Bondage, restraints, and sadomasochism.
Yellow: Open to kink negotiation or discussion.
Orange: Toys, magic or supernatural powers during sex, transformations.
Green: Costumes and sexual role play.
Blue: Powerplay: light blue for submissive, dark blue for dominant.
Purple: Public use, anonymous sex, exhibitionism.
Gold: Open to anything and everything.
Silver: No physical contact, watching only.

Outside of the Purple and Gold ribbons, all kanzashi are imbued with a spell that will sound a loud alarm if they person wearing it is touched in a manner they didn't consent to, upon which the one who activated it may find themselves thrown into the cold waters of the pond in the garden out front. Refugees are free to take as few or as many kanzashi as they desire, or swap them out as the evening grows long.

Denouement Engagement Uji, Kyoto
The party lasts well into the next morning, with guests welcome to stay the night with whoever they happened to bond with the night before. A nearby bath house is open exclusively for party guests, which is for the best, given the nature of the festivities. There will be no walks of shame coming from the Emperor's villa!

But those who actually manage to stick around this long will have an opportunity to witness a rare event.

In the garden just outside the villa, Katsuragi can be found seated next to a young man who some will recognize as Karu, the emperor of the East. The former is once more clean and dressed in his finest regalia, while the Eastern emperor appears in more subdued colors, a parasol in hand in some attempt to hide himself. Perhaps most would be giving them some space, but those who sneak closer will be able to overhear their conversation. Katsuragi speaks of uniting the two kingdoms, and supporting Karu as the face of the Emperor, so he may focus on his "continuing recovery". For his part, Karu is almost completely silent, though it doesn't seem to impede on their conversation.

But one doesn't need to be eavesdropping to realize what's happening when Katsuragi gets down on one knee and gently takes Karu's hand into his own, prompting the latter to drop the parasol in shock.

What happens next, unfortunately, is just between the two of them. A snap of his fingers, and both Katsuragi and Karu vanish in the blink of an eye. Did he notice they was being watched? Or was he intentionally letting them see that much?

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

• As with all Kizuna effects, you are free to opt out of any of the KSJ effects as well, or simply utilize the ones you are interested in. A Daijuu yokai could simply desire being held, with no sexual or breeding-related connotations, for example. Likewise, as this is inspired A/B/O tropes, you are welcome to use Kizuna as an excuse to utilize any additional tropes not included in KSJ.

• Feel free to mix the effects of the prototype enchanted dildos to include multiple effects at once, or create your own magical effects! With magic, the only limit is your imagination!

• Although not necessary, Japanese does have it's own language of flowers if you would like the flowers your character sprouts/spits up to have greater symbolism. A wider list of plant symbolism can also be found here!

• Hanahaki can produce native plants to Nippon, but cannot produce plant-like Ayakashi. So they can grow Uki in their hair, but cannot cough out a Higanbana.

• In case you missed it, the post for submitting IC secrets is over here!

• Players are welcome to handwave their character sleeping with the Western Emperor himself at the orgy, but don't expect him to remember their name the next day. The Eastern Emperor will not be present until the next day.

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[sultanofsquat]

[ It's a long story.

Cloud wasn't being coy with his words. If anything, he was still going through some of the motions, trying to put things lightly. Was it out of respect for Ayaka that he didn't just flat-out say what was happening? It was little bit of that, and...well. He wonders if she's been experiencing the same things. The fact that Ayaka hadn't finished reading it either...tells him a lot. For someone who committed so much time to things like dancing, calligraphy, tea ceremony, swordplay, and held herself to a very high standard...

Seated at her side, however, even if she wasn't leaning on him yet... ]

I'll make sure we do.

[ ...they're still holding hands. Whereas her focus was on the view from the gazebo and beyond? Cloud's was settled on their laps. To their hands, his larger one covering hers, like he were keeping something safe. As she was trying to contain her feelings, and failing? Cloud was doing the same thing. It might not even be her fault, his own thoughts that bleed through causing the magic to only grow stronger. He doesn't move away from her touch, the sigh that leaves his lips...heavier than he'd meant. ]

This place really threw me for a loop.

[mistsplitter]

We can have reading sessions together.

[ In case that wasn't in the cards just yet! And the suggestion is for when everything is over, not during the month. Ayaka's not really sure if she would be productive this month, and it's unfortunate because she wants to learn more about this world's culture as soon as possible.

She is! Just... not in the way that she would have liked.

Saying that now, though, she wonders what it would be like if they did rehearse together. Would Cloud hold her the way that he did when they auditioned? He was so close then, and he was holding her hand in a different way, and those eyes of his...

Before she knows it, she's looking up at him, looking for that same glow. Her words leave her lips with little thought put into them, her heart and body speaking for her. ]

May I... May I hold your hand properly? Like at the teahouse?

[ Things just... kind of happened before, but now she's staring at him and she doesn't know what to do. It's always been difficult to ask for something that Ayaka wants, but here she is now, doing just that. ]

[sultanofsquat]

Makes sense to me.

[ If they were going to be working together more, it was only logical. That, and well...he still needed time to come to terms with things, but he's already seeing what's changing in this world- for him especially. In this moment, he's already forgotten about why he thought he came here to begin with. And it'll be too soon if he remembers, if it meant having this taken away from him. When his words trail, softer than before, it's like he can feel her eyes on him. At nearly the same time, he lifts his head, only to find himself face to face with the Shirasagi Himegimi.

The way her ribbon-adorned hair frames her face... It's like he can feel her thoughts. To watch her. To look only at her. Because there's nowhere else he wants to be. ]

...

[ His breath gently clips, initially lost for words as he looks into her eyes. Her heart and body speaks for her, whilst his instincts are what keep him locked to her. Instincts that give way to a voiceless command in his mind. Telling him to stop thinking. And finally start feeling. ]

[ "May I... May I hold your hand properly? Like at the teahouse?" ]

Yeah...

[ Cloud's hands, usually covered by hard leather gloves and a studded bracer, were completely bare for her. His hand shifts, no longer covering hers but moving his palm to rub flush to hers. His fingers slip between hers, enlaced as he falls quiet. If this was something that Cloud wanted, it's something he never even knew about until he found her. ]

[mistsplitter]

[ She was afraid of being rejected, even though they've held hands before. It's a relief that Cloud doesn't push her away after what she requested.

At first, it's just a content little smile on her face. Her eyes are no longer on his anymore, but on their joined hands. In her head, she hopes her palm is smooth enough to his liking. She's content because she got what she wanted in this moment, but... if she had to recall, this wouldn't be the first time she wanted to hold his hand. ]

Thank you. I— The past weeks, I wanted to find a way to ask that of you. Or just spend time with you, really! Aha ha... [ To spend time with him and hold his hand. She wanted to go to someplace new, just sit down and talk. She couldn't find it in herself to just send him a message and ask that out of the blue! What if he didn't want to hang out with her? She didn't want to get rejected.

Today though, he found her. He took her hand without her even asking for it. Just thinking about that makes her smile widen, a genuine smile that shows how grateful she is to him, and how much she appreciates his company. When she looks at him again, sure, she's shy, but she feels more like herself like this. ]

I'm glad you found me here. I was scared I would start acting differently again, but... you make me feel at ease, Cloud.

[sultanofsquat]

[ This type of closeness wasn't something he was used to in life. Not as slow, where he can think of and feel everything that's happening. Even when he was comforting someone close to him, his emotions were all...messed up. Stunted and delayed. With so many things about his past and life being thrown for a loop, to avoid collapsing within himself again? He stays here. He focuses on what's ahead of him. What's beside him. What he wants to keep hanging onto. If Cloud ever relearns what's happened to him leading to this point...then, a part of him wishes, hopes that he doesn't lose this.

He joins Ayaka's gaze on their hands. Her palm is so soft, fingers delicate between his thicker, somewhat calloused digits. Then he remembers the poise and grace that she holds her sword. For someone who seemed so delicate and soft, she was very strong. Strong beyond her years, even. She was something else...

But right now, he wasn't holding the Shirasagi Himegimi's hand. ]

? [ He looks to her as she talks, having his undivided attention when she fesses she'd wanted to talk to him sooner. But whether he was reading the script they shared and her voice bled into his thoughts all over again, or he looked at her username on his own device...he had all the time in the world to reach out to her instead. It was always people coming to him. Why couldn't he return the favor? Well... ] Guess that makes two of us...

[ If they were being honest with each other and themselves, ]

I thought of coming to you, too. Then this... [ Urge? Thirst? Hunger? Horny. You can say it. He's still dancing around it. adfskjh ] ...month happened.

[ By this point, he'd been given the explanation what the various Yokai influences were. It wasn't a secret anymore. Cloud didn't want to see his friends when he was like this. He didn't want to ruin something just because some euphoric trigger got pulled in his head and instinct drove him to doing something he might regret, if it meant hurting someone.

There he was, in his own head again... It's just a lot of uncertainties for him. So much unfamiliar territory. A lot of Cloud being shy.

But hearing her say that she was glad that he found her? That she'd had the same worries that he did? It puts him at ease as well. More than anything, as he's left looking into her eyes with a sense of wonder, her warmer smile disarming him of his doubts, it leaves him feeling braver. She wanted this, right? His strong hand giving a light squeeze of hers. ]

Just means I'll hafta make up for lost time.

[mistsplitter]

Yes, and I need to do the same, too.

[ The squeeze of her hand has given her more confidence. It's just the two of them, but she's just really not used to being herself around people. A little more time, and perhaps she wouldn't be as shy anymore.

Her confidence blooms much like the flowers around them grow. It blossoms into something beautiful, and she moves closer to Cloud despite their joined hands. Gently moving their hands to her lap, she closes the distance even further so that she can rest her head on his arm again.

... just like at the teahouse, except she's not feeling lightheaded this time. She's breathing comfortably, albeit red in the cheeks. It's a little difficult to tell if the traits of Daijuu still have a hold on her or if this is actually Ayaka taking what she wants. She hopes this moment will last longer, though. She would like to stay like this and bask in Cloud's warmth for a while longer. ]

By the 1st of the next month, we should get back to work, don't you think?

[sultanofsquat]

Guess we're off to a good start, then.

[ He's just following the advice of other people still, without fully understanding just what Cloud Strife wanted. What was appropriate? What wasn't? The better question now was, really, what got thrown out the window upon getting here? He could get slandered by Shinra or punks all the livelong day, but...was he worried about being judged by the people closer to him? Was this why he danced around the topic with her? ]

...

[ Then she moves in closer, her confidence rubbing off on him as he shuffles slightly, close enough so that her head rests against his arm. Quietly, he swallows when he realizes his hand is in her lap, his warmth a comfort to the younger Kamisato as his cheeks also burn red. When he feels them prickle from the heat, he lets out another sigh of relief...thinking he was just relaxing further. In actuality...it was both; Cloud forgetting himself and letting himself stay close to Ayaka. And the Daishoku waves of magic that encompasses the gazebo they're occupying. ]

Yeah. Till then...

[ It finally feels good. It feels good because he wasn't fighting it anymore. Whether the more ferocious, possessive side of him hungered to stake a claim on something or someone without relent, or his appetite insatiable, Cloud continued circumventing those feelings with other things as best as he could But here? He wants to be here now. He wants to stay with Ayaka for a little longer. He wants to look into her eyes again, or the beauty mark beneath the one. He wants her touch...

It wasn't a craving anymore when he got what he wanted, right? Even as his thumb slowly strums along the side of her hand as he keeps it there within her lap. ]

[mistsplitter]

[ Her eyes close, and she relaxes completely, as if whatever thoughts she's had of wanting to be feel secure, to have someone's lips on hers, to be touched— all out the window. She feels secure right here, in Cloud's presence.

The wind is nice, and the birds sing songs and play around in the trees despite the time. It's late afternoon already, and she can hear that the partygoers aren't as noisy as they were earlier. Or maybe she's just too focused in this moment? Either way, it's peaceful.

Ayaka takes a deep breath. Without opening her eyes just yet, she tells him: ]

The white ume blossom
Yesterday, the cranes
Were stolen.

[ She stays silent for a little bit longer after that, but she knows she must explain. ]

It's a poem about spring. How it's passed already with the birds leaving for the summer.

[ A deep breath, and an accidental snuggle against his sleeve later, her eyes open. She looks up at him without completely moving to ask— ]

What do you think of it?

[sultanofsquat]

[ Cloud's always been the one trying to keep other people secure, he thinks. That he was the one performing "bodyguard" duty. He was the shoulder someone could lean on while he dealt with the heavy lifting. But with Ayaka, the wind muted somewhat by the gazebo blocking it, leaving a gentle brush in their space, the background becoming an afterthought, he finds himself succumbing to an uncommon sensation. Contentment. Living most of his life in Midgar on edge, a light sleeper that could hear what went bump in the night and trouble imminent, and as strange as Nippon had been...

It felt like he could finally take a rest. A real one. It's for those very reasons that Cloud didn't feel the pressure nagging throughout his whole body. Maybe it's because he stopped denying it, that being this close to people...really wasn't that bad. That he didn't have to be like a cork on the bottle ready to burst.

Yeah... He could let go around Ayaka. At least, for as long as this moment would allow them. He didn't have to worry about what other people would think. Only about what he thought and felt. His head feels more clear. But that also means that he's even more sensitive to the sound of his heart beating in his chest, or the pulse he can feel through her hand as he listens to her poem. Like he wants to protect that heartbeat.

When she snuggles against his sleeve, Cloud finds himself laxing in his own seat some, slouching just enough that his head tilts...until he realizes he's nuzzled against the top of her head, and he draws away, only enough that she can look up at him and match his own gaze. Even in the teahouse...it hadn't been this close, it felt like. Any closer; any lower and he'd be brushing his forehead to hers all over again, to "Ayaka" as he pleads her not to go.

But he's not looking into the eyes of a character... The eyes of someone whose pure, light blue gaze makes him hold her a little tighter. Makes him feel weak as the soft glow of his mako-infused blues match her. ]

[ "What do you think of it?" ]

Beautiful.

[mistsplitter]

[ Perhaps it's the atmosphere they've created for themselves, but Ayaka feels even more shy when Cloud says that. As if that very word was addressed to her, and not to the poem she had just recited. Her heartbeat is loud and fast, so very unlike her at a moment of peace and tranquility. For a few good seconds, it looks as if she's questioning what he just said, but...

If he hasn't taken his eyes off her? She'll ask him what he means. If she can be herself around him, then she can do this. ]

Were you talking about the poem, or the white crane?

[ ... if Cloud gets it, anyway. Ayaka's laughing a little, covering her mouth with her free hand. She moves back to rest on him, telling herself that was so bold of her to ask. No— she's commending herself! Others know of her beauty. No— an entire nation knows of it. She's heard people say it so many times. It's what she emulates and hopes to continue being— beautiful. It's not as if she's denying it when she takes care of how she looks and works hard to keep it that way.

Somehow... his opinion is more valuable than the rest, though. For Ayaka to hold someone of such high regard, she truly must respect and care for them.

(Also? Cloud doesn't really have to answer. Ayaka won't hold it against him if he doesn't!) ]

[sultanofsquat]

[ Cloud hasn't lost sight of her, not after saying that, letting the embers that linger in his chest go hotter. There was no beating around the bush about his words. He wasn't the type who normally went around to people saying "hey gorgeous" or some variant of that. If anything, the word left his mouth without even needing to think about it. It was a feeling. Not a Kizuna or Daishoku-fueled one. Even as she takes a few seconds to look at him, questioning, Cloud doesn't surrender to his own shyness this time. He didn't know what was going to happen next, but he's never acted this way around anyone before. Others have seen glimpses of his softer side, but...

It's like the armor he cast on himself was completely discarded. No weapons to guard him. Nothing but layers of a kimono between her and the thrum of his heart when she fires right back with a killing blow. His breath clips, the realization fully dawning on him what he just flat-out said. She laughs then, an act that he finds himself sharing with her, shoulders giving a gentle shake as he huffs a shorter laugh. What's gotten into him...

He could blame the "Month of Love" all he wanted to, but he wasn't focusing on the yearnings of his heat when he said what he did, or held her hand so carefully. He laughs, only because he's also giving himself a pat on the back.

Hell with it. He's come this far. He can't do a full 180 on his nature and drive, but at least when there's no fighting needing to be done, he can follow that advice that resonates with him. Actually listen as he closes his eyes, make the most of his time here. ]

The crane. [ he hints with a light smile gracing his lips. ] Poem was good, too.

[mistsplitter]

[ This— all of this. It's never been something Ayaka's ever considered doing. Sure, people have shown interest in her. Heirs of clans sending gifts to the Shirasagi Himegimi, only for them not to receive any answer from her directly. Either it was her elder brother doing the responding, or someone else. It's just... to be with someone for the rest of your life for the sake of work, or for a name... that truly defeats the purpose of marriage. Ayaka watched her mother and father's relationship growing up. They both supported each other and showed each other that they loved the other. One of these days, Ayaka hopes to find someone she can rely on the same way her mother found someone.

Of course, marriage is far from her thoughts now! She laughs again, shaking her head this time, before looking at Cloud with a fond expression on her face. It's almost reminiscent of when family or close friends would say something silly. Little does she know, it's that same expression of fondness her mother had when she would watch her family. Guess it must be something she inherently picked up from her mom growing up.

Cloud may or may not say these things in the same way her suitors have, but... this is Kamisato Ayaka's response. ]

If I may, [ She squeezes his hand gently to keep his attention on her, her chin resting on his arm (because she can't reach his shoulder??!?! JAJDJAD) as she leans on him. ] I'd like to correct you. A crane is not the same as a heron.

While the heron appreciates your compliment, she would like you to pay attention to the poem, too.

[ This isn't about her, Cloud! Tsk, tsk. Despite all that, though, it doesn't seem like she's against any of this. Keep holding her hand, Cloud. Stay with her. Talk about anything and everything with her. The Daijuu in her wants your affection, so... please. ]

1/2

[sultanofsquat]

[ Cloud, as far as he told himself, really didn't have the time for something like settling down. Not since he left Nibelheim at a young age to pursue his goal of joining SOLDIER. But that didn't seem to stop other people from prying on his life like that. Friends like Jessie or Aerith asking him about Tifa. Or the assumptions made when he was on bodyguard duty for the flower girl. Or even his late mother voicing who she thought would be the right kind of woman for him. Someone more mature, who can keep him out of trouble. They were passing thoughts to him.

Yet...they never left, either. Here in an entirely different world, he's been given ample time to be alone with his thoughts. What thoughts were still sound, anyway. Among them were, indeed, the new bonds he was forming. Both from old and new faces alike. It'd been not even two weeks since he'd met most the others in Midgar, but here, under the roof of this lone gazebo in an elaborate garden, Cloud sought out someone who took his time for longer. What he did know?

Was that Ayaka was his friend. That she was someone he would look out for, as loyal as he was to the others. She'd effortlessly been given that much from him. At times, it was hard to recognize the cold, money-driven mercenary that he had put himself out there to be, when he was with her.

So when she looks up at him with such a fond expression, her chin resting on his arm and adorable eyes capturing his...

He doesn't know. He doesn't know what this other feeling was supposed to be. Or if he did, he was too nervous to even dare put words to it. But she had him with a squeeze of his hand, her words dripping into his ears so innocently, pure and sweet. She corrects him, his gaze catching her mouth in his peripheral. How soft they looked. How soft they must have felt... She smells like sakura, he realizes being this close to her as his heart hammers away in his chest. He doesn't know. ]

Ah.

[ He doesn't know anything right now. Nothing but what he wants right now. To keep holding her hand as the Daishoku waves only grow stronger inside of him. ]

Right...

[ To stay with Ayaka. Keep listening to Ayaka. Keep watching her eyes, or the soft cadence of her voice... ]

I'll keep that.....

[ He doesn't know. ]

...keep that in...

[ Kiss her. ]

—mind...

[ She leaves his sight as his comes to a close, leaning in... ]

2/2

[sultanofsquat]

[ "Hey, you two!!" ]

?!?

[ His eyes snap wide open, like a spell being broken around them as a rather handsy couple of partygoers lean against the entrance of the gazebo. Instinctively, his hold on Ayaka tightens, almost protectively as his kneejerk response is to glare back at them. It's not even about what they interrupted! But. Privacy?! Before Cloud can even say anything however, trying to handle the emotional whiplash of going from being so calm and content to jostled, they elaborate.

Or. More like drop a fucking embarrassment bomb on the two.

"If you're gonna have fun, you might as well join the party."

"Everyone's just getting started! Come on!" ]

What's getting started——

[ ...

Ow. Ow. Ow ow ow his face actually hurts. His face is ripe red, cheeks stinging as it dawns on him. Late into the afternoon, as the sun was slowly getting ready to set, the mood and atmosphere surrounding the palace was changing. Sure enough, the distant sound of music from the palace was changing too. More rhythmic drums, slow in their tempo. Deeper.

He turns to Ayaka.

It's begun.

And nope. Cloud shoots from the hip as he sternly stares down the couple that looked a little too curious. ]

興味ないね.

[mistsplitter]

[ Ayaka doesn't know what exactly she's feeling, either, but this feeling is something that's spurring her to be more confident. To do something she's never done before. More than just being herself, this feeling is making her discover more about herself. And it feels free.

She watches him speak, and it's as if time has stopped. All she can hear is Cloud, and he's speaking so slowly. His words grow softer and softer, so she leans in closer. In her head, she's asking what he's saying, and she doesn't even know it herself, but she's closed her eyes already.

Keep what?

Before she could ask him to finish his sentence, the silence is broken. The peace she's established with him disturbed, with some strangers barging in. She lets go of Cloud's hand the moment his grip tightens only so she can summon her fan and hide her face behind it.

She doesn't want them to see Kamisato Ayaka.

Her face is so red, and she keeps her eyes closed as she wills herself to calm down. This is so embarrassing. Being with Cloud isn't embarrassing, but the fact that someone just came in and barged in on what was supposed to be a private moment. She's embarrassed for them, and quietly wishes they would just go away. They saw something that they shouldn't have. They saw something that she did not want them to see.

But because she's let go of Cloud's hand? That burning desire to be touched is back. What would have happened if they weren't interrupted?

"Well, you two enjoy, then. We're going."

And so they do. It begins to get dark, lamps around the palace being lit one by one. From a distance, other partygoers start running back into the palace itself. Loud screaming of excitement and moaning... all things Ayaka could never and don't ever want to be part of.

... Ayaka can't even bear to look them in the eye right now. She's not angry, but she'd prefer to maintain her distance from them. Instead of answer, she just lets them leave. If Cloud wants to say anything to them, then that's none of her business. Her more jovial mood's definitely been ruined, though. ]

I think the party is over.

[ She lowers her fan finally, revealing how dejected she is about. Well. The recent events. That's all she has to say about that, though. ]

[sultanofsquat]

[ Cloud's initial kneejerk reaction? He's pissed. Throughout this entire heatwave, it's been a combination of both Daikoh and Daishoku traits coming and going, weaving between and these recent events an absolute minefield to traverse. But even with all of these fluctuating emotions and desires, the one solace he found? Was here. Right here. And now they're being left to be hyperaware of the fact that, loud screams and moans and all, that there was an orgy taking place. It wasn't his deal. He doesn't think it's something he would participate in even if he was comfortable sexually.

And judging by the look of dejection on Ayaka's face as he goes from glaring daggers at the frisky couple stumbling back to the palace, to the apologetic look he gives her...

She wasn't, either. They'd both confided in the other about how weird these past couple weeks had been. Cloud tried avoiding most people he knew while he slowly devolved into a frustrated, heat-driven mess. Including one of the few people he'd come to trust being around. And now that he found her again? ]

[ "I think the party is over." ]

.....

[ His heart just sinks. He feels sorry for her. She felt safe with him. And now they're sitting here, awkwardly being forced to listen to the thrum of euphoric music and excitement, laughter and moans that were completely different from the atmosphere of the day. But more than anything...seeing her so sad? His hesitation only lasts for a few seconds, before determination lights his eyes, his decision made the moment he found her. ]

Not for us it ain't.

[ Just like before, he reaches for her hand, this time out of a desire to protect her than interlaced, whirlwind intimacy. ]

Come on.

[ He's staying. With her. But not here. ]

[mistsplitter]

[ The smile she gives him is a consolation, if any. She's not even sure what she's disappointed about at this point, but she just knows she is. The moment of peace and tranquility, the moment of being with someone you could be yourself with is gone. Perhaps that is the one that Ayaka is upset most about. A time that she thought would last longer flew by so quickly without being given the chance to say goodbye. It's something they can never have again.

And yet, Cloud's words, simple as they are, brush those thoughts of grief away. She looks to him before looking down at their hands. Is that her cue to get up? If the party is over, then there's no need to stay here, after all. But with her senses more awake, it only means the heat she feels is more present than it was earlier.

Her eyes close and she clears her throat. A deep breath, Ayaka. You can do this. ]

Yes. I don't see a point in staying here anymore.

[ She'll get up when he does! And if they start walking? She's not going to waste any time in moving closer. If she's not close, if she can't feel anything? She's afraid she's going to feel so uncomfortable it might hurt again like last time. ]

[sultanofsquat]

[ It's just as much of a challenge for Cloud as it was going to be for Ayaka when they part the way they do. Yet if there's one thing that he's coming to understand, it's that bottling away his feelings and even some of his impulses only lead to complications. He purposely attempted to hide away from his friends when his heat got worse, for the sake of not wanting to cause trouble for them. Because he was worried about what he might do if he couldn't help himself. These feelings were fleeting. They'd pass; so he told himself. Cloud wouldn't take back what's happened, but he sure as hell can learn from it. He's learned that finding Ayaka tonight, amidst the whirlwind of emotions and distorted thoughts in his head, was the best thing to happen to him.

He wouldn't snap. He wouldn't lose control. If he was going to be some heated beast? He'd accept and control those urges; Cloud was going to use them for someone else's sake. Even if she didn't move closer to him? He wasn't letting go of her hand. The Daikoh awoken inside of him would keep her hand, take possession of her for one night. Make her his if it meant protecting her peace and tranquility. No one was taking her away from him. The Daishoku in him would focus on his sole craving; Kamisato Ayaka. He wants her, alone. They're going to keep partying; it didn't matter where if it meant he brought back the comfort she sought in him.

Best of luck to anyone else trying to stop them. His grip of her hand tightens, a reassurance that he wasn't going anywhere as he realizes that there's no sensible escape from the garden. He could jump down the wall...but that was too drastic, even for him over something like this. Cloud's certain that there's an outer perimeter of the palace that they can head through that didn't put them smackdab in the middle of the...coughfestivitiescough. Steeling himself, he leads Ayaka back inside. Back down the side hallway that they can follow towards the front lobby... ]

?!

[ Oh if only it was that simple. He can't drown out the euphoric moans and giggles of ecstasy that come from various rooms and the main hall. His cheeks redden, brow furrowing with frustration as he fights to cast all those vivid thoughts from his mind. It's a terrible thing, carrying these lustful traits and trying to use them for a different purpose. So help him, if he walks out of here flush with arousal, it'll all be worth it if they get out of here together and fastwhaaaat are those three doing. Instinctively, he squeezes Ayaka's hand, walking faster than before as two purple and one gold-kanzashi adorned threesome are getting very handsy with one another, the woman between the two getting felt up and craning her head back to kiss the one grinding up against her from behind and—

Oh. They spot them. Before the trio can even say anything, whether it was just "hi"— ]

This way.

[ Such authority in his voice as they cheese it the hell out of there. He shouldn't be as out of breath as he felt, his heart hammering away in his chest as he occasionally looks to Ayaka to make sure that she's still holding his hand. They blast by anyone and everyone that's getting frisky in the halls, out to the lobby, past the front doors (the guards are gone. wonder where. 💦), down the steps, and eventually? Finding themselves out on the open street in front of the palace. The moaning was gone!

Just the ones in his head now. KFJSHDA ]

Haa...haa...

[ He's not tired. It's definitely an entirely different kind of heavy breathing. 😳 ]

[mistsplitter]

[ Her mood from earlier, feeling dejected and upset, is lifted, but not entirely. She doesn't feel the need to be disappointed anymore, but she does feel a little uneasy as they walk. The... festivities are distracting her from what should be a levelled head, and the longer they walk? As she's looking at the person she's walking with? She can't help but wonder what it would be like for them— no, Ayaka! Stop that!

Cloud may or may not hear a disappointed sounding whimper come from the girl with him. She's doing her best to suppress everything she's feeling, okay??

At least it doesn't take very long for Cloud's hold on Ayaka to tighten. Whatever thoughts she's been having ultimately go away as she tells herself to hasten each step. They're running. She's clueless at first, but she thinks she knows now. The quicker they get out of here, the better! The moans get louder, you can even hear... what? The sound of slapping? Ayaka doesn't want to think about it, but as soon as they aren't running anymore? ]

What... [ Hang on, let her just figure out how she's truly feeling. She's blushing so badly, and she's doing her best to catch her breath. Then she looks back at where they came from. Those noises they kept hearing are gone, and she can't help but start laughing. ] What did we just do? That was so silly!

[ They didn't run from a giant salamander creature! They didn't even run from casting agents! Tonight, apparently, they ran away from the biggest threat they could ever hope to face in this place: an orgy. And she's laughing about it, because there's no other acceptable reaction to what they just did! Absolutely silly. She would have never done that with anyone else, no matter how badly she wanted to be away from it all.

Most of all, though? Because she's never done anything like it, she got to do something new now. She takes a step closer and wraps her arms around him without thinking. ]

Thank you, Cloud.

[ Or maybe it's that desire to be close that's doing the thinking for her right now. ]

[sultanofsquat]

[ There's a good reason why Cloud didn't want to stop walking. Whatever was going to happen out on the gazebo, he felt well enough in control of his own feelings to know that he could at least have sense to move. When he had more time to think about it as they leave this place, it was really going to hit him. Lust, filthier thoughts, in that moment...he didn't have a single one of those. All he had was Cloud Strife's nerves, and the look on her face when she tilted her head up at him from where she laid against his arm. The tender look in her eyes when she teasingly told him to stay focused on the poem. And not the heron that he almost kissed...

He'd figure out eventually, bolstered by the Kizuna that made it easier to give in, that...it's what he would have wanted. Even if he wound up embarrassed by it after, it was ruined by the changing atmosphere of the orgy. Cloud won't knock it, but he also wasn't prepared to take part in it. Nor was he...really prepared for the idea of leaving poor Miss Kamisato to fend for herself at a party like this. Especially with how much she yearned to be held and close to someone. Right. Festering thoughts and vivid flashes in his mind be damned? He was getting her out of there.

...even if he did have to endure the sound of skin clapping against skin, the crescendo of moans, and the vision of what it would have been like if they were the ones staying. If he was the one that had her sandwiched between the hard wall, and his harder body...her nails digging into his shoulders as he hooks her knees in his arms as he—— ]

.....

[ He stands upright again with a warm huff, looking back around the same time that she did- only to do something he hadn't really done since getting here. Cloud laughed. He laughed alongside her, albeit more reserved and behind a closed fist as he can't figure out where to look. Back at the party? Back at her? The cracks in the pavement as he fidgets on the spot? It's just...stupid. Everything about what they just did after leaving the gazebo was stupid. And he's just...laughing over it. ]

[ "What did we just do?" ]

Made a daring escape? [ he quips in with a waning laugh in his voice. That was a first for him too. Then again...this world's been a lot of firsts for him. So when Ayaka wraps her arms around him so suddenly? He's taken by surprise, body going stiff for a few seconds. But unlike the last time he warred with his feelings and figuring out what was the right thing to do...

She won't be kept waiting long, returning the embrace as he squeezes her tight. ...at least this time he knows better than to go so hard to hurt them. dkjfha ]

Never a dull moment... [ "...with you," the familiar words repeat in his head. After another few seconds, instead of pulling away and walking from her like he normally would, his hands move up to her shoulders as he steps back. Just enough so that he can look to her, not realizing that he's still smiling. ]

Right. [ They better keep going. He'll reach for her hand again this time, waiting until she was ready to go with him. Where? He...actually doesn't know yet. But tonight, he just wants it to be with her. It's too late to go back to Tokyo, even if the train was always running. Did she have a place here in Kyoto? Honestly, Cloud was still making things up as he went. ] Gotta keep our party going.

[ The one they were having before the mood changed. ]

[mistsplitter]

[ Oh! That was... tight! Ayaka's not used to embracing people, but it looks like Cloud is the same! She can't help but laugh a little at that too, but it's barely audible. He'd likely be able to tell that she's just amused, and not laughing at him. Rather than bring that up, though, when Cloud pulls away? She says what she usually says. ]

My apologies, I— My emotions got the better of me.

[ But it doesn't look like anything is wrong! Cloud is smiling, and he doesn't seem put off by her emotions at all. It's... still okay! Ayaka just isn't sure if she's being too much or not, but she hopes Cloud will say something if she is. He's allowed her to be herself around him, but it doesn't mean she should abuse it! ]

We can take the train to Ukiyo, if you'd like. There are gazebos by the riverside, and small stalls nearby for food and drink.

[ The view is nice, from the time she went there by herself! It's especially nicer during sunset, since the colours of the sky reflect on the water, too. It's very subtle, but it really sounds like she wants to go there, because she's swaying their joined hands from side to side. Nothing wild, mind, it's so subtle and so gentle, much like how Ayaka always is. ]

It would be a waste to put your efforts in dressing up to waste by going home now. You look very nice today, after all.

[sultanofsquat]

You and me, both.

[ When they first met, while he wasn't exactly cold...he was certainly more focused on business. But it didn't really take long for that facade to drop, glimpses of his self beneath coming through like Komorebi. Cloud still had a ways to go before he truly figured everything out, but...around some of the people he's met here, especially the one so gently swaying their hands? He's coming around. He's getting by. ]

Sure. Let's go.

[ Not to mention with the "Month of Love" still in full swing, that meant things were going to remain festive on this side of Nippon well into the night! ...hopefully with a tamer atmosphere. Though he's not ruling things getting spicy either. So long as he's here to look out for Ayaka, it'll all work out!

It almost felt like coming to a sensual party and literally escaping an orgy (overdramatic smh), served as one hell of an ice breaker though. Because while he wasn't about to go blurting out everything that ran through his still heated head? It wasn't much of a secret either, even when he committed himself to her completely- something that thankfully has the advantage of taking the edge off. ]

That was gonna be my line. [ What with how nice she looked and all. She looked elegant, graceful, hot all the time. But his reaction to her when she turned to face him at the party was genuine. ] Speaking of home... You got a place to stay over here?

[ He's only asking out of curiosity! Otherwise, they were both going to have to endure a long train ride back to Tokyo... After coming here a few times already, he's beginning to think it might be a fair idea to rent out a place. But that can come later. ]

[mistsplitter]

The train station should be... [ Still not used to navigating through these streets, she looks around. Ah— where people are coming from! She imagines they're on their way to the party since they're... dressed up.

(Too bad they're losing those clothes as soon as they get there?) ] This way. Please follow me.

[ Cloud's already holding her hand, so all she does is a gentle tug of his hand before she starts walking. If he's next to her soon after, she's not even going to hesitate. What they've done earlier was very comfortable, and she's starting to get used to it. Wrapping her free hand around his arm, she leans against it as they walk.

Nevermind the other people looking at them and whispering "what a well-dressed couple!" and all that. Ayaka can't hear them. All she can focus on is the person she's with, actually. ]

Mm, I thought to get a dorm here, as well. My brother works in the government now, so if he's busy and can't go home, he has another house to get back to. Although I'm not sure how well he keeps the place...

[ Sweats........... she hopes it is clean. . . ]

[sultanofsquat]

[ Cloud's gotten a general lay of the land by now, he thinks! At least, he knows most of the names of districts within each respective city. ...most. Something's bound to crop up that throws him for a loop. He follows her lead, his free hand on his hip as he taps his foot in thought. Luckily for them, their clue comes in the form of people hurrying out in a pile en route to the palace! It's close by! And when she beckons him to follow her? He does exactly that. ...for all of a couple moments before he feels strange being lead along like this. The squeeze of his hand is something that plays in his head over and over...

It's a comforting feeling. One that isn't accompanied by the usual sweltering waves of heat that made him want to pull her back against him. Never fully waning, but also not growing wild and out of control either. He's felt what it's like to let the Daikoh and even the Daishoku within him run rampant. And for Ayaka's sake...it's the last thing he wants to spring on her. Isn't that bottling things up again, Cloud? Once he's stepping up to her side, he doesn't hesitate in leaving an opening for her wrap her hand around his strong arm.

There it is...the pillar of support he's put himself up to be. Even when he didn't know how long he could keep that up for on his journey. Cloud can hear the murmurings, meanwhile. "well-dressed couple"... Hah. Well, so long as it meant that his attention was focused solely on her? He'll be okay. He's okay with taking possession of her for one night if it meant she was comfortable and safe.

After all, she wasn't the only one who needed this. ]

He worked his way up fast. [ A beat. ] Guess I shouldn't be too surprised.

[ He was the head of his clan back home, after all. When Ayaka mentions her brother's unkempt tendencies, he doesn't quite laugh but. His shoulders lightly shrug as he gently huffs, expression lifting some. ]

Common trend?

[ Cloud's never really had time to accumulate anything wherever he's stayed. But if his future doesn't change? He's in the same boat as her bro. He faces ahead as they begin making their way up the wide-pathed flight of stairs leading to the train station. ]

I'll figure out where to stay down the road. Gonna need to if I'm gonna keep coming back.

[mistsplitter]

Hehe, I think you need to, yes.

[ That's her commitment to him— to make him keep coming back to this place! Ayaka likes to spend time in Tokyo, too, but lately, she's been coming to the university to learn more about this place and its culture. If she wants to host a festival one day, after all, she's going to have to study a lot. ]

Ah, and you should send me a message if you are. If I'm here, perhaps we can have tea together. If we aren't here for rehearsals already, too.

[ Just another means of hanging out! Perhaps Ayaka is a little too eager, but she's also very lacking in friends. It wasn't until recently, where she's from, that she's gotten to make more friends, after all. The way she handles things and sees friendship may be a little different from others, but she wants to be seen as a good friend regardless. ]

Perhaps you could hire one of those... "maid services" I heard about.

[ AYAKA THAT'S NOT WHAT YOU THINK IT MEANS ]