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jigokulogs2022-06-12 04:59 pm
rainswords) wrote in jigokulogs2022-06-12 04:59 pmEntry tags:
rainswords) wrote in jigokulogs2022-06-12 04:59 pm
( ʜᴜ ᴛᴀᴏ ) — ᴄᴜʀsᴇᴅ ɴɪɢʜᴛ
As they walk he doesn't fail to note the change in the air; strange how it manages to feel stale compared to that of an indoor beach. He is certain it was not like this prior to the party. It's not long before the stars completely blot out leaving only lanterns and street lights as guides, the ground rumbles and shakes but he remains on two feet. His arm is offered to Hu Tao in case she needs help maintaining balance. ]
That's going to be it right?
[ A warm droplet hits his face, initially he would assume it to be rain due to previous foul weather but looking at his friend's face dotted by the same substance he quickly realizes it's something completely different. As the drops increase in quantity until they are being showered, he realizes that the lights that lit the night don't pierce the blanketing darkness of this storm. ]
You don't see that—
[ Before he can finish speaking his words are cut off by a scream that seems to reverberate through the whole city. Startled, even he can't remain composed after that sound. It was eerie... And then they appear. Those clay figurines from before. This part doesn't particularly frighten him, more so annoys him. ]
It's those things. They better not be all over the flat again.
[ Right. He never did tell her about that... that they were all over their living quarters and he had to gather them all up then get rid of them. ] Well... this stinks. I mean that literally.
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Although, that was the plan until she noticed something was rather odd. At first, she thought it was merely her imagination as she figured it was the festivities that made her see blots. That quickly came to a stop before she gave a glance at Xingqiu. The moment she felt the ground shake, she wondered if it was something to ignore.]
I’m not sure bu-
[Before she could finish her sentence, she noticed a red raindrop on her friend’s face. Assuming that it was a prank played by whatever this world had to offer, she didn’t think much of it. Again, she was foolish to think that as it hit her face. She knew what it was. It was something she dealt with almost on a daily basis back home.
Even as the rain got heavier, she didn’t move from her stop. Instead, when she heard the scream, all she could do was give a sigh. It was strange, she knew she should be scared and yet? Seeing those clay figures was oddly reminiscent of the hilichurls.
As much as she wanted to remark about what he had seen about those figures around the flat, now was not the time.]
Then shall we find a way to escape them? I do believe they can’t keep running away from us forever.
[But if it was a fight they want, it was a fight she will deliver.]
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I don't believe they can really run at all?
[ They're clay figurines and although they may have legs they're not going anywhere. Not by running anyway. He's gotten a clue by now that they're likely some sort of supernatural object so likely they have other means of mobility. Does he want to find out how they function? Kind of? Who wouldn't be curious?
But the more time he has gotten to spend with them, the stranger and eerier they appear.
Nothing like that time he rounded them up at their flat and delivered them to the Enma Department. Nothing had come of that but now... where did they all come from. Well, he isn't going to get any answers standing around here and becoming a sopping mess. ]
This stuff really does smell...
Why don't we head back and get washed up?
[ He means they should stop by their flat, maybe take a shower, throw on something else, and then afterward they can figure out what actions to take. Unless she's content to be drenched in what he is beginning to suspect is the one thing he the substance isn't. That would be highly disgusting. ]
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Glancing at the mysterious figures, she debated how much she should interfere. If they weren’t creating havoc, then it was wise to leave them be right? Although, at the same time, she didn’t know what would happen should they move.
Regardless, there was only one thing on her mind.]
Yes, please! As much as I do enjoy seeing red, I believe a change in scenery would be lovely!
[While the sight of blood wasn’t anything shocking, she would rather spend her time washing away the remains of it. Even with her smiles, she didn’t know how much longer she would withstand the weight of her hair.
This definitely wasn’t how she wanted to end her day.]
I don’t think it should be a long way from here. Although, we should be careful if those figures are to catch up to us.
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With Hu Tao agreeing with his idea there is no point in lingering. It would seem they aren't the only two people picking up on the thought. Many others are running past seeking shelter, for a brief moment he considers searching for Chongyun but they live in completely different territories and he knows the exorcist to be capable. He would just have to contact him later.
With a motion for her to follow, Xingqiu would lead the way keeping his eyes open for the haniwa although he has to shield his face from the rain. ]
That's a positive. It was convenient that it was the Daitengu hosting this celebration.
[ Otherwise who knows how far they would have to travel to get to their residence. Although she does believe it isn't a long way, and he does agree that the distance isn't wide between the concert hall and their home, the rain likely won't make travel easy. It comes down thick and hard making it difficult to see into the distance. Light barely filters through and the darkness of the night does not help. ]
Technically we shouldn't get lost but stay close.
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As she looked at the others, there was a lingering thought that made her wonder about the people whom she befriended here. The moment she opened her mouth to say something, she quickly shook her head. No, they would be fine, she thought to herself.
After all, she knew they were strong people. If anything, there would others who could help them out. Right?
Despite how uneasy she felt, her attention went straight to Xingqiu. As she followed him, she couldn’t help but shiver.]
Hopefully we shouldn’t. Although, I do wonder if we should find a stick somewhere. Perhaps I can light something so we see better?
[If worse comes to worse, Hu Tao could always use powers to light the way. Although, she doubts that it would go anywhere with how thick the blood was. However, it was worth a try!]
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There were many people found in the city, his concern isn't solely for those he bonded with yet there are too many and everyone is moving on their own. It's the start of panic and action. Some people likely will seek refuge while others will valiantly provide aid. He wants to assess the situation first.
So far, the rain only proves to be an appalling and revolting sight. Again, the stench that lingers through the air is nauseating. But that is all he knows, and that is why he wants to get out of the downpour. He has no idea what else could linger in the midst of the nightmarish storm. ]
Would it stay lit under this downpour?
[ He stretches out a hand, palm upward trying to catch droplets. His eyebrows knit together. There was a certainly which he had not denied but rather accepted. Blood was coming down from the sky and yet as he gathers the liquid in a cupped hand there is some doubt. ]
But does your suggestion mean you have access to your skills? May as well give it a shot.
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Sighing to herself, she crossed her arms as she kept her gaze at the others once more. With the panic and pandemonium, all she could do was wish that this would resolve itself soon.]
I’m not sure but I’m willing to try anything.
[Again, looking down at the ground, everything was so hard to see. Narrowing her eyes, she kneeled down before searching the area. With every step she took, she hoped she would eventually find something. Although, once she did, she couldn’t help herself.
The moment she found a small stick, a huge smile appeared on her face!]
Ah, there we go! That took long enough! Now let’s see if I can light it up…!
[But the more she tried to focus on the stick, the more nothing happened. After a moment or two, she gave yet another sigh before throwing said stick to the side. So much for that working.]
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( sʜɪɴᴏʙᴜ ) — sᴜɪᴋᴀᴡᴀʀɪ
As he makes his way closer, slowly inching his way among the people spectating the game he notes a blindfolded man and in his hands a wooden sword. Though there were many attempts to guide his swing ultimately that man fails to hit the mark. The mark being a perfectly round watermelon laid out upon a sheet. With failure it is time for the next participant.
There is a stark difference between the man leaving and the young lady stepping forward to take her turn. There is confidence in the way she holds the weapon that doesn't diminish once she is blindfolded. There is obvious experience in swordsmanship just by observing her stance, and the way the weapon is held in her hands. It all makes it clear her aim would be true. Just from that alone he can't help but be impressed, he expects that she will strike the target. ]
here i am!!! super late!!
The wooden sword is thicker than her own, but still light in her hands. Her peripheral awareness tells her the watermelon is in her range and with a practiced smile she steps forward, bringing the wooden sword over her head—
—and swinging it down towards the poor watermelon.
Guts and melon matter go splattering— much to the elation of the crowd— and Shinobu can't help but lift her blindfold to make sure she hasn't made too much of a mess.
Unfortunately a chunk of watermelon seems to be melting now on some poor boy's feet.] Ah!
I tried my best to keep it tidy... [As tidy as one can make it with an exploded watermelon. She smiles at the blue-haired boy.] Are you alright?
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
While his attention is diverted to the splatter of watermelon at his feet, he doesn't note the young woman is now approaching until he hears her speak at a short distance.
That sounds practically impossible, while the weapon in her hand has the shape of a sword it isn't as sharp as one to make a clean up. The result is actually expected from his perspective and yet he isn't upset. Knowing accidents are bound to happen he lowers his gaze once more and shakes his head. ]
Please there is no need for you to be concerned. I'm quite alright.
If anything this looks like the biggest piece so really I think I'm fortunate.
( ᴄʜᴏɴɢʏᴜɴ ) — ᴄᴜʀsᴇᴅ ɴɪɢʜᴛ
Some people weren't as easy to convince to seek refuge, there were often times when he came across individuals displaying erratic behavior. Difficult to persuade he still does his best and yet sometimes these become violent affairs. There is a weariness settling in that he never experience through travel, no matter how high a mountain or cliffside he climbed or how far he ran, this penetrates deeper. Slowly a sense of foreboding settles in.
It's not difficult to surmise the cause of all the oddities. The blood rain that he doesn't comprehend and the haniwa that seem to be just about everywhere.
Despite fatigue, he doesn't turn a blind eye to those in need. That is why he finds himself attempting to convince a young boy to return home. Oddly the child speaks rationally, seems composed, and doesn't display any violent behavior despite being drenched in the foul-smelling substance. From exchanging words he comes to learn why the boy is outside, in the tree nearby is the child's a pet: a once fluffy pristine white cat that now appears ghastly. Not all endeavors to do good mean valiant effort, sometimes all it takes is to bring someone happiness and that is why Xingqiu climbs the tree to retrieve the kitten.
The very angry kitten immediately sinks its claws and teeth into his arm as soon as he gets a hold of it. Xingqiu does not let go, cautionsly he makes his way down. With the kitten back in its owner's arms, he walks the boy home. Once that child is safe, he would seek shelter himself. Under an awning of a shop is where he sees his friend. ]
Fancy meeting you here?
[ A sigh can't be helped as he leans back against the wall. ]
Some weather we're having.
[ It's hesitation, clear and obvious as he drops his gaze then runs his hand along his arm. He feels heavy in a way he can't explain and yet he doesn't find his thinking irrational. It's weariness, that's all. Finally, he turns towards Chongyun and runs fingers along the boy's cheek. Elemental power there returning the flow of water to him as he attempts to clean the boy's face. ]
I know it won't last. Unless you want to spend the evening here.
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And there are many. People gnarled under nightmarish curses, soaked in bloody rain, wild-eyed and feral. Chongyun pushes himself to the point of exhaustion purging what he can from those he finds, trying to clear their minds of insanity. It's not nearly as many as he'd like, not as much as he could do if his powers weren't stunted, but, he reminds himself, every bit counts. Every person counts. Even if he wants to do more ... he has his limits.
He dips beneath an awning to wipe the blood from his eyes. Dark purple bags weigh beneath his eyes, face gone somewhat gaunt beneath the splatter of red—he's so exhausted that he doesn't even realize that Xingqiu's joined him under the cover of the awning until his friend's slender fingers touch his face. He looks up, focusing on his friend, relief clear in his expression. Of course he trusted Xingqiu to remain safe, but it's still good to see him well.
The tickle of water feels good. Chongyun sighs, eyes closing for a moment. There's no time for real rest until they're somewhere inside. ]
Xingqiu. [ he says the name like a prayer, softly, before opening his eyes again. ] I'd rather not. I wish I could do more, but I think I'm just about spent.
[ It would be irresponsible to keep pushing, lest he become a burden on someone else. He reaches up to brush his fingers along his friend's wrist, searching the other boy's face through the stain of blood. He looks tired, too. ]
I think we both need rest.
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There is little Xingqiu can do about the effects caused by the macabre storm that's overtaken the city. Madness seems rampant, and though he doesn't want to give way to violence there were times he had to defend himself. Fatigue he can fight, there is little he can do about guilt.
Despite his own sentiments along with weariness, he manages to offer Chongyun a smile. A warm and assuring expression, beneath a confident veneer he buries concern and exhaustion. ]
I guess there are some things I just can't hide from you.
[ Likely it isn't Chongyun suddenly gaining some hidden insight but rather the nightmarish downpour ending all masquerades. Raw and open are emotions, that could explain some people being driven insane, unable to contain true sentiment or their very nature. The thought lost inhibitions is actually frightening. He has to wonder what his expression is like now as Chongyun's fingers finally caress his blood-stained cheek. ]
Then shall we?
Although I think I'm far from my flat.
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[ Just by happenstance. He had been aimless, in a sense, just going where the chaos led. With the sidewalks and streets slick with blood, a shorter distance is for the best—gripping Xingqiu's hand in his, Chongyun leads, taking care with every step so they don't slip in the sludge.
Their shoes squeak when they finally enter the foyer of the apartment building. Theirs aren't the only blood prints left behind; a wild spidering of marks cover the floor, which makes slipping a very real possibility up until they reach Chongyun's door. He opens it with another sigh, shaking off the fresh blood rain and reaching blindly for something, anything, to wipe off with.
He ends up grabbing a t-shirt. Chongyun wipes his face clean, and then reaches out to gently wipe Xingqiu's face too after their slide off their shoes. ]
How long were you out for?
[ Though time, he realizes, is difficult to gauge with the endless blood rain. Hours? Days? They've begun to blend together. ] ,
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Traction is difficult to maintain in the cheap pair of flip-flops he purchased for the beach. They hardly made adequate footwear for travel, worse for battle, and yet they have survived this long through the ordeal. Now like him they just have to endure the journey to Chongyun's flat. Careful steps, steady pace, and they arrive.
Although the foyer resembles the horror of the streets, magnified by the distinctive prints left by every person who sought shelter. Not only the soles of footwear but handprints on the walls as people steadied themselves on the walk towards their respective flats. After a breath, he still feels steady on his feet and a glance towards Chongyun tells him his friend can still manage to remain upright. Again he offers the same reassuring smile.
That expression dwindles with each step taken until finally it's gone just as they arrive at Chongyun's door. Once inside he slips out of his shoes. His hydro vision is his first thought to turn to but it's exhaustion that keeps him from drawing any elemental power. Instead, he is still as Chongyun gently swabs his face. ]
I don't know. Since I left the concert hall?
[ Whenever that was, which would explain why he is still wearing the same swimsuit from that day.
Right now however what he really wants to say is that he plans to fall asleep, what he really wants to do is close his eyes and rest even if it is on the very floor they're standing on. He doesn't, Xingqiu stands firm even if for a moment he runs fingers over his forehead attempting to swipe away at grimy bangs. ]
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As tempting as it is to pass out in bed, they're still grimy. They're going to feel so much better clean, so after a sigh, he offers his friend a little smile. They can do this. Haven't they been through it all together? ]
We should rinse off in the bathroom. I have some clothes you can wear, too.
[ Chongyun isn't one for fashion considering he's usually in his usual blue and white uniform, but he's managed to accumulate a few articles of clothing since arriving. Fortunately they're close in size. ]
Come on.
[ He holds Xingqiu's hand again even though he doesn't need to, plodding over toward the bathroom. The shower is the standup kind with enough room for the both of them; he turns on the water and stands in the spray, not even bothering to disrobe. Everything's all bloody anyway. ]
Want me to wash your hair for you?
[ Only an exorcist could flirt after coming in from cursed blood rain. ]
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The beckon has him straighten up as he realizes he has been caving into himself, just as swiftly he uncrosses his arms and it is then that his hand is taken before he has the chance to see himself to the bathroom. It's only then he notes Chongyun's gentle smile cast towards him and slowly he shifts his expression to offer a bright smile of his own. It's an expression still marked by weariness.
But everything would be just fine. They are together now.
Soon he is guided into the bathroom, then the shower and it is here that he is unable to hide his surprise. He hadn't expected to be led all the way here as the assumption had been that they would be taking turns bathing. That's not the case and Chongyun's question affirms this.
Does he stay the way he is? They're not going to undress? Certainly not but... ]
How are we... okay.
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( ᴄʜᴏɴɢʏᴜɴ ) — ᴄʟᴇᴀɴ ᴜᴘ: ᴛᴀᴍᴀᴍᴏ → sᴜᴛᴏᴋᴜ
Was Chongyun aware of just how many bathhouses there were? Probably, although he had been surprised by the number of arcades. Then again he doesn't frequent them often unless it is necessary due to being assigned some sort of task or job.
Weighing their options, Xingqiu gives consideration to the assignments. It's all rather vague if he were honest and somehow he doesn't trust the limited information. So between draining the bloodied waters of the pools within the bathhouses and emptying the prizes within the UFO catcher machines, one sounds extraordinarily simpler than the other. Although he is aware that not all the UFO catcher machines were within arcades, however, he thinks it best they overcome that harder of the two tasks first. Between the two of them surely they can have this done swiftly.
Coming to a decision, then obtaining proper attire to wade through filthy waters, he is ready to tackle the clean-up efforts at the bathhouses. There is no point in fashion or elegance, it's all clothing made of simple fabrics that would likely meet their end today.
Once they're within the bathhouse they are clear to go and begin their assignment. Xingqiu doesn't hesitate to step close to the edge of the pool, the waters are calm but there is that same lingering scent of the rain that he finds rather disturbing. Once Chongyun joins him he turns his attention to his friend. ]
If it wasn't for the water's murkiness I would have pushed you in by now.
[ The smile offered doesn't contain any hint of apology after that admittence. Of course, if the pool was clean and Chongyun found himself within, Xingqiu would have followed. ]
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Next to Xingqiu, the exorcist is prepared to go into battle against dirt and curses. He has a wide headband covering his forehead and pushing his hair back, an oversized white cotton shirt, and a pair of plain oversized black pants. In one hand is a bucket, in the other a brush. One must never go into battle unprepared. ]
Thank you for your restraint.
[ Little devil … and yet, within that vague exasperation, Chongyun feels fond. There’s no way he would put up with Xingqiu’s pranks if he didn’t.
Putting aside all of that for now, Chongyun walks along the edge of the pool until he reaches the point where the drain lays beneath the sludge. Nose wrinkling, he takes the plunge to stick his hand in and fish around for the chain—and ghostly hands raise to meet him, fondling his stomach beneath the hem of his shirt that hangs with his lean. ]
H, hey!
[ These lingering spirits, what the hell??
He recoils back before finding the chain for the plug to slap the hands away. Reluctantly they delve back down beneath the surface, and Chongyun uses his shirt to wipe the grime from his stomach. Ignoring the initial shock, he isn’t surprised at all that spirits within Tamamo bounds are the groping kind. ]
They aren’t strong, but they’re troublesome.
[ Groping him is one thing, but these hands better keep to themselves when it comes to Xingqiu… ]
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[ Foul waters aside, Xingqiu is capable of demonstrating restraint. For this appalling task, it would be entirely necessary. Admittedly he has avoided less than glamorous work, however, offering apologies in the Daitengu's stead was a tour into the world of maintenance work.
He has seen some shit. Literally.
Mind you, he knows well that within his household he is the least organized member of his family. Why even his older brother lectured him for half an hour about his untidy room. Yet disarray of belongings does not compare to anything he has seen here within Hell. Perhaps, the uncivilized manner by which some people carry themselves is what makes this place infernal? As filthy as he may be has never gone as far as to smear bodily substances all across any walls.
Tailing after Chongyun around the perimeter of the pool, he stops but a couple of paces away watching the exorcist fumble about murky waters in search of the drain. Here is hoping it's simple enough, yet feeling that won't be the case otherwise why ask for two people to be involved?
The answer appears soon enough in the form of the ghostly hands reaching for Chongyun. As contact is made, Xingqiu though quick doesn't need to intercede as his friend reacts swiftly. All he is left to do is pat Chongyun's shoulder. ]
They sure got a reaction out of you. You're that ticklish Chongyun?
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[ Even if he is a bit sensitive along the bottom ridge of his abdomen, the exorcist firmly shakes his head no while reclining back on his knees. ]
They were trying to pull my belt down.
[ He doesn’t even sound embarrassed by the fact that a couple of spectral hands just tried to take his pants off. It’s nothing more than a touch of annoyance; Chongyun is in work mode, and has quickly deduced that these curses are somewhat perverted. Again, given it’s Tamamo territory … he can only be resigned in the end.
It isn’t anything life threatening. Between the two of them, they can handle such pesky curses. ]
They’re probably influenced by the general atmosphere of the territory. It really is all the residue left behind… how interesting.
[ Despite the dirty job, the exorcist sounds quite spirited. At least they’re curses and not just regular pool residue. Naturally, that puts this more in line with his interests. ]
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It's a short-lived expression as Chongyun elaborates, painting a very clear and detailed picture for him. Yes, he gets a general idea once he understands the specter's true aim and even more so when the Tamamo Territory's ambiance is mentioned. Although he would hardly call depraved curse residue interesting.
But he has to admit, at least it is only that, lingering leftovers.
There were worse things to be found within the areas controlled by the Tamamo Clan and certainly worse kinds of people. But Chongyun has never complained, and then he has to remind himself that neither has he. So that's food for thought. Perhaps that's why he remains silent for far too long than what is typical of him and finally, as he can do is let out a sigh. ]
Well, if that's its nature then it shouldn't be difficult to distract it.
[ Maybe.
Xingqiu continues along the perimeter of the pool, walking past Chongyun to the far end. Knowing what lies within the depths, he is prepared for whatever may come. Although this is just a test more than anything. That's why he only goes as far as to gently brush the surface of the murky water. The only ripples are caused by him. ]
It doesn't seem all that interesting in this...
Or maybe it's taken a shine to you.
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[ Because, as Xingqiu had been walking along the edge of the pool and touched the surface of the water to draw its attention, Chongyun's killing intent had spiked. Really — it's one thing to harass him, but he won't tolerate Xingqiu getting harassed. That would be simply unacceptable.
But it doesn't do anything. Not even when Chongyun also brushes the surface of the water again. Lips thinning and eyes narrowing in suspicion, the exorcist pads around the other side of the pool so they're surrounding it on both sides. ]
Should one of us just go in?
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Hm.
Not quite possible. We are immersed in hell. Allegedly.
[ Looking up from the water's surface he watches Chongyun stroll around the pool until the exorcist stands at the other end. He offers him a lackluster wave before his attention is back on the murky liquid. His attempts to draw attention to himself have not worked so would getting in the pool have the same result?
Hearing Chongyun's suggestion he doesn't reply but instead, he steps out of his flip-flops before sitting on the edge of the pool and dipping his feet in before he submerges his legs almost up to his knees. Nothing. He tries splashing around but it's all the same. ]
Maybe it just doesn't like me.
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