March 2022 Mini Event

[jigokumods]

MAIN NAVIGATION


The Night Parade is fast-approaching and each faction will be busy with their own preparations.

1. SHUTEN CLAN

The Celestial Phoenix Casino, a fairly popular casino in the Shuten territory, is overdue on its protection money. This money is sorely needed for parade preparations. Unfortunately, the casino has decided it doesn't need to pay up because they've hired some new unaffiliated muscle. Neither the manager nor their new muscle are the type to listen to reason, so be prepared to exert some intimidation and force to convince these new bodyguards to take their business elsewhere.

The brute squad working for the Celestial Phoenix seems to be made up of several different youkai. Some of them are more human looking than others, but you'll notice no Oni. Even independent Oni wouldn't dare turn against the Shuten Clan. Even lacking in Oni, these thugs are armed to the teeth, swinging several deadly weapons and even a few firearms. This could get rough, so be prepared for the worst. Take the gangsters protecting the Celestial Phoenix out or convince them it’s not worth it.

Once inside, you'll discover that the owner, in a panic, has locked himself inside the casino's value with the protection money owed. This might take some doing to get open...

2. SUTOKU ALLIANCE

The Kappa want to be left alone and the Daitengu has asked Sutoku Alliance members to assure their wishes are respected. Members are tasked with convincing people to stay away from the Kappa's riverside facilities by whatever means necessary. Of course, you may want to take a look for yourself to see what they’re being so secretive about. That’s not recommended, if you don’t want to get into trouble.

It’s not just strangers who are nosy, though. Retinues from both the Shuten and Tamamo clans are making an appearance and asking why the inspections are taking so long. Why are the Kappa dragging their feet? The Alliance prefers to avoid direct violence, so it's up to you to talk to these clan captains in a way that convinces them to leave the Kappa alone.

If you're curious enough to dive deeper into the Kappa's business, however, even your Alliance membership isn't going to keep you safe. The Kappa themselves seem to disappear from sight the further into the sewers you go, as if invisible. Preventing yourself from being spotted by a security camera or a patrolling Kappa is almost impossible. Cover your faces, stick to the shadows, and you might just notice that... they’re building something down there.

Something for the Parade? Who knows? But it’s definitely not decorations or a float...

3. DEPARTMENT OF THE ENMA

The parade route for the Night Parade needs to be "cleaned up". The Department is tasked with getting the low level street gangs and squatters to clear out. The homeless population will resist and may not be so easily persuaded to give up their spots. Your best bet is to offer them food, booze, or shelter for the night. The street gangs will assuredly fight back. Use your strength or your wits to get the job done.

The gangs will not typically be that tough, most don’t want to step up to the Department's goon squad too heavily lest they wind up in a cell for the rest of their lives. Still, some might be hopped up on encouraging substances and try to escalate. Don’t worry, though. You have the authority of the Enma on your side! Don’t think they will get away with waving a weapon in your face.

The homeless, though, lack strength or weapons. They are more fueled by desperation to keep their spots. Winter hasn't been kind to them, after all, and they don’t have much respect for the Enma's authority. Their belligerent behavior is loud, and often violent despite their absence of means to properly defend themselves. At worst, they’ll probably try to use biological warfare. Don’t ask what's in those bottles...

4. TAMAMO CLAN

Parade costumes need to be designed, crafted, modeled, and then likely mended knowing the rough and tumble yokai. The textile shops and tailors of the area need Tamamo Clan members to help them out. Costumes vary from extremely ornate to extremely sexy. These costumes need to merge form and function, for the Tamamo clan parade marchers that means they need to be able to sell their specific wares while wearing them. (wink wonk)

None of the costumes are floor ready and the shop bosses urge you that these cannot be seen by the public until they are ready. This won’t stop some peeping toms and tammies from trying to scope out the goods. Most of the voyeurs are spying for perverted reasons, but some are from shops outside of Tamamo’s influence trying to copy the designs for themselves. Either way, Tamamo Clan members aren't expected to be just pretty faces. So rough’em up.

5. TASTE TEST (ALL FACTIONS)

For those less interested in their faction's work, the restaurants in the Tamamo territory also need help finalizing their menu offerings for the Night Parade. Taste testers and creative cooks wanted! These aren’t just any dishes though and may have some interesting effects. One may be so spicy that everything burns, your face turns red, and you need to cool yourself off. Or maybe your dish is so good that you need to take a nap – it doesn't matter where you are, you'll just fall asleep right on the spot. Another possibility is a dish that gives you unstoppable energy – literally. It will make you want to get up and go and never stop moving. If you stop moving, it may cause a bigger problem.

Welcome to the mini event!

• If you have any questions about event content, please ask them here!
• If you have questions about the game itself, please check out the premise, FAQ, and rules pages.

Comments

QUESTIONS

[jigokumods]

Please post all questions related to the mini event content here!

[laughitoff]

Sooo Wei Wuxian's curiosity might be piqued enough at this point that he'd go in the water to try and figure out more about what's going on with the Kappa (probably with company!) The Sutoku prompt seems to imply being spotted and caught in there is almost impossible to avoid -- does that mean getting actually bodily captured, or just seen and chased out? He'd have his identity hidden if it's the latter, but.

And is it possible for to see any more details of what's being built before he's gotta go one way or the other, or is it just [mysterious general construction work dot gif?]

[metafictions]

For the unaffiliated bodyguards in the Shuten prompt:
- Are they mostly bouncers working the casino's outside or are they also scattered around inside?
- Do they seem to have any loyalty for each other? Like, if one were successfully taken hostage/used as a meat shield, would they care enough to stand down?
- Alternatively, can they bribed?

[illicitly]

How open are the tailors and textile shops are to fashion ideas and trends the Lost Souls bring with them from their worlds? Are there any particular suggestions that they're inclined to prefer or veto? Huaisang's a pretty dedicated fashionista and would be very enthusiastic about helping out by incorporating suggestions based on hanfu designs and accessories from China. I was mostly wondering what kind of reception he might receive from the tailors as a faction rookie.

[narbrawl]

For the Shuten prompt... would characters be reprimanded for killing the hired goons, accidentally or otherwise?

Re: QUESTIONS

[getting_better]

For the shuten prompt, can the money and weapons of any beaten down goon be taken? Speaking of weapons, what kind of armaments would they be carrying? I know guns and knives, but are we talking things that can be concealed or do they have shotguns or katanas?

Haruka Sawamura | Yakuza/RGG | Tamamo

[lonelinessloop]

tamamo clan

[ Haruka never did anything so elaborate a designed her costumes, but she'd helped to repair and maintain clothes for nine other kids as well as keeping her dance costume up to snuff... not to mention the fact that she'd been mentored by a rather famous and best-selling author/fashionista once upon a time. She still remembers the tips that she read in that book and with that knowledge, she intends to help anywhere and any way she can.

When the designers need feedback on colors and combinations, she's happy to provide a sounding board for them. When they need someone to model the clothing, she's happy to step up and serve, and more patient than most people are expecting from a girl her age as they shift and move and occasionally prick her; her cheerful smile might flicker, but it never falters. When it comes to keeping security up, she's the first to help close curtains, hide things, or keep an eye out for peeping toms since she has more experience with that than she'd like to explain.

All in all, she'll do whatever she has to and do her best to keep everyone's energy up along the way.]

taste test [so much more!!!]

[ One of the things she does to try and keep the energy up is to run to get snacks from the vendors for those who can't or won't leave their stations. Her own stomach rumbles despite knowing how tight she really should be with her money, and she'll splurge on an order of takoyaki.

An order of takoyaki that has her go go going at top speed as she carries the bags of food back and go around distributing the food. Once that's done, she'll start doing rounds around the building and dancing in place and when someone asks her to stop and act as a model or for tailoring, she'll bounce off and apologize that she can't. seem. to keep still.]

wildcard

[ If you want something else or can think of something else, ping me on yarnzipan and we can work something out! ]

taste test

[stubboarn]

[ he'd been watching the girl all evening who seems to be moving all over like a busy bee; dimitri pauses and finally, catches up to her in some way as he joins her route. ]

Pardon me - I know I'm interrupting your work, but I can't help but notice you haven't so much as taken a break. [ he pauses as he winds through the crowd then falls back to her side. ] Am I correct in saying that you're unable to?

[ like there is some magic at work or something else. ]

sakamoto ryouma | fate/grand order | sutoku alliance

[kaientai]

① SO CLOSE open to all

[ ever since ryouma received his assignment he's been curious about the kappa business, so naturally, he can't resist looking into it with all the secrecy. someone busy on parade prep might notice the man in white buzzing around the kappa area, trying to talk to the guards.

they don't seem to appreciate the attempt.

he's persistent, though, even trying when the shifts change. eventually, it seems ryouma has gotten on everyone's last nerve, so they decide to make sure he really gets the message this time. that's why several kappas are carrying him — despite all attempts to struggle or convince them not to — down to the river's edge to toss him right in. before they go, one of them flings his hat in after him, so at least there's that. ]

② BUSINESS TIPS

[ ryouma has been helping out when he's not been annoying chatting with the guards, which gives him the opportunity to do the other job he's been tasked with — keeping other people who might be trying to do the same thing he's doing from doing that. ryouma is here to gently dissuade people from nosing around. ]


Ⓐ WOULD YOU LIKE TO KNOW MORE? open to all

[ trying to check out something near the riverside? ryouma wanders over like he's curious about what's going on (because isn't everyone here trying not to look suspicious?). ]

You're not going to try messing around with the Kappa, are you? I'm not going to stop you, but—...

[ he makes a face that just says welp. ]

You'll figure it out.

Ⓑ SENSITIVITY TRAINING open to shuten, tamamo, enma

[ or maybe you stop him in the middle of whatever he's doing. ryouma isn't prepared for this, but he just has to come up with something believable, right? well... ]

Everything is right on schedule. You know, the Kappa are very particular about their part in things. They're a very proud people. They're also slower doing stuff on land, so it really can't be helped.

[ have a little respect?? ]

③ SAFETY NOT GUARANTEED open to sutoku alliance

[ ryouma made it a point to at least introduce himself to the others at the sutoku mingle — he'd be known as "rider" — so perhaps your presence here now is because of a bit of exchanged information at the party; ryouma is always interested in knowing who might be on board to sneak around somewhere they don't belong.

after as much observation as ryouma has done lately, he manages to find a way down into the sewers that will (ideally) lead to some answers. he prefers doing this sort of thing with someone else, so they can watch each other's back. that's why ryouma has enlisted a partner for this. volunteer at your own risk because he's not paying — but isn't information its own reward? ]

So... you're absolutely sure you want to do this? You don't know what the consequences might be if we get caught.

[ he's not wearing white, at least, because this is a proper sneak mission. which is kind of funny since he's kind of historically terrible at being sneaky, but there's no time like the present. ]

④ KITSUNE UDON open to all

[ all the hustle is because ryouma is hurting for money just as much as everyone else right now, even if he'd been smart about conserving some of his advance. he's not really in a position to turn his nose up at free food thanks to taste testing.

an udon stand that claims to offer a "taste of home" is serving hearty bowls that are said to capture some familiar, pleasantly nostalgic taste no matter who is eating or where they came from (and whether or not they have udon in that place?).

the noodle chef delivers on her promises but fails to mention the potential side effects (which can be all kinds!). in ryouma's case, he starts slowly dozing off like a toddler over his bowl the more he eats. he's been known to doze off and nap in weird places, but usually not in the middle of a meal. ]

⑤ WILDCARD

[ ooc; want something else? toss a prompt at me or hmu @ koutenko or on my ooc intro to plot something out!

note; the #3 (sutoku only) prompt is intended to be super open as far as handwaving prior interaction! it will probably be a good idea to at least work out a general plan to check for success with the mods as needed, but otherwise i'm open to anything! ]

1.

[medicative]

[that is definitely a living body being tossed into the river, and the splash is enough to draw attention from where Emily's been trying to talk to a stall owner. and that outfit, the face...]

Mr. Rider?!?!?

[she's hurrying over, down the stairs that'll lead to the river, and she's not sure what she'll do, but one shouldn't stay fully idle when acquaintances are being tossed into bodies of water.

also the hat seems to have its own journey to go on...unless it can be caught...]

[harimaya]

1. SIZING UP (shuten only)

(There are immediate things to note about Hizen:

1. He's quiet. At the Shuten party, he'd kept to himself and tried to avoid as many other members as possible. It's not that he's shy or nervous around new people but more because his mood is not good. He dislikes crowds, he dislikes people acting friendly with him, and he'd be happier if people just left him alone. That said, he seems to love to drink as much as the rest of them. It's too bad his personality doesn't get any better.
2. Hizen is small. He stands at a very impressive 167cm (~5'5" thank you, we're rounding up) and his scrawny build really isn't doing him any favors. He looks like he needs to fed… because he does. Someone feed him, please.
3. He's largely unassuming. He keeps his eyes down, he walks with a slouch, and when people get too close, he scrunches his shoulders. His fashion choice really don't help either given it's just a hoodie one size too big and a pair of scuffed up jeans. The only thing he seems to really have going for him is the sword at his side; the sword he always keeps with him.

All of this is just to say. Hizen is probably one of the least impressive people the Shuten could send and yet, here he is looking as tired and done with everything as ever. He looks out at the hired guard; a bunch of thugs posturing and holding weapons on display menacingly.)

What a pain…

(Hizen sighs,)

All we gotta do is beat 'em up, right?

(Appearances aside, he doesn't seem bothered. There's no passion— no excitement— but he seems… confident? )

2. FIGHT (shuten only)

(Look, they're all armed here. Tensions are high. They came here to intimidate each other and money is involved. Total peace was never an option here.

A fight breaks out. Who started it? It doesn't really matter but it'll need to be broken up. Thinking he's an easy target to push out, one of the hired thugs tries to make a cheap swing at Hizen…

… But what Hizen lacks in size and raw strength, he makes up for with speed and skill. It's easier for him to slip through the larger thugs and duck under their wilder swings. When he emerges from under the swing, he has his hand on the sword at his side and there's an obvious bloodlust in his eye—

If you're trying to resolve this peacefully, it might be a good idea to stop him before things really get out of hand. If you're more inclined towards violence then… join the fight?)

3.TASTE TEST (open to all)

(And after a hard day's work, Hizen is hungry. That isn't surprising. He's always hungry and when he hears there are restaurants in Tamamo's territory offering free samples? He's there.

Of course, there's a catch, though. There's always a fucking catch.

Hizen accepts some baby castella from a small window shop. The air around the shop smells sweet and like pancakes. About halfway through his cup of castella…

… Hizen feels his mood improving. He starts to smile and he's suddenly chatting it up with the owner. Yes, the food is delicious. It's great. He's definitely looking forward to the parade. He's never been to a festival before—

Oh, sorry, were you waiting to try some food too? Or are you someone who knows Hizen and can't believe he's willingly socializing?)

Haha, sorry, sorry. (He steps aside, laughing,) Did ya want something?

(It looks like the food here just makes people… really friendly and happy! Which is honestly perfect for a parade. Harmless, good fun for everyone!

Hizen is going to hate this later.)

WILDCARD

❀ If you have another idea for a prompt or would like to plot anything out, let me know
❀ I'm trying to keep the Shuten stuff open depending on what other people want to do but I, for one, am down for anything. Hizen sucks at communication though and is always ready to throw hands/cut someone.

3. you know i had to do it to em

[kaientai]

Hoh, see, just then I could hear the accent a little.

[ it's a new day and a social hizen, so naturally that other time is forgotten for the time being. ]

What'd you get? Is it any good?

[ ryouma doesn't need to eat the food here, it can only make him worse. look at the stupid look on his face. ]

itadori yuuji ☆ jjk (enma)

[ahost]

✗ parade route

[ there's always some asshole with a knife, huh.

itadori had been restless since he has gotten here, opting to avoid big gatherings and unnecessary partying at first— still trying to process his new reality at his own pace. it's not ... so bad to be in this 'hell'? if he's honest. and yet, it didn't feel quite right. something is up, but he didn't want to sound like a lunatic on the public network, and he didn't have the motivation to investigate either. so he's stuck between 'i don't even care' and 'ugh, i hate this'. on a positive note: the assignment given to him is welcomed with open arms. it kept itadori busy, and his anxious thoughts subdued.

back to the unexpected escalation in (what he thought) a simple fucking conversation— those gang members didn't seem to take it lightly when itadori approached them. another street fight, another day; until some idiot managed to sneak a quick one and leave a huge slit on the palm of his hand. once it's all taken care of and the mob of goons is sent off, itadori would be seen crouched down in an alleyway, pouring water on his open wound— rinsing off the accumulated blood.

it's a fun start to a long, long night. ]


✗ negotiations

Okay, two! Everyone will get two boxes instead of one!

[ listen, the homeless people are another story. they are vulnerable, rarely held any weapons, and they are just trying to survive this harsh city. so, itadori felt bad about asking them to fuck off for this stupid parade, but he had a job to do. instead of going hard on them, he tried to persuade them with treats— gently. with food specifically, a meal box, maybe some drinks too ... or whatever the budget given from his faction can bid. but, it's been a long-ass negotiation session, almost lasted half an hour until this moment. the group before him didn't seem to budge and would ask him to double the compensation. until he dropped the two meal box option.

and then, silence.

he waits as the group regarded each other, contemplating his tempting offer with a hint of doubt. with a smile (and raw stupidity, really) — he had to throw another proposal as a final shot at victory. an offer he might not be able to commit to. ]

Oh, and ... I'll offer you protection for a whole week as you settle into your new area! How about that?!

[ don't promise what you can't keep, yuuji. ]


[ ooc; or, come with your own prompt! I'm pretty much open to anything ♥ ]

✗ parade route

[lonelinessloop]

[ Haruka'd been heading to the food stalls near the parade route to pick up some things for people when she sees the fight begin. This is nothing out of the ordinary for her; she'll actually pick a side (Itadori's) and start cheering for him while the fight happens.

...this is what you do. She has Experience with this!

When the fight is over and he turns his hand to spot the blood, she spots it too... and she'll trot over, concern on her face. ]

Are you all right? Can I get you anything for your hand?

Ydris | Original | OTA

[enterthe]

I. Sutoku Alliance
Open to all factions

[Ydris has seen fit to really avoid whatever the Kappa are doing. At least, out in the open. They want absolutely nobody to suspect anything of concern is going on, just the same silly preparations as the other factions are doing. They plan to make a show of wealth and resources. It couldn't possibly be a power grab.

And if it is, Ydris is too new here to know if it's a justified one or not. They don't particularly want to be at the mercy of a bunch of water based demons, but for now it's best to play nice and obedient to the whims of their ""superiors"". They float at the entrance for a bridge, one that doesn't have a lot of traffic. People who want to cross are getting told to take a detour, most don't complain more than a grumble of two.

Thing is, the bridge isn't what's important. There's a remote, open sewer entrance just beneath it. This is all a distraction to keep it guarded while not putting someone right out front of it or needing to take time away to create a barricade up it.]

Bridge is up, festival shipments coming up the river soon. Find another way around.

II. Taste Test
OTA & NSFW for hentai brain reasons

[So, some of these foods have various... effects. People are bustling around to taste test and get a feel for how, well, effective certain things are. Ydris is at one such stand, looking especially challenging out at a, now, sizeable crowd that has gathered to gawk.

Juice That Makes You Come Super Hard.

That's what the sign reads! And laid out on the cart are very cutesy, little juice boxes with dinky bendy straws. They all have bold text proclaiming ADULT ONLY across them. There is a very intrigued crowd formed, but nobody appears willing to test if they do what they say they do. It must just be a joke, right? A novelty item-? Ydris is giving not indication, maybe they work and maybe they don't.

Ydris is also actively haggling the crowd, their tone exceedingly dry and unimpressed. Someone yells a snarky question that Ydris echoes back before answering]

What flavor are they-? Fuck you, that's what. Try one and find out. Be a legend.

[Feel free to talk to Ydris without taking one, but like... what fun is that?]

II

[moondregs]

[ Junpei had been trying to make his way through the area when the crowd forming around a specific stand slows down his progression. It’s annoying and he’s trying his best to maneuver around it when he hears a familiar voice.

Oh no.

Now a little concerned he wiggles through a few breaks in the group until he’s in front of the booth, looking at the product Ydris is peddling with a mix of disbelief and discomfort. Why is this place like this? Also did they just cuss? ]

Ydris ... what the hell ...

miyamoto musashi 🌸 fate/ 🌸 tamamo

[ryototsukai]

[ i - get a fever cause ya dressin' so tight - tamamo clan ]

[ Musashi hadn't expected it, really, having been perfectly content to work guard duty for the shops while the various sewing and modeling was going on. That was what she'd basically been hired to do, after all. But the moment one of the designers got a good luck at her, the next thing Musashi knew she was being pulled in and having clothes thrown at her. "Put them on, model them". Which hey, if it meant a slight boost in her pay check, she figured why not? She did like trying on new clothes...

Traditional numbers were a favorite of hers, though mostly in seeing them on others. That being said, she thought she wore it well enough, twirling about and letting the furisode sway before turning to one of her fellow clan members and humming. ]

Do you think I pull this off?

[ That or you've caught her in something more revealing, and she can't help but look at herself in the mirror, cocking an eyebrow. They were trying really hard to make sure it hugged her curves just right... did they expect her to wear this during the parade? And what's more... ]

This looks awfully familiar...

[ ii - i wanna feel the heat with somebody - open ]

[ Musashi liked spicy food, but this sauce the yakitori was prepared in had the kind of heat that never seemed to actually let up. She could feel herself sweating, struggling to finish it but managing like a champ. But even once that was done, she felt like she couldn't get nearly enough water to cool the radiance blooming within. ]

Jeeze... I gotta... I gotta cool off...

[ She didn't even think of it, pouring a bottle of water over herself and peeling away her yukata as she did so, seemingly not caring that she was stripping down right there in the stand. ]

Sorry! Just... it's so hot, yanno?

[ She was sorely tempted to just go dive into the river, at this rate. Probably a terrible idea. ]

[ wildcard ]

[ And of course, I am super open to any other ideas as well! These tend to lean sexy, but I can do more gen stuff, too! And for Tamamo prompts, Musashi is a bouncer by trade in this city, and thus would help chase off peepers if her help is needed! HMU! ]

1!

[fuckinghysterical]

[After the designers and tailors managed to successfully alter one of the sexier costumes to account for LB's curves, she had no issue in trying it on for them, stepping outside for the crew to take notes. Once they're satisfied with what they saw, they stepped away, allowing her a little more space.

Of course, once she was free to move around, it was hard to ignore the display of one of the other models swirling the fabric of her traditional outfit. LB is so fascinated by the flourish that she watches for a moment, smiling pleasantly at the question.]

You look great, heheh! I was so confused when I tried that costume on myself, but you kind of look like you were meant for it?

Laughing Beauty | Metal Gear | Tamamo Clan

[fuckinghysterical]

A) TAMAMO CLAN

1.)
[Though sometimes LB felt a little lost in trying to learn the skills for the various jobs that were more mundane than she was used to, LB finally found some relief in finding that the tailors in the area needed some help with the costumes. Her experience in helping with clothes was minimal, but she at least had some knowledge in doing basic stitches, so she was able to help a little.

However, when the call came to help model and test out the outfits, LB felt confident enough to immediately volunteer for that much. In spite of her previous occupation more or less being a mercenary, she still had some hazy memories of modeling for some sort of propaganda magazine for the company she was under too, the one time she was allowed out of her power suit.

Being completely comfortable in her body, she volunteers for the sexier outfits on display. After trying on one or two, though, she finds that the tailors hadn't quite considered women as busty as she was wearing them. Though it does inspire a couple to modify a couple of their outfits to account for that, for the time being, LB was left to model the more ornate outfits instead.

While she didn't have an issue with that, in theory, she's left looking utterly confused when she tries to put the outfit on. Looking for the closest person she can find, she flashes them an apologetic look before waving them down.]

Hey, are you more familiar with these kinds of outfits? Eheheh? [Sheepishly, she raises a hand to rub at her neck before continuing.] Do you think you could help me out for a bit?


2.
[Once it's brought to her attention that there were peeping toms around, disrupting the tailors' work, LB finds further familiarity in being told to "deal with the problem". Granted, she felt a whole lot more confident about those types of orders when she actually had a weapon to use.

Nevertheless, LB is actually set to go out in the elaborate, complicated outfit she was given, but was stopped before she can make even two more steps - she couldn't go out in that, when it was still being worked on! And what if there was another tailor looking to steal their design!

Convinced by the arguments, LB simply strips herself of the outfit as carefully as she can, even if perhaps she was still moving a little slower than the tailors might have liked. With the urgency of the orders being repeated, LB just decides to go out in her bra and panties - again, she was comfortable enough in her body that it didn't actually bother that much.

Stepping outside, she actually manages to look pretty firm in telling the intruders from outside to please keep their distance away, even if most of them still lasciviously looked her over and made no attempt to leave.

Crossing her arms, she felt more frustrated about not having a weapon more than her state of undress. Glancing over to any other Tamamo members outside with her, the annoyance in her expression is obvious. Lowering her voice, she speaks to them.]

Are you any good at hand to hand fighting? [Because sadly, that was one area she was actually terrible at. Not wanting to look weak in front of other members, though, she adds:] Otherwise, do you have any ideas to deal with these guys?

[In the meantime, she looks around for any items she could use in a pinch to scare off the perverts if the other person didn't have a plan.]


B) FOOD STALLS

1.)
[Though she wasn't a particularly creative cook, LB still finds some way to make herself useful in actually being particularly good at filleting fish, even if she had no further knife skills. The problem, though, was that she wasn't knowledgeable in using spices and merely tries to copy the other cooks in adding the spices she saw them use.

What she doesn't know, however, was that the "spice" was actually some sort of hallucinogenic substance and she perhaps uses a little more than she's supposed to. As the others were busy, at the moment, LB steps up to man the station as she sees someone step up.]

In the mood for some fish? Haha? Give me one moment and I'll get one ready for you!

[And sure enough, as she was quite experienced in chopping up fish, she's pretty fast in preparing it, and then slapping a little too much of the "special ingredient" on top of it. With a smile, she hands it over to the patron.]

There you go! Let me know how it tastes, okay?

[At the very least, she'll try to help if something goes wrong?]

kamui uehara | no more heroes/kill the past series | shuten

[metafictions]

CELESTIAL PHOENIX CASINO (shuten); (ft mood music)

1. attack (or not);

[Negotiations, as it seems, have gone south.

The inside of the casino is loud and chaotic, punctuated by shouts and gunfire. Bystanders stumble over themselves to escape as Shuten members, oni and Lost Soul alike, bring the beatdown on the casino's unaffiliated hired muscle. In the midst of all the ruckus is Kamui, crouched behind a slot machine. And what he loses in bulk and intimidation, he makes up for with purpose-- there's blood on his knuckles and an almost eerie blank calm on his face.]

The others have this handled. We're going to find the manager.

[He grabs an empty beer bottle off one of the machines and, without flinching, smashes it on the nearest table. The pretty young dealer hiding under it shrieks, the many eyes that speckle her arms all squeezing tightly shut as she scurries away to a different table.

Boy, does he wish he had a gun.]

2. get cracking;

[Well, they've found the manager, but...]

How long has he been in there? [An irritated-looking blue oni shrugs, banging a fist on the vault wall: Ages. We can't break this thing open, either. Maybe we should get some pre-parade fireworks started, if you know what I mean?]

Please don't. [Kamui grimaces up at him, pushing his bangs back from his face. The vault's in a back room, but the sounds of the scuffle through the rest of the casino still echo faintly. He turns to his Shuten companion:]

I have an idea. Have you ever cracked a safe before?

TASTE TEST (ota);

1. get snacking;

[Yes, he's a slightly broke newbie, and yes, he's focused on the work, but he would be remiss if he didn't get to try even a bit of the pre-festival menu. He's earned a bite to eat, even if it's just a small one.

Once the casino situation has been sorted-- and once he and his Shuten fellows have gotten to lick their wounds a little-- Kamui can be found strolling around the Tamamo stalls, eyeing everything curiously. If he could, he'd try everything, but he can only safely try one or two with a budget like this. It's a serious dilemma, really. So serious, that he's polling the nearest stranger before he makes his choice:]

Excuse me. Have you gotten to try anything yet? What do you recommend?

2. #shibuyameltdown;

[Maybe he shouldn't have taken that recommendation.

If you're passing by the area and you're paying close enough attention, you might see a man out on the street... sleeping. He doesn't pick open areas to keel over-- he's got sharper instincts than that, even on magic food-- but if you check behind a dumpster, or underneath a booth, or in a little nook in the wall of an alleyway, you may find a friend and a boy Kamui clutching a half-eaten yakisoba pan in a deep, nearly unshakeable sleep.]

3. kamui wake up! you fucked up big time (emily)

[One of those... is a nearby arcade. You wouldn't think a brightly colored, noisy arcade would attract someone like Kamui, but he's always been drawn to video games-- and, in his yakisoba pan-addled state, this is a great idea.

A gaggle of yokai children have gathered around one of the giant claw machines. The thing is still working, but no one's putting any yen into it: instead, they're tapping on the glass and chattering to themselves in bewildered tones.

Is... is there somebody inside there...?]

(ooc: also open to wildcards wherever! come at me!)

[medicative]

[children excited about the machine is one thing, but the buzz around it seems off, feels odd. and walking by, one of the smaller ones runs to her, tugs on a sleeve. there's a man in the machine, they claim, and Emily is practically helpless to follow, worried for their safety.

...that sure is a man in the claw machine. the how can be sorted out later, once he's removed, but...

well. shooing some of the kids to the side to let herself come through, she decides to rap on the glass, sharp and brisk, louder than the children.]

Mr. Kamui? Are you awake?

[he's breathing, far as she can see, but...this is not a place to sleep. at the least, there are better piles of plushies to sleep on.]

BISHOP | OC | Shuten

[getting_better]

SHUTEN CLAN

New Challengers

[ He's done a lot of shady things in his lifetime, but never did he think he'd be doing actual yakuza legwork. Not to mention doing it for a yokai boss of all things. Still, the deal they gave him was a little too good to pass up so he'll play along for a while.

This particular job is simple, but only on paper. He hoped some talking would help ease the situation, maybe rough up three or four of this so called "muscle" he got but....When weapons, crowds, and hot headed fools come together, its makes a cocktail of really bad things to happen to a lot of people who don't deserve it. Well, yokai in this case.

He was immediately met at the entrance with the kind of hostility a cornered animal would show, feral and eager to strike - hands on their weapons and can be seen by anyone who sticks their nose in. Much too hot a situation for this kind of setting. ]

Whoa, whoa, everybody just relax.

[ He says arms raised defensively as he slowly backed away. ]

Lets just take it easy and not do anything stupid.

[ He says with particular emphasis to you, the unfortunate clanmate who just walked in. ]

Fight (CW: Blood and violence)

[ Of course he wasn't going to take what happened lying down. After a strategic retreat, some careful planning, and select few souls, he was ready rush headfirst into danger. Outmanned, out gunned, but definitely not outmatched.

He came in from the back entrance, catching the guards by surprise and bursting in with guns blazing. Soon enough, the whole casino is in chaos as Bishop broke off and made his way through hired goon after goon towards their main quarry, proving that they were mostly all bark.

He had cleared a back hall way and was approaching the stairwell, blood splattered on the wall, floor, and ceiling, with some of the hired muscle dead on the ground while others were just badly injured. ]

Hmm? Oh, you back up? Cool. [ He says wiping the blood from a katana he nabbed. ] Sorry about the mess, I'm usually a lot cleaner than this. Anyway -

[ He points down the hall towards a pair of doors. ] - I think that's the security room there. Shall we go take a peek?

[ Right as he finishes, more armed yokai show up at either end of the hall, screaming and cursing. ]

After these guys, I mean.

Or I'll huff and puff

[ There's a deep groan from Bishop and other Shuten clan members stood outside of what has turned into a makeshift panic room. Several inches of heavy duty industrial steel, a lock needing several keys and a combination dial, and a deadbolt to lock it in place. ]

How much do you guys wanna bet the money we're looking for is inside?

[ A pause. ]

Coincidentally, a few pounds of C4 will clear this up nicely.

Taste Test - OTA

God. Fucking. Dammit!

[ Is the first thing you may hear when you approach this takoyaki stand, the delightful balls of octopus and fried batter looking completely  normal at a glance. Looking at Bishop, who is currently kicking an empty garbage bin, he is incredibly red in the face and perspiring profusely. Its also not just him, everyone else who had partaken of the takoyaki samples is in a smiliar state, but unlike him, they are desperately running away to search for water. ]

ARRGH! It's in my fucking nose!

Wildcard - OTA

[ HMU with your ideas at riaxc or Kuro#4756 ]

Taste Test

[nerine]

Oh?

[Monts while exploring the food stalls had finally decided on getting a large serving of kakigori, glittering, cool, and mixed with green melon and blue raspberry syrup that drenched the fine flakes of ice. She had almost gravitated towards the takoyaki before deciding on the sugary cold route instead.

But from the look of the young man's face and some of the others who had unfortunately consumed the spicy balls of octopus fire, she probably made the right choice. She's calm in the eye of the suffering storm and when Bishop hovers near her, she holds out her shaved ice.]

Now, I haven't tested this yet, but I'm thinking this is going to be the closest thing to relief you're gonna get. Sorry.

[narbrawl]

i (a). casino battle royale: shuten clan only

[Now this is more like it. Childe had put his name forward without hesitation when he found out about this particular job and, though some might question his professional investment, he’s quick to prove his worth. The fighting broke out in no time at all and, leaving the more sensitive task of negotiating to those more inclined towards peaceful resolutions, he’d thrown himself fully into it.

At some point, the brawl spilled out of the back rooms and onto the casino floor itself, which is where Childe finds himself now. He all but dances across the tabletops, footwork light and precise as he weaves in and out of reach of the gaggle of hired muscle he’s managed to attract on his rampage. He already has a split lip and, as he comes to a stop atop the roulette wheel, he wipes it impatiently, smearing blood across his cheek. So far, he’s been slashed at, tossed across the room and thrown through a pane of glass but he barely feels it at all. Adrenaline is quite the painkiller in his experience- and he’s looking forward to the way it’ll hurt later anyway. It’s all part of the thrill of a fight.

A man with split pupils and a forked tongue skids to a halt in front of him. He hisses-

And, with a wild smile, Childe kicks a pile of discarded chips directly into his scaled rival’s face, sending him reeling backwards in shock. Seizing on the opportunity, he leaps down from the wheel and ducks behind a row of pachinko machines. Only it looks like someone else had the same idea.]

Quite a show, isn’t it?

[Good thing he recognised whoever it is beside him from when they broke in.]

i (b) after party: shuten clan only
[The dust has settled, the debt paid- but not without casualties. Not is half of the Celestial Phoenix a complete mess but its defenders have been, by and large, cut down. The bar over by the blackjack tables, once gloriously tacky and packed with clients, has been turned upside down. The ground is strewn with broken bottles and there isn’t a single remaining stool or chair that hasn’t been either flipped or smashed or turned into a makeshift weapon.

No less than three men lie motionless in the VIP area; one across the table with half a glass in his head and blood pooling across the menu, another eating marble on the floor beside him. The last is draped fully over a booth partition and his blazer is such a deep maroon that only up close does the gaping wound in his back become obvious. As for the man responsible?

Well, he’s casually sipping a glass of ice water at the bar.

Childe leans back against the counter, one elbow up and one leg hooked over the other like he isn’t splattered with blood. He looks completely relaxed, like he’s a regular enjoying a drink and this is just another night and not the result of a full on assault on the casino. Only when he hears the sound of footsteps does he look up- and snatch the gun beside him up as he does. He levels it at the stranger with a cool smile.]

I’ve never used one of these before, you know.

iii. taste test: open
[It's a nice change of pace, really. Childe makes for an excellent guinea pig when it comes to testing the flavours- he's knowledgeable enough to give intelligent feedback and honest enough not to hold any punches- but not so much the more magical elements. He's part way through a plate of takoyaki when it suddenly hits him just how tired he is.

He yawns once- then twice- and then can't stop himself from lolling against the person next to him.]

Ah... sorry... you just looked comfortable.

[Maybe he overdid it back at the casino?]

after party

[demonrebel]

[The Celestial Phoenix has certainly seen better days but at least it’s still standing. There are bullet casings all over the floor after a prolonged gunfight with the casino manager’s goons. It’s not exactly a pretty sight but at least there’s not an abundance of dead bodies everywhere. Even so, Dante is a little ticked off that everything went south so quickly. He didn’t even get a chance to hit the casino floor before the first bullet was fired. That’s a little depressing since Dante was hoping on trying his luck at the roulette table.

Oh well, there’s nothing he can do about that.

A loud yawn escapes the devil hunter as he enters the VIP lounge. He stretches his arms over his head in a mock stretch, seemingly unaware of the guy by the counter. That is until he glances directly at him with an annoyed scowl upon his face. It’s hard to tell who’s who in this place but most of the Shuten guys know Dante as “Red Coat”. It’s a nickname he picked up from his time in the ring. He’s a striking figure around here, almost like an edgy comic book character. He’s a little too old for the whole rebel-without-a-cause trope but Dante wears it well.]

Oh yeah? Well, you might want to put that peashooter down before I rearrange your face.

[That’s not a warning but rather a promise. Childe isn’t the only badass in town.]

Besides, I just want a drink.

[Beware, he’s a borderline alcoholic these days. Life in Jigokucho is stressing him the hell out.]

Wei Wuxian | Mo Dao Zu Shi | Sutoku

[laughitoff]

i. sewer sneak (ota to those who'd also try to infiltrate)

[well, he hadn't made much of a secret that he found some things about the Sutoku Alliance shady even as he agreed to sign up. a masked leader with even more mystery surrounding him than the other faction heads? a loose aggregate structure which meant the individual tribes of the alliance could close ranks to the others whenever they thought the stakes were high enough? the very first notable thing about their participation in the Night Parade being that the Kappa were obviously keeping something concealed, even from fellow Sutoku?

he hadn't been able to resist checking it out any longer. for sure it's a risk, but what's the worst they can do if they catch him, really? kill him again?

so. if you, too, have swum down here tonight to see what the Kappa are up to, you might notice at some point you're not alone with them. there's a figure in dark clothing down here with you, with everything but their eyes tightly covered to obscure who they are. maybe you've even darted to hide in the same patch of shadows at the same time. they don't move when you spot each other, though, except to put a finger to their hidden mouth: shhhhh. one of the guards is coming around, perhaps.]

ii. aftermath (ota)

[for those who weren't foolhardy enough to go swimming in the river at night on self-imposed infiltration missions...you might still have a chance to catch Wei Wuxian at this one, sort of. not the part where he got his brief closer glimpse at the river construction, and not the part where he was finally spotted and had to book it (exeunt stage left, pursued by angry Kappa!), but a little bit afterwards, when he's shaken them off his tail and changed into a dry outfit.

he's overestimated how much energy he has when he can't draw on anything external, when he has to rely on his own body's resources and nothing more. so you might find him collapsed on a streetside bench closer to the bright lights and noise of the more popular city blocks, sitting mostly upright but also grey-faced and trying to catch his breath so he can get up and get home. his hair's still damp.

he looks like he could use some help. clearly something just happened to him, even if your character might not be able to infer exactly what.]

iii. taste-testing (ota)

[some time before or after all the nonsense above, though, he can definitely be found having fun in the Tamamo district, because free food is and will be his favorite thing for the next little while, no matter what it is.

he pauses flirting with the cooks and waitstaff in this particular dinner spot when you walk in, and beckons you over]

Ah, here, you're here to try the samples, right? Why don't you let us know what you think of these? We're all very proud of them! Definitely the most flavorful dishes you'll find anywhere in the city!

[oh god. the contents of every sample on the tray are eye-searingly red. there's so much spice on there you swear you see the air above the tray shimmer with heat. do you dare?]

dinner date (closed to Gao Yizhi)

[laughitoff]

[the kitchens in the rookie apartments are dismal, but all the hustle and bustle of Night Parade prep is the perfect opportunity to arrange something better. it had been hard to wheedle a night's kitchen time and ingredients from one of the smaller Tamamo restaurant proprietors -- especially as they're up at all hours finalizing what they're going to serve -- but they're always hard-pressed for enough good waitstaff at times like these, and they'd come to a mutually satisfying arrangement.

so once that was done, Gao Yizhi had received a message, under Wei Wuxian's real name:]

Friend and savior! Do you happen to be free tonight or tomorrow night? I haven't forgotten my promise to treat you!

kazuki soma | lost judgement | enma

[trueorder]

"negotiatons"; fight, fight, fight ]

[ There are times when conversation works to settle an issue and there are times when violence is the only action that will see immediate results.

In this case, Soma has chosen violence. He weighed his options: meeting with each group calmly and discussing the matter with them, or smashing the disruption quickly and decisively. Certainly, the former option would have eventually brought results, but he wants to show he's capable as soon as possible.

And this is where most tend to find him -- having a street brawl. He has untied his tie and wrapped it around the knuckles of one hand and brandishing a knife with another. The tie was always dark in color, but old and knew blood is dripping down both arms. His own? His attackers? Bit of a mix.

He's not constantly on the winning side of things. His lip is busted and eye bruised, but he still somehow has the same calm as he always does; unhurried and unfazed. Nothing breaks his stride as he keeps moving forward toward the group.

But he glances over his shoulder: ]

You can have whatever's in the pockets of the fallen... and a warm meal if you help.

another aftermath;

[ A man in a bloodied business suit sits down on a bench.

He breathes out a long sigh before he takes out his prize -- it is a small bento meal that was presumably bought from one of the convenient stores around. Stretching his legs out, he tugs the top off before beginning to eat. Occasionally, he winces as he chews; the bruises lip and cheek does not make for easy eating, but otherwise he seems fine.

Soma pauses before he digs out a canned beer that he apparently also bought but did not yet partake in. He takes a deep drink before turning his head to spit; blood and liquid splatter onto the sidewalk. ]

Really takes away from the flavor. [ He pauses noting that he's not alone. ] So. How is your day going?

taste test;

Is it free?

[ It is his first concern as he looks over the food that is in front of him. He's being more than a little stingy with his funds since he does not have the quote-unquote unlimited amount that he once did. ]

Hmm, hmm, hmm...

[ He's assured that it is since he's willing to be a taste tester. His state of dress -- or state of ruin -- is only given a curosory glance and not commented upon. He lifts his handkerchief to his nose, sniffling loudly into it. ]

I just can't decide. [ A beat. ] Aren't you nervous about trying it to? [ He looks to the Tamamo who appears a little offended. ] It's no offense... you just add a lot of interesting things to your food. [ His tone is teasing, but it seems like he's about ready to start a situation at the stall.

Shove food in his mouth? Join in his concern about added ingredients? ]

wildcard;

[ Throw whatever you like at him. Could even be prior to having him get into fights, if you like. ]

taste test

[paperpusher]

[Natori wishes he lived the sort of life where he felt alarmed or uncomfortable or anything besides vaguely tired to have a man (or a particularly humanoid youkai; it's not as though he can accurately tell right now) in a bloodied suit ask him for his opinion on whether it's safe to eat from the food stands run by his newfound ayakashi clan. But whatever; this is the situation in front of him, and it's not as though ignoring it would make any other aspect of life in this city easier.]

I don't know if 'nervous' is the right word for it, but. [He tilts his head and gives the stall attendant a stunning, obviously performative grin as if to smooth away the insult, or at least to establish some Tamamo solidarity.] I have work in an hour, so could we have something that's not going to cause anything 'interesting' to happen? Nothing that would cause any after effects in humans, or... [he glances over at Soma in the corner of his eye as if hedging his bets] in ayakashi either.

"Monts" | Original Character | Tamamo

[nerine]

❈ TAMAMO CLAN ONLY — (CW: Needles and bleeding)

[One has to start off small, even in Jigoku-cho. Monts is put to work immediately on the costumes as other members, Lost Souls or not, are scattered about or running back and forth with bolts of gilded, statiny cloth, streams of ribbons, and flowery ornaments. Everyone is occupied, one way or the other which Monts takes that the Night Parade really is a Big Deal.

After being in Hell for less than two weeks, she really isn't sure how to feel. Minutes, hours, and days pass and it was surreal how long she's been away from her grandparents and the cafe, and her mind wanders without meaning to, which earns her a scolding from a crochety old youkai who was overseeing the work.

As to not be consumed by that creeping sensation, Monts tries to focus. She can't design or put together the grand and gaudy robes, but thanks to some basic lessons from her abuela, she knows her way around a needle and thread to mend or tighten up details.

In the corner room of the shop, one can find Monts surrounded by several costumes, lined up to be fixed. She's paused working, however, and is frowning at her hand, specifically her fingers. Upon closer inspection, some of the cloth have small, but noticeable dots of blood. She mutters to herself darkly.]

Shit.

[She'll look up, and whoever in the Tamamo Clan happen to be around, she smiles apologetically and waves them over, her palms and fingers dirtied by dried blood.]

Hey, I know everyone's busy, but think you can get a girl some bandages and rubbing alcohol? I don't think anyone wants to wear my blood on their costumes during the parade.

❈ TAMAMO CLAN, but OTAish — Voyeur Brigade, Beware

[The native youkai who are passing by the Tamamo Clan shop for the costumes are not being very discreet, to say the least. When directed to make sure anyone approaching was shoo'ed away, Monts takes a different direction in following those orders.]

SPLASH!!

[That being, hanging out on the balcony, ready with a bucket of water to unceremoniously dump it on the most obvious of voyeurs. Unfortunately, anyone passing by who isn't an unaffiliated clan member, may be caught in the splash zone. Looking up, you'll see Monts saluting you from the balcony, empty bucket balanced on the railing.]

Oops! That wasn't meant for you, but if you were in fact trying to sneak a peek, than sorry! This is probably better than throwing hands, don't you agree?

TASTE TEST, OTA — I Can't Choose!

[Growing up, Monts finds it to be a huge blessing that her sense of taste has remained in tact (mostly; temperatures were a fickle thing). When everyone is called to do taste testing, regardless of their clan affiliation, Monts, tired of the dreary costume sweatshop, jumps at the chance.

Now the problem is... Glancing among three booths, her eyes dart back and forth, examining three delicious treats:

a) Super long french fries with a super-extra spicy red hell-mayo?
b) How about some refreshing kakigori, with even more offerings of syrups and toppings (and who knows what each syrup does, effects wise)?
c) Last, but not least, perhaps thesechocolate bananas? Although, tasty as they look, the minokedachi youkai who's making the bananas probably isn't helping, waving the bananas at her face and the others.

What's a girl to do when there's so much to try out?]

❈ WILDCARD, OTA

[OOC: You can PM me if you'd like a top-level for your character or an idea you'd like to hash out beforehand!]

Voyeur Brigade, Beware

[enterthe]

[Ydris was put up to, what they thought, was some manner of espionage by fellow Sutoku members. Really, some intrepid peeper yokai wanted to send a Lost Soul into Tamamo territory as a test to see what the anti-voyeur defenses might be.

Turns out, not great for Ydris in particular. They were boldly walking right up to the place like they belonged there, because sneaking isn't their thing. Then, suddenly, their human disguise was completely evaporated by a torrential pour of water off the balcony.

Water that immediately super heats hitting their natural form, exploding outward and the pouring upward in a burst of rapidly forming steam. What's left is a very humid and very disgruntled candle.]

Fuck! [cool cuss, Ydris. They cannot actually focus and see who did this, only hearing distant shouting from up above, which they yell back at blindly]

Were you trying to kill me!?

Lan Wangji | Mo Dao Zu Shi | Sutoku

[strikingchords]

1. SUTOKU ALLIANCE

1a. keeping watch (ota)

[as a member of the Sukotu Alliance, Lan Wangji was asked to help keep the banks of the river near the parade route clear against anyone who might try to spy on the kappas that way. as such, he's posted above one of the culverts, a bow in one hand and a quiver of arrows at his side; with uncanny accuracy, he's shooting arrows tied with white rags to hit the ground or the water next to whoever ventures too close. warning shots.

that is, unless you refuse to take the hint, you're seen coming up out of the water, or... the tack that you're taking on your entrance looks particularly likely to succeed. then he'll frown, drop lightly from his post, and a moment later you'll hear the deep, even voice of someone clad all in white stepping out of the shadows next to the bank.]

Where are you going?

1b. finding facts (sutoku alliance)

[after a few hours hours, Lan Wangji's shift at watch has ended, and presumably the Sutoku Alliance member who's come to relieve him will have heard the latest on the rest of the parade preparations on the way here. when you reach the place where your compatriot was meant to be posted, a tall man standing silhouetted against the darkening sky on the bank -- a clear warning -- turns to narrow his eyes at you, waiting for you to identify yourself.]

What news?

2. TASTE TEST

[after the tense situation that increasingly seems to be surrounding the Sukotu Alliance's duties, it's a relief to decompress. Lan Wangji isn't exactly at home in any city -- he sometimes wishes for the remote pine forest and misty silence of his home mountain enough that he can taste it -- but it will be enough for now, he thinks, to escape to the market and buy himself something to eat without talking to anyone else.

or at least, it would have been, if a tiny paw hadn't been placed on his boot, and a tiny fox hadn't whined pitifully at him, practicing their biggest puppy eyes.

now Lan Wangji is kneeling very correctly under an awning off to one side of the eating area, his own bowl of bland food off to one side, but accompanied by a very pleased and grubby kitsune child. in human form, the baby fox is so tangled and grubby that their gender is hard to make out, but what's very obvious is their appetite. they're wolfing down their bowl happily, chattering at Lan Wangji with tail swishing. Lan Wangji reaches out to hold their chopsticks still every twenty seconds or so.]

Hush. Eat properly.

Do not speak during meals.

???

((tag with anything, or PM me for a custom starter!))

1a!

[cutcloud]

[ It had only been natural for Chongyun to wind up walking along the riverside. Even in Hell, his diligence toward investigating rumors of suspicious spirits hasn’t wavered—and the whispers amongst the crowds gathered to help with preparations had been knit with gossip. What are they doing? Why is it taking so long? Think it’s something we should be worried about?

It could be innocent. It could also be nefarious. Without engaging directly in the rumor mill, he had simply stepped off to look into it. It isn’t as though evil ever comes to you; you have to go hunt it down. If there really is something amiss … simply put, it’s quite against his nature to do nothing.

He studies along the river’s edge, peering into the water and then scanning down its path. His own reflection in the water’s surface mimics the action—a figure in white trimmed with light blue, light embroidery patterned across with faint traces of gold. Blue eyes study the trajectory, and he figures that the river eventually leads to some underpiping or plumbing … and he pauses there, judging if he wants to continue pursuit. It’s been quiet so far, but that doesn’t mean that there isn’t anything. What if there is something going on deeper down?

Or he could be wandering into where all the poop goes. That’s a thought that gives him goosebumps. He doesn’t want to go there… he will if there are evil spirits, but, ugh…

It’s mid-thought along those lines when a warning arrow plunks into the ground, dangerously close. Eyes narrowing, the youth turns toward the direction that the shot came from—he’s without his greatsword, but if there’s an issue, he still has confidence in his training. Tools are merely tools; he will figure out another way if need be.

Hint understood. Stubbornly, he doesn’t want to take it, suspicions newly roused. While he doesn’t continue down to follow the water’s flow, he doesn’t leave, either.

Alright. Despite the first shot, he takes a few more steps forward and toward the downward slope of the river, new curiosity toward the shooter. ]

Soundwave | Transformers IDW | Sutoku

[peacewithouttyranny]

i - Sutoku Alliance (open to all factions)

[Tempting as it to spy on the kappa business, Soundwave is a newbie here and opted to play it safe and be obedient instead. He would try, if he had his powers and tools with him, though currently lacks them to help him sneak around places he doesn't belong.

He's tasked with an assignment to dissuade those who attempts to nosy around and keep the river bank near the parade route clear

So, whoever's caught snooping around near the riverside will be approached by one 10 foot tall mech with a glowing red visor staring down at them. How did this large mech managed to sneak up on you unnoticed? He has surprisingly silent feet, despite what his size and being all metal might suggest otherwise.]

I suggest you turn around. It is a smart idea to leave the Kappa be.

ii- taste test ota

a [Soundwave is looking to refuel after a day's work. He's looking for some alternatives since none of the stalls here sell Cybertronian foodstuff. Hence he's standing in front of a juice stall. He's offered a juice as a taste tester, and seeing that he isn't in any position to refuse free drinks- look, he is a broke newbie like everyone else is.

Soundwave accepts the juice and drinks through a small open hatch on his faceplate. He refused to remove it for any reason, more comfortable to leave it on.

Maybe he shouldn't have accepted it. The more he drinks, the more Soundwave starts to doze off. And eventually, though maybe a little hard to tell with the lack of a 'face', he stops moving already and seems to be sleeping mid drink. ]

b [Or maybe later, Soundwave has inexplicably transformed into his vehicle mode and is now on the middle of the street, still sleeping. People are forgiven for thinking the vehicle is a lost toy because his alt mode is much more smaller than your typical car. If anything, he looks like the size of a power wheel...

So that's a possible reason why there is a group of youkai children circling around the vehicle and trying to figure out how to play with the vehicle. Help?]

II - B

[aceslow]

[ Seeing the little toy car in the middle of the road brings back memories for Kim. Not of owning one himself, of course. But oh, how he coveted it when he was a child, frantically fogging the window of the toy store as he gazed hungrily at it, knowing that only the truly affluent would be able to afford the foot-powered toy Fevre for their spoiled kids. Which is to say, it clearly belongs to some rich kid somewhere.

A part of him wants to just let the kids play with it. Why not? When will they next get the chance? But they'll likely get in trouble once its rightful owner arrives, and that's enough motivation for him to shoo them away. ] Go on. That doesn't belong to you. Go find something else to play with.

[ Privately, he feels a little sad they didn't get to play with it either. But once they're gone, he gets to get a good look at it instead. He hasn't yet had a chance to get a close look at the vehicles here, and this replica is a good opportunity. After ogling the unfamiliar steering wheel for a couple minutes, he shakes off his curiosity and starts to try to roll it to the side of the street, where it will be well out of the way.

Only it's more difficult to move than what Kim expected from a toy. He lets out a surprised grunt. ] No kid could paddle this. Is there a real engine in here...?

Dante | Devil May Cry | The Shuten Clan

[demonrebel]

I. Taste the Blood (Shuten Clan only)

[The second the first gunshot is fired, Dante brings out the girls to have some fun.

He knew better than to waltz into this casino unarmed, especially since this dispute is about money. While he doesn’t give a shit about the Shuten Clan and their nefarious dealings, Dante realizes he better put in some work or end up at the receiving of the yakuza’s wrath. That’s why he jumps into the fray with zero hesitation. If there’s one thing Dante enjoys more than pummeling demons, it’s having a good old fashion gunfight.

He fires into the crowd of yokai with reckless abandon, each shot aimed at the casino manager’s hired guns. With Ivory in one hand and Ebony in the other, Dante keeps shooting until he managed to nail four bodyguards right between the eyes. While he’s a jack-of-all-trades, Dante truly excels at gunplay. This bonafide gunslinger starts mowing down the guards with little effort while dodging bullets with his fancy footwork. He slides under the protective shade of a roulette table, using it as temporary cover from the onslaught.

The bodyguards are armed with crappy-looking shotguns that have a wide unpredictable spread. It’s a little tough to get close to the bastards but Dante manages to level the playing field with just three shots from Ebony. She’s modified for range, after all. He manages to pick off the three guards with a single shot each giving him the opportunity to roll out from his hiding spot. Dante is just a blur of red and black as he makes a beeline for the slot machines nearby. He lingers there for cover before firing back. After a few more shots, Dante lets out an exasperated sigh as he reloads.]

These fuckers can’t take a hint.

[He grumbles while peeking around the bullet-riddled slot machine. There are still six guys left and the casino manager is nowhere to be found. While he suspects that the manager fled towards the VIP lounge, Dante isn’t sure if the guy is still within the casino.]

Hey, you!

[Yeah, he’s talking to you, bucko. Dante whistles towards the person hiding out nearby, pretty confident that this young punk is another Shuten lowlife. While Dante doesn’t know everyone by name, he’s good at remembering faces.]

Have you seen the manager around?

II. The After Party (Shuten Clan only)

[Dante is borderline unconscious here at the lounge. Not because he’s injured or anything but because he’s seriously exhausted after that long-ass fight. His stamina isn’t up to par lately, especially since his supernatural abilities were limited so severely. While he can definitely take a sword in the chest, he doesn’t heal up as quickly as before.

That’s why Dante is just sitting there at the VIP lounge with a naughty magazine covering his face. Some of these yokai babes are really hot but honestly, he doesn’t care. He just wanted a little bit of shut-eye right now. It’s kind of hilarious to see this menacing 6’4 black & red-clad badass teetering precariously on a chair with his feet propped up on the counter. It’s a scene straight from out of a Noir flick definitely poster-worthy.

Dante is honestly half-asleep here despite the telltale scent of gunsmoke in the air. Most of the bodyguards were killed during the gunfight and whoever wasn’t murdered in cold blood were being shaken down by the Shuten boys. So technically this place is safe despite all the blood and death. Even so, Dante really shouldn’t be sleeping here.

A sharp-dressed Oni catches a glimpse of Dante by the bar and just shakes his head. No one knows what to do with “Red Coat” but they seem content enough to let the bastard slack off right now. After all, their main concern is opening the vault where the casino manager is hiding. However, it seems that Dante has become the center of conversation as of now.]

III. Taste Testing (OTA)

[A tense sigh escapes Dante as he tries another piece of takoyaki. It’s spicy, spicy as all hell. While Dante doesn’t mind trying spicy food, for some oddity this takoyaki ball is spicer than usual. It’s almost as if he swallowed twenty ghost peppers at once but Dante is too prideful to reach for the glass. He can feel his face heating up with every bite. The poor guy probably looks as red as a cooked lobster at this point. It’s mildly hilarious but until Dante finishes the last two, he’s not grabbing that glass. Blame it on his pride as both a man and demon.

However, his determination starts to waiver a bit once the spices kick up a notch. It’s then that Dante drops the chopsticks and rests his face within his hands. This is torture, sheer torture. He takes a deep breath in hopes of sucking in the cool evening air but that does nothing to alleviate the pain. The devil hunter briefly closes his eyes as if trying to wish the pain away before suddenly reaching for the glass.

Pride be damned, his mouth is burning!]

Fuck!

[He lets out of sigh of relief after drowning that glass of water. While his tongue still stings, his mouth no longer feels like a furnace.]

What the hell did they put in these things? Lava?

[Dante comically starts fanning himself with his hand as beads of sweat trickle down his forehead. He really wishes he had some ice cream right now.]


IV. WILDCARD

( Feel free to make your own prompt! )

I

[horrifictie]

[ REACTION SPEED - The second gun fire went off, you hit the ground and crawled against old tacky carpeting to get under a roulette table. Between all the ammo going off from both ends of the casino, it's impossible to tell who is getting pumped with bullets.
HAND/EYE COORDINATION - Guns of this caliber are only seen carried by private security contractors. These are *war crime* weapons.
VISUAL CALCULUS - One of the shooters ducks and rolls behind a slot machine just across from your table. The two of you on either side, and the path ahead the only way into the manager's offices.
LOGIC - Isn't that the demon hunter from when you first showed up? ]

Huh?

[ Harry mutters dumbly, snapped from this thoughts when he realizes he's being called at. Another barrage of gunfire pops off into air and he winces as if he's about to meet death again. He takes the moment to shout a response: ]

No -- he must be upstairs! I was on my way to talk to him! [ Then he gets a better look, knows for sure it's the demon hunter, and sees the guns. ] Wait, did *you* start this fire fight?! What the hell man!

Shizuka Takeda | OC

[keihatsu]

Taste Test - Da' Bomb Beyond Insanity:

[ Shizuka takes a break and got the free samples being given out for taste testing. To everyone else, she's just another stoic police type, dressed in a uniform and a sword on her hip. Dignified, right? You might just let her be until a crowd gathers around a pop-up stall in front of a famous takoyaki stand. She's in the small seating area with the others, and she takes a bite of some of their spicy takoyaki and almost jumps in her seat. She coughs, groans, moans (in pain), and rhythmically slamming the table with her hand, and the ground with her foot. Her face is turning red as sweat and tears glistens her skin. Still chewing, she scans the surroundings and see a crowd of yokai watching and wondering if she'll ever get the prize. The prize that hangs on the stall - a prize of bragging rights for their clan and a cute long pillow of a cat. Her eyes are on the prize, but the milk gallon sure is tempting right now ]

I can do this... I can do this.

[ Beat ]

Oh fuck I can't do this... Hand me the milk, please?

[ She's asking you, the Lost Soul right next to her, be a lamb. ]

Taste Test - ASMR to help you sleep:

[ She thought it was over; no more food with awful effects. But she just had some yakisoba to try, and now she feels like hibernating. She can be seen walking around like a zombie, groaning and unable to walk straight. She probably looks drunk if it wasn't for the yawn that escaped her lips. She's looking for a bench to rest on, even if there's someone on there already. Actually, even better if there's someone in there already because- plop! Shizuka's head falls on your character's shoulders!

What do? ]

Taste Test - Powerthirst:

[ Now things are inn reverse, for she tasted some dessert that made her feel instantly energetic. She can be seen doing squats and grunting with a glare at the storekeeper. She just wants to move and never stop, and warn others of the dangers of these spiked up confectionaries ]

Do not. Eat. Those sweets.

OOC:

[ Hi so I'm feeling pretty ill and life is happening right now, so that's why my tags have been slow and it likely will continue. Just letting you know, so please understand, I will try to get to them as fast as I can. If you want to talk about plotting and CR, let me know. I can be reached at slevins ]

this taste test is DA BOMB

[fuckinghysterical]

[As LB explores the food stalls in her downtime, she hears mutterings of takoyaki among the crowds. Even if she was unfamiliar with the food before, her new understanding of Japanese within Jigokucho gave her an understanding of what the word meant - "octopus balls". As the resident octopus aficionado, of course she needed to try some immediately.

Not being shy in the least, she asks random people in the crowd, until she's directed to the most popular one in the area. She didn't even care about the prize, she just wanted to try the takoyaki. However, as it became clear that this particular batch was spicy, LB felt some disappointment. She did not deal well with spicy.

However, before she can walk away, her attention is drawn to a particularly distressed looking Lost Soul. With the excitement of the crowd buzzing around her, LB had to stay to watch. Before she can settle into the crowd of yokai, though, she's frozen in place as the woman unexpectedly barks out a request.]

Me? Eheheh?

[She begins to reach for the gallon of milk nearby, but pauses as she's met with jeering from the crowd. There's variations of different yokai yelling at her to basically not wuss out, while there's one more sympathetic cry to not give up - the prize was so close!

Frowning, LB grips the handle of the milk and draws closer to the stranger, though she looks hesitant to hand it over.]

Are you certain you want this?

yuri leclerc | fe3h | sutoku

[playfoul]

SUTOKU ALLIANCE (closed to clan)

[ While talking down other clans from snooping could be a time-consuming task, there remained plenty of undisturbed time during guard duty with little to do but twiddle one's thumbs and ponder the secrets of the Kappa. Yuri stands with his arms folded, casually leaning against the walls of the cavernous tunnel that seems to swallow his voice when he speaks. ]

They're being awfully secretive even with us. What do you think they're up to?

[ For as smoothly as he deflected questions about the Kappa earlier, he doesn't believe a word of his own excuses that there's nothing suspicious going on. ]

TASTE TEST I.

[ Having sampled a dish with unfortunate side-effects, Yuri can be found slumped in an alley, hair strewn over his face and fast asleep. It's not the safest place for a nap what with the gang activity around, but he hadn't managed to drag himself anywhere better before succumbing to the drowsiness.

If you try and shake him conscious, he'll stir and then jolt awake with a look of alarm in his eyes, shoving you away with one arm as his other hand darts for the dagger he keeps hidden, drawing it in a flash of silver as his mind plays catch-up to process what is and isn't a real threat. ]

TASTE TEST II.

[ Despite his irritation with the Tamamo's kitchen practices, the lure of free food nevertheless draws him back to the district. He's assisting at a yakitori stand the next day, turning over pieces of skewered meat on a grill. Now that he's wiser to the Tamamo's cooking methods, Yuri's also keeping an eye out for tampered ingredients. So if you're a fellow worker, you might catch him swapping out the dipping sauce, one finger pressed to his lips when he sees you watching. Or you might be one of the lucky guests to receive a sizzling, untampered sample of yakitori. ]

WILDCARD.

Feel free to hit me up with a different idea!

taste test 2

[enlighteneds]

[ As another from Tamamo clan, Yae shares the, for the lack of better terms, surprise at the kitchen staff due to the over-the-line prank of them. At first, she also thought that was funny, but after some people got really weird due to the side effects of the food, even a natural prankster like Yae knew that enough was enough. Now, she just happens to be in the same shift as Yuri and thankfully, she gets what he's trying to do especially with his gesture. ]

Two tablespoons at most. [ She says in a barely audible voice back at him, indicating the limit of the recipe. ] Or else the distinct taste would be obvious from the usual. We don't want them to find out, do we?

Billy the Kid | fgo | TamTam's ClanClan

[21towin]

I - Tamamo Clan members

[A]

Suppose it don't look all that bad on ya.

[He sat off to the side, still dressed in his usual clothing. At least he had his jacket, scarf and hat hanging up? Still, Billy resisted calls for him to dress up as well. No point when he was supposed to be working security and giving his own opinion on things. Of course he doesn't look like one that would actually rough anyone up.

The opposite really, given that he's not the biggest guy around.

Billy doesn't need to be though. All he needs to be is quick, and looking carefree. If not a tadbit lazy, as his current sitting posture might also suggest.]

[B - violence warning]

[Billy isn't big, but he can be intimidating in his own way.]

An' don't ya ever come back 'round here again! [Each word was punctuated with a grunt and a smack from the butt of his pistol as he beat down a peeping youkai. Now bruised, battered and bloodied. He didn't want to outright kill them, and had taken pains to avoid doing so. Still, they needed to be made an example of.

Whether or not they were perving or spying in on the establishment he was currently tasked with. With huff he stood up and holstered his gun. At least this one would make a clear example and warning.

Whether or not others really felt the same didn't really matter in his head.]

II - Taste Test

It smells good, I suppose....

[While Billy had relaxed a good deal since he'd first arrived, there was always going to be that bit of caution in the back of his mind. Conditioned into him as an orphan with two siblings, and that of an outlaw. That and the given environment he was in certainly didn't lend much trust in him.]

What d'ya think?

[WILDCARD]

[Feel free to hit me up with whatever.]

tamamo b!

[illicitly]

[Nie Huaisang watches the beatdown with mild interest from where he's drawing hanfu designs at a nearby drafting table. As the leader of a martial arts sect distinguished for its focus on strength and overwhelming might, he can't help but admire the thoroughness of it or see the wisdom of using this one's misfortune as a deterrent for other unwelcome visitors. Not that he looks the part at all with the crane-spangled, black kimono he's currently wearing and long, flowing hair.

Once it's over with, he looks up from his drawing with an encouraging smile.]

Good work! I don't think that one will be returning any time soon.