nysalogs | [open mingle] from my laboratory in the castle east

Entry tags:

[open mingle] from my laboratory in the castle east

Who: EVERYONE!
What: Diva's! Birthday! Masquerade!!
When: August 4
Where: the Nadril caves
Warning(s): This is a mingle, so please indicate if your starter isn't OTA. Also: please put any necessary warnings in your subject lines when things pop up!

Atsushi has been planning this for a while now, but needless to say, a certain dragon forced him to adapt his plans, and arguably not for the better. Still, he's determined to make this work! Diva told him she's never had a birthday party in all of her long life, and that is just not all right - so of course he promised her she'd have one this year.

He... should have maybe not said anything, and just done this in secret. Or at least he should have known better than to ask Diva what kind of party she wanted, because she sure had a lot of wishes... That's Diva for you, though. Besides, after more than 170 years without a birthday party, she deserves to say exactly what she wants!

Atsushi has spent more time than he probably should have, decorating a part of Nadril's cave system with fairy lights and anything else he could find. For being in a cave, the setting is very atmospheric! There's food, drinks, and recorded music - not all of it suited for a party, but there are instruments too, for the more talented guests.

A masquerade was Diva's first and foremost wish, and with everyone having limited means and fewer possessions here, masks have kindly been provided by your hosts at the entrance. Some are classy; some are a little unusual; some are -....... Well, you should probably be at the party in time, so all the good masks haven't been taken yet. How well have you disguised yourself? Did you bother to hide your identity at all?

A gift for the birthday vamp is appreciated, but your presence is the biggest gift. There's no better time than the present to forget the unresolved situation elsewhere on the planet, and have a little fun together!

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

People have no idea what's good for them. It's very sad.

[Him. He's very good for them. He's good for everyone, whether it be humbling the haughty or giving joy to the downtrodden. And clearly doesn't care that he's riff-raff- he's happy. And happy that he isn't treated like shit here even if it's made it hard to find people to fleece. It'll turn- it always does, but at least Iskander seems to be one of the genuinely kind people here.

Though he does give him a look of complete surprise over the lip of his glass.]

I wouldn't have guessed that about you. You seem like the kind of person who knows precisely who likes him, regardless of how much money and power you have over them.

Well, I never saw a reason to hold power over someone. I may be a King but that is a title that should be an inspiration to all rather than something one looks upon with disdain. I have always felt that a King is someone that others look up to and want to follow because they are his as much as he is theirs.

[And he knows not all rule this way. Which is unfortunate because it leads to thoughts like this where if one has wealth and power they use that to abuse instead of do wondrous things with it. Honestly it's a terrible shame.]

Though if someone really doesn't like me that is fine. I can only extend the hand of friendship and if it is not taken then there is not much else to be done.

[Are you even real? Somewhere the Dwendalian Empire shudders in the face of such sense. Oh, how it would crumble if any jewel in that particular crown knew that you could hold power and be kind at the same time.

Not that Molly gives one ornery fuck about what the Empire thinks or politics. He's happy to just be proven right about his standing theories about wealth being fine if the people who have it aren't preoccupied with it.]

Ohhh I am most definitely taking it. [He's endeared, to say the least. So endeared that he thrusts out the crook of his arm for Iskander to take.] Taking it all the way to the dance floor, I think. I've never danced with a king before, and I never miss an opportunity like this.

[He's finding he's always delighted by the way Molly acts and he laughs at the thrust of the arm. Rather than take it though, he actually reaches out to wrap an arm around him instead just so he can tug him right up against his side.]

If you have never danced with a King then we should change that. And if there are any other firsts with a King you ever wish to try then let me know. I will gladly help you to achieve those.

[For now though, he is happy to head to the dance floor with him. Because they really need to make sure Molly can say he's danced with a King.]

[Molly looks about as happy as a kid in a candy shop. People who lean on charm when they barely have any rarely expect to be literally or figuratively swept off their feet, so he feels like he has scored a great victory here. And also, consider, Iskander is big. Big people are remarkably affectionate sometimes- look at Yasha.]

Careful with that. You might not know what you're getting into. [Molly's grin is delighted and a little wry, and he disentangles himself from Iskander's manly arms (with mild trepidation as he was quite enjoying how well he fit against his side) so he can properly position himself for a dance, sweeping into a dramatic bow. Godsdammit, he will do this properly, with flourish, and a bit of cheekiness, so help him Moonweaver.] Your Highness.

Oh I think I do. That is why I offer.

[Iskandar watches as Molly bows to him and laughs.] The title is Your Majesty, I think. But the bow was a beautiful one. Though, I think I like you better here.

[Where is here you might ask? Why, he'll demonstrate by stepping forward and wrapping an arm around him to tug him against his powerful form. Molly isn't the only one who liked where they'd been before. This isn't quite the same but Iskandar actually finds he likes it better because it's even easier to embrace his smaller friend.]

You see? This is much better.

[Molly has average charisma and less game than he thinks he does, so his brain sort of short-circuits a little bit at that much BIG and charisma in one impressive person. Despite lacking definitive pupils, his eyes can still manage that saucer effect.]

I think you're right. I think yo- You're absolutely right. [Ohhh boy. He's not the type to blush (he has zero shame), but he is a little flustered once the rug has been pulled out from under him and he no longer has the control, and the pointed canines digging into his bottom lip are nothing to scoff at.] I am far more comfortable. You're leading, right? [He not only doesn't remember where his feet are... He might not remember what a foot is.]

Yes. I will lead. Don't worry, I'm rather good at picking up on these dances.

[Especially since you only need the basic steps then it's just following along with the music. Plus he's big enough that he can easily guide Molly along with him as they dance, looking right down into those pretty eyes with his own red ones. Something he's noted they have in common even if he happens to have clear irises and pupils for his own.

Because when you get the chance to dance with a beautiful man then you make sure to look into his eyes so he knows you appreciate him.]

Also you can simply call me Iskandar. Even if you would like me to be your King, I was your friend first.

I'm actually perfectly content with not having a king. I'm not a big fan of politics as a general rule. I was just being a little bit of an arsehole. It's a thing.

[It's said bluntly, but not sheepishly. He's found his rhythm again in keeping time with the music, even if the prolonged eye contact makes him... Well, to be perfectly honest, it makes him giggle a little bit as a punctuation to his ramble. His wandering accent produces a surprisingly childish giggle.]

You were being playful. I like that about you. For me it is one of your many attractive qualities.

[He's just as honest with him in return. He's always been rather blunt in his honesty. Sometimes it can almost be harsh but right now it's anything but that. There's a warmth to it as he laughs softly while enjoying this dance he's having with the other.]

Though I think even if you were being something of an ass, I would still enjoy my time with you. You have a vibrant personality that I enjoy.

That is high praise. Most people think I'm a lot. [He's not even a little bit self-deprecating about it, either. He chooses to be this way. He chooses to kick open the doors to every place he walks into and say "look at me. i'm here. deal with my presence." If anything, being called "a lot" is a compliment, but being told that being that way is a good thing is beyond complimentary] Which is fine. I like being me. I like being vibrant. It just makes me an acquired taste for some and a highly decorated nuisance to others, but fuck it. I'm happy.

Most people think I'm a lot as well. So to me I say that you are just my sort of taste.

[However, that's not going to stop him from winking at him and giving him a particularly flirtatious sort of smile. Just the sort of thing that says he's not only very into him but also very willing to let him know as much. And why not? Beautiful people should be made to feel they're beautiful.]

Though, if you'd like I could have a taste to find out for sure.

[Molly's heart jumps into his throat just so he can swallow it again. Goddammit, superficial carnie charm works wonders when you're not expecting it to work and it sure doesn't work when someone throws genuine charm back at him. That glib, silvertongue of his gets tangled in knots and he's left sort of awkwardly swaying for a second to the rhythm- at least he can keep rhythm when he's trying to get his footing back.]

I'm not gonna say no to that. That would be a shite thing to say no to. Who in their right mind wouldn't oblige a handsome stranger with excellent taste a, ah... A taste.

[Just kiss him so he'll shut up.]

[He stops the dancing they're doing to catch Molly's chin with his fingers. Smiling down at him, he lets him stumble over his words a little longer before silencing them with a kiss. He keeps it innocent enough for now because in a way he's giving a taste of himself as well. Something to leave Molly wanting more for another time. After all, he already knows he'd like to have more of his friend at some point as well and this kiss has only sealed that for him.

With that said, he does let the contact linger, holding him close until their lips part and even then he doesn't let go. Why would he? He's quite fond of holding the other.]

[The last time Molly was kissed was the Pillow Trove, and to be fair that was mostly massage and ridiculous conversation and being fed grapes. There was kissing, though. And other intimate things. It wasn't necessarily the full-on threesome he led everyone to believe it was though, and it was also, most importantly, paid for. It counts because all affection counts. Just because you're getting paid for it doesn't mean you don't enjoy it and just because you paid for it doesn't mean it's the empty calories of physical exploration.

What it isn't is genuine- even for a novelty like Molly who counts his kisses and sexual deviance as units of time until he needs to leave a place before he becomes easy to tire of, a kiss from someone who actually thinks you're attractive and interesting as opposed to brassy, exotic, and fun is a rare thing. It still follows the same rules though. Don't wear out your welcome, especially if someone has a crush on you. Or something.

He has no idea what this is. Maybe Iskander is just as bold and forward as he is and better at selling it as actual interest, as opposed to just fun. But that's overthinking it. Really, he'd rather just enjoy this little taste.

'Cause sweet Moonweaver, that is a taste. He pulls back and bites his lower lip, one sharp canine dragging over the flesh without actually breaking skin.] That's, ah... That's... Yeah. I approve of that. That was nice.

[While Molly might be wondering if this is for fun or genuine interest, there is no question in Iskandar's mind. He likes the other and in his mind he doesn't see why it can't be both fun and interest. That's the beauty of the relationships that he enjoys. Why tie yourself down to only one person when there are so many out there to embrace?

Besides, who would he be to tie anyone down when he has three wives and countless lovers? Or at least he did as a human. These days that might still be true but it's more like as a Spirit he just has something of a...hmmmm...what's the word? Ah yes. A harem. A harem that is free to come and go as they please while he freely loves on them.

And he certainly would love to include his new friend in that. (He always has been one to move fast.)]

I'm pleased it meets your approval. I know I enjoyed the taste as well. I would say I've easily acquired one for you.

[Godsdammit, this motherfucker is smooth. Molly could never hope to be that bold and actually make it look good. If he said a line like that, he's fairly certain everyone he used it on would take it literally and run screaming.

Which is hilarious, but that's a different kind of effect.

He swallows down any gentle sarcasm about how long that'll last, because who does he think he is? Caleb? Fuck that. Smoke 'em while you got 'em, and to hell with what comes after.]

You're really good at this. I don't think I've met anyone who was that good at this who wasn't doing it professionally.

Kissing? Flirting? Both?

[Thinking about it, he realizes something rather important about himself.]

You know, I'd be very good at doing this professionally!

[It's true that some would find insult in this but not him. Instead he is realizing that this would be something he'd be very good at! Also? It would be fun. Think of all the sex he could have!

Iskandar has his priorities straight.]

Let's go with all of the above.

[Molly nods, showing teeth in his grin, not even realizing that it could be taken as anything but a compliment. Plenty of respectable people make money that way. He wouldn't, because he'd be terrible at it. It doesn't fit in with the way he views the world and how he treats people. Sex is a side venture for him. Moonlight trysts with strangers, a benediction to his goddess. It's new experiences and as close as you can get to another person without having to trust them.

But it's not a career move. Not for him. That said, he falls back on his superficial carnie charm, taking one hand out from around Iskander's waist to give him an affectionate pat on the pec.] It's a good way to make bank, I hear. Handsome, charming fellow like you would be rolling in gold within a week.

If I had any care for coin then I perhaps would consider it. As it is, it really matters little to me.

[He chuckles a bit and then gives him a wink. Honestly that isn't the only reason. He could keep that other reason to himself but that simply isn't his style. Iskandar has always been the type to say exactly what is on his mind without filter. Oh sure he can be diplomatic at times but obviously that isn't necessary right now.]

I also enjoy sex for pleasure too much to care much about remembering to gather coin after.

[Truth be told, Molly's fixation on coin is a combination of never having any and thus being a little greedy for it, and enjoying having it so he can take care of others. He likes being able to overpay as opposed to scrimping and counting every copper just to make sure there's food and supplies.

So he almost says as much, but realizes it's a complicated statement, and deigns to just stick his tongue in his cheek. How fortunate he is to find a like-minded individual. Moonweaver be praised, if she can see him now he's got a moonlit tryst worthy of benediction.]

That's fair. I'm all for getting paid to do what you love, but it gets messy. If anything worthwhile is happening, who is really remembering to exchange coin? [Maybe that's why they make you pay up front in most houses of favors. Huh.]

See? You understand!

[He laughs because usually this conversation goes very differently with others. Not that he...has this conversation a lot, mind you. It's just that when he does it tends to go a more judgmental sort of direction. People just seem so interested in judging rather than simply enjoying life. It's ridiculous honestly.

Iskandar really is liking Molly more and more as they talk. What a delightful and handsome person!]

Shall we get a drink? We haven't been dancing for a bit now honestly.

Absolutely. That's what a party like this is for. Dancing, celebrating, and drinking until you forget where you are.

[And he's had plenty of two of those things and not enough of the other. And, hey, now he doesn't have to drink alone. He gently extricates himself from Iskander's arms with a serpentine amount of flexibility and cups his hands around his mouth.] A round of drinks for this gentleman and me! Which one of you sods is feeling generous enough to serve us. Don't be shy!

[Yep. That's classic Molly.]

[A large hand comes to flop onto Molly's head and ruffle his hair a bit.]

So demanding! An attractive quality to be sure.

[But let him come and fix this situation.]

It is true though. We would like a round of drinks. Something strong to serve the moment. Perhaps a spiced wine of some sort. You have my thanks.

[And once they have their drinks? Well, he doesn't think to toast. Nope. He just drinks down half of it in a gulp with a sigh.]

Delicious!

[Molly makes a sound that's not unlike a purr just to be obnoxious about the hair ruffle, the jewelry on his horns jingling.

When presented with his wine, he's about to sip it, but upon seeing Iskander just down it, he murmurs "fuck it" and downs his own as well. He's no stranger to chugging alcohol, especially at a party. And it'll take a couple more of these to break down his firm constitution.]

Indeed. [He makes a satisfied noise as the taste lingers and the liquor burns its way down his throat.] The lady of the hour most definitely spared no expense at picking vendors, that's for certain.

[open mingle] from my laboratory in the castle east

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

(no subject)

(no subject)

(no subject)