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ℊℓоω
ɴᴏ ᴀᴅᴍɪᴛᴛᴀɴᴄᴇ ᴇxᴄᴇᴘᴛ ᴏɴ ᴘᴀʀᴛʏ ʙᴜsɪɴᴇss
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Post by ℊℓоω on Jul 7, 2021 22:57:34 GMT -5
The year is 1923 in the city of New York. Gangs rule the streets, booming technology brings intrigue, yet the mystery of the darker side of the world looms ever large. Vampires, werewolves, and any number of beasts walk among every day people. As the city grows, so does crime. Unsolved murders have the police departments overrun. The seedier parts of town are often neglected, meaning the gangs and any number of powerful people can get away with their exploits.
Our plot revolves around the residents of a fictional neighborhood called Thistlestreet. Here, the two rival gangs (the Crones and the Wyrms) rule the roost. They own all of the businesses and most of the property in total. The Wyrms are associated with ancient relics such as vampires, sirens, and demons. The crones are mainly composed of rugged beasts such as werewolves, witches, and shapeshifters. But humans also represent a large portion of the population and their savviness with the growing technologies of the world give them their own advantages. The alleys are not a safe place for any innocent wanderer, but those who know their way around know all of the neighborhood secrets. Crime is often swept under the rug either to appease the gangs or to avoid trouble from the cops. It is a neighborhood known for its entertainment. The bars and clubs draw interest from all across the city, and because the police are reluctant to show their faces, a good time is easy to find.
PLACES OF IMPORTANCE:
▣ Vinehouse: The most populous housing complex in the neighborhood, owned by the Wyrms. It's considered quite rundown but it is affordable. It is characterized by the vines that cover the outside of the building and the iron gates that keep the Crones out in the dark hours of the night.
▣ The Satin Club: Walls covered in rich red satin, a stage light by warm incandescent lights. This club draws an audience like moths to a flame. Though owned by the Crones, most anyone is welcome as long as they're paying...and don't stir up too much trouble.
▣ The Institution: A mental hospital for all sorts, this is the place of work for a number of locals.
▣ The Manor: Owned by the wealthiest man in the neighborhood, a car manufacturer, who is loosely associated with the Crones but not fiercely loyal. He employs a number of people at his estate and is known to host stylish parties.
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ℊℓоω
ɴᴏ ᴀᴅᴍɪᴛᴛᴀɴᴄᴇ ᴇxᴄᴇᴘᴛ ᴏɴ ᴘᴀʀᴛʏ ʙᴜsɪɴᴇss
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Post by ℊℓоω on Jul 8, 2021 0:05:38 GMT -5
The main plot will revolve around seven main characters and unlimited side characters. The purpose of that is to build in some structure to the rp while also allowing people to explore their own ideas and subplots. Joiners may claim one main character each and make as many side characters as desired.
MAIN CHARACTERS:
The Brawn: Close ally of the detective. Always carries a broad range of weapons, perhaps a supernatural being like a werewolf, vampire, etc. (m) claimed by 𝕾𝖙𝖔𝖗𝖒𝖗𝖆𝖌𝖊
- Koane: 201 year-old werewolf male
The Detective: The unofficial crime-solver for the city. An educated man who was raised on the streets. (m) claimed by ℊℓоω
- Audo Coinbrew: 29 year-old human male, unaffiliated
The Alchemist: A local gang-affiliated alchemist who specializes in herbs and substances. Works occasionally with the detective. (f) claimed by leilarf
The Street Rat: A young man who comes from the worst part of town, who has eyes and ears everywhere. Covered in grime and down to commit crime. (m) claimed by Pearl
The Jewel: Daughter of the richest Board in the city. Unsavory origins but raised with a silver spoon in her mouth. (f) claimed by parisiansteve
The Marionette: A performer who might know something about the Arsonist, she has a mutual friend of the detective. (f) claimed by ℊℓоω
- Lucia Grimme: 22 year-old half-siren female, wyrms
The Fire Swallower: A player from the same crew as the Marionette. They have some sort of close relationship (lovers or siblings). (m) claimed by Hushabye
GODFATHERS:
(These are also main characters, newly added. Unlike the others, however, their main function in the story is as the powerful heads within their gangs. All of the other supernatural characters answer to them and they have great influence in the city. The Wyrms are run by a polyamorous trio and the crones by a single person.)
WYRMS
The Raven: The most vocal of the three "godfathers," ruthless but protective of all the wyrms. (m/f) Open
The Dove: An eccentric character, she supposedly has the gift of foresight (though this is a subject of debate), (f) claimed by ℊℓоω
The Owl: The wyrm who is quietest of the three, but also the most thoughtful. Perhaps the best to ask for advice. (m/f) Open
CRONES
The Scepter: Literally referred to as "The Scepter" by the Crones, known as being charismatic but also violent. (m/f) Open
SIDE CHARACTERS:
See joining page!
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ℊℓоω
ɴᴏ ᴀᴅᴍɪᴛᴛᴀɴᴄᴇ ᴇxᴄᴇᴘᴛ ᴏɴ ᴘᴀʀᴛʏ ʙᴜsɪɴᴇss
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Post by ℊℓоω on Jul 8, 2021 15:46:42 GMT -5
CHARACTER RELATIONSHIPS:
▣ Lucia and Nuadha are in a romantic relationship
▣ ...
SPECIES:
VAMPIRES These creatures consume nothing but blood. Though they can suffer through daylight, they are naturally nocturnal. Their unnaturally long lives lend themselves to wealth and glamor. They cannot be killed by sickness or age. Only a wooden stake to the heart does the trick. The rumors, unfortunately, are true--they cannot see themselves in mirrors.
Lifespan: Infinite
Abilities: Superhuman speed, strength, and senses.
Reproduction: Biting humans who then have to consume vampire blood.
SIRENS Similar to vampires, Sirens also have unnaturally long life and cannot easily be killed. The difference, of course, is that Sirens are sea-loving creatures who inhabit the water as easily as they do land. They do not, much to the chagrin of little girls, have fish-like tails (only gills on their necks that allow them to breathe). Sirens can also only be female. Can only be killed by mercury.
Lifespan: Infinite.
Abilities: Breathing underwater, unnatural beauty, seductive voices
Reproduction: Same as human reproduction, but only girls have a 10% chance of becoming a full siren.
DEMONS The third of the relic species. Demons can also live forever, unless their makers are destroyed through an antiquated ritual. They are regarded as evil, though it might be unfair. Wickedness and mischief are common traits. Attributes include batlike wings which are easily disguised under clothing.
Lifespan: Infinite.
Abilities: Reading lies, travelling through flame, curses
Reproduction: Creation through cursing ritual.
FAE Either referred to as elves, fairies, or simply "fae." They are relics, so they live long lives. They are reputed as being manipulative and speaking in riddles. Can be killed only through the withering of their spirits, which can happen a number of ways. Fae come in several factions known for the four elements as well as the "spirit" faction. They have pointy ears and can be either taller or much shorter than humans.
Lifespan: Infinite.
Abilities: Large range, similar to sorcerers.
Reproduction: Same as humans, but gestation and maturation take much longer.
WEREWOLVES Natural enemy to the vampire is the werewolf. They are technically relics because they can live forever, but the process of transforming is dangerous. Werewolves can also die of sickness and injury more easily than the other long-lived species. Most die young anyway. Wolves can shift at will, but it can be a fifteen-minute long process. They also cannot swim because of high muscle density.
Lifespan: Typically short but can be infinite
Abilities: Superhuman strength and senses, transforming into wolves
Reproduction: Same as human. Human x werewolf children have a 50% chance of becoming werewolves. Can also be bitten.
SORCERERS Sometimes called witches, wizards, etc. These are simply humans who have a random magical gene. They are also the most diverse of the species, with their abilities depending entirely on the person. Sorcerers are typically discovered by the age of ten, and then they are adopted into covens (close knit groups).
Lifespan: Same as humans
Abilities: Depend on the sorcerer (charms, potions, elemental abilities, etc.)
Reproduction: Born randomly in the human population
SHAPESHIFTERS Most closely related to the werewolf genetically. Shapeshifters are always born, not created. They can also transform at will, so they are not "cursed" by the moon cycle. Unlike werewolves who transform into wolves, shapeshifters mimic the appearances of other people.
Lifespan: Same as humans
Abilities: Mimicking the physical attributes and voices of other people
Reproduction: Only two shapeshifters can give birth to another shapeshifter.
SEASON:
It is currently mid October, so it is getting quite chilly and the leaves are deep golden.
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Post by Pearl on Jul 9, 2021 0:01:05 GMT -5
(Just posting so that I can find it easily.)
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ℊℓоω
ɴᴏ ᴀᴅᴍɪᴛᴛᴀɴᴄᴇ ᴇxᴄᴇᴘᴛ ᴏɴ ᴘᴀʀᴛʏ ʙᴜsɪɴᴇss
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Post by ℊℓоω on Jul 9, 2021 16:04:37 GMT -5
AUDO COINBREW
✘ LOCATION: THE SATIN CLUB ✘
The club was busier than Audo had seen in some time. The observation made him wonder, with a twinge of amusement, if he was becoming a regular. There was some fairness to the thought. The gaudy red-fabric walls and rusty chandeliers were practically old friends by this point. And the waitresses no longer flirted with him; they had eventually learned that advances toward Audo would be met with professional civility. Afterall, he was almost always there to work.
Tonight, for example, he picked a seat close enough to the stage that he could get a good look at the performers. His table hugged one of the walls, putting him out of the way but still near the action. From here he could observe all that happened in the club. Now, for example, the room was filled with the muted din of chatter. Glasses clinked, filled with illegal liquids that no one pretended to conceal. Bouncers stood by the door, but with the lazy posture of men who would let most anything slide. Rowdiness and the Satin Club were inseparable companions, as evidenced by the raised voices near the bar. This was one of the reasons Audo enjoyed his visits. The draw for him was not the same as it was for most others in attendance. He didn’t much care for the taste of alcohol, especially while on a job, and the raunchiness of the performances did little to titillate him. But the people-watching was welcome entertainment.
His surveillance of the crowd became more pointed as he searched the faces for Koane’s. They were supposed to meet before the show began, but a quick look at his watch confirmed it was about to begin. And still no sign of the broad-shouldered man.
Audo adjusted his posture, toying with the umbrella that he almost always had in tow. Surely he’ll arrive soon, the detective assured himself, but his agitation was impossible to fully suppress. It was irrational and he knew it. He’s probably buying his ticket now. The club was nearing capacity, but that never stopped them from squeezing in whoever was willing to pay the entrance fee. The Satin Club took anyone in—rich or poor, angel or demon. That was what made it the best club in town.
The main lights dimmed in unison. Audo gave up on scanning the crowd for his companion and instead glanced over to the stage. The curtains peeled back like the skin of an over-ripe peach, revealing a balding clown in ghost-white makeup. He was shrouded in light that illuminated his oversized clown costume which was frayed on the knees and lacy cuffs. Someone whistled sharply in the darkness, eliciting a low rumble of laughter from the crowd. They weren’t here to watch a clown show. This was merely the opening act, building the theme which made the Satin Club famous around all of New York: circus but not the travelling kind.
Audo turned his attention to his drink, spacing out through most of the clown’s antics. He had seen this part enough times to know the punchline of every slap-stick joke. But the act didn’t last long. Soon the stage was taken by the ringleader: a young woman in a showman’s jacket and thigh-high opaque stockings. This was what the crowd was waiting for, and they cheered and hooted as she greeted them.
“Welcome, welcome!” she announced, mimicking the low tones of a gentleman. “Please take your seats, throw back your drinks,” another roar from the crowd, “And scrounge for loose change!” A group of men near the back hollered incoherently, but the ringleader continued. “For our first act, we travel back in time to a land of heroic men and helpless damsels. Please welcome the Marionette, in a puppet show of Don Juan!”
Audo sat forward in his chair. He (and all of the audience) held his breath as a silhouette appeared: feathered cap, pillowy sleeves, the slender legs of a young woman—all attached to rope-thick strings. This was the person he had come to see. The first lead in a series of many related to a yet unsolved crime. She was the personification of the mystery itself, cloaked in darkness, just waiting for the stage lights to flicker on.
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ℊℓоω
ɴᴏ ᴀᴅᴍɪᴛᴛᴀɴᴄᴇ ᴇxᴄᴇᴘᴛ ᴏɴ ᴘᴀʀᴛʏ ʙᴜsɪɴᴇss
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Post by ℊℓоω on Jul 9, 2021 17:03:55 GMT -5
LUCIA GRIMME
✘ LOCATION: THE SATIN CLUB ✘
Damn these itchy tights, Lucia griped internally. There was no time to adjust them. She had already hit her mark, and she could hear the whispered sounds of the audience. She took a deep breath, centering herself, before allowing her features to go slack. Her head slumped forward and her wrists went limp. And then the lights came on. Bright and blinding, concealing the crowd behind a wall of white.
Her act was automatic. She had performed it countless times over the last four years. That was long enough that every swivel of the head, every lift of the pinky, was muscle memory. Of course there were weekly adjustments to the routine, just to keep the audience on their toes. She played the infamous character of Don Juan, rapscallion of the operas and epics. The scenes involved invoking the movements of a puppet while pursuing girls and running from their pot-bellied husbands.
They ate it up like butter-soaked popcorn. It was the most famous act in town; the reason she got free tea at Bernie’s Cafe and shy looks whenever she roamed the streets of New York. It made her feel guilty sometimes, knowing that her mind wandered so frequently as she performed her nightly gags for raucous laughter. They had no idea that she begged the director for a change in costume and to learn the trapeze. Lucia never been good at hiding things. It all started at the age of six when she stole her mother’s pearl necklace and kept it in a little box under her bed. She remembered her shame as her mother caught her playing with it while she thought she was lone. Lying to the audience was easier. It was simple enough to keep them on the edges of their seats for five minutes.
When it was over, she and her castmates disappeared breathlessly into the wings. The backstage manager, a scrawny man named Leon, untied her strings with disinterest. Once freed, Lucia began the process of removing her bobby pins as she walked to the green room. This involved sliding by girls in poofy tulle dresses and men with bulging muscles squeezed in leotards.
Nuadha would be waiting for her in the green room. His act wasn’t until after the first intermission, so they usually had time to joke around with castmates in the meantime. Lucia walked straight to one of the mirrors to scrub off the twirling mustache which was drawn on in black eyeliner. A castmate, Verity, greeted her with a knowing glance as she put on her own stage makeup.
“Someone was asking after you before the show,” Verity noted.
Lucia’s narrow eyebrows pinched but at first she did not respond. She often had callers after performances, but not before. Perhaps an admirer wishing to bring flowers? Or an elegant woman wishing to donate a fur coat? The latter was preferable. Winter would be upon them soon, and Lucia’s old coat was falling apart at the collar.
“Who?” she asked after a beat.
“I dunno,” responded Verity a bit testily, pausing as she dabbed on dark red blush. The golden-haired shapeshifter was a known diva on set. “He wanted to meet you after the show. I think his name was Otto or Auggie or something. He looked official.”
Lucia’s chest tightened. “Audo Coinbrew?” she prompted, but she already knew it was true. She could see from her own reflection that her face had paled. She disguised it by fussing with her dark curls.
“Yes. Apparently he had questions to ask you.” Verity began to stand up. She gave her reflection one last glance over before looking back at Lucia.
“Hm,” Luci vocalized nonchalantly. “If he brought me chocolates, I’ll share them after the show.” She tapped Verity on her fish-netted hip and watched her retreat toward the backstage area.
“God, I hope so,” Luci heard the shapeshifter say under her breath.
Once alone, Luci examined her own reflection. Just be honest, a voice said in the back of her head. But she dismissed it. All she needed to do was get through this night unscathed. She would be charming and casual, and send Audo Coinbrew on his way without raising any suspicions. The last thing she needed was rumors of their meeting spreading through town. But if he had already asked about her backstage, she knew in her gut that the gossip would spread like wildfire.
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Post by Pearl on Jul 10, 2021 9:05:49 GMT -5
LEIF
19 ☯ Male ☯ Shapeshifter ☯ Unaffiliated ☯ The Street Rat ☯
☯ Location: The Satin Club ☯
_____________________________
Leif didn't look like his usual self today. He was fishing for information. Usually he would have his tattered brown shirt on along with a long brown overcoat, but since he was looking for information, he had to fit in better. And what better way could there be than being a female? He went looking everywhere for a beautiful face and he'd finally found her one week ago. It took him one week to prepare. He had to know her schedule, and understand how she spoke and dressed. He had to do a lot of research on this woman before he could finally take her identity for a night.
And so, here he sat inside the Satin Club. He wore a red beaded evening dress, a short curly blonde bob, pale and skinny figure, but slightly larger than average bust. He also had to wear make-up, a black cocoon fur coat, a beaded headband, a long pearl necklace along with drop earrings. He had on tan stockings and let's not forget the heels. He had to wear heels! These things were killing his feet! He had red gloves on his hands and a black beaded purse. Just thinking about what the others would say if they saw him in a dress made him blush. There was no way he'd do something like this if he didn't have to.
He sat near the back, not wanting too much attention on him as he waited for the show to begin. As he tried to relax and wait for the pain in his feet and ears to disappear, he watched the alcohol being served to some guests. He would've preferred to drink alcohol to drown out the pain, but there was a state wide ban on alcohol. He certainly didn't want to get into trouble, but it was hard seeing all the alcohol at this speakeasy. It looked so tempting. His finger twitches, wanting to find its way around a glass. He quietly bites his vibrantly coloured lip, wondering whether he should just grab a drink regardless, but he didn't want to botch up the job.
His priority was to get information on anything, especially pertaining the fires. If he had such information, he'd have enough money for a while. There were so many people wanting that arsonist gone. He already knew the detective Audo Coinbrew was on the case. He'd heard whispers of the man during his outings. He was very good at getting the information he wanted. Unfortunately, today didn't seem to be his day. He had already been umming and ahing about his disguise since he felt so uncomfortable pretending to be a woman.
Not able to stop his alcohol craving, Leif decides to order one. He settles with his alcohol not long after. He hears a few interesting tidbits here and there, but once the show starts, he focuses on it fully. He rarely comes to the Satin Club. Every time he comes, he always has the urge to drink, and then once he's drunk, he completely forgets he's supposed to be someone else, and changes back into his usual self. He couldn't be lazy tonight. He had to be perfect.
He wasn't very interested in the show, but he'd heard down the grapevine that Audo Coinbrew was interested in the individual known as the Marionette. He wasn't surprised. Even he hadn't figured the woman out. She sure was a mystery, and she seemed to like keeping it that way. He's already tried approaching her as a male, but maybe she'll be more forward to a woman.
He didn't know if she knew the woman he was pretending to be though. If she did, he was in deep trouble. He would need to try and figure out how to be a completely different woman on his own, one of his own making, rather than portraying someone else. He's made a few male characters that are wholly his own, but never a woman. It's just too hard to pretend to be a woman. He tried some years ago, but he preferred not to remember that incident. It's best if that incident stayed well out of everyone's minds. He closes his eyes to stop his wondering mind, and focuses once more on the task at hand; finding more information, any information.
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Post by leilarf on Jul 10, 2021 15:11:33 GMT -5
(Hi! May I join? And is the role of Alchemist still available? :^))
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Post by Hushabye on Jul 11, 2021 4:17:45 GMT -5
NUADHA L. BELVEDERE
- The Fire Swallower -
✘ LOCATION: THE SATIN CLUB ✘
| - There was nothing about the day- evening, rather- that would suggest a deviation from the comfortably established norm, and yet the phantom notes of unease played insistently from the moment he'd 'awoken' and followed him throughout his routine.
Nuadha's sudden and unwelcome transformation forced him to adapt quickly, forfeiting the morning exercises and silent contemplation of the sunrise to one shortly before the sun set. Lethargy throughout the day can hardly be broken by his rigorous training- he has yet to find a balance in his new 'life' that would allow for such a thing- and the familiar exercises lose their purpose when his body has already progressed beyond the need for simple suspended sit-ups. He would prefer to find a sparring partner, but going through the motions can suffice when none are available. What is most important, however, is ensuring that he never forgets his newfound strength. Nuadha is sure to cycle through a few small 'tests' to ensure that he doesn't accidentally move too quickly or apply too much pressure to a handshake or doorknob.
The world beyond his window is a strange amalgamation of burnt orange and faded gold with messy smears of dull gray. The air is clogged with acrid exhaust and carries too many scents- some so potent he can taste them. This too, Nuadha is slowly becoming acclimated to. He wedged an elbow into his narrow windowsill as he tossed an egg with the opposite hand, alternating the speeds and angles in which he threw and caught it so as to put himself in danger of slipping up. Thistlestreet as it wound down for its night-time activities was the perfect distraction. There are times where the sheer number of people who live around him feels like a new revelation. Tuning them out whilst simultaneously wanting to give them his full attention is migraine-inducing. The egg nearly slipped between his fingers but he caught it by bouncing it up onto his middle knuckle and snatching it out of the air. "Three-hundred thirty-three. Next."
His tiny apartment is neat and organized, yet he later found himself hunting for a matching shoe with damp hair dripping into his eyes. Nuadha plans out his waking hours down to the minute, yet he can't seem to help the random inconveniences he often runs into. He greets the day from the rooftop, watching the sun shift in the sky and centering himself around the moment and the singular beauty of the world around him. This can be rather difficult, as he'd received the occasional complaint...
Greeting his master would come afterward, as he needs that moment of meditation to face her with resolve. He cannot let himself cry again- her last smile for him was blurred by his tears and he has developed a strong aversion to the act, even though the manic grin etched in charcoal before him is frozen in time. It is here that he shares his daily goals and so cements them in his mind. Life in New York is so dizzyingly addictive that he often loses sight of his initial plans.
Nuadha would go through the motions of preparing to leave once he's paid his respects, often jogging out of his apartment whilst finger-combing hair away from his face and struggling with his worn suspenders. This time, he's also attempting to balance a brown paper bag tied with twine as it teeters precariously on his elbow.
Even without the benefit of a vampire's stamina, Nuadha had resolved to travel on foot no matter his destination. The lack of a daily commute earns him quite a few disgruntled looks as he wanders the streets whilst perusing an open newspaper, but he generally reaches his destinations unmolested. That fact can actually be rather disappointing at times...Tensions are high and he wouldn't object to some spilling over into an altercation.
Nuadha reached his first stop right on time- according to his mental clock- announced by wind chimes as he entered the warm building with an anticipatory smile.
His smile is quickly returned in kind as the slender man who had been idly fussing over a vase of pale flowers straightens with an effusive, "Ah, bao~! Impeccable timing as always~" The lilt of his voice is warm and honeyed, a perfect match to his flowery scent and the cozy interior of his shop.
Xiao Song hopped off of the cushioned stool behind his floral sales counter and leaned against it, smile widening when the vampire slid the parcel toward him. "Hmm, quiche?"
"As promised~"
Xiao Song said something exultant in his native tongue and dramatically hugged the bag against his chest. "You are too good to me~!"
Nuadha chuckled, eyes darting to the side as he sheepishly combed a hand through his hair. "Not at all, I could never-"
"Hush," Xiao Song tsked. "You know that you don't have to pay me back. Now-" He continued before the vampire could protest further, moving the vase that he'd been arranging so that it stood before them. He can't exactly see Nuadha this way, so he was forced to reclaim his stool. It's a simple maneuver, but he gave his familiar little exasperated huff whenever something reminded him of his lack of height.
"Hm-! Now, is today a special occasion?"
"Every day with her is special!" Nuadha blurted, his face quickly warming at Xiao Song's amused smirk.
"Mm of course! Ah, you're so cute~" He leans forward to cup his rosy cheek affectionately. "You should tell her that~"
"Ah-ye-right-" Nuadha scrunched up his nose and avoided the man's gaze.
Taking pity on him, Xiao Song returned to idly thumbing through the petals with a small smile. "Remember, I told you to tell her a story. Which chapter are we on today?"
Still embarrassed, Nuadha shifted as he inspected the bouquet. Such vibrant flowers aren't common where he was raised, and they're all so beautiful that he could get stuck carefully inspecting each one, and then attempting to give them all to Lucia- but he's resolved to give her one at a time rather than the fancy mostly-rose bouquets that she'd receive after her shows. And he wants them to mean something.
"I...haven't been able to see her often, lately." He'd been spending more of his time training as the Arsonist became more active. "And I know that she can get tired of her routine...I'd like something encouraging- please." He's never exactly sure what he means when he attempts to explain these things, but Xiao always tells him to speak from the heart and somehow he manages to decipher it.
"I see~!" Xiao held up a slender finger and slid from his seat once more. He disappeared into the pale yellow door behind the counter for a few moments and emerged with a short, thin branch sporting three blush-colored flowers and a yellow ribbon. "Apple blossom! Better things to come, and good fortune~" Xiao was already wrapping it up in white crepe paper before Nuadha could respond.
"That's perfect! Thank y-"
A small, sweet-smelling box was also slid his way. "Chocolate?" Nuadha's mouth almost watered at the thought. He's only had chocolate once in his life, but he'd recognize it even beneath three feet of concrete.
Xiao Song hummed, "It pairs well with the apple blossoms~"
The vampire's brow furrowed as he began patting himself down in search of his wallet but Xiao Song waved the notion away. "Yes I know~ why don't you help me corral the children on their next visit instead? You'll wish I were paying by the time they're done with you~" His chin was suspended on his fist as he grinned lazily up at the vampire, already anticipating his excited response. Nuadha generally isn't trusted around children as a fledgling, but he treasures the time he spends playing with them under the sorcerer's watch.
"Yes! Definitely!"
Xiao Song laughed, a musical sound that rivals the tell-tale notes of his door. "Perfect~ Now go greet your lady-love for me. And be careful~"
"I will! Thank you! And please do the same!" Nuadha couldn't contain his smile, bumping into a chair as he backed away with his gifts carefully held against his chest. The sorcerer gave him a wink and lazy wave before turning to his latest customer. The door soon swung shut between them.
Nuadha has resolved to never take anything for granted, but there are moments that slip past his awareness, like the sudden lifelessness in Xiao's eyes when the tall woman steps toward the counter and casts a shadow over the wilting flowers. A chill washed down his spine, but so enamored with the heft of his gifts, Nuadha dismissed it as the late autumn breeze.
~ * ~ *~ * ~
Presently, Nuadha is confined to anxiously pacing the green room. Lucia's act went off without a hitch to rapturous laughter and applause. She'll be removing her makeup now before joining him to wait for the continuation of their schedule...should he present his gifts now or later? Should he conceal them?
His wisteria gaze probes the room for a suitable hiding spot. He can't leave the chocolates unattended, however, they're too highly coveted. And what is he supposed to do with a branch? He hadn't thought this through...
"Ah, stop it." Nuadha runs a hand through his hair, embarrassed even without the amused side-eyes he's receiving. He's been giving Lucia a flower every night since shortly after they'd started courting and yet every gift leaves him flustered.
Verity stalks by and he straightens with a gentle clearing of his throat. "Lucia- is she on her way?"
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Post by Hushabye on Jul 11, 2021 4:22:13 GMT -5
[ Have fun! ^^ ]
[ Sorry! I know my replies are/will be tonally dissonant ><;; ]
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Post by 𝕾𝖙𝖔𝖗𝖒𝖗𝖆𝖌𝖊 on Jul 11, 2021 15:33:26 GMT -5
KOANE
✘ LOCATION: THE SATIN CLUB ✘
The full moon was coming.
Koane was as certain of that as he was of his own – at least current – name. Considering he was a werewolf, and that at least part of his life was dictated by the phase of the moon, it wasn’t all that surprising that Koane knew the exact date of the full moon. It was more than that, though; he could feel the moon’s power growing stronger. It was like an incessant itch just beneath the surface of his skin. As the full moon grew closer and closer, that sensation would only get worse. And although Koane was used to it, you never really got accustomed to the sensation. It was part of the reason that werewolves tended to be more on edge, with shorter tempers, as the moon grew closer to the full phase. Koane had four hundred years of experience to temper his mood beneath the moon, but even he wasn’t immune to the increased agitation.
Currently, the ancient werewolf was standing in his apartment. It was rather extravagant, with a sprawling floor plan and great view of the city. When you lived a long time, it was easy to save money – and Koane had always had a good head for business. He was watching the people on the streets down below bustle about, desperately trying to finish the last few errands of the day before the sun dipped below the horizon and the shops closed for the night. In the darkness, the denizens of New York that lingered towards monstrous would stir. Including himself, Koane mused, rather bitterly, as he finally turned away. There were some days that Koane could lose himself in the watching, in the longing for a life that wasn’t marred by malice and evil. Perhaps, if he’d been a different person – more selfish, maybe – he’d have been able to avoid the seedier underbelly of New York all together. But no; he couldn’t leave the innocent and vulnerable to the shadows that grew teeth and fangs and would happily tear them apart.
His wolf paced within him, flexing his claws. Silently, Koane moved through his apartment and prepared himself, choosing a dark, expertly tailored suit to wear tonight. That detective – Audo, was it? – was expecting to meet him at the Satin Club very soon. Already the sun’s dying rays, colored gold and blazing red, were beginning to be swallowed by the shadows of night. Once he was satisfied that he was dressed appropriately, Koane left his apartment. He didn’t bother locking it – he’d smell if anyone tried to rob him. Only a fool would earn the ire one of the strongest Alpha werewolves in New York. He may not have a pack currently, but that didn’t change the fact that Koane was an alpha. When he stepped out onto the street, he did his best to let the environment swallow him. He was almost successful.
Some time later, Koane finally made it to the Satin Club. The line was much larger than he’d expected, leading to him being a bit late for the meeting. The bouncer was obnoxiously slow in filtering through the patrons waiting for entry way, and by the time Koane had reached him, his agitation levels had increased. His eyes flashed wolf-gold at the bouncer, who froze, confused as to why he was suddenly terrified of the towering man before him. Koane reached into his pocket and withdrew the money for the ticket, paid, and then entered. He could almost hear the bouncer’s sigh of relief once the werewolf was seemingly out of ear-shot. Koane snorted; he could ear most everything in the building.
And boy, was it busy. Glasses were clinking; patrons were laughing. The air was thick with the scent of alcohol, sweat and tobacco smoke. He stifled the urge to cough, scanning the crowd. The show had already begun; some young woman was dancing across the stage, seemingly suspended by thick ropes as though she were a puppet on a string. Koane disregarded the performance after a moment, as he’d finally found the man he was there to meet. Silently, he slid into the seat next to Audo, almost surprisingly the man. “She the one we’re here to meet?” he rumbled, casting his voice loud enough so that Audo heard him over the din of the club. He flicked his dark gaze to the stage briefly.
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Post by leilarf on Jul 11, 2021 19:34:11 GMT -5
CALLIOPE
Outside the Satin Club
The busy, bustling sounds of the street were particularly invasive this evening. From where Calliope lay, the harsh ambience seemed to pool into her apartment and reverberate violently in her head. Even after all these years in Thistlestreet, every car horn, siren, and shrill yell from the denizens always kept her awake.
She stared pensively from where she lay at the ceiling of her pitiful basement apartment, the one that creaked and shuddered every time her boisterous upstairs neighbors took a hefty step or slammed a door, a habit they seemed all too willing to uphold. The apartment whose floors were the first to attract the water flowing from the streets during a rainstorm; the apartment whose windows only caught the sunlight for four hours a day. Despite it all she managed to make a good business for herself here; a makeshift underground greenhouse and dispensary of whatever magical odds and ends the Crones commissioned of her. It’s a hard business to keep up as an herbalist in the urbanity of Thistlestreet, but she made it work, and she was good at it. It wasn’t necessarily the life she imagined for herself, but she was surviving, and that’s what mattered. Considering the recent occurrences around this place, she knew it could be a whole lot worse.
She glanced longingly at the framed picture of a young Calliope next to her grandmother, sitting menacingly on her stone fireplace. She had a strange habit of keeping painful reminders at close proximity. What would dear old grandmother think of me now? she wondered. A gang member in New York, always in close proximity to the crime and heartbreak that ran rampant in these parts.
“God, I need a drink.” She muttered, letting out a sigh and swinging her long, thin legs over the side of her mattress. It wasn’t often that she decided to make the short pilgrimage over to the Satin Club, but the prospect of drinking in the silent loneliness of her apartment left a bad taste in her mouth.
When she arrived, the line trailing outside of the building was long enough that any ounce of confidence that motivated her to leave her apartment dissipated immediately. The club appeared to be absolutely filled to the brim with occupants, and while that is a good opportunity to effortlessly blend in, Calliope knew she would practically suffocate amongst so much noise and humidity. The alcohol wasn’t worth the effort this time.
So she then wandered a fair piece away from the entrance and sat herself down heavily against the wall, letting her head rest on the cold brick of the building. She placed a cigarette gently in her mouth and lit it with a match, inhaling deeply. With the prized show in full swing, she could still hear the boisterous crowd from where she sat, and the unadulterated music of the big band echoed in her chest. With a gentle flick of her unoccupied hand, she manipulated some leftover rain water from the street into a floating, wavering ball and willed it to lift into the air, watching in a sea-sick daze as it captured and reflected the crimson light leaking out of the gently curtained club windows.
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Post by parisiansteve on Jul 12, 2021 18:52:31 GMT -5
hello hello c:
I'd love to join if that's okay. If The Jewel is still open in the main characters, I'd love to give her a character. No worries if not, though! Looking to make a side character as well ~
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Post by ɪɴᴛʀᴀɴꜱɪɢᴇɴᴛ on Jul 12, 2021 21:18:21 GMT -5
[ heyyyy glow this looks amazing oh my god wow. your coding is *chefs kiss*
anyway, if it is possible, could I please claim the street rat? I am dying to jump in on this <3
if all the spots are filled tho that's totally fine and I totally understand love <3 ]
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Post by ɪɴᴛʀᴀɴꜱɪɢᴇɴᴛ on Jul 12, 2021 21:38:56 GMT -5
[ that's totally fine love! I will have to think of some good characters and figure out how to work them in! I will catch up on the plot already laid out c: <3 ]
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ℊℓоω
ɴᴏ ᴀᴅᴍɪᴛᴛᴀɴᴄᴇ ᴇxᴄᴇᴘᴛ ᴏɴ ᴘᴀʀᴛʏ ʙᴜsɪɴᴇss
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Post by ℊℓоω on Jul 13, 2021 1:46:43 GMT -5
AUDO COINBREW
✘ LOCATION: THE SATIN CLUB ✘
He had seen this woman perform previously. He was familiar with her act as well as her reputation. But he had never considered her face in much detail, nor the subtle ways in which she carried herself. He liked to think himself a good judge of people. He never viewed them in a critical way, only a curious one, even if he suspected them of a crime.
Lucia Grimme was intriguing. She had the audience in the palm of her hand; one did not even have to watch the stage to know that was true. But there was something distant about her expression. He had never thought of her that way. Perhaps in his last viewing he had found her as engaging as the audience did now. And yet, he could not shake the feeling that she was holding something back. Self protection? Fear? Jadedness? Her dark eyes were wider than he had seen them before, as if she was searching the crowd for feedback. The corners of her mouth were taut, not daring to curl into a smile as they had seemed to once.
You’re projecting again. Just as he caught himself reading too deeply, Koane arrived. He heard the man slip into the neighboring chair before leaning in to whisper, “She’s the one we’re here to meet?”
Audo nodded silently and leaned back in his chair. Instead of returning his gaze to the stage, he reached for his drink (water with fresh mint). He did not wish to watch her as meticulously anymore. The real investigation would happen later, when they had a chance to speak. Whatever he had observed in her before, the remoteness, could be due to any number of reasons unrelated to the case at hand. His lead was a flimsy one at best. It was all Audo had to work with, but for now it would be foolish to look for tension where there was none.
“Have trouble finding a taxi?” asked Audo under his breath. Good-natured lines formed around his eyes as he looked over at his friend. Koane appeared as he always did—stoic and rugged. He was different from the company Audo traditionally kept, which was why their partnership was a fruitful one. Koane offered the obvious things that Audo lacked, such as a knack for intimidation. But his other contributions were even more valuable, and also more difficult to put into words.
Limiting Koane to his outer appearance would be a mistake. Yes, he was larger than Audo, and most men for that matter. His full beard concealed his facial structure, wrapping him in a mystery that only added to his intimidation. But he was more observant than most would give him credit for, and undeniably smarter.
“The table is on my tab if you want something to eat or drink. But make it quick. We’ll head backstage during intermission,” Audo murmured. Koane would know the drill. Though by now Lucia would be aware that he was coming, it was always better to interrogate someone when they were on their heels. Questions would already be swirling in her head, but they would arrive before she had time to formulate any answers. He had already paid off the bouncers. They would stay glued to their stations even as Audo and Koane left their seats and disappeared through one of the side doors.
Audo was visualizing their path already. He had a notebook of questions to ask Lucia tucked into his breast pocket. Soon they would begin picking away at the edges of the mystery.
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ℊℓоω
ɴᴏ ᴀᴅᴍɪᴛᴛᴀɴᴄᴇ ᴇxᴄᴇᴘᴛ ᴏɴ ᴘᴀʀᴛʏ ʙᴜsɪɴᴇss
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Post by ℊℓоω on Jul 13, 2021 1:49:04 GMT -5
LUCIA GRIMME
✘ LOCATION: THE SATIN CLUB ✘
With Verity gone, the unnerved feeling Lucia had been suppressing all night threatened to bubble up. I have nothing to hide, she thought to herself in an attempt at reassurance that only aided in the pulsing in her ears. She scrubbed off her makeup more aggressively than usual, frustrated at how slowly the pigment washed away from her skin. She gave up even though bits of white clung to her jawline and her red lipstick smudged. To her back, the raucous music of the next act had begun. It signified the barreling passage of time. Soon the whole show would be over and the detective would arrive to fire questions at her.
She chewed on the inside of her cheek as she walked back into the green room. At first it appeared empty, but her dark eyes were drawn to the singular shadow in the room. Instant gratitude flooded her veins as she breathed in the familiar figure of Nuadha.
“Are those for me?” she asked sweetly. She had spotted the bundle of flowers propped against the small box of chocolates as soon as she entered the room. He was always bringing her gifts. With each one her fondness grew fuller, to the point that sometimes she felt her ribcage felt too small and her lungs too big. People who gave occasional gifts were easy enough to find. Her own mother, never known for doting, would bring home freshly baked croissants once or twice throughout the year. Lucia had always felt loved on those days. And on those days when she felt neglected or unwanted, which were much more frequent, she would imagine the buttery pastry melting on her tongue. But Nuadha never forced her to recall long-stale acts of devotion.
She crossed the room and picked up the flowers, inhaling the sweet scent and briefly closing her eyes. “I promised to share chocolate with Verity after the show. Are you a mind reader as well as a fire breather?” Then, in the same breath, added, “They’re beautiful. Thank you.”
Her head tipped back, wordlessly inviting a kiss. The unease gripped her again as she wondered how to conceal her appointment with Audo Coinbrew. Perhaps he had already heard the gossip from Verity or from some other chorus girl. But Lucia was too anxious to inform him herself. She knew her beau was protective as he was loving. Even more than that, she was scared to tell him what the detective was there to discuss. Better to live in blissful ignorance.
It was all too much to bear. Nuadha’s warm presence threatened to melt the truth right out of her, and her nervousness about the end of the show made her legs feel weak. She gripped his hand as she sank into the nearest chair.
“I’m feeling a bit faint, tonight, actually.” She held the back of her hand to her forehead, half convinced she felt a fever coming on. It was cool to the touch. “Do you think Leon would notice if I left early tonight?”
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Post by Hushabye on Jul 13, 2021 11:23:44 GMT -5
[ Hi! I was wondering if we would follow along with Lucia & Lleu maybe trying to sneak out early but Audo, Koane, & Leif catch on, which could lead to a confrontation that has Calliope on the sidelines? That way we could quickly bring everyone together, possibly? ^^ ;; Just a thought- and my first one- I'm sleepy so I can't really elaborate but I thought things looked to be heading that way? [ Also leilarf , I think it'd make sense for Calliope and Xiao to know each other, if you'd like some pre-established ties! ^^ ] |
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