zuihuojoui

[zuihuojoui]

x

#vis: joui

[zuihuojoui]

saygeko​:

He did not stop her, and a playful smile painted her features. There might be rules to follow, but giving in to the desire could almost be called a skill. As if lenient dragons would take away the restraint in their scales leaving behind only a lustful appetite.

If the slow passage of time had been a nuisance before, now the distance between the crystal baths and their private domain was gone in the blink of an eye. Fortune herself could not see or perceive the curious eyes that rested on them during their escape through the courtyard, nor the crown of any of the servants’ heads as they bowed in the presence of the fugitives who owed explanations to no one.

All she could focus on was his strong hand holding her own, and the mischievous tone not hiding in his voice as he inquired about what was on her mind and what was going on under her skirt.

“You speak as if my knees were not already shaking,” she said with sounds leaving her mouth. “your words filled with greed to find weakness in me and infuriate the fire in my loins. Beware, my love, for my wishes can burst into flames and burn. But—isn’t that your intention?”

He would lift her feet from the ground again as he pleased, as for her steps were shorter, and with his long strides they would reach their bedchamber quicker, or so she thought. Perhaps it was only his impatience and craving to lock their lips together with no frivolous distractions like a stroll. No matter which of the two it was, Sayge was walking on air.

Her behind was settled in the softness of their shared bed, and all Sayge could see was the golden sparkle coming from his eyes and his eagerness to detach himself from the prison his clothes were. Her hands kept her from laying down and succumbing to the welcoming silk. His melodious voice resonated with a challenge and a touch of danger within her mind. Her agitation might scream from the depths of her being, nevertheless, the constant raising of her bosom as she tried to hold in her breath and her yearning, would not be enough spectacle to the man standing in front of her. He demanded more.

“Untouched, you have earned the glister kissing my skin.” With a delicate movement, her hair found a place towards her back, thus revealing the sculpture of her clavicle and one or another drop of water that resisted abandoning her body. She so irresistible that not even a drop of water would accept defeat and evaporate. She flexed one of her legs to push herself further to the center of the bed, and consequently, the dark fabric of her robe slipped, revealing her porcelain skin but not the sheen. The crying of her desire, he would have to find himself. Kiss it better to ease the ignited sore. He was to blame.

Sayge pulled the string fastening her robe and lifted her body from the bed, kneeling, her weight sinking it slightly. The limits of the fabric barely contained the curves of her body, and the golden vines no longer hugged her waist, but instead, she placed it around his nape, to once again, drag him to her, with not much force since her heated body was magnetic enough to call Joui in.

She allowed her body to settle down again on the bed, Joui remained taller, so her eyes would still look up at his imposing figure. “This mate of yours who was unfairly punished with waiting, no longer wants, or better said, can no longer be deprived of being filled to suffocation. Be gentle for her, or rather, have no mercy.”

He should have very much expected her to not give in as he asked, not quite exactly. That would not be his mate, not Sayge. Not the woman aside him and never beneath. He had always said she was his match and with so much pride. Few understood, seeing only the elevation of his rank and that honour. Yet he knew it well. The only titles that mattered were the ones they blessed the other with. 

And so he watched her, watched every move knowing the intent. While he wanted to see the act of her lift the foolish drape that separated him from her longing, she, knowing, gave him more, pulled him in, bested his impatience even.  

He should yet feel pride still. His words, his promises, his desire brought such a reaction, such a deciding force. He smiled, arms freeing himself of the wretched robe then taking to the silken bed with his right knee. His arms lowered, hands capturing hold of her thighs. There were no more words, only his promises to be kept. 

He sat facing the elaborate mirror, attendant settling down the shears a top the vanity after rectifying the state of his locks. Hands oiled with the herb infused oil that smelled more of blooms and spices, the attendant returned to the his master’s head, passing the oil over his locks, gently passing his scalp. Then a golden brush passed over his head, smoothing every stand into place. Golden cuffs took to the points of his ears then his hair brushed back two pins securing it from his face. The two hairpins once secured only showed the two dragons coiled together. 

With a bow, Joui rose, moved to the mirror and turned to inspect his slightly shorter hair with a chuckle. There should be no way anyone should notice the difference but he knew someone would. He walked around the vanity and saw Sayge rising from an identical chair, before an identical vanity and mirror. She too inspected the adjusted ends, though her missing length hidden as much was wrapped and pinned a top her head, matching coiled dragon hair pins and golden flowers holding the dark locks there.  

It was as he requested. Suitable for the other item on their day’s reduced agenda.

The sun had moved from it’s highest position, the hours spent locked within their chambers. Even the robe, as he requested. The style preferable for the season. Sheer fabric hung off her shoulders, much of her back exposed. The fabric that faded between black and grey held its darkest hues over her bosom and down over her hips. The gown secured by bright red rubies, a crimson most fit for her. Over her hips the color faded again, becoming sheer down her legs.

His own robes matched the Ombre style, though his back was covered where his chest was not. Behind her, he smiled at her reflection, the large necklace at her neck, a dragon coiled around the slender fragrant skin, rubies with its scales and larger yet, one within its mouth. “I will never grow tired seeing you adorned so”, he said wrapping his arms around her. “I feel deep joy, as much as the first time you were with honour”, he said then kissed her jaw before stepping back as one of his junior butler’s walked in with one of hers. A quick bow he accepted with a nod before looking over his own reflection. 

“We have set your nook facing the south gardens for your meal, highness”, he said as Joui turned back to Sayge with a laugh. It was the third meal set that day yet the first they ate properly. “Come now, lest they cry from abandonment”, he said extending his hand.

#jwp: in all the ways #saygeko

[zuihuojoui]

saygeko​:

His hands knew by heart the way down her body. It only required one touch for Sayge to remember why the world around her went silent once Joui was in front of her. As for he was the touch of auspicious gold to her crimson deep. He who evolved her scarlet. He whose brightness gave no chance to shadow, no space to doubt. A dragon with no need to dwell yet landing against her skin.

She could not help but tilt her head, water falling down her cheek. His vague answer not close enough to quiet her curiosity. “Contents…” She tasted the word in her mouth. The possibilities were unlimited, yet Joui would not narrow them to please her. “Contents of a chamber. My dear, I can only think of silk and your mouth against my flesh.” She leaned closer as she perceive a kiss coming, and her voice tangled with his tongue. “May the odds be in my favor, for all that your presents have always made me smile, gasp or moan.”

Sayge felt his stifle. His desire repressed as he parted his lips from hers, and even if she had tried, she couldn’t hide her amusement at his struggling. Yet, as soon as he slipped through her fingers like a waterfall, the little voice in her head told her that maybe she should have bitten his lips harder and beat his sense of discipline, but just like him keeping his desire at bay, she had to lock up her urge to misbehave and drag him down with her. She knew better.

“Are you certain the Zuihuo do not possess the hold of time?” Her voice came out after her feet touched the ground and soft fabric hugged her body faster than she could speak. “Minutes seem endless when you don’t hold me. My wicked love, not only have you defeated me and slaughtered my hair this morning, but you also have teased me long enough.” Sayge’s want and need to get her way was pushed by her lover more than any of them could handle.

Her gaze could be easily read by him, and if his wish was to see further, a peek through her mind would show him, how he would not be allowed out of their chambers, not after they were fed. Not even for him to share his surprise with her… Unless his secret could deal with her insatiable hunger.

As soon as their bodies were covered at his command, Sayge’s feet took her close to him, and her hasty flee kicked up a breeze that playfully slid her robe off her shoulder. Her dark eyes met his, and she almost could see his own glister gold at her sight. “Better feed me right and fill me up, or you might not get my touch of fortune later.” She pulled of his arm, if she’d have to drag him she would, he could not stop her. Who would dare to stop her.

Haze had pushed into his gaze, desire growing, spreading through him and he knew there was no more containing it. It glazed his vison, painting all before him in a far more heightened, picturesque view. The petite being that honored him so as his mate, his love, had her way of burning a flame through him, centering her alone in his mind, gripping into him so their shared need alone held importance. And she did it with such smooth skill. He watched them drape her in the dark robe, an identical match to his own, gold vines tied to keep it closed around their bodies, hems decorated the same way and a resting dragon on their back. And yet,  all he thought of was how pointless the action was, because he was already removing it within his mind.

Her words sang through him, his eyes shifting for a moment as he smiled, locking the tone of her voice in his mind. And as her hand took to his own, leading him from the attendants, their hair untied, the accessories prepared untouched, he replayed the tone in his mind. How lust fell from each syllable as would every garment on her frame.

He said nothing as attendants fell upon their faces as they ascended to the main level, blush taking the faces of all who caught glimpse before surrendering with trembling. The hair still needed to be trimmed, and such free flowing without care was unfitting of their station, and such not for any eyes but their own. He simple let her lead him, squeezing her hand only and following her still. “Will you tremble when I settle beneath this robe, my love?” he asked as they walked. “Will you readily accept the offering from my lips till the prints of my hands be cemented into your thighs?” He asked again, his voice calm, eyes still hazy, lust stamped into his features, his smile a dangerous for warning. “Oh when I have tasted you to multiple ruptures and your thighs glisten,” he began then pulled her to turn, his arms lifting her to his mouth, hungry kisses taking her lips to his own. His eyes settled into shimmering gold and he gave his thoughts to her as his mouth made his intent clear.

The words travelled from his mind to her own as his arms pressed her against him.

 “Only then will I give myself to you. Only then will I be locked between your thighs, my love. Only when you are shaking and I have painted my need to redden your fair skin. I will have you cry my name with deeper impatience and need yet be fulfilled before we meet because I adore that hue of crimson best on your face.”

He set her down, hand in his, walking across the courtyard with more urgency. Passing younger clan members bowed as they moved hushed tones he cared not to decipher. The hedges that led into their private residence coming into view with the turn of a corner. Swifter steps led him into the garden, fountains trickling aside the path. Upon approach the doors were open, staff bowing as he turned to the stairs. He stopped and lifted her into his arms, mouth pressing into her own as he took the stairs, knowing the way without needing to look. Up the winding steps then down the hall, the bedroom doors were open and closed for them, staff readying to clear the level at the sight of their masters. For he had not looked at a single one. 

He says nothing but walks into the inner chambers and sets her at the end of their bed. Head tilting to the side, he loosens the robe letting it hang open loosely. Eyes golden he again speaks directly to her mind, his tongue touching his bottom lip, hair falling over his now exposed chest, “show me that impatience my love, raise this hem and let me see.”

#jwp: in all the ways #saygeko #and now i go swim lmfao

[zuihuojoui]

saygeko​:

“Sacrifice to our traditions.” He said, and a smile crossed Sayge’s face as she looked down to conceal it, her cut lock of hair standing out from the rest. The gasps of the attendants were just a reminder that perhaps they might be seen around the estate with their hair up for some time, or maybe not. The daring and beautiful acts of two not afraid of a raveling scold blamed on sharpness.

Subtle rays of light came through the rock, announcing how the sun was slowly reaching a higher point in the sky and painting the waters with new colors. The hands of others did what she wished they could have done themselves, on their own. Fabrics were removed from their bodies, and she caught Joui’s eyes on her as one fair, delicate foot dipped into the small pool.

Two women helped Sayge to find her place and crystal clear water fell down her shoulders, softly caressing her skin and taking with it the dust and glistening sweat from the duel. Sweet honey almost tasted from the aroma clinging onto the cloth scrubbed against the back of her head. The carefulness of the attendants to not redden the body of their lady in the presence of him. She, as precious as jade.

“Soon is never soon enough,” Sayge said as a statement, her tone making it seem as if a chuckle would come out of her lips, but no chuckle came. “As the amount of time in your soon is oddly longer than mine.” The woman’s patience, or better said, the lack of patience preceded her, but yet she was not complaining. It was the eagerness taking over her tongue. “My words might speak of greed, but your eyes yell louder, my love.”

Hair was rinsed, and if a sound came out of her lover, water covered it up more than enough for Sayge to follow Joui’s touch and delve into the depths of the underground tarn without a protest. Inch by inch, her body submerged in the water, and she slowly found her way close to him. With light fingers, she accommodated a strand of rebel hair falling uneven across his face, and Sayge would not let a rebel hide the handsomeness of his face, not to her. “As I have no option but to wait for those two things you are keeping from me, may I have a hint of what is to surprise me?” And as if it were a magnet that attracted her to him, Sayge’s hands found their place on top of the towel protecting his nape, her body delicately resting on his.

She hummed, and her eyes moved from his face up to the roof of the cave. Putting together what has been said to her before so Joui might share and feed her hungry curiosity. “Places off-limits for me. Grant me one of those.” She pointed out the brief information he allowed her to know. And she guessed. “Perhaps you have built some sort of chamber for your loving Saaka.” Quickly she shook her head, her wet hair staying in place. “Why would a chamber be a surprise.” She landed her eyes back on his features. “One hint, enlighten me some more.”

His eyes did indeed stay affixed to her frame, shameless in his longing. Perhaps the testament of his superior will was more on display, for no full evidence was present, save his gaze. He knew the attendants present were ever amused, especially those who had many a time witnessed such longing before she was enthroned at his side. It had not changed. Time had not slowed his desire, proximity did not ruin his yearning, such could not be the love of an eternity if it did. 

Instead he found himself holding back his desire in these moments, yet incapable of looking away, not when each part of her body he knew the measure, the feel, and what careful caress would produce from her mouth. 

He watched her enter the waters and make her way to him, her body settling a top his, an act that turned the backs of the staff present. For they could not behold such a sight. Joui felt his smile stretch as his arms lifted, passing over her skin with a hum. And even as she spoke of his withheld offerings, the pleasure of her skin against his own pushed the hold of that superior will.

There, those waters, he could not taint with his passion, though he was certain some way to refresh them if he and his love could no longer contain their need. But, order prevailed, as it ever will, and he exhaled, arms locking around her still.

“Some chamber, no, my love”, he answered with a chuckle, happy to see her consider the possibilities. Yet there were so many. For there was nothing he could not give her, no reach he could not reach. “I suppose it would be the contents, yes?” he teased, even after discarding that possibility. Within the reaches of his mind, he hid the very image of his surprise, habit of his blood. Living among his most elevated elders, he ever did guard his thoughts. There was little surprise around those who could pull thoughts like strings.

“A hint?” he posed, right hand settling at the curve of her behind, left passing over her back. “No, you must discover yourself or wait to see it when we are dressed”, he said then sat forward, settling her body on his lap. His left hand lifted, tilting her head slowly before his lips took to her jaw, small kisses passing skin as he nuzzled. “If I release you from my grip once we return to our chambers”, he spoke softly, pulling back to let their eyes meet. “Soon really is not soon enough”, he gave in before his lips took to her own. 

His kiss was gentle but gave a clear picture of his desire, and the will that held back its fullness. He again reclined, using just enough force to ease her back with him, as his right hand passed over the supple flesh beneath the surface. Realization of his loosening will, eased him from her lips, and he stood, the sound, turning the attendants, two more descending the stairs with garments in hand.

He walked from the pool, whispering extended wishes of this soon coming fulfillment of his desire before setting her down at the landing. “We will have a small breakfast in the bedroom, something refreshing yet filling”, he ordered, as he stepped into his trousers then extended his arms for the robe to be placed over his frame. “But after I enjoy what order prevents me from enjoying here.”

#jwp: in all the ways #saygeko #i have many a word #ahahahahahahahaahahah

[zuihuojoui]

saygeko​:

His grip felt safe as if he would never let her fall. Still, his words only confirmed what she already thought. There was no way they would let them go as she wished, not so. There always was someone close by, fervently waiting to serve them if necessary. Even if they thought themselves unheard, deaf ears in the shadows would catch their whispers and words of love.

Sayge let go of a sigh, but it was cut short as her body was —if possible— closer to his. The warmth of his skin against her forehead and a smile flourished and was eaten by a kiss. No answer needed to his remark, she would make him live by his words, and leave traces all over her skin.

No longer floating in the air and standing by his side. Sayge did not move an inch away, her hands running down Joui’s arm, finding his palm and linking their fingers together, knotted in a mess of anticipation. If blood could boil, Joui would feel hers through her skin. Long locks of hair made contact with him as the Fae rested her head on his side as he referred to others, she herself, enjoying the look in their faces at the sight of their master’s untidy presentation.

When her mate spoke, Sayge lost herself in his words, perhaps it was his tone, or how even if giving orders, Joui remained serene. A quality she noticed over the years, but after finding her home under his roof, his serenity became more evident, and little by little, his calmness entangled to her. His soft touch elevated her gaze to meet his, and her eyes became narrow. “Something to show me?” Sayge hummed and pulled his arm, curiosity taking over her. “You have awakened two very different things in me, my love. And I no longer know to which one I want you to attend first.” Her feet moved, forcing the tall man to walk along with her, and as not knowing where the something was, she could only move towards the direction of crystalline waters, leaving the butlers behind, as if they would.

Sayge tsked her tongue. “How mean of you, knowing patience is not my best friend. To tease me like this, and make me feel as if I could choose what to do first,” her hair swayed behind her, as her body showed her impatience, “when you well know we must wash before—” she stopped herself from rambling and remembered to keep her composure, yet Sayge never hid any side of her from him.

“Bold, Zenjenkou, today you have left our bed feeling daring.” She said, only noticing for how long she had reprimanded her beloved when their walk concluded and reached the second stop of that satisfying morning. Still holding his strong hand, Sayge found support on him while leading down the stairs. Light trespassing the walls of rock and caressing the blue waters waiting for them at the bottom. Blessed by nature and the delight a bath could give to those worthy of it.

His smile deepened, his steps relaxed as he wondered just which she wanted most first. And as he posed the question to his thoughts, he knew well. Both. For in Sayge, he nurtured a monster. Spoiled, indulged, his sweet beloved, his perfect mate. Her will challenged him more the more he gave to her wishes, pushed him to be her more perfect mate. 

His eyes wondered to her from the gardens before him, watched her hold her words before another tone continued. His smile gave fruit to a chuckle, passing his lips as his eyes moved to the hedges that discretely blended the steps down to the underground natural bath. 

Slowly they descended the stairs, winding around the natural curvature of the crystals and stone. His eyes passed to the bowed attendants greeting them before they returned to their duties. Soft strings danced through the air, bouncing off the crystals lightly. The larger part of their staff did not descend with him, more duties taking them elsewhere. Her hand still in his, he walked down the secondary steps stopping at the two tables and pair of bath attendants. Full bows received he released her to them, though his eyes never moved from her. 

His own attendants took to his side, gentle hands beginning to remove the garments from his body. A noted pause produced another chuckle from his lips. “My Lord, your hair,” one worded softly.

“And our Jui Hi’s as well”, another continued. 

“Sacrifice to our traditions”, he answered knowing some elder would have questions worded not as questions. A nod was given as she passed before him, lifting the garments over his shoulders. Joui loosened his own trousers then stepping from them, then his shoes, walking to where she was undressed to pass his hand over her bare shoulder then toward the shallow pool. Once in, another attendant passed aside him, taking three steps higher to then pour water over his body, another appeared as his jug emptied, more water passing over him as he turned to watch Sayge take her space beside him. 

As he watched the same happen to her, his skin was scrubbed, cloth with mild abrasion passing his skin, cleansing the sweat and sand. The cloth smelled of herbs and a touch of honey. His hands raised, fingers tips passing over her own skin, a soft look of reprimand but amusement taking the features of Sayge’s attendant. An understanding of his love took the expression of the woman. Joui’s own softened as he turned then lifted his left leg, soles of his feet scrubbed.

His eyes took to her own as her hair was held while her back scrubbed, her pale skin calling his eyes lower for a moment. He hummed to the soft tune as his eyes returned to her own while another attendant rose higher to meet his scalp. His hands passed over his scalp cleansing gently, moving the solution through his locks, Joui tilting his head back gently. “How I desire to empty this space my love”, he breathed as water poured over him again, rinsing the scrub from his body. “Soon”, he promised as he allowed his hair to be rinsed as well. Slowly he walked from the shallow pool, his finger passing her hip as he walked and she turned, his attendants carefully leading him to the larger pool. Down the crystal stairs he entered the warm waters, turning to watch her while moving the edge, a towel place under his neck so he he could recline.

#jwp: in all the ways #saygeko #ah beloved inspo #as i get better #\o/

[zuihuojoui]

#vis: around the space #horses over humans foreverrrrr

[zuihuojoui]

saygeko​:

His blade glinted with the first rays of light cutting through the clouds, and with a single movement, his hair paid the price for them to be even. The same sword that had ended their duel now sealed a penance, but a kiss went further than steel.

The touch of his lips melted with hers. He had devoured the words that were about to speak of the sorrow over the damage caused to the beauty his mane has always been. And perhaps, the chuckle fighting to come up at the sight of his uneven hair, just like hers, no longer upset over his risky attempt to challenge her. This not being the first kiss they shared that morning, but each of them felt like an eternity wasn’t long enough. Her hands found the perfect place behind his neck, and as if magic itself had held Sayge in its arms, her feet left the firm ground, leaving his scattered hair behind, and with it, the bitter taste of losing.

Her attention was on him, but the anticipation of an army at the other side of the partition seemed to get louder, and as soon as she saw those standing on the stairs, she hid her face on him, as his words were still leaving his mouth. Once her beloved had finished, she spoke, with no wish to interrupt him, who was taking her closer to the sky. “If my lord said so, then my place to be is in between your arms and nowhere else. The dice will land on the velvet, whether I am there or not.” Not a thousand butlers could make her leave his side when he had asked, or better said, demanded her to ignore any other and give her unshared luck to him.

Sayge placed a lingering kiss on the delicate skin up to his jaw, and her fingers found their way to tangle on his locks. “Not only will I give you this day, but all those that follow until the world burns without our presence.” She let a soft sigh escape her and pulled his uncut hair, asking for his words to be a command so that even the last soul would disappear from her sight once her feet hit the ground if he wished it that way.

“If they are gone when I count up to three, then I will let you make me your schedule, my love.” She whispered, not to prevent being heard by others, as never had that been an impediment before, and the shadows had witnessed their unwavering adoration that only grew, but because she knew him, and what the warm air caressing his ear could do to the High Fae, but mostly, because it pleased her. “But if they don’t, then I’ll unsheathe your sword to end up in them, which it couldn’t do to me.”

His not quite jest reaped desired fruit, the play of his rank above her own. Never had he commanded her with his station, never having forced his will to her action by the honour of his birth. There was never a need, never an earnest desire that was outside of her own. They had ever walked the same path. And yet she returned the jest, granting his selfish wish all while wording their promise of eternity.

There was peace there. Holding her to him, her attention matching his affection, even with four score and more within their presence. 

They would not leave them no, he knew well. Even if the wish was to see only the other, it would not be granted. Not until a destination was given to take them to, a place to prepare, a task to be accomplished.

His arms lowered under her thighs, securing his grip on her as a smooth chuckle passed his lips. “They will not disappear so easily, I know well”, he said remembering the years of plans and escapes, many of such taking him to her and they were still close behind. He shifted his hands underneath her at the completion of her tease, propelling her inches upward before falling back to his grip. His forehead pressed then against her own, eyes holding her gaze. “I will test that resolve over the curve of your hips”, he whispered then sealed it with a kiss.

He could not read the members of her staff but wondered if this was repeated joke shared between her and they, grown as she settled into the structure of a High Fae household. It was a question for another moment, he thought then set her feet to the ground.

“Rise”, he ordered the many ears around them. “We will cleanse in the under crystal baths”, he began watching the eyes rise then widen, then quickly attempt to compose themselves. His smile stretched knowing it was the state of their hair. 

“My Lord”, Uzuki began then paused, eyes fixed to the missing centimeters of hair.

“Clear our day, and I do not want to hear what will be tossed aside, for nothing of greater importance comes to mind”, he said passing his hand over Sayge’s jaw. "It reminds me, there is something I must show you. Think my love,” he began thumb tipping her chin back, “There are few places off limit to you here. I will offer one such place to you today. After we no longer smell of sweat and sand.”

#jwp: in all the ways #saygeko #lol poor sayi getting the blame #lol

[zuihuojoui]

“Has anyone ever told you how beautiful you look when considering violence?”

#ab: a glimpse of the mindset #ab:a look within #ahem hey Sayi #This is appropriate lol

[zuihuojoui]

saygeko​:

Sayge felt his warm touch in places where his cold blades had kissed before as he claimed victory, and nothing else could be done. His whispering words caressed her ear, seeking her attention and perhaps her forgiveness, for her well-being was damaged by his own hands, but even worse, he had taken a win by luck from luck herself.

“If there is something painted across my face, then the one with the brush in hand is you, my darling.” Her small frame was turned, and her eyes raised to meet his own. The smile pulling of his lips, even if soft, only spoke of his pleasure in winning to his mate, and she knew that smile had been with him from the beginning, even behind his mask.

To her, there was no other soul near them. It was only him and her. Being surrounded by people waiting to serve them became easier as time passed after they promised eternity with more than words but with crimson hugging them. No shadow or steps coming close could break her focus on his gaze locked with hers. “If I had not dodged, there would be more than a few strands of hair missing from me. Lucky you, I was born skilled. Lucky you, your opponent in the sand was me.” Her hand followed his, as his long dark hair went through his fingers, and she held his palm, the one holding the sword.

His motions speaking of his intentions; paying penance to her by losing the same she had. Sayge had not asked for a price to gain her smile back, but his offering made her lips blossom, and a grin erased the unhappiness. Not because her defeat would be turned around but because he would not let her day be tainted with loss. He wouldn’t let Sayge’s frown be her companion until the sun set again.

Kiss it better.

“You and I, Zenjenkou. You and I, even with an inch less falling down our backs.” She said, accepting to take his hair as an offering for not only cutting hers but for almost taking her last breathe. Yet, not quite close to cutting luck short.

“I will never lessen your worth in assuming you cannot dodge a blade”, he spoke to what he wanted to deem an exaggeration but was a possibility, just not for her. Not his mate. Not his Jui Hi. The wait and yearning to stand proudly aside her was not just for the promise of their youth and love, no. She was his match, a firm conclusion in his mind. And if he was trained to dodge very real weapons of death in a sea of illusionary ones and live, he knew so was she. For in her was defiance and ambition, roaring eternally.

And this was not their first nor last meeting upon the sands. The traditions of their kin they would ever observe and pass on, for that too lived within them.

And with symmetry in her eyes he puled his blade forward and watch the strands of hair fall to their feet. He then looked to her eyes again before his blade went behind him, head lowering to seal his penance with a kiss. At her lips he breathed peace then eased back, returning his blade to its sheath and to his side. 

Both hands then took to her side lifting her to his eye level while holding her to his chest. Again he kissed her, slower, more paced than the first, all the while ignoring the shifting shadows beyond the partition. The sun was rising, and with it their schedules and all who awaited their presence. Yet he remained unmoved, happy locked away from all else. That partition an immovable separator between the two and their staff. 

“Will you rush off to the casinos this morning?” he asked though very much selfishly devising a scheme to free her of those duties along with is own. “Or shall we wonder down to the crystal baths while we have breakfast prepared to your taste?” He kissed the corner of her mouth, humming. “I cannot very well keep us on this hollowed ground for much longer but I have no desire to see your butlers point to your agenda, taking you away from me. Not this morning”, he said walking toward the partition. Around it, he sighed. On both stairs leading down was his senior butler and army of staff, the other, her senior butler and her own army of staff. 

Bowed heads offered formal greetings, the sound echoing down stairs, noting the presence of those unseen. Yet had not placed her down, small kisses instead meeting her lips, and had no intention to give them rise till she agreed. “As your lord”, he began with a grin, “I have need of you and do not ask me till when. Fuck this day and all written down in schedule”, he said and could feel Uzuki and his junior butlers twitch. “Today, give it all to me.”

#jwp: in all the ways #saygeko #NOT PIXIE CUTS LOL.

[zuihuojoui]

ara-kadeu​:

She resisted the sigh that formed in her chest, with his softly spoken answer. The word final, holding all the authority he’d no doubt spent centuries perfecting. He didn’t offer an immediate elaboration, but she waited, turning towards her tea once again, lest it go cold before she could fully enjoy it. The cup hovered at her lips as he began speaking again, his words inspiring a sharp flash of defensiveness for her family from her. It was gone as quickly as it had appeared. She knew they weren’t his words, he was merely repeating them to serve his point. Even if it hadn’t been necessary. 

The delicate cup tipped back, and she took a calming sip of her tea- though she didn’t let it sit long enough on her tongue to taste it. Returning the cup to it’s saucer, she stayed quiet, letting him speak uninterrupted, as he had for her. She wanted to stress that a public trial was not the same as a trial by public, that all she’d meant was a degree of transparency and warning to those would act in such a treasonous way. But his reasonings rendered it moot. And she’d heard that edge around the words enough times- used it herself on several occasions- to know that his mind would not be changed. 

Of course, his words also had an uncomfortable ring of truth to them. As much as her husband’s idealism had rubbed off on her over these past few years, she wasn’t blind to how her people were. Maybe he thought it a weakness of hers, but though she valued fairness over most things, she’d never seek retribution against those that had shunned and turned on her while Valentina pulled the faction’s strings. After all, she knew first hand what cruelties Valentina had once been capable of, especially to those who did not comply and agree with her every word. Ara wouldn’t blame anyone for an act of self preservation, not when she had done so many things just to survive herself. 

It wasn’t that she didn’t want to make them all suffer like she had- she did. It wasn’t that she wouldn’t enjoy watching them squirm for days or weeks or however long it took for her to feel satisfied that they’d learned their lesson- she most certainly would enjoy it. They’d all deserve it, and she’d be in her right as Ace to deal that kind of personal justice. 

But she wasn’t Valentina. Or those that allowed that to happen. 

And she was still proving that to the people who’d been hurt the most from the old council’s neglect. 

If she wanted change- which she wholeheartedly did- she’d have to lead by example. Be above it all, as the male before her had once told her she was. Even if she was little more than a figurehead. 

She was quiet a few moments after he’d finished. Allowing the words the time to settle as they were meant to. Then she met his gaze with a calm look of her own. “I do not doubt you, Joui, you know that.” And it was known between them, the trust she felt for him. She glanced down at her tea, still sitting her hands, her mind still turning. 

“Lana,” She started with a chosen vulnerability, eyes once again lifting to meet his. “will have a choice to make when she’s fifteen. She’ll get to decide who and what she wants to be. Hilo and I promised each other that all we would do to help sway her decision would be to do everything we could to make our home factions worthy of her. To help build something that she can find pride in.” Of course she wanted her daughter to one day chose a matching faction tattoo with her- what mother wouldn’t want to ensure that their child is kept away from fighting and getting hurt? But mother and father were both resolute in their decision to leave the choice solely up to their daughter- leaving the work to them. 

“Banishments and massacres might be deserved- but then what? Nothing’s changed, no progress made. How does this lesson stick without killing off what would be the majority of the faction?” She wasn’t being facetious, it was a genuine question, asked from a novice to one with lifetimes of experience. 

Perhaps she was more guarded against him than she realized. Perhaps those tales of his monstrosity with her kind lingered too close to the surface. And yet he had been quite fair with her, lenient even. But those emotions in her eyes, ready to rage and gust at his location for words he felt no joy repeating. Yes, he understood. Anyone who would be foolish to say the harsh bigoted words to he and his family he would end with ease. That was not quite a secret, yet his point she was missing. 

Those she wanted so completely to do good by, to separate herself from those she loathed and viewed as the problem, there was her inspiration. She could not just be another Ace, no, Moon Ara had to be the better one, the caring Highranker with sincerity who understood so well what one would do for survival.

“It seems you want me to clarify my words”, he hummed. “I suppose I do tend to speak in a manner most do not comprehend. My words, ever holding meaning yet remaining vague. For you, given the care and trust I have placed in you, and all I hope for you, I will be very clear”, he spoke cleaning his hands of the crumbs of his treat.  “Diamonds is mine. Mine”, he repeated lifting his tea cup. “Mine to shape, mine to raise, mine in all the responsibility. Your previous Aces did not grasp what that meant, they did not care. Yes, Valentina would have ripped them to pieces for defying her”, he added with a smile for she had teased the idea throughout the terms of these Aces she had selected. “For that is who she is”, he continued, setting down his tea cup. “But they, who took the offer to stand at this position, they cared not for anyone else. Not for their faction, and certainly not for any other.”

His brow raised at the mention of her daughter and he watched the emotion swell over her. A choice, he thought. A choice between a corrupt den of hyprocrites and a warzone. He understood wanting to make all well for a child. It was a force that drove like no other. His own son and his promise to him and his clan did similarly. 

A small inclination within him mused an idea he silenced as quickly as it rose. For she, she was painted in far different hues, and the games of a politician and all its mastery, she did not wear, and would happily claim she never would. 

So he smiled more to himself at the passing thought, tapping at this thigh, eyes looking down to his fingers and the fabric beneath it. “There is a time for all things and finding the timing for all things is a skill”, he answered. “Do not liken me to an ingrate simpleton because I have no qualms with ending bloodlines”, he spoke eyes raising back to her, his gaze holding hers for a moment.

“Let us examine the notion of your desired trial”, he said then eyed the treats but then looked back to her, “ How are corrupt individuals to be tried in a system that doesn’t deem itself corrupt? How can justice wash free from the filth that is the entanglements, bribes, and systematic erasure of all who oppose this Diamond Society? The very evidence is before you”, he said then went to move on but remembered, to be perfectly clear. “This faction’s wealth of elemenatilist set it in a position to freely aid its people in crisis like that of water corruption m, and yet what did it do?” He left the answer unspoken, punctuated by a pause before continuing. “And then when under my guidance, I have decided to lift those who have fallen into poverty because breadwinners have died, many have been orphaned, and the accounts cannot just give away funds forever, not with what is presently accounted”, he added with disgust then continued, “and the very council steals from it. Why? Because they feel their elite are being punished for being such. Why should they pay fines for upcharged services when it was those unfortunate lessors fault they were not born elite.” His hand passed his forehead, wondering if perhaps she could not see the root of the issue.

“How do you pull justice from such a system when the system, its keepers, its populace do not see it as unjust? That, my dear is the question, and what I ask, when I ask, what must be done. For even if Diamonds is mine, and it is, I trust you and your wishes to see it better but you must face its darkness first. It is not retribution to look into that darkness but it is to seek wisdom and clarity. Before you can consider a trial, the darkness must be shown but only after certainty abounds that those that witness it can call it what it is and will stand firm in its dispelling.”

#jwp: formalities #ara-kadeu

[zuihuojoui]

saygeko​: 

In a blink of an eye, the illusion disappeared, and the army of many became one High Fae. One who had dodged another attack.

His swords barely keeping from touching her skin, and as the sun announced the end of the duel, Sayge saw her defeat in front of her. No time left to revoke the outcome. Her mate took the victory with threads of hair hugging his blades.

Two steps back, and standing in the light of victory, he looked more golden than ever. Sayge bowed in an act of respect, following tradition, admitting she had lost to his swords and the wonder his illusions were. He did too, letting her see the crown of his head. And like a mirror of each other, they walked from the sand, a third bow witnessed by the dueling ground, but this time to honor the blessing given to them.

Once everything had ended and carrying the weight of being second best, Sayge removed the mask covering her features, the mark of annoyance written all over her face. The length of her locks was not even anymore. No word left her mouth, and the hair that was still attached to her danced with the wind as her body turned, and her back faced her lover. Not fond of losing and wordless of congratulations, her feet moved away from him. Her reaction, screaming her annoyance and unhappiness. This is not being the first time that her luck was not in her favor, and his had blinded even the sun.

The sky might not have seen her rejoice in glory that morning, but there was always another day to fight eternity and win.

The mask served well to hide his smile as he claimed victory in her bow, and then returning the honour in his own. Their final bow to the passing of their traditions ended their duel freeing him from his mask and sealed lips. And yet his beloved had held her words.  He looked at her moving ahead of him toward the stairs, hair following the flow of her frame. There he saw the damage of his blade. He closed the space between, arms going around her from behind her, his mask in his left hand held the ceremonial mask, right locking over the left forearm keeping her in place.

“Now now, my love”, he said softly leaning down to her cheek. “I cannot let you begin this day with this emotion painted across your face and smeared within your mind,” His eyes looked to the shadows coming from behind the high columns and shrubbery. While their duel was theirs alone, their staff was never far. They had awaited, unable to step one foot unto the platform while they were masked.

Eagerly they awaited the two stepping past the threshold so reports could be made and the day could begin. Both had their duties to perform, for their businesses and then for the roles they held within the household, all that was scheduled and made to be kept. He knew this. He always had a team waiting to usher him from one place to another. 

“Should I not have sent my blade to your head?” he teased raising and turning her to face him, a soft smile on his lips. “Did you think I knew you could not dodge it?” He asked then lifted her chin higher with his right hand. “You and I”, he breathed then moved his hand into her hair.  “And your hair”, he said lifting the cut strands standing apart from the rest of her length.

He eased her away, freeing the pins in his hair, hooking his mask in his belt then unsheathed his blade, eyes returning to her as his own long locks fell around him. He ran his hand from root to end then extended a section of his hair, blade held up, eyeing the size of the portion missing from her. “Saaka, you and I”, he repeated knowing she remembered the words he said to her beneath his ancestral tree. 

#jwp: in all the ways #saygeko #dear sayi lol #the soft brattiness #lol yea get some sayge luck lianita lol

[zuihuojoui]

saygeko​:

A duel was a duel, even between Joui and Sayge, neither of them minimizing their abilities just because the light in the other’s eyes was the one holding the weaponry used against them. Surrender out of fear or love, an insult. Their pride laid on a sword and whip, their love, on who pushed harder.

And there it was, the trick. Not just one lover, but four, and each of them challenging her. His illusion, taking over her vision. The image of her beloved, charming as it had always been, was now standing in front of her, as if it were a small army, confusing her for half a second. A second long enough to bring a grin to her face. A challenge glistening in gold.

Her whip was finding its way back to its master after his dodging. No harm archived, his ankles remained safe -as they should- yet, as Joui and his clones split, the sense of safety vanished. Not only the image of her mate had surrounded the Fae, but also his weapon.

Little time she had to analyze his multiple silhouettes when his sword, all four of them abandoned his hands, threatening as it was, aiming for Sayge’s head. Barely a few rays of light starting to shine on the dueling ground, and danger could be smelled in the morning air and perhaps the aroma of tea coming from the sides.

Her upper body leaned back, arching to keep the swords from slicing through her flesh, or worse, dismembering it. The fast movement of her body was not followed with such fluidity by her hair, a few strands had a different fate, being cut by the blade of the real sword.

Her trimmed hair rained in front of her eyes covered by the mask, falling into the sand. Sayge’s gaze gleamed silver at misfortune. And as soon as her body regained her balance, her hand gripping the now red whip reacted. The magical leash went for the swords, cutting over the illusions and grabbing the one that still had the warmth of her lover’s on its handle, throwing his own weapon at him.

Hair hair.

But there was no time to mourn the loss of any piece of her, not then. Not when the morning sky was brightening and their limit approaching. Dodging his attack, and her hair falling to the sharpness of his very real sword, should have given him another moment of her unbalance, her weighing where he would be. But the real sword gave him away, and her answer was sending it back to him. He smiled as the cry of his blade was turned on him, sword meeting it, trajectory changing enough for him to grab its hilt again. She answered well, he noted, even then awed by all she was.

Hidden smiles held his gaze to her, as his clones converged. As the approached his his mana charged, then dispersed as the clones vanished, the release meant to disorient her. 

The rays of the suns arrival pushed in over the courtyard and he moved, propelling his body as the remaining clones converged at once. Inspired by her own movement he leapt, using the mana release then appeared before her, one long sword pointed down at her neck, the other blade at her side. 

His eyes met hers beneath the mask, beneath the menacing figure, gold fading into hazel as the sun’s rays reached the sand. That ended their match and his blades lowered to his side, feet stepping back two paces. One last bit of tradition needed to be done before their masks could be removed and he was free to repent for her hair. 

#jwp: in all the ways #saygeko #she was never in any real danger wym lol #the hair... well #it will grow back lol #she should HAVE DODGED better LIAN porfa #i am laughing at this roll outcome #sorry my love lol #BUT YOU CALLED EM LOL

[zuihuojoui]

hilo--keahi​:

‘The screams of a toddler rip deep within the mind.’ The dramatics of the phrasing thoroughly amused Hilo, because Joui certainly wasn’t wrong. He simply chuckled and nodded his agreement, accepting the pegasus that seemed to be just as big as Lana – if not bigger – and smelling sweetly of florals. “I’ll do my best to make sure she doesn’t commandeer it, but you know I can’t make any promises.”

Once they were out of sight of Joui’s gilded entourage it was a little easier to settle into the pattern of old friends, and not a two of Clubs and Ace of Hearts. Hilo smiled to himself and shook his head as he led the way down the hall to the kitchen, passing the closed door of the room that housed their family shrines. In a different time he might’ve – no, would’ve – flustered under Joui’s light jokes and attention, but the familiar, comfortable weight of the beautifully crafted dagger around his neck brought to mind different reminders.

“Lady Sayge is right not to be jealous; even if I wanted to, I’m sure I couldn’t compete.” As they reached the kitchen, Hilo gestured for Joui to sit wherever he liked before setting the plush pegasus on a nearby table to supervise. He looked to his old friend with a smile as he crossed to the counters, shaking his head. “For several different reasons.”

In preparation of the Ace’s visit, Hilo had made a point to figure out what sweet juice concoction Eva had brought him and Lana on their last picnic, thinking it’d be a suitable offering for Joui. He poured a neatly crafted ceramic cup’s worth for both of them, setting Joui’s on the far side of the counter before busying himself with carefully selecting and artfully slicing a couple of pieces of fresh fruit. “How is your family, Joui? Everyone well?”

He smiled at the comment, picturing Ara’s face aside the oversized plush. Small things that brought joy were to be treasured, especially in children. It would a sweet picture if mother and child could share such a love. Children, oh so well capable of warming every bit of a heart, he mused to himself. 

He sat, pleased with his own teasing hair falling behind him and down his back. The teasing, his bridge to quite a different conversation, released the desired ease he needed to prime the atmosphere, the offered drink then adding to that. The High Fae took the drink, first taking in the ceramic housing. Even there the warmth of a simple home radiated. A quick taste of the liquid within and his eyes again wondered over the cup’s design. “My family”, he breathed then eased back with a grin. “Indeed, yes, they are well. Sayge’s permanent presence had brought a different sort of peace there. It is like nothing else watching her with my own clan”, he said then took another drink of the juice within.  It was sweet, lingering on his tongue for a moment, and just as it faded he wanted more. 

After a proper drink he set the cup down, his gaze finding Hilo. “And yours? How is your schedule keeping up with family life?” He asked and all those concerns came to the forefront of his mind. There were things he needed to hear from the Strongarm’s lips. Trust in him and his character demanded it. And once the subject broke free of his mind and passed his lips, his mind laid out his plans aside those unknowns, eyes then fixing to the Strongarm’s. His eyes held, knowing the current climate went without saying. 

For it was that, and the significance of things they had never discussed that he needed answers. 

#jwp: a question of honor #hilo--keahi

[zuihuojoui]

gowyuko​:

Gowyu was led through the various intricacies of the path to find the royal fae and through it all, he kept his gaze forward, the interest in how he was led there or how it was made to finally have him walking in what was the west entrance itself of no particular interest to him. Gowyu had, however, marinated on a few other interesting points prior to this meeting. In the near past, he might have been annoyed at not being seen immediately, but now he was more about taking the opportunity to assess what exactly many other things he’d started to notice could imply. 

First, how strange was it that Joui was trying to sabotage a business that benefited a woman he’d favored for quite awhile. A little too long for Gowyu’s tastes, but were the wheels really not turning in her favour? That was surprising but surprisingly not unpleasant. 

That was a thousand times more interesting than the way the road was ending at the beginning of what seemed to be the tunnel leading to the estate, carefully guarded, not an unexpected sight to see. A quick look in that direction and if there was a wonder as to if he’d be led there, it was gone as he was taken away and above in another direction, where Gowyu could see the setting of two chairs and a table, as well as the man of the occasion feasting on some fruits. That was not an unfamiliar sight.

Gowyu took careful steps on the way up the man beside him was leading him to, his movements fluid and languid as he approached, something made quite easy with the tailored to his size trousers he was wearing. He was all but dressed in all black, from head to toe, with lines of green at the hem of the open collar of his shirt. The broidery as well, twirls that resembled poisonous vines for was the emerald encrusted in the design, which would catch on the sun now and then. The same emerald was also tracing several fine lines at the top of his knee length boots; black too saved for that touch of color.

Gowyu had a taste for comfortable over eccentric, a bit of both never hurt however. Plus, comfort made it easier in movements such as the revering bow he was now giving Joui as he finally stood facing him; hand on chest, deep bend and all that other meticulous process that was tradition and would never be undone. Gowyu straightened after giving his respect to his royal brother-in-law, which was still a little strange to find as his reality. But it apparently was. The wind blew a moment before he spoke and his eyes followed the movement of the silky jacket Joui was wearing, it caught light on various symbolic and rich colors on its own. Gowyu absentmindedly arched an eyebrow, gone in mere seconds was the gesture, it could have been believed to not have even occurred if one didn’t pay much attention to it. 

Then he spoke.

“Thank you for arranging this meeting and agreeing to see me.” A brief pause as he stayed put next to the chair that was still not taken, Gowyu offered a smile and his voice held an uncharacteristically soft note as he commented,  “It’s nice to see that the family life is treating you well, Dai wa Zenjenkou.”

Well enough to have the time to impede on things that shouldn’t have actually been of any concern to him. Gowyu had assumed it wouldn’t be at least, so why was it that the man was even bothering to bother with this side of his business? He supposed he’d get to the bottom of it with this discussion, that was the idea after all. 

Indeed, he was of a kind. Gowyu was indeed a highborn son of a noble clan. His name was honored, his family ancient, their gifts renowned and their favour high. The sight of him this day, his attire relaxed yet fitting for his station, in that Joui was pleased. He enjoyed small details of exquisite design and it was found in how Gowyu presented himself this day. 

His bow received with a nod as another lychee rolled past his lips. His eyes took to the gaze of his new brother-in-law, recording that slight acknowledgement void of words and kept his response of the same. A focused meeting of the eyes held to his greeting, his words being heard, of course, but Joui looking beyond them, watching the way his eyes moved as she spoke. Only when his tone changed, the familial grace in his mated title and name, only then did he look away, eyes venturing over and out to the view of lush greenery of trees and lawn, a peaceful landscape.

“I know this is not your way of asking of my beloved, your sister”, he said then looked back to Gowyu, curious for a reaction, though knowing the Ko was too smart to give him one that easily. All while he ignored the initial statement, for yes he was subtle.  “I am happy, yes. All is where it should be and such order only amplifies happiness”, he spoke then walked from the stone fencing. “Yes?” he asked allowing him a chance to agree. 

He seated himself then watched two attendants walk from the small villa, one holding a tea set a top of gilded tray, the other folded napkins. His eyes looked to the younger male leading his gaze to join him seated. The attendants arrived, one replacing the teacups present with a different set, golden edged opaque dark crystal, giving an opaque view into the cup from the sides.  The other extending to Joui the tray so he could remove a ivory napkin, edges stitched in golden filigree, then the other to Gowyu. Once tea and napkins were left out for both males, they bowed and disappeared from sight. 

“Business has been bountiful in our province” he worded softly, crossing his left leg over the right, then adjusting his napkin over his thigh. “Even out to the others our reach extends”, he continued, “New ventures, here and there.” He placed few more lychee on his plate, then a small cookie, “When there are no impediments, business flows, profits grow. It is the reward of a peaceful surface, and yes a maintained order”, he said raising his cup to his lips.

“You were raised to comprehend order. Did you perhaps, forget?”

#jwp: ILTT #gowyuko #we're winding up here ria #watch the madness unfold lol #the joker is a role model is all im saying

[zuihuojoui]

gowyuko​:

This was a grand hassle and Gowyu had thought he wouldn’t have to meddle in anything after he’d legatated all his business to third parties allies. Apparently, he still had to be bothered at undesired times, but the one that really bothered him was when they would seek him out at a gambling table as if they could not see he was trying to make sure some clueless fool would fall for his tricks. What was the point of not wanting any responsibilities if it ended up falling to him to clean up the mess they were not capable of taking care of? This made no sense.

Things did not turn out exactly how he’d thought they would for his disgraceful sister, but she’d turned the wheel and taken to the traditions, so Gowyu was left with no other choices but to find joy in other aspects of this failure. Various avenues were currently lined up behind him, his shadow only passing by it, or so it should have been. Only his shadow should have been involved in this, not his ink and not even his words. Folded and slid in an envelope, his seal, the melt of a green snake, now a rare sight on any messages, keeping the letter safe and closed before he held it up to the man awaiting his instructions. 

“Here is a message, deliver it to Ace of Hearts Joui.” At least that they could do without his help right? 

“Where am I to deliver this message, sir?” 

Gowyu arched an eyebrow up at the man who stood facing him, he saw him swallow and tug at his collar nervously and instantly wished he had a trick up his sleeves to somehow twist that tie and make sure it was the last time it was wrangled in this man’s sweaty fingers. However, he had a message to deliver and the man’s services was needed for other matters. Gowyu needed him alive to keep carrying out the various shipments of organs without any troubles. Which, funnily, was not working wonders of course, since shipments were being lost left and right. Maybe this particular one wasn’t the right business for him. 

It was fun at first, quite the good public image anyways, but at this rate, he’d have to rely on something a bit more him, a little more solid than feeding useless animals. Well, first, he had to get acquainted with the reasons behind these interceptions and knowing the source of it was only the beginning of this task–more like a heavy headache. 

“The bank. Deliver it to the bank he owns and do it before I decide to give you mercy and end that pathetic life of yours.” That last thing had him leaning back in his chair, the pen in his hand twirling between his fingers as he watched the man scramble to gather his wits and practically run out of his office. The fear factor was still there, Gowyu’s lips curled on a grin, too bad he couldn’t really hunt as much as he used to. But gambling with people’s luck and wealth was there for that now, there was no way to run out of vices to dive in when it came to Kadeu. 

At least that was a winning point. 

The message read as follow: 

Dear, Dai Wa, Zenjenkou,

I would be deeply honoured if you could find the time for us to meet for a chat over some tea, the date and time are up to your availability. Feel free to use my messenger to send me your reply. 

Ko Gowyu. 

He liked to think he was subtle, and so he was. For if thought it, then he was. Who would argue with him? Who could argue with him?

That there was the effect of nobility, the aroma of royalty, the effect of majesty. That ingrained deep within him. From sight of his father, answering insult with madness to the brain and loss of tongue, because one cannot think and speak a second time after insult if one lacked consciousness and organ to do so, to witnessing the ways his aunts answered without answer and spoke without speaking, this was what became apart of him. This was the way of the aristocrat, the noble, and the lord. It was his way and it brought him great joy.

And so, he was subtle.

He remembered the letter. Delivered as he was leaving a meeting, the junior butler answered when asked, as Joui picked the envelope off the his desk. The contents had made him chuckle, glad to see his new brother-in-law had some sense about him. For what better way to summon for questioning, than to tamper with the very cause if the need for questioning. Saturday, he had told the junior butler. 

Saturday - 10am West Entrance.

It was written on a notecard with his stationary and crest, sealed in paired envelope and returned to the waiting messenger. 

Now, said Saturday had arrived and Joui had taken his horse and gone through the west tunnel out of the Estate. Out of the tunnel, he eased his horse as if it would then go towards the high gates sealing the space from the road but stopped, a footman greeting him and taking the horse down the path. He turned and saw the erected pavilion, above the tunnel that lead to where his clan lay their heads. 

He walked over the the grass towards the blowing fabric of the pavilion, where two chairs were set aside a table. Upon the table fruit and snacks were adorned the gilded tiered server, most items of ingredients naturally formed from their home realm. Slowly he padded aside the table, wind blowing back his locks and the arms of the long silk jacket upon his body. White with a gradient shift into black at the hem, golden scales coiled from the hem, around him then the dragon’s body along his back, his head over his right shoulder, resting. His trousers of the same material, loose and breezy. Two golden koi sat over the tips of his ears, connected by golden scales that held his hair back. Clasped over his lobes a golden dragon’s mouth, pearls then extending down to his shoulder.

A handful of lychee he took with him to the edge, imagining the mapping of the tunnel that curved under where he stood and went to his home. Slowly he ate the fruit, wondering what sort of tea he would be served, knowing he gave no preference.

An attendant walked from the small attending villa, “He is here,” she spoke with a bow. Joui nodded, popping another lychee into his mouth as the attendant went back within the villa and he heard the gates opening.

#jwp: ILTT #gowyuko

[zuihuojoui]

ara-kadeu​:

A degree of shame fell over her. A shame that the whole of the faction would likely have felt- did feel- whenever the original ideology of the faction was brought up. The current state and workings of things in the Diamond faction was in blatant opposition to the words and ideals of their ancestors. Oh of course, the city’s perceptions of the faction were carefully cultivated and maintained. But as the saying goes, beauty is often only skin deep. And so too, was the sense of real community amongst those with the Diamond tattoo on their wrists. 

Ara sighed, flipping the folder closed and lifting a hand to pinch the bridge of her nose. She heard him talking, her mind absorbing the words, but she was too wrapped up in her own thoughts to comment on Joui’s musings. Or share any enjoyment at the images they gave. 

“A punishment must be dealt, I agree, obviously. We have laws. Stealing is against them.” She was stating the obvious, not for anyone’s benefit, but to simply help organize her thoughts. As tempting as his other offers were, there had to be a different way. The faction- no, the council- couldn’t afford to have the Ace of another faction swoop in and deal their version of justice again. It would too severely undermine what authority and leadership they actually still had. 

She knew that her thinking was at least partly out of pride- Hearts taking a lead in this would make the faction as a whole look weaker to the rest of the city. She didn’t want to think about what that would lead to. But the train of thought spawned an idea: As a Diamond, who herself had an image to maintain, she knew the lengths the elite of her faction so commonly go to maintain personal perceived reputations. And knew how easily a nick on the petal soft armor those false reputations had could lead to a sudden and devastating downfall. 

The hand at her eyes lowered and she met Joui’s eyes with a proposal of her own, even as she was still forming it. “We should hold a public trial. They were foolish enough to leave evidence of their crime, and I trust Rochelle to take that evidence and do what her job demands. I know the rest of the council may not be fully on board, but frankly, that doesn’t matter. An example must be set. For them, and the rest of the faction.” Her tone was steady, resolute, as she spoke. “Let the council and those who share in their hypocritical and self-serving opinions see that no longer will the crimes and indiscretions of those who can afford to bribe be met with private slaps on the wrist and the clearing of records.”

“The public deserves this transparency, and those that break the law deserve to be publicly shamed and have their precious reputations ruined. The public needs to see that their leaders will deal the punishments a crime deserves.” Then, softer, with a glance at the folder still resting in her lap. “Especially in this case.”

She was quiet for a moment, still in thought. The words still echoing in her mind.

The best of society, doing what was best for all.

“The faction deserves one last chance at living up to our own ideology. It’s not the general public’s fault that their leaders have failed thus far. Though,” she smiled up at the Fae male then, amusement edging her words. “I’m not opposed to adding toy for Syuusen as an appropriate sentence. They did attempt to make a fool out of you and your institution. That must also be dealt with. And he deserves a new toy.”

Her smile faded with a sigh and she took a sip of her tea, letting it calm her. She watched the colored liquid swirl for a moment as she set the cup back down. “We must think of preventions too. It’s clear too many hands have access to these accounts. Sloppy as the execution was, it was still too easy for the theft to occur.”

“The whole of the council shares some of the blame, myself included. Clearly, either no one was watching these accounts, or only those in on the act were.” That shame fell on her again, as she admitted to herself that she hadn’t checked them in too long. It was a personal failing that she wouldn’t allow to happen again.

She weighed it, he saw. It was there her potential showed and how his trust was earned and earned again. She, unlike those who dared to hold her rank, thought. It was refreshing, to see thought happening, to see how her focus pulled so lightly on the muscles with her face. His smile softened from that of the joy ending lives not properly utilized gave him to the peace of watching an ally develop, purpose blooming brightly.

He was so tempted to look beyond the veil, into her very consciousness, wanting to see just how her thoughts were coming together, how her ideas were being formed and what memories and images spurred them on. But he instead raised his cup to his lips, keeping himself from that intrusion. That was reserved for those outside the warmth of his care. He would not do so, not to her, not for this. 

A punishment, he heard, tea cup resting at his lips, allowing him to inhale the aroma. He listened still and with each word he could see the thought pattern. He needed not pass within her mind, for it was becoming clear.  A punishment under Diamond laws? His smile curved. Some wrong turn happened in the processing of what was placed before her and then he really wanted to see within her mind. This conclusion, this solution, that she arrived at, he had to know.

A public trial? In Diamonds? He set the cup down and then relaxed back into his chair. “No”, he breathed his answer. 

He let the singular word linger between them while he pulled another treat to his plate, the dark filling as he broke into telling him what awaited him. A small piece he popped within his mouth then continued, memories washing over him, but he appeared unchanged. “The same public that happily jeered you for dating a filthy Club? The very same public that is more outraged that the man responsible for bombing their precious academy is now Ace over the fact that far more died because they couldn’t afford water? You want to hold a trial before them?”

He held his laughter but it was well present on his expression, the widened eyes, the curved lips and the slight tipping back of his head. He was considerably astounded and it brought amusement he knew would not be shared.

“The faction’s last chance at their own ideology was when none of them spoke up when my dear Valentina took control by only her word, and then ripped a whole from her world to eject filth unto my faction. There was no outcry when my faction bleed for it”, he said then opened the draw to his right. Inside he pulled out a notepad, a number written on the front. He looked to Uzuki, holding it up, numbers facing him, who nodded. Joui’s eyes returned to Ara, “And the sum of the damages for rebuilding and burying, this faction has not finished repaying. How much is the value of a life here anyway? Perhaps we should recalculate”, he said then tapped the notepad with his fingers. “But it matters not”, he said then placed the notepad within the drawer and closed it. “For when I take ownership of anything, I care for it, I hold it with responsibility. It’s why I could not wait for repayment in full. Lives still needed to be lived and couldn’t wait while your council agreed how long their suffering should go unanswered, or if the sum I demanded would bankrupt the accounts that already had many holes.”

He finished the last of the treat. “Be not concerned Ara. I will care for Diamonds, for it is indeed mine.”

#jwp: formalities #ara-kadeu

[zuihuojoui]

extended viewing

There were few things enjoyable about Diamonds. The arts, a given, and that meant owning a box and frequent visits to the Palace. The connections created through that love of arts and need for theatre, then gave him few that did indeed did stretch his smile. They, the gift frim his love of the arts, they did sweeten the borough. 

But the faction still reeked of new money faux elite and lacking fashion sense. 

Still, apart from the arts there were small other things he enjoyed of the faction. One was the tiny sweet shop he frequented. Small and hidden in plain sight. No ridiculous statues or sculptures, no neon crystals, just a sole crest on the deep wood door and a business passed from generation to generation. Those who knew of the delights within, appreciate the skill and delectable treats, but refuse widespread talk of its existence, fearing others would descend and ruin the charm. 

Its with that mindset the front door to this shop was rarely used. It emptying right into the path of two well travelled streets and close enough to another intersection. Instead, patrons entered through the back, from down the alley, away from curious eyes. 

An annoyingly large stack of folders had sat on Joui’s desk, the Ace tipped his gaze to Uzuki, holding another half dozen. He had argued he didn’t expect quite this many for review and Uzuki’s gaze said enough. There was no way to say, it indeed was, without irritating his Lord and Uzuki did not intend to suffer that souring mood. Instead the trusted butler, called attention to the time and perhaps his palette deserved something cool and sweet, a nice touch after his lunch. 

Joui smiled, nodding as he eased from his chair, junior butler following him from the office with the jacket to his suit. Ivory, with golden dragons aside koi swimming aside the buttons. He smiled and exited through the back of the bank, parasol erected over his head by an attendant. The glistening of the rest of his white suit with similar golden details in the sun, catching the eye of few pedestrians but the casts of his guards quickly pulling their eyes away. Now was not the time to stare at the High Fae.

He walked humming a soft tune, hand extending to the attendant at his side, a scaled hilt fan given. Opened a scene of jumping koi and a water dragon resting, another dragon coiled around the wisteria tree gazing below were embroidered upon the silk. He fanned his face as he walked down the alley, fan doubling as partition from his glory and the masses. The guards lingered back, waiting for the High Fae to step within the doorway, while they watched at the top of the alley. Once he stepped in, they followed him down, then passed him at the counter, seating themselves adjacent to where he would sit, the same seat every time.

He ordered a hazelnut toffee creation, with white macadamia shavings a top in a fresh baked waffle cone. Lemon treats and chilled strawberry ices for the guards, grape ices for the attendants and caramel cream for the junior butler. The butler and attendants sat at the other side of the counter, the guards two seats behind the Ace, who gazed out the window, cone in his right, fan in his left, legs crossed and oh too pleased with himself to be lost in the sweet flavor. 

@croupiex

#jwp: extended viewing #croupiex