colorature | DUPLICITY INBOX

[Well, this is troubling to say the least. He has already an inking of an idea that Diva knows but Akechi also finds himself alone...again...]

She's gone. I've looked everywhere for her.

...She's gone again.

Don't give up hope just yet. Maybe she'll be back again.

...

[It's the best he can do, considering he misses two other people that were as much as someone like Goro Akechi could call 'lovers'.]

Maybe. She's disappeared before. I'm just afraid she'll forget.

Then we'll try to make her remember. We have a few videos of her, right? If anything she'll know we're not lying.

I guess that's true. I'm just tired of people leaving me.

It's the curse of eternal life, in a way. But I do understand, considering my own loses.

It's different if someone dies.

At the very least, it's not like they are leaving by choice.

I guess that's true.

Please don't leave me Goro.

...as I said, if I ever left, it would never be by choice. I'll do everything in my power for it not to happen.

Yeah...I know. I know you will.

_{[Even so, she felt the need to say it.]}

How about this...I still have some time at the house for now before they throw me down once more. I will wait to see if she comes back before attempting to ask for another Dominant.

Okay...just don't wait too long. I don't want you to get in trouble.

As tempting as that might be, I'll make sure to find someone before my months are up.

Please do. The last thing I need is my Chevalier getting thrown in jail.

Well that did sort of happen to me before...back home. I doubt the jail here is as nice as that one.

You went to jail back home?

Sort of. I took Ren's place before Sae-san took him. However, this was only temporary, and in a world morphed by the desires of one man.

Was it bad being there?

Because of that man, the police released me after taking my statement. It was barely a day. A farce, really. I knew then that someone was wrong because of it.

Oh. That's not so bad at all.

It is usually far worse. What's more, half of the police force had been corrupted by Shido's reach. Needless to say, Ren suffered a lot more under their hands than I ever did.

Well as long as you didn't suffer.

[He just laughs.]

What, and not even a thought of pity for poor Ren?

I don't really know Ren. I care about you.

[That's so sweet, and makes him quite happy.]

Well in that case, I will do the little thought for the both of us. Even if I did try to murder him that day. Ahh, but as they say, water under the bridge.

It's just an attempt. It's not like you actually killed him haha.

I will admit, he did best me that time. I do miss having out little battles here, mind you.

[He misses both him and Yusuke. Maybe even a little of a certain magician guy.]

Mm...it's fun to fight sometimes. It used to be fun fighting with Saya, but she never enjoyed it.

When she comes back, perhaps you should ask her. Something under strict rules. Maybe that might strike her fancy a little more.

Maybe...I doubt she'd agree though.

Perhaps start with something a little more intellectual like a chess game.

Chess is boring.

Have you found someone yet

i havent been looking

[DIVA...]

At this rate we'll both end up thrown in the Down.

theres still time
hell come back

It is possible.

However, as a close friend and as one of your chevaliers, your safety is important to me. Even if I know you wield more power than I do.

he came back before
i know...i dont want to worry about it right now

Well, your birthday is in a few days...maybe we could celebrate. Sadly our limitations would be in the down.

could we have cake
the temporary dom they gave me will let us buy things

[It really is frustrating.]

Well that's good I suppose. Maybe we can get the biggest cake we can possibly buy.

maybe we could get more than one cake

Multiple cakes? That sounds interesting. From different stores or just to buy a place out?

maybe different stores
it could be more interesting

A delicate pink box is left for Diva, her name written neatly on the tag in script. Once opened, the inside contains a deck of cards and four chocolate chip cookies. There is a card inside that when opened, will sprinkle the reader with pink confetti and, in the same handwriting as the tag reads:

Diva,
I hope you're well! Please enjoy the cookies and cards. Cookies make any day a little sweeter and everyone can find something fun to do with cards!
Take Care,
Elle Woods

_{[Oh. Well. She wasn't expecting this. Cookies are always a welcome surprise though! She's already almost finished off the box when she texts Elle back.]}

hi elle
thanks for the cookies
theyre really tasty

[He sends this a little late in the evening. There's a faintly playful lilt to his voice, even if he's not actually looking as playful as he sounds...]

Pardon me, my lady, but I wish to request an audience, at your leisure~

[Oho his lady, huh? She's all for that playful tone. What he could want though she hasn't a clue - unless this is some kind of booty call? Which she's fine with as well.]

I'm free now if you are.

[He smiles a little, chuckling softly.]

Should I come to you, then?

Please do!

[Since he's already outside during this conversation, it doesn't take him very long to make his way to her cottage. Once he arrives, he politely knocks on the door!]

[And she doesn't take long at all to open it, waving him inside. It's chilly out now. There's a fire in the sitting room that she'd lit earlier and had been curled up in front of and she's eager to shoo him inside the warmer room and out of the foyer.]

Hi Jamil! Nice of you to visit!

[Jamil is easily scooted into the warmer air, and probably looks like he needs that, frankly. There's a laugh as he slides the hood of his coat down.]

I'm always happy to. [He pauses to take her hand, kissing the knuckles, if she allows.] Aside from enjoying spending time with you, I wanted to ask if you mind... teaching me more about your kind?

[Oh she absolutely allows him to kiss her hand, giggling at the gesture. She isn't expecting what he says next though, eyes going somewhat wide in surprise.]

I don't mind at all, no, but I'm surprised you're curious.

[He glances to the side, and is torn. Jamil could just feign simple, innocent curiosity, but... he genuinely likes her enough to be honest.]

Are you? [There's the touch of something wry in his next chuckle.] ... I've accepted that I'll likely not be seeing my original home anytime soon.

[Jamil takes a quiet, deep breath and holds it... then lets it out.]

I've been stuck without any of my magic, left at the mercy of all those naturally stronger than me, far more times than I want to think about. [He folds his arms over his chest, not happy with how openly frustrated his expression is, but he doesn't fight it.] And I've had the thought more times than I wish to admit, since the first time I died...

[He gestures to the side.]

"I wish I wasn't human."

Edited 2022-11-15 22:04 (UTC)

[She isn't expecting the sudden honesty he graces her with but her features soften as she listens to his tale. It isn't the first time she's had someone express such sentiments to her and it certainly wouldn't be the last if history was any indication. Even so, she can sympathize with him now, when a few years ago she wouldn't have had the capacity to.

She remembers how awful it had been when this place had reduced her to a weak, sorry excuse for what she was. Nearly human, but not quite. It was terrible to feel powerless.

Up she reaches to cup his cheeks in her hands, smiling up at him softly.]

And you wish for me to change that, perhaps?

[His cheeks darken beneath her touch, but he nods.]

That's something I've been considering, yes.

[Giving up his humanity entirely is a very big move, so he's been slow with weighing the pros and cons. Careful, just as he's always been with such big decisions. But, it says something that this is the option that always comes with the most pros attached, in the end.]

[Smoothing her thumbs over his cheeks she lets her hands slide away to settle on his shoulders. Well then. She isn't one to say no to having another Chevalier by any means. If anything the thought is exciting, especially when the circumstances are different compared to when she turned Akechi.]

Come sit with me? By the fire? I'll tell you all you want to know about Chiropterans.

[She means it too.]

[He nods at the question.]

Alright.

[There's a great deal he wants to know about, naturally. While he'd learned a lot about vampires, during his time on the Barge, Chiropterans are clearly different. In... interesting ways, from what little he's been able to see, so far. So, with that, he walks over to sit next to the fire.]

[Diva makes herself comfortable again on the floor in front of the fire, pulling one of the many fur throws up over her knees. Someone likes to be cozy.]

So, Chiropterans are a species of vampire...or at least that's the easy way to describe what we are. We drink blood, we're stronger than humans and humans can be turned into Chiropterans. Makes sense, right? But we're not dead. We're alive - in that sense we're different from what people think of when they think of vampires.

[Or at least that's what she's come to understand.]

We can live for, well, I guess forever. We can die, but we're very, very hard to kill. Only a Chiropteran Queen can sire another Chiropteran, either by giving birth or turning a human. If we turn a human they will stop aging.

[It's a very queen bee sort of situation.]

Things like sunlight, holy objects, crosses, all that kind of stuff doesn't bother us. I can eat whatever I want too - the only thing is consuming blood is a very important part of a balanced diet.

[She laughs a bit at that.]

Any questions?

[He listens closely, nodding at each major point.]

Not dying in the creation process is a nice bonus... [Given how tired he is of doing just that...] How often does blood need to be consumed?

You won't die...but it isn't pleasant. If you don't mind a bit of pain the payoff is worth it.

[Or so she's been told.]

That depends on the person. The less you feed the weaker you'll be. It's why my twin is so easy to push around haha.

[Saya really didn't like feeding.]

I drink blood every day...but I'm always hungry. For my Chevalier it depended on how they felt I guess.

[She shrugs, turning to face him better.]

And that's another thing...if I turn you, you'll be my Chevalier. It means we'll be kin, bound by blood. That's something you'll have to be okay with.

[He's positive he could deal with drinking blood once a day. There's a place dedicated to that, and everything. The last part, however... He considers, and then asks:]

What would that mean for me?

It means you're not to betray me.

[She's still smiling but it's clear she's grown a bit more serious.]

Being my Chevalier doesn't mean you're devoid of free will or anything like that...but it does mean we are bonded by blood. It's like being family in a way. Sort of.

[Jamil considers that for a while...

There's no worry on his face, but he's very good at considering all kinds of scenarios where he could be forced into a situation that requires choosing between her and someone/something else. In the end, it wouldn't be any different from how it was, where he's from. Just... with a choice to go into it.

... Everything comes with a price. Despite the part of him that wouldn't be okay with feeling tied to another person, the rest of him considers it worth that. So, after some thought, he nods.]

I'd be alright with that.

Really?

[Her expression shifts, eyes widening with delight.]

You would?

[He nods.]

I would.

[Jamil chuckles.]

You're someone I can't see myself wanting to betray, in the first place. Adding in just how much something like this would mean, for me...

[There's just a gesture, but he's sure she gets where that's going.]

[Diva may be not the smartest but she can follow where he's going with that. A light laugh slips her as she moves to snake her hands around his middle, giving him a squeeze.]

Then it's settled! Just...tell me when you're ready, okay?

[He shifts to kiss her cheek. There's a nod, at first, and then he moves to let his forehead rest against hers.]

What's the process of changing someone? What should I expect?

Edited 2022-11-19 02:00 (UTC)

Well...you have to let me bite you and drink your blood. Most of it. Then you have to drink some of mine. You may pass out after doing so...but then afterwards it will be painful. It may feel like your bones are breaking or that your body is on fire. You may spasm a bit...but it won't last.

[In reality he'll probably pass out from the pain.]

When you wake up again you won't be human anymore.

[Pain, huh?

Jamil can vividly remember what it's like to have many bones breaking all at once, though he did pass out not long after that. From a pretty severe blow to the head... Maybe the idea of being in that much pain should scare him, even a little? And yet, he simply nods.]

Alright. Then... I'll need to give you this, for when it's time.

[He holds up a leather cuff that goes on his wrist, and then holds it out for her.]

When I'm out of it, and it's time for me to drink yours, put this on me. Since I won't be in my right mind, there's a chance I could destroy the place with magic, if I'm allowed access to it. And, while wearing this, I won't be able to use any magic.

[Could Jamil just put it on himself at that time? Yes. But, with this, he's giving her a very important role. A chance to show him he's making the right decision.]

[She takes note of the cuff, nodding at his instruction, fingers reaching out to touch at it gingerly.]

Okay. I'll be sure to do so.

[She doesn't want him to accidentally fuck up her house or worse. He gets a reassuring smile out of her as she leans in to kiss his cheek.]

I won't forget.

[Jamil gives her a tiny, appreciative smile.]

Thank you, my lady.

[It takes so much to trust, but he can tell she means that. One hand lightly touches her face, and then his voice takes on a playful lilt as he leans in just shy of kissing her lips.]

Do you think it's too early to celebrate the upcoming change~?

[Ah. He's suddenly closer than she expected. It has her flushing, her gaze dropping to those lips of his that are hovering oh so close...

What a tease.]

No...not if you'd like to.

Edited 2022-12-01 23:54 (UTC)

[So cute... He smiles and leans in, lightly pressing their lips together for a moment.]

Good.

[With that, he'll lean in to properly kiss her.]

[The press of his lips against hers has her eyes going wide, shocked that he dared to do so. Hadn't he not wanted to kiss anyone other than his boyfriend? But that doesn't seem to be the case, at least for the moment, as he pulls back but only to make sure to give her a good, proper kiss.

Well then.

Immediately she melts into the contact, shoulders sagging as she leans into it. It feels so nice to kiss people, especially if it's someone she'll be turning soon.]

[It does feel nice to kiss people, when it's with people he wants to kiss. Jamil... isn't going to stop missing his boyfriend, but this is another person he genuinely likes in that way. If he'll be forced into situations that involve kissing, better that it's with someone he likes.

As she melts into the kiss, he wraps his arms around her, pulling her closer. With a soft hum, he lightly presses his tongue forward in an attempt to deepen the kiss.]

[It's silly really, she thinks, that a simple kiss is making her heart race. It shouldn't at this point - she's kissed how many people by now? And yet it does...maybe it's because it's something she didn't think she'd get from him. Surprises were always exciting.

Pliant she lets him pull her close, parting her lips as he aims to deepen the kiss. She's mindful of her fangs, tongue darting out to meet his in greeting, leaning into his embrace.]

I'm sure you will be pleased to know that I will be coming back to the Up in a few days.

you found a dominant
thats great news goro

Yes. It's quite ironic actually.

His name is Akira Kurusu. Technically he's my rival...from another world, I suppose.

you mean the one with the glasses that was yusukes friend

[Diva, what?]

...I suppose? He's alternate Ren Amamiya. It's like he was born in a world with a different name but most of our memories are the same.

oh thats weird
are you okay with that

I would have refused if I wasn't.

I think due to the event that happened nearly three years ago with the mirrors and I knew other versions of me existed here along with him...

I consider him like a twin. Alike in appearance, but not exactly the same. He...likes me as well, even knowing that I'm not 'his' Akechi.

well
i guess if you can get along
its for the best
im glad you have someone familiar back

Hopefully I didn't scare him too much with my...needs.

haha did you bite him

Well that and I showed him my wings and horns.

He took it rather well.

oh you did
well thats good he wasnt afraid

Have to make sure before I let him become my Dominant and all.

makes sense
oh by the way
youre going to have a brother

a what

a brother
a blood brother haha

i dont remember having a brother

[He doesn't get it.]

we arent the only chiropterans here anymore
i turned jamil
he asked so now youre both my chevaliers

[Wait what.]

You..turned someone...willingly?

well yeah
he asked

Should I be expecting more 'family' then?

not really
its just you him and myself

Forgive me for being confused but...why the change? I only know this person in passing.

[Why is this other guy special?]

Edited 2022-12-05 01:11 (UTC)

he asked and i agreed

I know that but...before you said you didn't want to do that. Especially after what happened with the first one you turned before me.

yeah but he tricked me
and you turned out fine

Well...I suppose so, yes, but honestly I think we both know I'm not exactly the type of person you should compared yourself with.

Tell me more about this other.

his name is jamil
he goes to magic school
hes attractive
he cooks well and feeds me sometimes
i like him

[Gods Diva is all of what you need.]

magic school...

you're not afraid that he might be tricking you?

nah he wouldnt trick me
we had a heart to heart before yknow
we bonded
hes nice

perhaps

[Wow, now he feels even more left out.]

i'll have to see for myself

hes nice
you two should meet

You realize I'll have to test him.

sure
just dont kill him or ill be mad

[ On the 25th there's be a carefully wrapped present left for Diva on the doorstep. When she opens it she'll find a light blue scarf with a D at one end surrounded by darker blue roses. ]

[Well. She certainly wasn't expecting any gifts but she's delighted by the scarf when she opens the present, happily rubbing her face all over the scarf.]

persephone thank you for the scarf
i really really love it
its perfect

[ She knows Diva has been having a rough time since Tsurugi vanished so she'd hoped the scarf would bring her a little bit of joy. It sounds like it did. ]

I'm glad.
I hope it'll keep you warm when you go out.

Edited 2022-12-27 15:48 (UTC)

[As promised, Claudia is over not long following their conversation...though for vampiric standards, it does seem as if she may have taken her time. When Claudia arrives at Diva's cottage, it may be more clear why: balanced on a glass stand she carries a cake that she picked up fresh from a shop along the way. It's not her style at all--she'd rather have chosen something much more elegant and lovely, but...this was for Diva. And she's decided the best gift she can give her friend is to make her feel truly seen.]

Merry Christmas, Diva.

[She'll slip inside right away to place the cake down on a counter in the kitchen, and from there take another gift out of one of her coat pockets. In a little box that she felt was ideal for Diva, a set of bracelets can be found.]

I hope this year's gift is to your liking.

[Everything Claudia has brought over and provided her with gets her smiling, cheery for the first time she's been all day. The cake is met with a sound of delight as Claudia sets it down in the kitchen for later. That's fine though - Diva' far more focused on the gifts she's being offered in pretty wrapping then she is stuffing her face just yet.

Gingerly she takes the box, opening it carefully, squealing softly at the sight of the matching, paired bracelets.]

Oh Claudia...they're so pretty...thank you!

[A moment later she's clinging to the other woman.]

They match though...are they supposed to be shared?

[Despite her overall serious demeanor, Claudia can't help but smile at the reaction. If she could blush, she would--it's such a silly thing, making her feel like she's some kind of schoolgirl, but there's something charming about the human simplicity of it all.]

Yes. One for you and one for me: a symbol of undying loyalty. Would you approve of this?

[Approve? How could she not? Claudia was being so sweet, so kind to her...so devoted. How badly has she wanted that kind of attention anyway? And now she was getting it.]

Of course! [She squalks out, squeezing her tighter.] How could I not? No one has ever given me something like this before...

[Well. Her Chevalier all wore some sort of blue trinket to show they were loyal to her but that wasn't the same at all. This was different...this was what having a sister was supposed to be like...right?]

It's just a trifle, really. But I'm glad you approve.

[She can't help being a little awkward, but she hugs Diva back briefly before clearing her throat.]

Here, let's put them on--and I shall vow to never remove it from my wrist.

[She does approve - immensely.]

Mm, okay! [She holds out her thin wrist for Claudia to see.] Will you put it on for me?

Of course.

[Removing the two bracelets from their packaging, she slips one half of the matching set onto Diva's wrist. She makes sure it's fastened appropriately before slipping the other onto her own. Once that's done, she brings them side-by-side so the two can admire how it looks in its full, intended effect.]

There. Now, no matter where we are, we'll always have a symbol of one another.

[They do look nice on together and it's clear that Diva's tickled pink at the display. It's a sense of companionship, of sisterhood, that she's always craved.]

Yeah...I love it. I love them!

[Riddle was just on his way out to leave after meeting with Diva for lunch at her place. Of course, he... didn't have any plans after this for a reason, but he was feeling a touch nervous.

Maybe a bit more than a touch.

But, he draws in a breath, and says,]

Actually, um... I was wondering if...

[It's like the words are being dragged out of him as a telling blush blooms on his face.]

If you'd like me to stay a little longer, and maybe, um...

..g..go to your... room?

[She had been expecting their little afternoon tea to end the same way it always did - with Riddle getting up to leave and that being the end of it. Her day would continue on and she'd either spend it bored and alone or wandering the Up looking for some sort of entertainment.

The fact that he doesn't leave has her stunned, eyes wide as he more or less propositions her. Was he really...?]

[Oh. Oh he really was asking to fool around, wasn't he? As soon as it clicks and the blush on his face registers she's grinning, fangs peaking out over her lips as she giggles. Finally.]

Oh! Oh yes I would...

[She reaches out with a hand to take his fingers in hers, lashes lowering.]

I thought you'd never ask!

Edited 2023-01-09 00:15 (UTC)

[Riddle's blush deepens at her obvious delight, gaze falling to their entwined fingers.]

A-ah... If it's any consolation, it wasn't you, just...

[He shifts a bit uncomfortably on his feet.]

I had some issues to work through. [Sheepishly:] ... I still do.

Oh don't worry, I didn't think it was me. I'm pretty irresistible.

[Someone clearly has no shame or lacks any self worth issues. She smiles sweetly back at him, remembering his skittish behaviour. The last thing she needs is to spook him and make him run away.]

Do you wanna talk about them?

[...damn. She's so bursting with confidence Riddle can't help but feel a little envious.

He gives a little sigh and then a nod. Talking about it is a relief, but it also feels like a burden. It's like he has to come with a disclaimer. It makes him feel... dysfunctional.]

Shall we talk in your room, then?

Mm, okay. But we'll go to one of the spare rooms, okay?

[Even if Tsurugi isn't around anymore...it's still his and her bed. If they were going in there to dress up or just chat it'd be one thing but since he'd more or less propositioned her...it was different. Despite how promiscuous she was and how the two of them certainly fucked around it was the one place she refused to share with anyone else. A little sanctuary if you will.

Not that Tsurugi had thought about it that deeply.]

I promise they're just as nice.

Ah... [He smiles.] Of course, Your Highness. Wherever you'd prefer is fine with me.

Edited 2023-01-09 04:25 (UTC)

[Hearing the title has a bit of pink dusting her cheeks. She wasn't expecting that but she's pleased by it all the same.]

This way then.

[Gingerly she leads him up the stairs to one of the spare rooms, pushing the door open with her free hand to let him inside. It's definitely far more gothic in decor compared to her bedroom but it's still pleasant enough and the bed is certainly comfortable.]

Make yourself comfy.

[..... what kind of a room is this??? Feels like something he'd find in the Diasomnia dorm house...

He goes ahead and sits down on the bed.]

I was heavily discouraged from any sort of sexual exploration while growing up. It was basically viewed as a waste of time if you weren't having children. A temptation to be avoided...

[He loosely crosses his arms.]

I've been getting better at it, but... it can still make me pretty uncomfortable at times.

[The room used to belong to Dracula's son. Don't worry too much about it. She joins him on the bed once he's seated himself, listening intently when he speaks.]

Mm...that makes sense. I never had sex until I came here. I was supposed to - my Chevalier had picked out a bridegroom for me and everything so I could have a baby. It never came to that though.

[Granted she had her own little happy accident that resulted in ~~empty~~ cocoons but he doesn't need to know about that right now.]

I like it though. It's can be fun and feels good. [Well, most of the time.] You don't have to worry about being kind of a virgin though. I like virgins.

Oh... sort of like an arranged marriage?

[Makes sense, with her being royalty.

Ah... the statements come back immediately remind him of Floyd. And then the last two have him blushing again.]

... alright. [He supposes that's good, at least.] I-in that case, I suppose... you can take the lead?

... I'd just prefer not to rush into things too much, is all I ask.

Mm, a bit.

[Marriage. She really wants that...but it doesn't seem like it's in the cards. Especially since Tsurugi had left. She shakes the thought from her head as she smiles back at Riddle, reaching out to pat him gently on the shoulder.]

I'll take it slow, don't worry. [Her smile grows wider, fangs flashing.] Is there anything you like?

[Even though he knows she doesn't mean to, the pat makes him feel a little silly. Or rather, it's having to be comforted over this that makes him feel silly...

But he nevertheless offers a grateful nod, then blinks, face darkening at both the question and... those fangs...]

Ah...

[You can do it, Riddle. Breathe.]

...gentleness, usually. But... during Tumenalia, Jamil bit me. I'm... guessing it feeling really good is something to do with your people?

[Oh.
Ohh.

Well. She wasn't expecting him to say something like that but it's pleasing to hear nonetheless.]

Mm, so I've been told. It seems to be euphoric to some. [Y'know, when she's not biting people to kill them.] I can bite you gently if you'd like. I'll treat you sweetly I promise.

A-alright.

[He's really trying not to let his nerves get to him too much. He takes a deep breath, and nods.]

Would you like to lead?

If you'd like me to.

[The real answer though is yes, yes she would. It's always a treat to be with someone who's around her size. It'd be a lie to say she didn't enjoy being in charge - she did. Gently she reaches out with a hand to cup his face, smoothing a thumb over a cheek. Leaning in she pecks the corner of his mouth with a smile, lashes framing her pretty blue eyes. He'll notice now that she's closer that she smells quite good, fragrant like flowers, a sweet nectar of sorts.

It's hard to hold back when she could gobble him up right there on the spot.]

Shall we kiss?

[O-oh— his heart is already beating faster just from that. Diva is sweet, going slow with him, and... he really should just be calmer about this, right? There's no reason to be so wound up.

He tries to let out a discreet breath, but is any bodily function discreet with a chiropteran? Heh, he just doesn't want her to feel bad because of his nerves.

He nods, then takes a breath and slowly leans forward, letting tension ease out of his posture as he presses his lips to hers.]

[No, nothing is discreet with a chiropteran. Diva can hear his heart thrumming away loudly in her ears, his shaky little breath echoing off the walls around them. The volume of sounds doesn't bother her though, she's desensitized to it, used to her heightened senses since birth. She's pleased as he leans forward to connect their lips together, her own shoulders slack as she slides her hands over his shoulders to hook around his neck loosely.

He's easy to kiss, she finds, and makes herself ever so pliant to encourage him further. She doesn't want to spook him, after all.]

Mm...

[This is much the same, at least, and he's had a bit of practice at this. Even so, he's still a bit shy when he deepens the kiss, tilting his own head slightly while one hand comes up to caress Diva's chin and coaxing her to tilt her head a little, as well.

The more they do it, the more Riddle relaxes. He might not know Diva that well, but... she was safe. She'd helped him in a time of need. And she'd always respected his boundaries.

Feeling a swell of gratitude has him putting a little more passion into the kiss, reservations easing away.]

[She can notice the shift in the way his shoulders and body relaxes, in the way his muscles go from taught to loose. It's nice to see that he's becoming more pliant and in turn she becomes the same, letting him tilt her head whichever way he wishes to deepen the kiss.

More and more as their lips come together she lets her hands stroke against his back, fingers lightly tracing shapes over fabric. He's cute and delicate and really what isn't to like about that? At least for Diva it's all she needs.]

[He's so much more aware of anything, now that the anxiety has taken a back seat. The subtle shifts of her body; the way she moves so easily with him. The gentle way she touches him. For as obviously eager as Diva was, she was still so incredibly mindful of him.

The fangs, as always, interest him. Not sharp enough to cause harm without putting some effort behind it, or perhaps without being very careless and rough in a kiss, but still far sharp enough to be noticable.

There's a moment of consideration, and then...

He rakes his tongue against a fang, a small, startled moan escaping his mouth as the broken tissue quickly begins to well with blood.]

Edited 2023-03-13 03:35 (UTC)

[The effect of the taste of his blood on her tongue is practically immediate as her eyes dilate and she's moaning against him, her own tongue swiping over his to draw out whatever bit of flavour she can from it.

She breaks the kiss for a moment, staring back at him, wide-eyed, unable to help herself. She's learned restraint over the past few years, sure, but her instincts are still ultimately what guide her.]

...Are you all right?

[As promised, Riddle arrives at 6 in the evening sharp, his timing as impeccable as always.

In one hand is a small green hedgehog, sniffing all the new smells as Riddle's other hand comes up to knock at the door.]

[He arrives with perfect timing, as Diva has come to expect of him, and she's joyed to see him when she opens the door to his knock.

The little creature in his hands gets her to coo with delight, clearly joyed at the sight of it as she welcomes them both in.]

Hi Riddle! Hello little one!

Good day.

[He steps inside, nodding politely.]

Your highness, meet Clover. Clover, meet Queen Diva.

[The hedgehog peers up at her inquisitively.]

It's nice to meet you Clover.

[She reaches out to give the hedgehog a little pat and stroke of its twitchy nose.]

Sooo cute...both of you.

[Laughing softly she moves in further, letting Riddle make himself comfortable.]

Come in, come in.

[Clover seems to tense for a moment at the touches, but eases up once they prove unharmful. He's a tiny thing, after all!

And Riddle finds the faintest red coming to his cheeks, still not entirely used to being called "cute"... particularly not by a cute queen like Diva.]

Thank you.

[He steps inside, then turns to offer the hedgehog.]

Might you hold him while I take off my shoes?

Oh, sure.

[She holds her hands out to take the critter from him, cradling it gingerly against her chest.]

He's kind of prickly...but he's cute.

[Like Riddle.]

[There is a brief moment where the hedgehog tenses again, more this time, and rolls into himself a bit, hissing with the spines flaring up.]

He might be a little intimidated because he can sense you're a predator.

[Riddle takes off his shoes, setting them neatly near the door.]

But once he calms down, the spines are actually quite smooth and pleasant to the touch.

Oh...

[She seems a bit sad suddenly at that. It isn't as if she's going to eat him! The little critter does seem to calm down a bit after a few moments, and just as Riddle said, the spines become less prickly.]

I'm not going to hurt him.

I know.

[Riddle steps forward, chittering something softly to the little hedgehog who looks at him, then back to Diva before seeming to settle more fully.]

[She watches him carefully as he seems to talk to the little creature in her hands. When he does it seems to relax enough for her to stroke it.]

Oh...it's neat that you can speak with them. I wonder if you could understand Charlotte. I talk to her sometimes.

[Does she understand the little bat? Sort of. Not entirely. Doesn't stop her from squeaking at it.]

Animal Linguistics is a course taught at Night Raven College. Naturally, with our dorm having custody over quite a few hedgehogs, I made sure to pay particular attention to their language.

[He looks to Diva.]

It's a possibility. Who's Charlotte?

Charlotte is my pet bat. She's small and cute.

[A Chiropteran with a pet chiropteran haha...]

She belonged to my first Dominant so I kept her when he left.

A bat? Hm... I don't know their language quite as well, but I know some basics, at least.

[He nods in understanding, then hesitates.]

Ah, you do have another Dominant now, right?

Mm, I do. Claudia's my Dominant.

[Because stupid Tsurugi hasn't come back yet. What a pain...]

She's the third Dominant I've had.

Ah, that's right. Is she doing well?

[Maybe Riddle should reach out to her...

That next part gets a curious look.]

How long have you been here?

She's okay. I think.

[Or as okay as she's ever seen Claudia. The next question gets a hum out of her as she takes a moment to pause and think.]

Ah...I guess it would be over four years now.

Did you see the announcement?

i did
im upset

most of us are.

I suppose it's past experience speaking, but I almost feel it's too sudden even for him

i dont want to go back
do you think hes lying

It's hard to tell. If he's being truthful, then we'll even forget we were here, it seems. The project does seem to be a mistake...

If he isn't, then it's for some reason that I can't explain either. What would be the point?

maybe he finds it funny

Well, that would prove he simply things of us as cattle to test on

i thought that was obvious though

Well yes, but to this point is unprecedented, I believe.

youre not wrong
i dont remember anything like this since ive been here

Right. It seems strange to want to throw in the towel and Warn Us about it.

Why bother? To watch us panic?

to get off to it?

Urgh, I suppose there is a fetish for everything. Disgusting.

well that is what this place is all about

[He really wishes they had more control.]

True enough. What do you think? About him pulling the plug that is. Do you think he's serious?

i dont know...i just hope hes not

...

I'd be disappointed if our parting was not on our own terms, I agree.

Perhaps we should do something together before time runs out. There's only you and Akira that I'd actually be annoyed at never seeing again.

Not that we'd remember it, I suspect.

id like to spend time together
even if i dont remember

Better that than my first idea of simply causing havoc if I'm being honest.

As amusing as that would be, there's no real point to it.

With this, at least, if it turns out to be some sort of joke or trick we should be able to remember it. At worse...we leave and don't even know what happened here.

i dont have the heart to cause trouble
im too sad

Understandable. You have a business in this world, and I know about your past as you do mine.

[Which means...going back to being dead. Probably.]

its not a very good outcome

It's not, no. At the same time, we won't know once we're gone.

Urgh. The more I think about it, the more I hate this announcement for what it is.

i wish we didnt know

Well...it would have been a shame not to even tell you goodbye.

Besides. Maybe for once I'll try to 'think positive' and really think he's getting off on it.

thats true
at least we can say goodbye
im going to try and pretend its not going to happen

I don't think I'll go that far.

However. If it turns out this wasn't real, then I'd like to make more memories after. And maybe find a way to hide them somewhere in this world, so at least our lingering ghosts could annoying them for as long as some people here want to keep reading it ;)

[OUT OF SPITE, THE NERD.]

could be like a diary maybe
tsurugi kept a diary here
i still have it

Ahh right. Tsurugi.

[That's a name he hadn't heard in a while. He doesn't miss him but he knows Diva...well...]

Maybe you should write something in it before our 'time' if it is that, is up.

[She still loves her nasty man.]

thats a good idea
i think i will

[Nasty feet fetish man. Akechi misses...tossing him outside of a place for being an idiot.

That's about it really. (☞ﾟヮﾟ)☞]

I'll try to find something as well.

I might also indulge if coffee to sleep as little as possible.

dont drink too much coffee

Would u prefer I bite you, slap you or choke you? Or u into all 3? You could even do those to me if your so inclined.

none
but ill bite you

YOU'VE BEEN BLASTED BY THE

 (          )           )    *          
 )\ )    ( /(     (  ( /(  (  `     (   
(()/((   )\())  ( )\ )\()) )\))(  ( )\  
 /(_))\ ((_)\   )((_|(_)\ ((_)()\ )((_) 
(_))((_)__((_) ((_)_  ((_)(_()((_|(_)_  
/ __| __\ \/ /  | _ )/ _ \|  \/  || _ ) 
\__ \ _| >  <   | _ \ (_) | |\/| || _ \ 
|___/___/_/\_\  |___/\___/|_|  |_||___/

ONCE YOU'VE BEEN BOMBED, YOU HAVE TO BOMB 8 OTHER PEOPLE! IF YOU GET BOMBED AGAIN YOULL KNOW YOUR REALLY SEXY!!1 IF YOU DIFFUSE THE SEX BOMB CHAIN, YOULL SUFFER A VERY UNSEXY BRAIN INJURY! BOMB WHOEVER YOU THINK IS SEXY!!

what

What do you mean 'what'?

what do you mean what you sent me a weird message

I sent you one of 8 of these so I don't get a brain injury! Also, I find you SEXY, sorry Also, don't bomb me back!

youre not going to get a brain injury

i am sexy though thank you

You can't know that! ...

what that im sexy
i have a mirror

That I won't get a brain injury!

its just a spam message

In this world, I'm not taking any chances, Diva!

okay okay
relax
youre being silly
what are you up to

I'm not! I'm being serious, Diva!

okay okay
im sorry
can i make you feel better

[He's not upset, but is confused about her not taking him seriously.]

What did you have in mind?

i could suck you off
if youre not scared of my teeth that is
or we could get ice cream

[It's always sex or food.]

I've never been scared of your teeth.

[She's a simple creature, motivated by base, carnal needs.]

really
what a brave boy

[He's not opposed, but there are other forms of entertainment.]

I get braver every day!

does anything scare you

Yeah. Normal stuff: my sister cookies rejection

you have a sister?
i have one too
she scares me sometimes but i would never let her know that
why do cookies scare you

Yeah, and she's a bit older than me. She used to poison me often and would use the cookies to do so. Now if I see her face, I get so ill I pass out. It's a good thing she isn't here.

oh
my sister is my twin shes older than me too
shes been trying to kill me for years
im sorry she ruined cookies for you

she ruined a lot more than just cookies But it's alright... I bet cookie dough would be okay, though. I've always been curious about it...

wanna try and make it

can we?!

of course
i think i have all the ingredients

you want me to come over, or do you want to bring them here?

i can come to your place

alright! I'll tidy up, then!

[Good thing he can't cook, so his kitchen is always relatively unused.]

okay okay
ill come whenever youre ready

[a few minutes later, after he's cleaned up his apartment, he's responding again.]

okay! I'm ready!

okay ill be there soon then

[And true to her word she is, knocking on the door of his place with a bag of ingredients in her other hand.]

[Gokudera opens the door and steps aside to let her in.]

Hey, glad you could make it!

[His apartment looks clean, but much more lived in since the last time she'd visited him.]

[She wastes no time stepping past the threshold, happy to be there, swinging her bag a bit in her other hand. It does look more lived in than before. It's nice to see he seems somewhat settled.]

Me too! I love cookie dough.

[It's a tidy space, and he isn't often alone in it. Though, with as busy with work as he keeps his schedule, he's not around to be making messes. He follows Diva, then leads her towards the kitchen.]

Have you made it before?

Yeah! Well, to make cookies...not just to eat as it is but sometimes I'll lick the spoon and bowl.

[Read: she always licks the spoon and bowl.]

It's not too hard. It'll be fun.

As long as we don’t bake them…

[He seems excited, but also still pretty worried. Diva save him from the cookies!!!!]

We won't don't worry! It'll just be the batter. Besides, baking would take longer anyway.

[Don't worry buddy she's got you!]

So are we gonna make a big bowl and just each go at it with a spoon? Or should we split it evenly?

[he'd say they could each make their own cookie dough but he doubts his would taste as good as Diva's. Usually food tastes best when it's stolen.]

A big bowl means less dishes so why not that? Besides, I know how to share.

[Even if she's greedy by nature she agreed to this in the first place! It would be rude to make the dough and then just shove it all in her mouth herself.]

Good point.

[He's not bothered by dishes, and the idea of sharing with her seems nice.]

[Taking out the ingredients from the bag she brought, she instructs him to grab her a measuring cup, some spoons and a bowl. Once the items are measured out she dumps the flour, butter and sugar in said bowl, offering him two eggs to crack.]

Here. Add these and then stir it up. I'll add some vanilla too.

[Gokudera does as instructed easily and begins stirring. Luckily, the butter is soft enough that it's not too much of a struggle, and he's mixing carefully, maybe too slowly.]

It's so gritty...

[He points out, hearing the sugar scrape at the side of the bowl as he stirs in the eggs and tries to smush the butter with the back of the spoon.]

It'll smooth out. It's only gritty because of the sugar.

[Which would eventually blend up. She puts the rest of the ingredients in as he stirs, moving to rinse off her hands.]

Don't worry, it'll be worth it.

[The mixing is getting easier, and he doesn't have to work so hard. It still seems gritty, but he'll reserve judgment.]

Is it ready yet?

[He asks her, but still keeps stirring, better to be certain. It looks good. Doesn't look like something they should eat, but... maybe that's part of the fun.]

Hmm...yeah! I think so!

[She moves to grab two spoons, handing one over to him.]

Here! You can do the honours first and taste it.

Oh... okay...

[Gokudera spoons a little bit of the dough and makes certain to get a chocolate chip... just in case he doesn't like it. But once it's in his mouth, he gives an excited little hum and nods.]

It is good!

YOU'VE BEEN BLASTED BY THE

( ) ) *
)\ ) ( /( ( ( /( ( ` (
(()/(( )\()) ( )\ )\()) )\))( ( )\
/(_))\ ((_)\ )((_|(_)\ ((_)()\ )((_)
(_))((_)__((_) ((_)_ ((_)(_()((_|(_)_
/ __| __\ \/ / | _ )/ _ \| \/ || _ )
\__ \ _| > < | _ \ (_) | |\/| || _ \
|___/___/_/\_\ |___/\___/|_| |_||___/

ONCE YOU'VE BEEN BOMBED, YOU HAVE TO BOMB 8 OTHER PEOPLE!
IF YOU GET BOMBED AGAIN YOULL KNOW YOUR REALLY SEXY!!1
IF YOU DIFFUSE THE SEX BOMB CHAIN, YOULL SUFFER A VERY UNSEXY BRAIN INJURY!
BOMB WHOEVER YOU THINK IS SEXY!!

who sent you this

i don't remember his name lol
i think he's like a waiter or something at a cafe i went to

well
im glad someone recognizes youre sexy
even though i think youre the sexiest

of course they do
i'm super cute so it's only natural i'd get this kind of chain letter

thats true
you are super cute
do you think im super cute or super sexy or both

that's easy
you're both ♥ (｡•̀ᴗ-)✧

hehe so are you

Miss Diva;

I wondered if I might have a moment of your time. The matter is not urgent. Let me know a time and location that suits.

- Wrathion

[Well this is an unexpected message! How curious.]

oh hi wrathion
sure
im not busy at all
you can meet me at my home if you would like
or theres always fangtasy
let me know what works best for you

[ Hmm.

He's never been inside Fangtasy before, and he is curious. Would it be invasive to nose around Astarion's place of work?

Perhaps if he lets her decide he can simply have it... not be his fault either way. ]

Either suits. The matter is not business related, so wherever you prefer to be. You are giving up your time, so the choice is yours.

both are comfortable places to me
do you like the color red

[ ... A peculiar question, but he'll go with it. ]

I do.

[ Matches his eyes! ]

then youll like fangtasy
a lot of the drapery is red haha
lets meet there then
i have to go there to pick up something anyway

[ Ahh. Well, if Astarion asks he can at least say it was her idea to meet there! ]

Very well. Would in an hour suit?

[He's totally free from blame. It isn't sneaking around if you're invited right?]

that totally is fine with me
ill meet you there
just come inside and ill be there to greet you

[Backdated a few days because I forgot oops]

Good morning, my sweet. I need to apologise - I know I should have been at the club yesterday.

Astarion! I was wondering where you were...are you all right?

Fine! Absolutely fine.

...And speaking of fines, I might need to pick up a couple of extra shifts, because sadly the city charges for its involuntary accommodation.

You what? What are you talking about?

The Zoo, darling. Just a few days - it's water under the bridge, now.

Astarion! Why did you end up there? Do you want money? I can give it to you.

It's fine! Everything is fine. I have savings. Wrathion paid my way out, I've paid him back. It's seen to.

I...may have had a brief disagreement with a SIN Guard, but I swear they are trained to be unreasonable.

Well...if you need money please just ask. I don't mind.

They're terrible and annoying I'm sorry that happened to you.

They are terrible and annoying - thank you, darling. I'm sorry if I worried you.

I was a bit worried...but it's okay, so long as you are.

You are okay, right?

I, ah...

Tumenalia wasn't the most fun I've ever had, let's put it that way.

I'm sorry...it's only really fun if you're Crested.

[Which is what she got to choose for herself. No way would Diva ever willingly put herself in the position Bodem called for.]

Is there anything I can do to make you feel better?

[He hesitates.]

Would it be an imposition if I asked to stay with you again? Being with a kindred spirit was...calming.

You know you're always welcome here for as long as you wish. My door is always open for you, Astarion.

Did you want to come over today?

If you don't have other plans? I have a shift at my other job, I could come afterwards.

I'm not busy at all. Come afterwards! I'll have the spare room ready for you and whatever else you want!

Thank you, darling.

[ There is a medium-sized black box with crimson ribbon. Attached is a lighter red note with a single name to suggest where it's from: Nathaniel. Inside is a half-dozen black cupcakes with red sprinkles. The smell is sugar and cake, mostly, but there's an unusual undercurrent. When opened, dark red liquid comes out. Blood. When ingested, the blood, which is both in the frosting and a filling of the cupcake, will have a kick. Nathaniel's blood. No other context is included. ]

[When she gets the little present she opens it eagerly, eyes wide at the smell of the cupcake. It's obvious whose blood it is without the nametag, even if she's never sampled it before, but there isn't much hesitation either when she shoves the treat into her mouth. It's good. Later she sends him a message.]

hey thanks for the treat
it was really good
very tasty!

I'm glad you liked it!

[ a sturdy ivory envelope addressed to / MISS DIVA / with a periwinkle wax seal arrives at your home address on june fifteenth.

attached is a handwritten note -- ]

Dearest Diva,
Your attendance will be most cherished.
Yours,
Daphne ]

💐 PARTY LOG LOCATED HERE 💐

[Whether she sees Diva at Fangtasy first or visits her at her home, Claudia will be delivering a smallish box wrapped in high quality paper. Inside is a hair piece of a distinctly bridal fashion, outfitted in what are clearly only the most expensive of pearls and diamonds. She explains:]

I may not ever consider Tsurugi to be worthy of you, but...you have chosen him, and so I have decided to accept this.

[Since he got her a ring and everything...]

You will be a bride beautiful beyond imagination.

[A beautifully wrapped gift box gets delivered on Christmas Eve. Inside is the city's best assortment of chocolates with a note:

Merry Christmas!
M]

[She wasn't expecting the chocolates but she's quite delighted by them.]

Thank you very much for the chocolates.

My pleasure Miss Diva. Hope ya enjoy 'em.

Hey, boss. Can I get a few days off?

[ He normally never asks unless he's on the injured roster, but. ]

sure thats fine
are you sick

DUPLICITY INBOX

Whenever this happened

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beep beep a few days before her birthday

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delivery

text | un: diva

voice; backdated to the 13th

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-> action!

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