cloudpools

[cloudpools]

"Couldn't get me up early for nothin'. So this is basically brunch for me~" Darla stood, helping Amber up to her feet if she wasn't too proud to take the assist. It was all fun and games, but Amber was sorely mistaken if she thought this was her win. No way. The original challenge was to end the boring, stuffy work. And that was what she had done. Caught or not.

Brushing herself off, Darla looked incredulous, daggers boring into the back of her rushing friend as she spoke about Biff. "Jesus Christ, Scoot. Don't you know what 'off the record' means??? I know your brain's bigger than that." It only took a few quick skips before she's in step with her sister, door of the lab pushed open to allow the sun to shine down on them. That was enough to diffuse the bomb that was about to go off.... For the moment at least.

"Alright. Fine. We can talk as we go. Will make it easier anyway since I'm sure despite us gettin' there early, the caf is slammed already. Wishful thinkin' and all that..." Groaning, Darla scratched the back of her head, brows furrowing. "Look. I know you think I'm just makin' this shit up, but I'm tellin' ya! I can HEAR her! Ever since you zapped me with that supercharged medpack, things have been happenin' to me that I can't fully explain..."

"And you can't explain 'em either for that matter! What about my fucked up arm? Just totally patched up with no problem? I should be DEAD, Amber." Though it was often an afterthought when her adrenaline was pumping, it was realizing it in these off moments that put the pilot off kilter. Darla didn't want to die. Who did, really? But she never let that stop her from living life to the fullest.

A few more skips, a twirl, and now she was walking backwards in front of her mechanic, continuing on the tirade. "Instead of testin' the grips, or whatever the fuck, I really think we should be lookin' into this. Biff... Biff 2 seems sad about what happened to Biff 1." She frowned, sighing.

"I got a theory though. Been thinkin' a lot about this." Wasn't often she had a real thought, let alone an entire theory. "What if that core thingy you're always going on about that you use to juice the bots are actually alive? What if now a piece of Biff 1.0 is in me, and that's why I feel like Biff 2.0 is trying to connect with me?" Darla swung around again, hopping the curb and pulling open the cafeteria building's door.

"Listen, I know I'm no scientist. But I know my body. And I know my head. And I feel different. I feel... lonely when I'm not in the cockpit. I think we have to work on figuring out how to REALLY talk to her. Wouldn't it be cool if it like- unlocked some new powers or somethin'? Maybe it could help you solve all those crazy complicated math shit you got scribbled all over the place. Or even better, she can tell us why these alien things keep attackin' the city." Waltzing inside and grabbing a tray, she side-eyed Amber waiting to see what she thought. Darla braced herself to be be rejected and ridiculed... Again.

After the impact, the tablet is ironically forgotten for the moment. No longer the item of import so much as it was beating this bitch. In a race. No, she's not throwing fists now that she has her down. Yes, her hand was resting on a pillow for a moment. A trespass cursed as per usual as she sits up and leans back against the railing, panting gently.

"Haa- haa- you're damn right I got you, what? You doubted me? PLEASE. I gotta be fast on my feet to fix the shit I do around here. Everything needs a personal touch, and how do I apply that touch if I don't get there, right? Right... haa- haa-" Good humor manages to persist, even after the jab of realization that she was, in fact, no longer working. An eye paid to the tablet. Tch. Who's victory was this, really?

...Amber is at least taking points for it. If anyone asks. The catch was what mattered. Not the trick.

"Ugh, lunch already? Fuck me. I thought it was still like ten or something. Feels like I got up early for nothing." Eyes roll after seeing the clock on the lock screen of the tablet. The device now secured and tucked under her arm with bitter reluctance. A great opportunity for the whisper.

"Eh? What's all this hush hush about now?" Amber says, looking around with bewilderment as if there'd be someone in this engineering nerdapalooza worth worrying about for the moment. She leans away, as if to get a clear look at the other girl. "You feeling alright, Darla? Since when do you have secrets worth keeping and not blurting out at anyone willing- nah, capable to hear you?"

Disbelief finds her and she shakes her head. As if to preemptively build up a ridiculous notion around what was starting to build a small pit in her stomach. She walks with a spark to her step, totally not trying to outpace the metaphorical feeling.

"Because if it's about BFB being alive, you have got to spare me the fuckin' dramatics otherwise you're gonna make it feel like we're working in a cult or something."

[cloudpools]

Blythe felt further disheartened, which was clearly evident from her crumpling smile and the way she folded in on herself, letting go of his hand. It wasn't because Gurin had said he'd only helped for his own self preservation (that was hard for her to truly believe), but because it seemed he didn't want to see her ever again. She couldn't really blame him, after all the trouble she'd caused, but with him opening up and being a little more candid with her, Blythe had thought that maybe he had wanted to start over too...

There was no way she could forget this. No way she could leave this debt unpaid. Already, the cogs were turning on what she could possibly do that would be enough. Surely a kind gesture couldn't be dangerous? Though, Blythe decided to think on it a bit more before jumping on any one idea. Not to mention, would she even get the chance to show her gratitude? If Gurin was so vehemently against them meeting? It was hard for her to let people go once she attached herself to them. Especially now.

"I- I'm sorry... I p- promise I'll keep this our secret." And she meant it, too. Which also meant she was going to have to come up with some excuse for her absence if she was asked about it. Lying was out of the question, but maybe an omission of the whole truth would be passable? She prayed Zeyrfial wouldn't just physically pull the answer out of her via her soul... That seemed unlikely. He hadn't done so since the night she'd signed the contract. "And, I won't let you die." Maybe it would be a mercy at this point? Blane was all for the idea. One less monster on her hit list. But Blythe had stopped it once before. If it were to come to that, then she felt a sliver of hope she could stop it again.

Finally, the elevator doors opened, and Blythe could tell that Gurin was relaxing. That in it's own way had her conflicted. On one hand, it was great to see him start to feel relief. On the other hand, her stomach dropped at the thought of that peace being brought about by her absence. "Yes. I'll... be fine." Though her tone didn't match the words. Dejected. Uncertain. Not because she couldn't get back to her home from here. Actually, this was the first familiar place she'd seen since landing herself deep in the underrealm.

Taking a few steps out of the lift, Blythe paused, fidgeting with the skirt of her dress, emotions buzzing in her chest like a beehive. This couldn't be it. But if he wanted it to be so, was it right of her to push for more? That confliction was clear on her face as she turned quickly, almost stumbling over from the momentum. She just didn't want to miss him before the doors shut behind her. Locking eyes for what may be the final time, skirt bunched in her fists from her holding it tight, Blythe took a deep breath and a deeper bow, words a little louder than normal in the hopes that they would carry clearly to him.

"G- goodbye, G- Gurin! F- for now..." A little ambiguous. Hopefully not ominous. An invitation that she wasn't pressuring him, but the door was still open. Just hopefully not the same door that had caused all this mess in the first place. A gentler door. One where she had more control over the situation... To let him have a positive interaction with her... For once... "...hmmmm..." Blythe hummed to herself, cogs still whirling as she too whirled on her heels, quickly making her way to the portal to home.

Idiot. Gurin was sharing because he’s trying to scare her, and yet it’s having the opposite effect. The positive thankful reaction almost has the demon recoiling away, putting aside that he was still stationary leaning against the wall of the lift. He wanted to move though. His inner psyche sure was leaning away to put as much distance as he could. Hell. With his luck, an actual shift away would just have her jumping to cling or something.

So damn timid. So damn out of place. He can hardly take his eyes off her. Good thing he has a dozen excuses for not doing that.

“I didn’t help you, I helped myself. Are you even listening to what I’m fucking saying? Pfeh- Can’t let you just go about lolly dolly business here.” He sneers with frustration. How is she not getting it, after all this? Is it just intentional? Is this like…. fuck, he doesn’t know- some kind of subterfuge technique? He knows a dozen other agents that could be done in by such demure behavior from such a human. Damn if he doesn’t get added to the list before long. Awful prospect.

A harsher click of his tongue.

“And don’t get started on this paying me back shit either. I don’t wanna hear it, because you’re gonna spin it up into something even more dangerous. Next meeting? There’s not supposed to be this meeting and you’re going on about more?! Give me a damn break, I didn’t want any of this. I just wanted–”

Grumbled words are bit back, teeth grit as lips sneer. Damn. Can’t say what that was around her either. Surely she had it pieced together from their first visit, yea? Zeyrfial had it all laid out pretty clear straight from the soul he just wanted to have exotic company for the party. Yet that didn’t keep her from latching on like this.

“Forget it. All of this. Probably better for all of us, you hear me? Shit, if Zeyrfial finds out you won’t have to worry about any next meetings or more misunderstandings. Because we’ll all be dead. Not you, probably. But me? Veril? Hell no.”

The lift comes to a stop, after what felt like an eternity. Gurin lets out a relieved breath he hadn’t realized he’d been holding. Being in the elevator with this girl alone was stifling. Had him on edge. That frustration had multiple faces, but now he just had one of resolution.

“Made it. Haaa- You should be fine from here at least, right?” Surely she doesnt need her hand held to get around the Hinge. She’d used the teleportation to get here last time, hadn’t she? Ugh. “Just head towards the room you used before.”

[cloudpools]

"More assumptions?" Nara took another sip of wine, eyeing him with a quirked brow. "I am capable of being nice when I want to be. Most people just aren't worth the effort." Did that imply that he was worth the effort? Not to Nara. The woman had a way of saying things without realizing what they could mean to others. Whether it was her being kind as she was now, or her being harsh as she often was. For someone who was so trained and disciplined when it came to business and manners, she wasn't nearly as good at small talk and casual conversation. Not enough time to plan. Not enough time to perfect. But talking to Toya felt... effortless. And that was rare for a woman who often put a lot of effort into the mundane.

There was nothing to gain from him other than keeping up appearances with coworkers. Nara didn't have some complicated game plan to strike a deal with him or get some contract signed. The vast majority of her interactions with members of the opposite sex revolved around her work. There was a small percentage of brave souls that would approach her in public... But Nara was quick to scare them off. Maybe knowing this was the first and last time they'd meet relaxed her usually terse demeanor? Perhaps it was because she was hiring Toya's services that it made the arrangement a bit more neutral. Because it WAS business in a way. That would explain it, and the logical person that Nara was, that's what she believed.

The moment the word 'lover' was spoken, Nara had been mid sip and she choked on it, coughing and covering her mouth. That didn't do much to hide the blush creeping up to her ears. Toya's gaze was intense, and despite her current embarrassment, she didn't dare look away. There wasn't a challenge on Earth that Nara would back down from, even one as small as maintaining eye contact. His next few words surprised her... And Nara wasn't one to like being surprised.

So much for that effortlessness...

Sapphire eyes widened, hand dropping a bit to reveal her lips slightly parted, not sure what to say. Had anyone ever truly enjoyed her company? Executives definitely enjoyed her presenting increasing profit margins! But this was... not that. This was just another person seeing her as the human she was. Nara's brows furrowed, confused. It was just like he had said. "That's.... hard to believe." Was he seeing something through her carefully built wall? Impossible. It was so firmly in place, and nearly perfect in construction. Yet, his next words had her lips smoothing into her signature hard line, slightly twitching in the corner, brows raising, blush deepening two shades.

"No. That won't be necessary. I-" The wine in her glass was quivering with how tightly she was holding it, trying desperately to find the words to respond. Behind her eyes, her mind was working overtime... Nara definitely felt he was being genuine, but there was something about the offer that made her uneasy. "Well... Perhaps you can try, but I don't think it's possible." SLAM. An extra gate of iron was put up for good measure by Nara's conscious. Taking a breath, her features were back to their usual flatness. Though, her cheeks still remained tinged pink. Maybe that was the wine? Yes. Absolutely.

"Do you have a usual routine to make women smile for you?" Not that it matters. Not that I care. "I assure you, they will not work on me. Though if you manage to succeed, I'll tip you well." Reminding herself that this was just a transaction helped to ground herself. Turning it into a contest was sure to keep her from losing more of her wits.

†   This  was  probably  the  first  compliment  he  heard  from  her  since  they  met.  It  seems  whatever  put  her  in  the  bad  mood  prior  is  slowly  uplifting.  Toya  flashed  a  placid  smile  and  his  eyes  soften  a  bit.

❛  Are  you  giving  me  a  compliment,  Nara-san?  ❜  he  teased  her  a  bit.  ❛  And  here  I  didn’t  think  you  was  capable  of  doing  so.  ❜

It  was  admirable  how  independent  and  hard-working  she  was.  In  some  ways,  she  remind  him  a  little  of  Toya’s  older  sister  with  never  relying  on  anyone  and  her  stiff,  serious  personality  may  have  chased  away  more  suitors  than  intended.  Any  man  who  didn’t  chose  to  stay  to  get  to  know  Nara  had  to  be  a  fool.

After  realizing  his  gaze  lingered  a  lot  more  than  it  should,  he  turned  his  gaze  back  to  his  half  drunken  wine.  He  listened  to  her  more,  took  note  that  they  had  some  similarities  in  common.  Normally,  Toya  wouldn’t  be  so  open  when  it  comes  to  his  dates,  but  Nara  differed  than  most  women  he’d  ever  encounter  during  his  work.  Talking  to  her  felt  so  natural.  So  comforting.

Toya  couldn’t  help  but  chuckle  at  the  inquiry.  Not  that  he  wasn’t  used  to  the  suspicion.  ❛  I  get  that  question  a  lot.  If  I’m  being  honest  or  just  trying  to  flatter  my  client.  Honestly,  I  try  to  be  as  genuine  as  if  I’m  dating  my  date  as  if  I’m  their  lover.  But  I  don’t  think  many  people  take  my  words  to  value.  Some  get  offended  to  the  point  that  it’s  hard  convince  them  that  I’m  actually  being  myself.  It’s  probably  hard  to  believe  if  you  know  you’re  paying  someone  just  be  nice  and  give  their  companionship.  ❜

He  turned  his  gaze  back  at  Nara.  He  didn’t  stray  away,  keeping  eye  contact  with  smile  that  wasn’t  faked.  ❛  I’m  being  honest when  I  say  I  enjoy  spending  time  with  you,  Nara-san.  I  don’t  see  anything  to  complain  about.  While  you’re  serious,  it  shows  that  you  know  what  you  want.  I’m  sure  once  someone  get  to  know  you  behind  the  surface,  they’d  be  taken  in  by  you  and  not  just  your  beauty.❜

Toya  did  want  Nara  to  enjoy  herself.  He  finds  it  interesting  that  she  can  be  both  confident  and  insecure.  He  doesn’t  know  what  her  upbringing  was  or  what  she  had  to  go  through  that  made  her  this  way.  Yet  to  hear  her  say  she  had  nothing  to  smile  about,  he  couldn’t  help  but  wanting  to  change  that.

❛  Then  should  I  become  your  reason  to  smile,  even  if  it’s  just  for  tonight?  ❜  † 

[cloudpools]

🐶 — any pets?

MUNDAY  ASKS ! || ⚜Accepting⚜

🐶 — any pets?

YES!!!!! My babies from left to right: Spidey, Spooky and Spud!!!

Obviously, we went with a theme when naming them (though Spidey and Spooky were named by the shelter we got them from. They were brought in around Halloween time so they got Halloweeny names XD). We had originally planned on naming all our pets after food. We struggled with Spud because originally we were thinking Spaghetti. But he doesn't look like a Spaghetti. And the night before we got him, I shot up from the couch and screamed SPUD! HIS NAME IS SPUD. and thus, he was named Spud. I'm very proud of that name 🥔🥔🥔

[cloudpools]

MUNDAY  ASKS !

🌈 — name(s) & pronouns 🎈 — gender and/or sexuality 🎂 — age and/or birthday 🕗 — time zone 💕 — single or taken? ⭐️ — sun, moon, & rising signs, if known 💭 — MBTI and/or enneagram, if known ❓ — three adjectives that describe you ❤️ — what are some of your best qualities? 💔 — what are some of your worst qualities? ✨ — what would you change about yourself, if anything? 💘 — what and/or who do you consider near and dear to you? 🚗 — what vehicle(s) do you drive? ✈️ — ever traveled anywhere interesting? ⌨️ — what operating system(s) do you use? 📱 — mobile or desktop version of tumblr? 🖥 — favorite platform besides tumblr? 🎮 — favorite video game(s)? 🖱 — any cool devices/tool(s) of the trade? (i.e. type of mouse, monitor, keyboard, tablet, etc) 💍 — any piercings? 💎 — want any (more) piercings? 🖊 — any tattoos? 🔏 — want any (more) tattoos? 🎄 — favorite holiday(s)? 🍝 — favorite food(s)? 🍦 — favorite ice cream flavor(s)? 🍰 — favorite sweet(s)/dessert(s)? 🐶 — any pets? 😍 — celebrity crush(es)? 😊 — any career desires? 📚 — if you’re in college, what’s your level (undergrad, grad, phd, etc) and/or degree program? 😖 — what annoys you? 🎶 — favorite song at the moment? 📕 — favorite book/series? �� — any non-writing hobbies/interests? 📺 — favorite movie(s) and/or tv show(s)? 📇 — does your url have a meaning? if so, what is it? ✏️ — how long have you been roleplaying on tumblr? ✍️ — what other platforms have you roleplayed on? 🗒 — what is/are your favorite genre(s)/theme(s) to write? 🤔 — what genre(s)/theme(s) do you struggle to write the most? 😁 — what’s your favorite part about being part of the rpc? 😤 — what do you dislike the most about being part of the rpc? 💻 — how many friends have you made in the rpc? feel free to tag a few of them! 🎧 — do you write while listening to music/podcasts/videos/etc, or do you need total silence? 🤗 — are there any rpc mutuals that you’d like to meet irl? 😀 — are there any rpc mutuals that you’ve met irl before? 💖 — what was one of the greatest/happiest moments you’ve had in the rpc? 🖤 — what was one of the worst/most depressing moments you’ve had in the rpc? 😳 — what was your most embarrassing moment in the rpc? 🎁 — what have you accomplished in the rpc that you’re proud of? 🫂 — how many friends are in your irl friend group(s)? 🎉 — what are some of your favorite things to do with your irl friends? 😗 — what are some of your favorite things to do when you have some time to yourself? 💯 — share three random facts about yourself that your mutuals may not know about you.

[cloudpools]

༘⋆｡ stirring the pot starters

a mix of arguments, tension, manipulation, gossiping, fighting, & general emotional messiness!

you  weren't  supposed  to  hear  that.

don't  look  at  me  like  i'm  the  only  one  lying.

want  to  tell  them,  or  should  i?

you  think  i  don't  know  what  you  did?

i've  hit  people  for  less.

oh,  i  thought  you  already  knew.

that's  funny,  you  didn't  say  that  last  night.

say  that  again.  i  dare  you.

you  wanna  talk  about  loyalty?

no  offense,  but  if  you're  the  last  to  know,  that's  on  you.

go  ahead  -  pretend  like  it  wasn't  your  idea!

they  deserve  to  know  the  truth.

you  didn't  hear  this  from  me,  but  -

oh,  so  now  you  care?

don't  flatter  yourself.  you  were  just  convenient.

you  crossed  a  line.

we  had  bets  on  how  long  it  would  last.

it's  not  even  a  secret  anymore.

you  don't  get  to  cry  about  it  now.

touch  me  again  and  see  what  happens.

say  it  again.  louder  this  time.

you  really  thought  nobody  would  find  out?

don't  act  so  innocent.

okay,  but  am  i  the  villain  for  laughing?

tell  me  who  else  knows.  right  now.

this  whole  time,  and  you  didn't  say  a  word?

don't  act  brave  now.

you're  really  gonna  do  this  here?

it  wasn't  supposed  to  get  this  far!

you  can't  rewrite  history.

oh,  i'd  never  say  it  to  their  faces.

it  was  supposed  to  stay  between  us.

we're  all  thinking  it,  i  just  said  it.

you're  not  as  untouchable  as  you  act.

do  you  even  feel  guilty?

they  warned  me  about  you.

go  ahead,  make  it  worse.

if  you  repeat  this,  i'll  deny  everything.

the  next  thing  out  of  your  mouth  better  be  an  apology.

you're  about  three  seconds  away  from  regretting  this.

you  keep  pushing,  and  i'll  push  you  back.

they're  going  to  find  out.

one  more  lie,  and  i  walk.

they're  lying  to  you.

you  need  to  back  off.  now.

you're  defending  them?  after  everything?

don't  try  to  hide  it.

tell  me,  was  i  just  a  placeholder?

you  really  think  sorry  fixes  this?

there's  nothing  left  to  say.

don't  act  like  you're  the  one  hurting.

i  don't  owe  you  any  explanation.

whatever  helps  you  sleep  at  night.

you  should've  seen  this  coming.

i  hope  it  was  worth  it.

i  told  the  truth.  just  not  all  of  it.

you'll  miss  me  before  i  miss  you.

smile.  you're  ruining  the  mood.

i'd  watch  that  tone  if  i  were  you.

it's  not  my  fault  you  believed  me.

you  have  such  a  talent  for  pretending  you're  innocent.

we  both  know  this  is  over.

i  never  said  i  was  a  good  person.

i  thought  you  were  different.

[cloudpools]

The (un)holy trinity.

[cloudpools]

[cloudpools]

Their relationship was evolving. The distance between them had somehow grown and shrunk all at the same time. Now, with this conversation, Nara's respect was growing into admiration... And she wasn't sure how she felt about it. Nara was evolving too.

For better or worse? The jury was still out. And Eira was the judge.

Eira seemed wiser than her years, and it irked Nara to feel inferior to her. She'd have had no problem setting them as equals before Wylan had entered her life. But now? Nara felt naïve. Juvenile. Feelings were conflicting with her motivations and goals, and as a result, she was making less than ideal decisions. Jeopardizing her career. Even now, she felt there was no going back. She didn't want to. Priorities could change... And that was fine? Right?

"I don't recall doing anything shady when managing things on my own." And that was the truth. Nara was just persistent. The agency she was contracted under was one of the top in the country. That alone allowed her to vault various hurdles. But it was her abilities that had carried her the rest of the way. Nara treated every show as if it were an arena full of thousands, every meet and greet as recruitment for her army, every photoshoot as if she was to be on the front cover. She shined so bright, and it was hard for people to look away.

"I want to be the kind of person he can rely on. Like he is for me. I don't want Wylan to have to hide anything from me." There's an intensity in that statement that's endearing. Nara was intense in everything she did. Despite this moment of weakness she'd revealed to Eira, even this had a strange fierce aura around it. It was clouded with uncertainty and nervousness, but it was still very much present.

Nara was also jealous. Jealous that Eira had people in her life that cared about her. Loved her even. Being an only child to parents who had had her out of obligation rather than want had set a course for her life. It had taken her a long time to build the dam that was holding back her emotions... But that dam was cracking, bursting, and the flood was drowning her. And Nara didn't know how to swim.

Flinching at the immediate rejection, Nara's brows furrowed. She completely understood. And still it hurt, her feelings wreaking havoc on her again. It had all been so much easier when there was just a single thing she wanted. Nara had diverged from her well planned path... But there was some hope that it was to a better destination. If not better, comparable.

Sapphires widened at Eira's plea. "You too..." Watching her go, Nara collected her things, making her way to the car where her driver was waiting. She had a lot to unpack from that brief interaction, and there was a part of her that wanted to scream. Another part of her that wanted to curl up. Give up. WHOA! She pushed that away. She was Nara Branth! Proud. Unshakable. Chart topping. An idol to envy. To adore. Even if being alone again was disheartening, Nara also found it easier to put herself back into her usual mindset.

Taking a deep breath, she pulled out her phone.

To [ Manager ]: The charity event went well. There was almost some drama, but surprisingly, Eira helped quell it. I'd be happy to schedule more joint appearances and concerts with her in the future.

To [ Manager ]: What's my schedule for tomorrow?

Of course she already knew what was on the docket for the next day... But she wanted to talk to him. Even if it was about something so mundane.

Nara's words were sincere, but Eira was only allowing herself to perceive the flaws beneath that had entreated and facilitated this full development. Traits that reflected onto herself. Robbed of a normal childhood (doubly so, didn't both of them have ridiculously affluent upbringings?), denied the chance to have romantic encounters, lives put under endless scrutiny. And yet, Eira hadn't cracked, now had she? Nara meanwhile had fallen for her manager of all people.

"Haaa... fine, it wasn't thanks, but that doesn't change the circumstances it landed you in, either. Or his as a result. Remember that if this entire episode explodes- it's not just your career that'll be stained. Hmph. Secrets. Of course he has secrets he's a manager. There's just as many strings and items he's pulled- I mean, God- Nara. You were self-managing for so often you know the kind of things that happen with scheduling and securing deals."

The girl shakes her head.

"And even then, if there were other secrets. Do you think they're things he wants to hide from you? Or has to?" Brows lift. Secrets could be all that her manager had left. Just like Nara. Just like Eira. "My brother isn't much different. He'll say he's open with me, but I know I never get a full story when he goes through trouble."

At the buzzing and the prompt, Eira wrinkles her face in contemplation. Perhaps- she answers too swiftly.

"No. I don't want to be seen with you in public outside of events. I said I would help you, not that I would be your ally. I'm not going to risk this gossip having an effect on my own image." Her stance is firm on the issue, an uncomfortable lack of empathy in her expression. Even if her advice and support remained behind the scenes (and her countenance). Eira sighs, realizing this perhaps, with a roll of her eyes and a pinch of her brow.

"But thank you for the offer. I have my own driver who can escort me. I think I have other things I'll be handling before settling down for the night, actually." Sleeping tonight could be difficult with all the storm buzzing in her brain. And she'd indulged with the dinner. Both issues would be resolved by a strict evening of training. Or so the idol hoped. Nothing was ever set. Just look at Nara, and how unbalanced she had become.

"Be safe, Nara. Please."

[cloudpools]

Holly was tense waiting for the shadows to part and the intruder to reveal themselves... But when they gave way to Zaire, she'd be lying if she said she didn't feel some relief. Not fully. Her phone was still in a death grip. Zaire raising his hands did little to comfort her. Iris had watched him materialize those daggers countless times out of thin air. There was no telling if he'd do so now...

But most likely not? Why waste his time taking her to a hospital just to kill her later? He could have even left her in that dank, disgusting sewer and let his dad do the dirty work. Yet he'd saved her. Holly decided to play it cool. "Oh it's just you."

Very cool, Holly. Very chill.

"You just want to talk?" Didn't she want to talk too? She'd been so confused by him, his actions, his note... "Well fine. What do you want? And just so you know, if you try anything funny, I WILL kick your ass. That, and you better not have told anyone about me. That will also warrant an ass kicking." Holly was skeptical, yet hopeful, though the grimace on her face told otherwise. She took a few steps closer, showing she wasn't afraid. "Spit it out." Hazel eyes darted about the alley. Hopefully Luca wouldn't make an appearance

The fact that the cult moved should be of no surprise, the magical girl had just confronted the leader and was not killed, it only made sense that they'd move thanks to that, as frustrating as it was to the 'hero', there was nothing that could be done about that right now.

Zaire had been following Holly for a while while she went out on patrol. He just wanted to talk to her about what happened, but had no idea on just how to approach her. This was far different from their other encounters. It was not a straight up fight. It was a social engagement.

His weakness.

As such he didn't do anything, simply followed her as his mind rattled with words, he was trying to think of what to say to her. However her shouting out in his direction forced him to come out.

From the shadow cast on a wall by a street lamp, Zaire emerged. He would raise his hands, showing that he did not want to fight her right now.

"Peace. I apologise for following you, I just wanted to talk about what happened-."

[cloudpools]

Staring at her, he quirked a brow, and then he couldn’t help but crack a smile. "Kinda hard to get people to say your name when you don't talk to no one." Then the lights went out. "Are you fucking kidding me..." Sighing he reached into his pocket, pulling out his cell, shaking it to turn on the built-in flashlight. But of course, his piece of shit phone wasn't doing what it was supposed to in that moment. Carter growled, shaking it harder.

“Shit!” So focused on getting some light so he could hit the emergency call button, he almost slammed into the back wall as Madison grabbed onto him. It was obvious she was terrified. She was trembling, and panic rambling, her nails digging into his back. Catching his balance, he let her pull him in close, smushing her against the opposite wall and himself. She was soft. Fragile. His free hand moved to her shoulder, hovering for just a moment above the skin before he decided to close the gap, thumb idly circling her collar bone.

Finally getting the light working he shined it up into their faces. "Hey... Take a deep breath. It's all okay." His voice was soft, not at all judgmental. Even his smile wasn’t as shitty. “The good news is, it’s not dark anymore. And you are home.” Being a smart ass was sure to make her not focus on their predicament, right? Moving his hand from her shoulder, he pushed the emergency button, and immediately could hear the tone ringing. “Oh thank fuck.”

Carter sighed. “Better news. Someone will be coming to get us soon." He illuminated the screen on his phone, casting the beam of light to the floor. 10 pm. No cell service. Typical. “Bad news? You're probably not getting to bed on time...” He balanced his phone on a small indent on the elevator wall so that his hands were free. "Look at me. Talk to me, Mads. What have you got goin' on tomorrow?" Hopefully some less stressful chitchat would calm her down. All the while, the phone rang on.

Genuine? Was she genuine? Was she honest? There was a brief moment she stared at him not sure what to say or do. Or maybe she was too busy trying decide what he had just said, (there wasn’t anything to decode, he was very straight forward).

Her lips parted & the slight formation of words began to slip out however the start of a protest was the only sound to make it out before the elevator jerked to a stop. Her already big eyes grew the same time Carter came forward, because she was thrown off balance too. Madison misstepped almost slamming herself right into his chest. Her hands shot out stabilizing herself by grabbing ahold of his torso at the ribs.

He began viciously clicking the button & her hands pulled back & she pressed further into the wall as if she would melt through. Then was quiet. He was warm. The moment her hands touched him, a flash of normalcy reminded her how nice human contact was. Not just those weird side hugs she got from clients. But actually touches on someone’s body.

“No one has called me by my real name in a long time.” She said softly. These days she went by Ms. Claire. Infact, Carter had been the only person to give her a pet name in years. It was rare she ever heard it fully: Madison.

It was pretty when he said it.

Madison didn’t have a chance to answer properly because the lights flickered once more before completely going out. And the box stopped moving.

“Oh no.” She whispered in a whine. “No no…” her voice shrinking to a whimper. “I don’t like the dark…. Or closed spaces.”

Everything was dark. Even the one lit white buttons were gone. And it was quiet. The dark& silence were the worst. They must’ve gotten together & conspired to ruin her day.

A god awful creak ripped through & she flung herself forward into carters chest again; this time it was intentional. Her nails digging into his back just a bit & her small form shaking.

“I hate these things. I hardly ever take them. Usually I take the stairs. Or only when it’s day time cause…. I don’t know.” Despite being in total darkness she squeezed her eyes shut. “Don’t like this, I want to go home.”

And this is why she didn’t like to leave her comfy lil apartment. Stupid elevators. Stupid men (not Carter), stupid everything.

Another creak & shift cause Madison to tug Carter harder into her while guiding herself back against the wall. Being pinned by his weight was actually helping because it made her feel secured. “I’m sorry.” She whispered after a few moments of silence, her fingers tensing & loosening a bit like she wanted to let go of him, but couldn’t quite unclaw herself from him.

[cloudpools]

‧₊˚ 🪦 ✩ unsettling dialogue prompts

¹⁾ “i’m not crazy! someone’s been in here!”

²⁾ “someone’s standing outside the window.”

³⁾ “i don’t know who sent you that, but it wasn’t me.”

⁴⁾ “i locked this door when i left; i’m certain of it.”

⁵⁾ “i can hear footsteps.”

⁶⁾ “the dog’s barking like crazy, will you go see what’s wrong with him?”

⁷⁾ “that car’s taken every turn we have for the last ten minutes.”

⁸⁾ “did your phone just lose signal too?”

⁹⁾ “i, uh- i don’t remember telling you that.”

¹⁰⁾ “letter came for you- no stamp, though. i think it might’ve just been left at the door, weird as it is.”

¹¹⁾ “upstairs has been banging on the ceiling all damn night, i haven’t slept a fucking wink.”

¹²⁾ “i think someone’s slashed my tires.”

¹³⁾ “i know it’s late, but i need you to come downstairs and meet me out front. someone’s following me home.”

¹⁴⁾ “i don’t know anyone by that name. you’re sure they knocked and asked for me?”

¹⁵⁾ “yeah, because someone sending you a bouquet of the flowers you’re deathly allergic to is definitely not something to worry about.”

¹⁶⁾ “no, no, please tell me you didn’t let them in. the landlord said she’d come and fix the faucet herself, that she never calls in contractors! no one has any reason to be in there!”

¹⁷⁾ “that’s weird, i could’ve sworn i closed the curtains when i left this morning.”

¹⁸⁾ “that car’s been out front all day.”

¹⁹⁾ “i just moved in, i haven’t given anyone the address yet.”

²⁰⁾ “what are you on about? i’ve been in bed since nine, i didn’t text you to meet me anywhere.”

[cloudpools]

get your own fries :: open

send 🍟 to steal my muse's fries. bonus points for specifying how your muse does it

@cloudpools sent: 🍟 ((Holly. Harima. She tried asking nicely. But he told her to get her own. So she had to hit him with the chair! She had no choice! And now she has fries so???? Win???

How anyone who acts as ugly as this chick does can front herself as some cute girl (let alone magical) is anyone's guess. Harima doesn't even want to try figuring it out. He never liked studying to begin with. And a girl like her's not worth an iota of the effort especially with how self-absorbed she can get. What the hell, man?!

"YOU ASSAULTED ME. I COULD BE PRESSING CHARGES RIGHT NOW." He howls from the floor, still trying to get himself presentable and clamber back up into his seat. "What kind of person hits someone with a chair because they won't give them their fries?! That's like half my dinner you're eating right there! I was trying to budget!"

Nursing the spot on his arm where the impact had hit, and sent him floorward, Harima is at least happy to see that the barbaric bimbo hadn't taken his paltry sandwich along with the side. Or the soda. So.

"Man, whatever. Hope you're happy at least.."

[cloudpools]

[ DUNK TANK ] for my muse to end up in the dunk tank while yours throws the ball (nylon, any verse)

⋆☀︎. county fair scenarios || ⚜Accepting⚜

[ DUNK TANK ] for my muse to end up in the dunk tank while yours throws the ball (nylon, any verse)

Senior Sendoff. A full day event during the last week of the school year where the students and teachers alike got to enjoy a field day. The football arena had been converted into a carnival ground, various bouncy castles, obstacle courses, and human foosball tables set up. There were teams. The students were competing to score points in egg races, pie eating contests, water balloon fights, and more. Basically the antithesis to everything the vice principal stood for. Yes, they'd be off to college soon, but one more day of studies would be beneficial to them. Though the board had voted and she was the only 'nay'.

Typical.

It was only when she saw Mr. Rechtur, the history teacher, drama club advisor, and major thorn in her side sitting in the dunk tank, did she find herself smiling a wicked grin. Oh. Finally something she could enjoy out of this event. Taking her place in the long queue, the other students were quick to yield to Ms. Branth. Yes, she wouldn't be their vice principal anymore very soon... But the woman still had a powerful presence and pull over the teenagers... There were still days left of the school year. There were still ways she could make them suffer.

It wasn't long before she was at the front of the line, collecting her basket of balls from a very intimidated young teacher. Not that she was focused on her at all. No. Burning blue eyes were locked on the imbecile that she'd wanted gone for years. Damn tenure. Damn him for charming all the other staff. Damn him for being popular with the parents. There would be a riot if she fired him now. Not to mention the hoops she'd have to jump through to get the process started. Nara had definitely already tried.

With that thought, she let the first ball fly, and it hit the back mat with a thump, sliding to the ground, and leaving Wylan high and dry... There's a quiet murmur through the line, and she throws a glare over her shoulder. Silence. Beautiful silence. That is, until he breaks it. "Ms. Branth! I thought you were perfect at everything. Surely you'd have better aim than that..." She throws the hard look his way, but keeps her composure, instead opting to unbutton her blazer, shoving it into the hands of the petrified English teacher, and rolling up her sleeves. Goodness, it was hot in the summer. Surely the restricting clothing was messing with her aim.

"OOOOooooo jacket off. This is serious!" He taunts, and the line once again reacts, giggling. It was obvious he had made quite the impression with the students as well... Only further pissing her off. Calculated she takes aim once again, throwing a bit harder this time, but ultimately still missing. By less this time, but still no luck. There's a collective 'ooooooo' from the slowly building crowd, and her cheeks start to redden. "Only one ball left! Can she do it?!"

Nara kicks off her heels, and it's like a transformation has taken place from the act. No longer a vice principal, she was a professional softball player, winding up. This isn't exactly what she had in mind when she'd vowed to keep this professional. But emotions took over. Stance strong, she whips the ball with an underhand throw, and it hits the target, plummeting Wylan into the water below. "HA!" She does a little celebratory dance, before putting her heels back on, smoothing her hair back, and shrugging in to her suit jacket. Back to Ms. Branth. Vice principal. Wylan meanwhile is??? Acting ridiculous??? Pretending to drown? Maybe he really was drowning. That would be lovely.

"Maybe Senior Sendoff isn't such a bad tradition after all."

[cloudpools]

get your own fries :: open

send 🍟 to steal my muse's fries. bonus points for specifying how your muse does it

@cloudpools sent: 🍟 ((Blane. Gurin. She drops out of the fucking ceiling like a seagull and scuttles off. Real cursed ass, exorcist, demon shit. Probably hissing and cawing. Idk. She’s a freak

How was it, that an existence like this had been borne by one so...

...

...

Different.

Than Blythe.

Yes of course there were some similarities in physical appearance to the puppet the fragmented soul of Blane now dwelled within (supported in existence by his own) but that skin deep visage was paper thin, and everything else particularly behind the eyes crowed a different shrill song. And Gurin had no choice but to suffer it.

How else could he be near Blythe? There were no defenses without this strange caveated contract. He lived by technicality. And now he had to deal with the consequences, like not knowing peace even in his own home.

"FUCKIN' BITCH!" The demon cries out when that feral shadow darts in and nabs some of his meal, a rare indulgence of slop and overly seasoned snacks that would wreck havoc if he ate it as much as he liked (as Veril did). Try as he might, snapping his arm out in an attempt to catch the criminal, she dashes away.

Hand lifts, and the magic currents conducted through the stones hum to life. Tch. Not worth the effort. The arm lowers and he snags a mouthful to shove into his mouth, speaking through chews at the girl that only seemed to tolerate him because they served a similar goal.

"You'll pay for that later, you better realize." He hisses, jabbing a fry to where she'd disappeared. He knows she's listening. She better be.

[cloudpools]

⋆☀︎. county fair scenarios || ⚜Accepting⚜

[ FORTUNE ] for our muses to get their fortunes told together (just thought it was cool) @rpwiththelilflower

Carter didn't really have a problem with the occult. It was all bullshit, sure, but it was fun bullshit and he wasn't about to go around ruining people's good time. Plus there was something artful about being able to read people. He'd been to some pretty awful psychics, but he'd also chatted with a few that were pseudo-therapists. Cheaper too.

When Madison suggested they get their fortune read, he wasn't going to say no. Even more so because she looked so damn excited to head into the dimly lit tent. "Gotta hand it to 'em. They really got the atmosphere down..." There was a round table in the center, stereotypical crystal ball glowing and safely nestled on a pedestal on top. Shelves of jars filled with random liquids, plants, crystals, and books were set up against the outside of the tent. String lights were the source of light (besides the ball), giving everything a bit of a yellowish glow.

Taking a seat across from the hooded figure, the woman immediately started shuffling a deck. There's a brief period of awkward silence, the only noise filling the tent being the shuffle and the other fairgoers outside... And then three cards are flipped and revealed to the couple.

"The Four of Wands... Interesting. Your relationship must be fairly new," Hazel eyes peek over at Madison, who was leaning in so close to inspect the cards and listen to the fortune teller's words. He can't help but smile, returning his attention to the soothsayer and giving a nod. "Wands are fire. Energy, passion. But the Four of Wands is a little different. It means you're having a bit of a slow period. Enjoying your relationship and celebrating it."

"There's definitely a lot of passion," he snorts, Madison's face flaring up. She kicked him under the table, urging the woman to go on.

"The Four of Cups... Seems as though you two have some things waiting for you, but you're rejecting them. Cups are water, emotions. Don't push away the things that are presented to you. Embrace them. Drink from the cups and rejoice."

Carter quirked a brow. "Not really sure how that one fits." An outside thought that definitely should have stayed inside. But he wasn't one for internal monologuing or worry about his words. Maybe that one was more for Madison? She always was giving him mixed signals. And she often got in her own way of happiness. Shit, maybe it did fit after all.

"The Hermit..." At that Carter outright laughed.

"Yeah. Mads is definitely a hermit. That makes TOTAL sense." She was punching him now. They were out! Right now! How dare he say that?!! The woman waited for them to settle down before continuing, Carter grabbing Madison by the wrist to keep her from punching him anymore.

"The Hermit isn't so much literal as it is a recognition of looking into oneself. One of you..." The fortune teller looked at Madison before returning her gaze to the both of them. "One of you may need to work through some things on your own before you can move to the next level in your relationship."

[cloudpools]

- Muse based Dash Game do not reblog. copy & paste!

Filled out for: Blane

Favorite color(s): Red (Blythe's hair color), Green (Blythe's eye color), Pink (Blythe's favorite color), Black (That one is just a personal like)

What they’re wearing: Blane doesn't typically have a corporeal form, but if she did, it'd deff be very tom boyish. Cargo shorts. High tops. Sleeveless tops. Blythe most likely helps her dress so sometimes she's cutesy. If Blythe picked it out, she'll never admit she doesn't like it.

Where are they at currently?: Inside Blythe's head. I guess not just her head. Like- her entire being? Idk. It's complicated. But if she's out, then she's with Blythe. Wherever she is always if she can be.

Song stuck in their head: I wouldn't say Blane even likes music. She's got sort of a one track mind and no real thoughts (other than Blythe - if that wasn't obvious already LOL)

Last song they listened to: Whatever song Blythe was humming last... She hums a lot when she's alone... which is often.

3 favorite foods: Meat. Cheese. Bread. (Again, simple. A very... refined palate LOL)

Dream Trip: Any place isolated. You'd think she'd want to explore more being trapped in Blythe's body, but really, she doesn't mind it. She actually would prefer it if Blythe never saw or spoke to anyone else ever again.

Anything your muse wants right now: Blythe (do you sense a pattern here? Yandere ass....)

Favorite personal headcanons: Blane is dumb as a bag of rocks. But when she needs to (mainly when it becomes necessary for Blythe's sake), she picks things up relatively quickly. While not master level, she will get good enough to do whatever it is she needs to. An example is when she learned to read, so she could read the things Blythe wrote in her journal. Like???? Can't do simple addition but taught herself how to read? Wtf?

Favorite quote of the hour: "FUCK YOU!" (It's p much all she says tbh. I can't wait until she has her first convo with Blythe and is tripping over herself LOL)

Tagged by: @dcviated ((Thanks~ Tagging: @rpwiththelilflower, @dracomultiverse, @ourladyoftears and anyone else who sees this and wants to do it~