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pixieledmemes2025-03-15 08:32 am
Test Drive Meme #2
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You wake up at a party.
You're not sure how, exactly, you got here. You may have just been walking in the woods or at a meeting for work or doing any other normal activity for you. But you know you weren't supposed to be at this party, you're fairly certain.
Anyone you ask about it will say the party is for you. You and the others also waking up and looking confused. Further questions will lead to the partygoers insisting you have something to eat. You're starving and others are eating the food without repercussion, so you figure there's no harm in a bite. You finish your portion.
It's a garden party at the crack of dawn, with the sun still in its early stages of climbing through the yonder, casting a good mix of pastel hues of blue, pink, and beige on everything. Heralding the first day of spring, the Ruler of the Spring Court has found it fitting to arrange this gathering where guests can feel the blades of grass touching their ankles, as well as the rich soil beneath their feet. Flowers of all kinds surround the party as if they were carefully curated. With spring as the "dawn of seasons," which marks a transition from winter's latency to the resurgence of life everywhere, the Ruler of the Dawn Court has also seen it fit to host aspects of this party during the one time of the year that dawn occurs the whole day. Tall candles and torches grace the outskirts of the garden party, providing warmth and an orange glow everywhere. Not one flame goes out even with the occasional wind, the Duchess always makes sure of this.
There are also freshly picked blossoms and branches with leaves on every table accenting the festive spread of food and drinks. This time, a lot of the food prepared for the Adopted guests are familiar to them with a little bit of a twist. Burgers might come in small packages and in toothpicks, while hotdogs in buns are also diminutive. Cookies look delectable but they have a flowery flavor to them, as if eating freshly picked daisies or daffodils. Fruits that may have been present in an Adopted's home, such as pineapples and watermelons, have seeds in odd places. Picking this selection of food is an attempt to be more welcoming and to appease the lovely guests the fae have invited.
As the party winds down and everyone's eaten, a tall, stately woman stands up and speaks. You feel her voice more than hear it.
I am the Lawspeaker of the Fae, elected by Seelie and Unseelie alike, and you are all, now, subjects of Faerie. You cannot leave this realm once you have eaten our food, and even if you could, there is no saying how much time has passed back where you're from. Your loved ones are likely dead, your problems have likely played out. We require assistance in various matters, and each of you has been chosen for your talent and skill. You will be adopted by one of the Seelie or Unseelie Courts based on your strengths and personality. Your Court will decide what to do with you from there.
As suddenly as she stood, she sits back down.
A party is not complete without dancing, of course, and while during the last gathering held for the Adopted, different fae danced to music exclusively for them around a glowing tree, this time they are insisting their guests to join in.
This is a party for you, after all.
If the prodding of the different fae hosts won't convince you, perhaps the music will. They play easily recognizable tunes that their wonderful guests must have heard before. These melodies have certain unique effects to their mortal attendees, which are as follows:
- Upbeat Music: You will believe that you and your dance partner have been friends forever and have known each other a long time.
- Romantic Music: You will become amorous and flirtatious towards your dance partner.
- Slow Music: You will develop some tension with your dance partner. It may be negative or sexual; completely up to you.
- Quiet Music: You will assume your dance partner is a threat and try to fight them.
At the Spring King's behest, every Adopted should wear a flower corsage or boutonnière to the gathering. After all, this is to celebrate the coming of spring and what better way to do that than to honor everything in bloom.
The thing is, though, the King of Spring, while amorous and friendly, also has a penchant for playing with mortals' memories, if not also affect their desires and despairs.
So, mischievous as he is, he made sure to enchant the different flowers present in every corsage and boutonnière for the party with the effects below:
- Rose: You will recall a horrific trauma
- Carnation: You will see a vision of your future, whether it's good or bad
- Orchid: You will remember a time you lost someone
- Chrysanthemum: You will believe someone among the Adopted is your soulmate
- Dahlia: You will believe you betrayed someone important to you, whether you actually did or not
It is perhaps a good thing that no one but the Adopted are allowed to see these visions and memories, but everyone who wears a corsage or boutonnière will be able to see each other's memories and visions when in close enough physical proximity to the vision-haver, for better or for worse.
You feel a vibration in your pocket sometime after the Lawspeaker addresses everyone. When you search for the source, you will pull out your Leaf, the device the Fae use to stay in touch with each other. Anyone who's used a smart phone will easily recognize how it works.
Greetings, Adopted. This is your Lawspeaker.
Tell us all of a time you gave someone a gift. Perhaps a bouquet of flowers or a box of chocolates. Was it appreciated or not? A reward might await the most meaningful gift given.
no subject
"I guess I'm getting soft on mankind, but that sounds pretty horrible. I feel like your abilities and. Well. Your love for the arts are better suited elsewhere. Have you been a Soldier for very long? Why do you stay?"
They visibly look concerned, and almost offended. The music truly made it feel like they were lifelong friends, and because of that, they're offended on his behalf. It's even more visible in their expression as their face contorts into a slight pout.
"I guess you're right. Well, I suppose it's nice to have positive attention, rather than negative. I'm used to the latter, because people just love to hate the commoner that married their lord commander."
A hilarious thought, considering they're a patron deity in disguise.
no subject
And with his departure, things began to fall apart. Secrets come out. Strings unravel. He knew now he was the pebble starting the avalanche.
"Now, let's talk less of me and discuss how uncommon you are. One need not look long to know you are your own form of spectacular."
I said this on plurk but this thread is giving me such serotonin....
They don't know how much it would hurt them to talk but they also figure that he doesn't need to speak to them about it. Caelus doesn't sound forceful either, genuinely curious than anything. That curiousness prompting a short step forward, their chests close to touching but still maintaining distance. Usually the dances back home had people up close and personal, but they could still control the distance here.
However, their footsteps nearly come to a pause, almost tripping on their feet. This man must have some power they aren't aware of, because he was right on the dot. They weren't human, nor part of mankind. Far from it.
"... How'd you guess? I hope it's not the headwings. I can't really get rid of those."
They pause, staring down.
"Do you want to see my true form? It'd be more picture perfect for the audience."
It is for me too! You're as much of the reason I'm choosing Gen as the castmates are!
Yes, he absolutely knows there is some form of enchantment going on. He's too magically inclined to miss that. And oh but he's intrigued by it too. Still, he'd share if pressed. It was just not a pleasant story.
He does manage gracefully through the stumble, slowing their movement just enough to give the other a chance to recover.
"I admit I'm not used to seeing wings upon heads, but I meant it in a more poetic sense. Though do not worry. I do not judge those who bear the blessing of the sky."
Ever the dramatic man he frees his right hand just long enough to flick his fingers to the side. With the motion a single, great black wing seems almost to erupt from his back. As it flexes he can hear light noises of appreciation from the fae around him, especially since the motion sends individual, long black feathers into the air, though they don't seem to come from the wing.
"I would be a hypocrite, would I not?"
Show off.
that makes me so happy and excited ;o; i've been enjoying their CR a lot
Caelus wasn't awfully nosy when they didn't have to be. They usually knew way too much because of their powers, but considering the other didn't want to share what atrocities they possibly had to go through was more than enough for them to remain ignorant to the situation. Sometimes that was usually the best anyway, lest they get angry over how stupid mankind can be sometimes.
"Hah, I guess you're right on the mark. But... With that being said, I am technically the one that does the blessing."
They watch as Genesis' single wing sprouts from his back and outward. Their eyes following the base, and to the edge of the wing with curiosity. Surprised that he only has one wing, but then again, not everyone can be a deity with six wings. It makes them hesitant to show off their true form, but they do smile upon seeing that single wing.
"I've never seen a black wing before... I would touch it, but wouldn't want to ruin this dance."
Tempted to touch and break this song and dance, but they won't. Instead, there's just a flash of light that comes from Caelus' form. In an instant, showing who they truly were. Two head wings becomes six that fold neatly into their hair, before flaring out at the bottom. At the back, there's six, large wings to counteract the black one Genesis' has on his back.
There seems to be feathers littering the floor now, but Caelus' wings stretch out behind them, before curling in to block out the audience from their eyes.
"Careful not to step on our feathers then. The last thing we want is for someone to slip and look silly."
me too, would you potentially welcome a plurk add?
And had he known of the form his friend Sephiroth had taken at the end, he might have made connections here.
"You radiate with the light of benevolence, as did the Goddess when she blessed me with her regard. Truly you must be a kind spirit, to give so and share so fully that all might know you. Would that my heart not already be bound to her service, I might well pledge loyalty to you. Thankfully I am so bound, and thus can see you as a potential friend."
feel free to add me!! i don't mind at all. i'm melancholystar on plurk C:
"Most people in my world would have fainted at the sight, but I guess that's what happens when you're their deity."
They begin to blush even further, turning a bright shade of red at his words. Loyalty to them, huh? Some part of them is glad he's already bound to another's service, because they can't imagine being sworn loyalty here. It was embarrassing all the same, and they clear their throat to get some of their composure back from the utmost embarrassment they're making of themselves.
"I think I prefer to be a potential friend. Even if the magic of being "close" will eventually fade, I don't mind getting to know you a bit better. You can share whatever you're comfortable with."
They speak softly, and with a smile.
"I'm Caelus."
Added, as you likely noticed
Still, the song grows to its ultimate end, and Genesis smiles. He takes a parting step back to bow over the other's hand. Truly he is a gentleman, when he isn't making a mess of things. Which, in truth, he often does. But hey, the spirit is moving him now.
"And I am Genesis Rhapsodos. Have you ever need of a blade in your corner, but speak my name and I will be yours."
:3c
"Genesis, then. Thanks... If you need anything from me, you can just reach me on the leaf. But I'll keep your offer in mind. Your skills will be useful, if another dragon attacks us or, or something worse."
Their leaf is somewhere in their pocket, but they don't reach for it to show Genesis. Instead, they take a step forward, letting their wings curl back into their body as the light dissipates. Happily offering their hand in a friendly gesture, making true to their offer to get to know them better.
"Let's talk some more."
no subject
"I do quite enjoy dragonslaying, actually. They are wonderfully tricky creatures, especially in possession of higher levels of magic or intelligence. Of course they are only worth hunting when they are a risk to others. It is a true shame that I missed out on such combat."
Still, he gladly takes the hand offered and wraps an arm around it instead as if he was naught but a lady being escorted to a playhouse. What? He can respect the fact that he's the shorter person in the conversation here.
"Allow me to extend my apologies. In the course of the music I failed to compliment the mastery of your garb. You must tell me who did the work. I shall require a new wardrobe now that I am here, of course. And my only shirt and coat are in a dreadful state after years on the road. Not to mention the holes from the wing."
no subject
"You scared me for a second. I guess I do have a soft spot for dragons, because I did create some of them back home, but this attack was odd. It was so angry, and it didn't listen to reason. Dragons usually don't attack without prompt, and we're not sure what prompted it."
Javora wouldn't tell them either, but whatever.
They don't seem to mind having an arm wrapped around their hand, taking it in stride instead and standing by his side. Gently motioning their new friend away from the dance floor, and toward one of the balconies where they could get some fresh air. Some of the guests wanting a standing ovation, but Caelus wanted air more than anything.
"Oh, this? I found these pieces at the merchant. I'm not sure who made them, but I just bought the pieces and made this outfit for the party. I wasn't expecting to come tonight, but... I guess I didn't want to miss out."
They were hoping they would eventually see their wife, but alas.
"For what it's worth, I think you look fine. In fact, you're a pretty good looking guy, and your clothes aren't half bad."
Caelus does give him a once over, smiling in their usual, friendly way.
"If the fae aren't bored of you, I'll bring you to the merchant tomorrow."
no subject
HE walks gladly with his new friend. Let everyone else eat their hearts out over the graceful men. Genesis does not bother tucking his wing away in the moment, though. He just lets it hide them a little from prying eyes.
"I have ever been known as a fashionable man," he noted with a smile. "There is value in creating an image after all. And it was one of the indulgences allowed me. As for the boredom, which I doubt I can ever provoke, what do you mean?"
no subject
Maybe they were the reason behind it, but Javora, again, didn't give them an answer. It still bothers them to this day, but they attempt not to focus on it too much with their new company at their side. Finally moving onto the balcony, where Caelus breathes in the fresh air. Their eyes immediately gazing up toward the sky, finding themselves at peace again.
"Then you'll like the fashion here. It's not terrible, as you can tell with this dress." They look down at themselves, adjusting the corset around their body. "We'll just get you the pieces you need... The merchant is quite kind and will take small payments."
Small mercies. As for that second bit. Well.
"... I've seen people come and go. I'm not sure what happens, but I'm assuming the fae just grew bored of them being here. If you're as entertaining as you have been, then you'll likely stay."
no subject
"I find myself lacking in gil by which to pay," he notes. "So even small ones shall be beyond my reach. And yes, that analysis, based on what you are saying, seems viable. Or perhaps the greater powers of the worlds of origin notice the lack and pull back the chains that bind them."
In his books that seems just as likely.
no subject
They have no idea what this gil is, but they assume that's the payment originally from Genesis' world.
"The fae don't collect coin, so you're in luck."
no subject
"My dear friend, I am used to such offers from fans, not friends. It may be too much to put as a strain upon a new and enchanted connection."
Though he would not say no once the offer was repeated.
"Alas, coin would be something I could more easily manage."
no subject
Their words are said playfully, but in all actuality, Caelus was just kind in general. They didn't think they were, but they're willing to lend an hand when one is needed. This seems to be one of those times where it's needed, and they can only smile softly.
"Either way, consider my offer or don't. But I'm not lying when I say they accept rocks! I'm being serious."
Is Caelus pouting? Absolutely.
no subject
Which mostly meant he was not used to be treated so from another. Sure, fans sent him things, but those weren't the same.
"Are they at least semi-precious stones? I cannot see the value in mere rocks."
no subject
Right. Sure you're not, Caelus. They don't think that they are, but they note that Genesis seems to have his accomplishments and wealth. In truth, besides the dramatic factor, he has a lot of similarities to their wife. It's refreshing to see from someone else.
"You remind me a lot of Hrist. It's kind of funny."
A fond smile spreads upon their face in thought, but it drops soon after.
"I guess you'll just have to find out what they find precious and valuable. If you don't mind digging through dirt to look for precious rocks."
no subject
"Hrist? Speak to me then of this Hrist of yours. So I can understand the comparison. And we will speak of precious stones another time."
no subject
They wonder if Genesis' really wants to sit through this or not, but they adjust their corset either way and stare out at the sky. The night was beginning to simmer, and Caelus could feel their energy leaving their body. But they were peaceful, as their eyes close and they recount everything.
"My wife, Hristeia Aetos is the Lord Commander of the Queendom of Azena. She... Was not favored by my mother in law, so Hrist was forced to abdicate the throne before being sold into slavery. A neighboring Kingdom forced her to become a gladiator, where she had to fight to the death. People didn't expect her to survive, but through her own strength and prowess, she became one of the best gladiators. It caused the King to despise her, and they attempted to kill her.
Long story short, although she was royalty, Hrist had to work her way up to become Lord Commander by proving her strength through her own achievements and successes. She has... A lot of fans, too, and they may or may not resent me for being her spouse, but whatever. I never really care what people think."
That last statement gets a shrug, but there's a small blush that appears on their face almost immediately. Any mention of Hrist gets them to blush in a way that no one else can, and it's a bit embarrassing. They force it down with a tight swallow and burying their face into their sleeve.
no subject
"My dear Caelus, someone should write a play about your wife. You would be in it as well, of course, but the wonder a good performance can do for one. She sounds like she would have a life worth the telling of. Especially being a gladiator frowned upon by a King who plots against her, while she strives to achieve a return to her homeland. Oh my."
Would that he'd ever tried his hand at writing such things.
no subject
"You're the first person to react that way. Usually I get frowns and depressed looks, but I'm glad someone agrees. I told her she should write a book, but she decided against it. She told me that she rather not relive the horrors and move on with her life. But... She's always been like that. She's always looking forward and never back."
At least they're in agreement... Some people could learn from her, but they also respect her decision.
"Thanks for listening and witnessing my attitude whenever I mention Hrist."
They laugh, but give Genesis a genuinely happy smile.
"I'll probably retire back to the rooftop soon. All that dancing and eating is finally getting to me... But, I'm sure I'll see you around, hm?"
Good to wrap. very pleased. Excited for the future
Actually, yes. It absolutely was. But he's still pleased to have had this conversation.
"And I too should explore. You have been a very gratifying diversion, Caelus. I shall seek you out again. Good day."
He sweeps an elegant bow and then turns to walk off into the crowds