ic inbox

[cutcloud]

INBOX TEXT ► un: jueyun chili

AUDIO ► call: "Hello, this is Chongyun. Please leave a note and I will respond as quickly as possible."

VIDEO ► facetime

ACTION ► [ a small mailbox with a rusty latch, with the characters 重云 scribbled across the front plate in neat handwriting; the worn old door has #19 blazed across its wood, in a building just off one of the main streets in Tamamo territory. ]

code credit

Comments

un: autumn, text

[rainswords]

Dearest Chongyun,

Though it's not been long since I last gazed upon your visage, nor has much time elapsed since I heard the melodic sound of your voice. It cannot be helped. I find the need to reach out to you at this very moment. Being familiar with you, blessed by your friendship, then I have no doubt you've taken it upon yourself to find what evil is afoot, what may be amiss and has caused a stir among the populace.

Let it be known to you that in spite of my own obligations to the alliance, I've made my own attempts to delve into the Kappa's conduct to solve the mystery behind their work for surely there is no need to keep their craft hidden. Unfortunately, I find my own endeavors into this venture to be met with the same end many others have encountered. Little resolution.

The gentleman I was last posted with to guard one particular entrance made his own advance into those dark, bleak tunnels but his search was fruitless. He came back emptyhanded, no further information garnered. Those winding dark paths, a daunting underground maze. Then I can believe many have opted to give up the search.

So here is my proposal. Next time I am posted to station, let's collaborate in search of answers. I shall provide you with the time, date, and location, wait to hear from me then.

Your most loyal friend, Xingqiu

P.S. Please be sure to bring some snacks.

[cutcloud]

Xingqiu,

It is good to hear from you. I had intended to write to you soon as well, since there is much for us to discuss. My clan has been keeping me busy, but that doesn’t mean I haven’t had time to look into what you’ve mentioned.

I want to tell you about the strange things I have heard about, and also hear more about what you have seen. Other than the Kappa, there are several people that I have met that I would like to tell you about as well. I look forward to seeing you and will wait for your reply.

I have already prepared enough popsicles! They are not as good as I hoped, since I haven’t found Mist Flowers or Qingxin, but they will do for now. I won’t pass out this time.

For you, I will also bring something else.

Yours,
Chongyun

[rainswords]

[ His eager heart devoured the message whole, delighted by the prompt response and the knowledge that he had been in Chongyun's thoughts. Because of course, he is after as he said in the message Chongyun's most loyal friend, his dearest. Content that their plans align, it was time for him to set the next scene in motion. Yet from his cot, he cannot help but wallow in the satisfaction he received from that short read.

A sigh. Deep and longing. And his eyes peruse the message again. If he laughs and smiles, it's only proof of further contentment. And then he has a short response to send Chongyun's way. Short. ]

Admittedly I find myself occupied quite often, leisure time doesn't seem to concur for us too often, which is why I thought my suggestion would satisfy your needs. My own as well, though I may be a member of the Sutoku Alliance, for my loyalty I require full comprehension of this faction's mechanism but of course, if I were honestly my heart is somewhere else.

For now, I suppose I'll satisfy myself with the surprise you'll have in store, so don't tell me what snacks
you plan to bring along for me. I want to take the time to try to guess.

There is something else I want to discuss with you presently, I believe through this method of communication it should be quite fine. Your continued search for evil spirits, so far it's been quite fruitless. So how about rather than going to them, why not have them come to you. It seems like anyone and everyone has one of these mobile devices. So, let's give them a call.

[cutcloud]

[ Short. Only to Xingqiu, who could even wax poetic over a grocery list. It’s not something the exorcist would admit out loud—but he’s endeared, always so, lips taking an upward tilt at the (what he would consider) lengthy response.

In the quiet seclusion of his room, he can read it over again and again, a little marveled by quickly these phones make exchanging letters and a lot marveled by his friend (but that isn’t new). Really … Xingqiu is just great. He doesn’t know how to describe the way he’s feeling in the moment, only finding “stuffy in the chest” and “itchy under the skin” to be somewhat close. ]

We may have been placed in different groups, but it doesn’t change anything. Not between us or our individual goals—I will put both above the Tamamo anytime, though I don’t plan on going against them.

Go ahead and guess. With the range of options here, I’m not sure you’ll manage to get it.

I wouldn’t say fruitless, exactly… I have met many spirits, though I wouldn’t call them evil. I’ve started thinking that maybe the truly malicious spirits are kept somewhere else. It would make sense, wouldn’t it? The worst are isolated. That’s just a guess, though. I bet the Enma would have more information. I feel like that faction has access to a lot we might want to know in general.

As for these devices … it’s fellow lost souls, isn’t it?

un: autumn, text

[rainswords]

My dearest friend,

How do you fare? Life here within the Sutoku district is rather lacking, though admittedly I can find my own adventure within the pages of a novel. The selection is vast, endless even, and never before have I gazed upon a shop so large. It's astounding to see, truly a sight to behold. Although there are some strange selections to be found. But I've managed to find guidance on where to begin my journey by immersing myself in scripture.

No, it's not solely for entertainment. I'm aware I lack key knowledge in comprehending elements of this hell, it's impossible for me to understand how it functions. Take for example the Kappa, though I've heard of yokai before this specific creature was something I knew not off.

But on a lighter note, let me share with you this:

Upon rendezvous with death, the flame of ambition finds its end.
Extinguished by its newfound fate, bound to follow its master to the end.
A dream dimmed consigned now as a hollow husk.
Vision without light, eye without sight, the last breath drawn the beholder must depart.

It's not very well structured, it was improvised, so at the time, I suppose it served its purpose.

[cutcloud]

Dear Xingqiu,

I fare as well as ever. My condition in the Tamamo territory is a challenge, but I have met an interesting man, a medic, who has some knowledge on the matter. I owe him a great deal, since I have been able to find new methods of managing it here. The territory is, itself, the same as usual. Too much. If Sutoku isn't exciting for you, you can always come here. As my guest, they won't give you too much trouble.

My family's tomes have mention many creatures here in Hell—or many like them, at least. I'll admit, I can't say I'm finding it lacking when I can finally approach spirits ... most tend to avoid me still, but it's still a step in the right direction! If you do have questions on some of these spirits, I may be able to help. If not, we can find a book together. I've been wanting to buy a directory of different types of spirits, if one exists here.

I think it's well structured. It sounds very nice... even if our Visions are basically useless here. It's a good thing neither of us depended on them. Have you written anything else? I would like to hear, if so.

Your friend,
Chongyun

[rainswords]

That's fortunate, surprising even, but I suppose that may be due to a difference in experience? Although I haven't exactly made myself readily available so I have limited perspective on the personalities to be found about. But honestly, I'm glad to know you have come across someone so willing to aid you in your time of need, a great effort I must say on their part.

As for visiting Tamamo, I think it best I remain where I am. In the end, that's not the type of excitement I want to experience, thank you.

As for creatures, I am not sure what to categorize some as, that's the problem. In a manner, some have a familiar ring due to past research I've done. Take for example some of the vulpine women within Tamamo, or the tengu here where I am. See I don't have questions now because I am not sure how to approach things. I mean encompassing everything I know so far, I don't not even sure if I'm content with what I've done.

And no, I haven't had a chance to put anything into text. Everything I think about is ugly.

un: autumn, text

[rainswords]

( ooc: whips this inbox )

Well Chongyun, I believe we all received the same message. The funeral services will be held soon, and you seem rather keen I take greater care in being attentive to the alliance's affairs. I suppose there is no other option, although it doesn't appear that attendance is mandatory.

[cutcloud]

I don't know about keen ... it just seems like a good idea to stay in the loop. Don't you think?

My boss wants us to go to pay respects. I need to find funeral attire. They wear black, here. Should I buy a suit?

[rainswords]

Become further entangled within the machinations of differing ideologies, shepherded to do the bidding of some unknown master knowing there is likely to be sprouting animosity between different groups. I'm content investing my time in pursuit of knowledge found within pages

I am not entirely certain if they wear black, I haven't asked, but I am sure you would look handsome in a suit.

text; un: matoba (one week after Night Parade goes down)

[worldbent]

Chongyun-kun,

I have received something quite useful, recently. I would like to share it with you, but the current climate calls for some discretion. Do let me know if there is somewhere safe from prying eyes where I can leave it for you.

While I am at it, how are your injuries healing? It will be a few weeks yet before I am able to use this arm well, but this should more than suffice to make up for it.

Regards,
matoba まとば

[cutcloud]

Master Matoba,

Oh? That is very generous of you. Thank you very much. As for locations, I have attached the address of my apartment if that is sufficient. I am also frequently assigned to Cat Paws, a cafe in Tamamo territory, which might also be good.

My injuries were not so bad, it’s just my shoulder that’s been sore. A few scratches that should heal up within the week with proper care. I regret that I was not able to better fend off their attacks, but am glad to hear your shoulder is on a steady recovery. If there is any way I can assist you while you are recovering, please call me right away.

- Chongyun

1/2 physical mail (a day after the rest of the conversation...)

[worldbent]

[The package Chongyun will receive to his apartment in the next day or so is a simple, A4-sized manila envelope, unmarked except for one peculiar thing; the opening of it was sealed shut with the use of an ofuda.]

[Unlike the blood-drawn one Matoba had used that day, this one is drawn neatly with ink and brush. But the power of the seal was far crisper, more precise. One might say, professional. It gave off the sensation of something most spirits should not- could not touch, but for a human such as Chongyun, opening it was a simple matter.]

[Inside is several more ofuda, and a handwritten note.]

Chongyun-kun,

It would be a bit of a scandal if I were to distribute these to you too obviously, so please take care to use them only in an emergency. You will find that wearing these charms on your person may absorb a malicious attack once.

I would prefer their existence was kept to your knowledge, only.

By the way, if you have any additional concerns regarding our previous discussion, I would recommend seeking なとり-san's advice.

まとば

[As for what he should seek advice about? Well............]

2/2 text;

[worldbent]

Chongyun-kun,

Excellent, then I shall see them securely delivered to your residence.

Your help was greatly appreciated that night. It seems that we don't make such a bad team, do we?

Speaking of that night, I wanted to discuss an additional matter. It is of a more personal nature, so I hope you won't mind my asking.

Your acquaintance Xingqiu-kun, how would you characterize your partnership?

Text; un: PantsonPyre (after the mission, around 2am)

[localweirdo]

Chongyun,

Are you there? It’s me, Hu Tao! I hope you’re doing well for I wanted to let you know we are doing fine!

Please let me know when you’re awake for I have much to tell you!

Hu Tao

her un is a blessing

[cutcloud]

[ ... there's no one else he knows that would have a username like this. He's certainly glad to hear from her, though the hour is late—but with everything going on, who has time for sleep these days? So his response is surprisingly prompt. ]

Hu Tao!

Yes, I am awake. I'm doing well — I'm relieved to hear you're doing fine too. Do you need anything? Require any assistance?

Please do tell. I won't be sleeping anytime soon.

Chongyun

[localweirdo]

[It might take her some time to respond as she is being rushed to the hospital!]

Chongyun,

I don’t believe any assistance is required. Although, I wouldn’t mind if you come visit me in the hospital once they allow visitors.

But yes, it was quite the adventure! You would be rather pleased to know I got the Enma to bow to me!

Hu Tao

action — (evening of chongs birthday)

[rainswords]

[ Persistence had done little to help Chongyun, rather Xingqiu himself was surprised his friend had not managed to immediately decipher the initial reason behind his request through the network. It was obvious, or at least, he thought it was. He also suspected that Hu Tao managed to understand what the plans were. So, naturally, he had felt grateful that she had not dug in too deep nor attempted to, he is certain she would have teased him mercilessly about his poor singing abilities or just the fact that it all involved Chongyun.

Either way, he had been resilient (as always) and not divulged information that would ruin the surprise he had in store for the exorcist. Aside from requesting to have his company on this particular evening, all Xingqiu communicated through text is that it would be a birthday surprise. That being obvious due to the date he wanted them to spend time together and yet he branded in that manner. Once he revealed the nature of the surprise Xingqiu imagined Chongyun's blue eyes widening in realization as he strung things together. Cute! Even cuter is the memory of that boy's flustered expression and he knows that would also come along after awareness.

Xingqiu could kiss that boy! And he would too!

Preparations for this day had commenced months ago, mostly it all involved the menu he would serve on this day. Changes and improvements to recipes of dishes Xingqiu hopes Chongyun would enjoy. Everything would be cold, or if not room temperature at the very least. Kindly (and because it is a celebration) he skipped anything that would invoke any reactions, there would be nothing spicy, that's for sure. It was singing that he had procrastinated on, he finally accepted the need for instruction. This does not mean lessons would end after his friend's birthday, they would continue.

Once his scheduled shift was over, he had been quick to head home. Ingredients had been purchased the day before, presents as soon as they became available from his supplier, and there was one last surprise. Although, he knows the board is more of a game he can spin it as something more realistic for Chongyun.

Arriving at his friend's door the keypad wouldn't be an issue to finding his way inside. The death of the electronic system would surely look about as suspicious as him crawling through a window. Giving it some consideration, some analysis of the system, well it looks like only one number on that pad has seen use. 1-1-1-1 is not what he expects would get him inside, because well, it shouldn't be that easy but it works.

As much as he wants to contemplate Chongyun's security a quick change in the code is all he does, it was best that he gets started cooking. That is exactly what he does, making every dish he planned for this day. It's only when he is just about done that he hears the struggle outside of someone attempting to get in. He'll assume that would be Chongyun, and he slowly makes his way to the door. He listens as the code is attempted twice, pensive, a hand at his chin before he reaches forward to open the door from the inside.

And there Xingqiu stands in his work clothes before he curtsies for his friend. ]

Welcome home, Chongyun〜♥

You look confused.

Is it because of the keypad code? Hm. Well, I changed it. You know, it is dangerous to have something so obvious be the code to get into your home. Something could happen. I'm kidding, of course, I know you are capable of handling yourself. For now, however, the code has been set to 0-9-0-7.

[ He steps back to allow Chongyun inside while he marinates in that information, yet a smile is slowly creeping its way to his features. ]

[cutcloud]

[ For once, he hadn't had work. For his birthday, in a rare move, Chongyun had decided to take it easy with a lazy morning before going out for some shopping and visiting a few friends within the Tamamo clan. Nothing big—true enough, he hadn't made any large plans for this birthday. Maybe because it felt too strange to be celebrating in Hell and so far away from the clan.

More than anything else, he's looking forward to the evening and spending time with Xingqiu. Which is why he stops at the bakery on the way back to pick up some baked goods. With the bag in hand, he heads up the stairs to his apartment and punches in his very lazy code ... lazy enough that when it doesn't work, he's surprised. It's only 1-1-1-1. How could he have forgotten it? When the second punch doesn't work he's ready to kick the door's ass, but it opens without warning.

Confused? Understatement. A better word would be dumbfounded. Not because of they keypad code; the moment the door opened and he saw Xingqiu's face he had figured out what happened. No. No ... it's that outfit. Uniform? His mind goes blank after he absorbs the fact that his friend (ambiguous) is wearing a maid's uniform. The expression on his face must be priceless, but there's absolutely no way for him to control it. ]

Uh, um... that's, um. You, you—... in. That's.

[ Flustered, Chongyun can feel the heat burning his ears and cheeks to a bright pink. Clutching the bag of pastries for dear life, the boy somehow manages to shuffle inside without passing out, though he's feeling extremely lightheaded. Is this what a stroke feels like? Overheating because of his condition is nothing new, but right now it feels like a kitten's paw is scratching over his heart along with the dual sensations of wanting to pass out and explode.

Stupidly, he manages to put the bag on the table. His mouth is so dry. ]

That's fine. You, you can change it ... what are you wearing?

[rainswords]

[ Rather than offer any form of assistance, Xingqiu's gaze remains fixed on the exorcist struggling to form a coherent sentence. Slowly he brings a hand up to his chin as he observes his friend practically drowning through his words. The onset of his condition is visible, and that is what prompts Xingqiu to step aside allowing Chongyun entry into the apartment.

Once the door is shut, Xingqiu follows just two steps behind his friend until at last Chongyun stops at the table where the bag being held is promptly set down. He almost expects the thing to tip over and spill all of its contents, thankfully it doesn't. All he manages to do is shoot it a quizzical look but there would be time to ask about it later, for now, he pulls a chair out for Chongyun and motions for him to take a seat. Considering what he is wearing, maybe he isn't entirely surprised there was a reaction. Although, he views his outfit as tamed when compared to — well — just about anything else he has worn. ]

That's what you're going to ask? Well, I suppose I should answer appropriately and promptly. Chongyun, I am wearing... [ The pause is entirely unnecessary, just like the closing gap between them before Xingqiu rests fingers lightly upon Chongyun's chest and leans in to whisper in his ear. ] Clothes.

[ And with that he pushes Chongyun right into the chair he pulled out for him with a laugh. ]

I believe you meant to inquire about the reason for my choice of wear?

[ He can't help a shrug. The explanation for that is simple enough and he readily offers it. ]

I was at work before I rushed to get here on time. All I had time to do was grab a few things from my flat before making my way over here. I've got just about everything ready for you. Why don't you go ahead and relax? Maybe a bath to soothe you? How about that bubble bath I offered you?

For his birthday!

[localweirdo]

[Should Chongyun look at the front of his door, he'll find one neatly wrapped present. Should he look even closer, there happen to be a note on it. It says:]

Dear Chongyun,

I wish you the greatest birthday while you are here. I certainly hope you'll enjoy my present for I believe you'll greatly benefit from it.

May you have a great year here.

Best wishes,
Hu Tao

[In the box, Chongyun would find a bottle of hot chili oil, a kit on how to make popsicles, a blue kyanite hanging around a string for good luck! ....Because he will need it.]

[cutcloud]

[ Hot chili oil ........ what evil is this. But the rest of the gifts are nice!! He can just, slide this oil into the farthest point of his cabinet and never let it see the light of day. Too dangerous. Must not consume.

And she will receive a note in reply, ]

Dear Hu Tao,

Thank you for the birthday wishes and gifts. I look forward to making popsicles!

Your friend,
Chongyun

text; about an hour after the explosion

[worldbent]

Chongyun-kun,

I hope this message finds you safe and sound. Please take care given the current situation.

It is my hope that all the clans will avoid jumping to lay blame, and continue to work together in harmony to face our true enemy.

Let's work together to not lose sight of things, hm? Let me know if you need anything.

まとば

text, un: autumn— (backdated to before j💣6a💥w)

[rainswords]

Greetings Chongyun,

Here is hoping you aren't too busy, however, that's likely to be the case. Despite appearances, the alliance is also keeping everyone occupied. It's likely you heard about the talent show, well the second portion that was hosted recently. Did you happen to attend? I never got a chance to ask. Did you know auditions were open to just about anyone, that is as long as they were willing to come to Konoha. That's right, about the nightclub, I am working there now as well. That's my new assigned post as of my most recent promotion.

Anyway, about the performances during the talent show, there weren't too many lost souls with an interest in participating as far as I could tell but there were quite a few youkai. It's my belief that many were attempting to capitalize on the fact that a popular music ensemble had no choice but to go on hiatus. Strangely enough, after viewing some of the acts I did check some of Moonday's music, and as it turns out many of the performers attempted to emulate their style. It's like that saying about imitation but maybe this is taking it too far? Or it's just in poor taste at the moment.

Oh! You know, there was one performance by a young man with blond hair. His act did remind me of Xinyan. Ah, to think, I believe she would have quite liked this talent competition.

Right. So despite our faction appearing to get endlessly sidetracked, currently, The White Wolf Guard has mandated that all Sutoku Alliance members participate in some kind of fitness test. Already some people have attempted to circumvent this order. From the looks of things, not many of them have successfully avoided participation. I don't want to say it's a complete waste of time, but it hardly matters when not everyone plans to or is capable of heading out into the wasteland.

But you know. Orders. Just kidding. That's not why I completed these exercise drills, it was just easier to get it over and done. It helps that the guard was busy salivating over one of their own. Hehe. That's kind of funny when you consider that they're called The White Wolf Guard. Oh get this, I've heard that they've perfected the disappointed puppy dog face. Strange right? I am not sure how they manage it.

But I am done here so perhaps this message is entirely superfluous, after all, I do want to see you. Well, Chongyun, would you perhaps be willing to keep me company?

Forever yours,
Xingqiu

P.S. I've heard that this is quite common for people to do, therefore I thought I would give it a try. So attached to this message I sent you a picture of myself in the current outfit I have chosen to wear. Your honest thoughts, please.

P.P.S. I almost forgot, there is one more thing. I've been meaning to ask if you might know about pegging masters. It is imperative that I know about this.

ᴀғᴛᴇʀ ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴀɪɴ ᴄᴏᴍᴇs ᴅᴇᴡ

[rainswords]

I don't have to tell you what today is. That's right, it's the day after cold dew. And my birthday.

There were hopes that I could for once dictate how this day would be celebrated. Unfortunately, that was not destined to be. As much as I want to believe that I can carve my own path, there are things that seem to be inevitable. Of course, even that can't put me in a dour mood. There are still many fond memories, one of the most special to me is the time our paths first crossed.

And of recent, is that step forward we took together.

When I caught sight of you under the pale glow of that ephemeral grove as a shower of pink petals cascaded around you, it was then that my heart ached for something more. Or perhaps there was always a dull pain of longing that I foolishly failed to notice before. I wished for more than the comradeship we fostered through the years.

It's safe to say that I am enamored by you. Through all this time you have always found a way to captivate me. It's your earnest soul, your kind gaze, and your giving nature. I cannot think of anyone that can better match me than you, my dear friend.

Maybe I am feeling a little dazed after writing all this. I really am embarrassed. I am smiling too. It feels like my face hurts. Don't come to see me now! Give me time to recover and tonight, perhaps after my little excursion we can meet! How about it?

You can't say no now because I'll be waiting for you at Wangshu Inn. There is a book we have to finish.