IC Room

@❦ Kim Hyo-jong ¥✔ Hajun let his tail stay entwined almost gently guiding the other back to him as he leaned against the bar. He turned to the other as this was much more than just a simple dance. All of their interactions had been more than just a simple exchange or meeting - Hajun couldn't put his nose on why he kept pulling the other back to him. Maybe it was simply for the fun of it, or maybe he wanted something more than just someone to play with. But, then again, having someone to play with could be more than enough to him for now. He did have bigger fish to fry and other goals to achieve. He glanced over his shoulder waiting for the other to make his way over to him.

Hajun chuckled under his breath, hoping that his tease and play would draw out the playful and confident thunder kitsune that he knew was inside of the other instead of some small fumbling slave always holding himself back. Hajun tilted his head to the side, listening to him and smirking. "I would love to see you try - how fast really is thunder? Can you show me?" Hajun questioned him, bringing his drink to his lips not taking his eyes off of the other. His lips turned in a playful smile, nodding. Finally, pulling something out of the kitsune more than small glimpses of someone proud and not afraid to take on a challenge. He didn't flinch as the thunder rolled and cracked as the lights flickered. "I would have never proposed that you could catch me if I wasn't ready for what would happen once you do - but shouldn't I be asking you if you are ready for what might happen for when you do catch me - if you do of course," Hajun clearly stating that he wouldn't make it easy for the other - but clearly encouraging the chase.

@⚜ Wi Hajun The moment you released me, I felt the absence like a sharp gust of wind cutting through the warmth you’d left behind. My tail lingered where yours had entwined, your glow still pulsing faintly in the air, like a silent challenge—or maybe a warning. I wasn’t sure yet which.
Your smirk stayed with me, that sly, teasing edge hiding something darker beneath. It wasn’t just a dance, was it? It was a game, and you were baiting me to play. The rhythmic creak of the wooden floor beneath us faded as I watched you glide back to the bar, the casual confidence in your every move making me clench my fists under the guise of calm.

Sliding into the seat beside you, I picked up the drink you’d nudged my way. My fingers brushed the glass, but my gaze stayed locked on you. "You think I won’t catch you?" I asked, voice smooth but edged with a quiet dare. "Careful, Hajun. I might be faster than you think."

I took a slow sip, tasting the burn and letting it settle the storm raging in my chest. But as I placed the glass down, I leaned in just enough for you to hear me, my voice dropping lower, softer. "What happens when I do? Are you ready for that?"
I leaned back, the corner of my lips curling in a challenge as the storm outside cracked thunder overhead, the lights flickering ominously.

Enters in here and looks around, sits down with a glass of beer. my eyes liking the nice atmosphere of the room even when it's quiet in here right now.
Leans on my chair as I sip from my glass calmly.

@❦ Kim Hyo-jong ¥✔ Not having much attention for some time, Hajun enjoyed someone else's attention all on him and only him. Of course, Hajun didn't know himself just yet if he could use this as a trap or simply make it a cute little quest in the larger adventure that the two were questing in. Hajun smirked a bit at his words not letting the rhythm falter or his moves slow as they moved across the wooden floor. "I did say I keep my promises and would make it worth your while - of course, as I mentioned with more time this would be a bit grander than simply just this," Hajun answered, returning the tail flick with his own but instead of just a flick he let his midnight trial with a soft glow of red at the ends enter twine with the other's tail.

Hajun simply cocked his head to the side at his question of if he ever slowed down. "Maybe that is my ploy to keep you coming to me - don't you want to see what the reward will be when you finally catch me," Hajun paused for a moment a slight playful smirk on his lips with an almost sinister undertone to it - but of course, Hajun could mask it well. "If you can catch me that is," He added Hajun had the instinct to pull the back in - but instead stopped himself and let the other spin away, chuckling. He didn't comment on the other's whisper, waving a hand to dispel the magic in the air. He moved back to the bar as the drinks they ordered before their dance waiting for him. He gently pushed Hyojong's drink towards him, taking a sip of his own.

@⚜ Wi Hajun The music swirled around us, magical and alive, the hum of its rhythm pulling at something deep inside. The flickering red and black smoke made the tavern feel like it had been transformed into something out of a dream—or a trap. I wasn’t sure which, but it didn’t matter. You had my attention.
Your touch, that firm grip on my wrist, made my heart skip a beat. I wasn’t about to let you see how much it affected me, though. My smile was cool, calculated, but underneath, there was a storm of nerves, of excitement, of something much deeper I wasn’t ready to confront.
I moved with you, easily, confidently, feeling the heat of your body against mine. I wasn’t sure if I was keeping up with the rhythm or if you were simply pulling me along. "I have to admit, this is more than I expected," I teased, flicking my tail behind me, deliberately brushing against yours. "But tell me, Hajun, do you ever slow down?"
You were always just a little ahead, a bit too far out of reach. The music, the movement—it all blended together, our dance now the only thing that mattered. But as the final note played, I hesitated, my breath catching. You were so close, and for a split second, I wanted to close that distance.
But instead, I smirked, stepped back, and spun away. "Maybe next time," I whispered, daring myself to do something bold, but not quite having the courage to follow through.

@❦ Kim Hyo-jong ¥✔ Hajun was used to his hot temperature and how his body had changed that it didn't he didn't think about how it would come across to others. To him, he still felt empty and cold in his body and soul. Hajun let his lips curl up into a soft smile as he matched his movements - moving them around the dance floor that he had created for them. "With more preparation and time, I would be able to give you something better than this tavern and smoke instruments," Hajun let out a small sigh at his words. "Give me a bit of time and I can construct something more amazing the court or some silly shrine," Hajun bit his lip, one cheek puffed for but a moment. He shifted his gaze down on the other as he asked if he could keep up. "Of course I can - but the real question is if you are willing to take the chance to keep up with me," Hajun winked at him.

@⚜ Wi Hajun You didn’t give me a chance to prepare. One snap of your fingers, and suddenly, we’re the center of attention. The air shimmered with the magic you conjured, instruments playing a haunting melody as chairs slid away like obedient pets. My heart nearly stopped when you grabbed my wrist, your touch firm and searing, dragging me to my feet.
“Just follow me,” you said, your arm wrapping around my waist like it belonged there. My breath hitched. Did you always burn this hot?
I tried not to trip over my own nerves, but the rhythm took over. Step for step, I matched you. The weight I’d carried all night lifted with each spin, each sway. I forgot about the room, the strangers, everything except your hold on me.
“Not bad,” I teased, my voice shaky but playful. “Think you can keep up, Hajun?”

@❦ Kim Hyo-jong ¥✔ Hajun couldn't help but let out a small laugh. "Hmhm, maybe," He answered. There was a small flash of something dark that flashed over Hajun's eyes for a fleeting moment when the other dared him to make this happen. Almost something inside the other felt challenged - like he didn't think he would do it. Hajun raised up one hand and snapped, as whisps of red moved the chairs back and instruments formed out the red and black smoke sneaking up from the floorboards - starting to play a traditional folk tune from the peaks. Hajun stood up from his stool, reaching and wrapping his hand around Hyo-jong's wrist and pulling him to his feet. He pulled him close, wrapping an arm around his waist as the music played behind them. "Just follow me, Hyo-jong - just have fun for once," He started to lead them to the center of the room and started to lead him in a dance.

@⚜ Wi Hajun I chuckled at the idea of us dancing right here in front of everyone. “You’re full of it, Hajun,” I teased, glancing around the tavern with a raised brow. The thought of all eyes on us made my heart race, but there was something thrilling about the idea of you pulling me into the spotlight. I leaned in a bit closer, my voice lowering, and shot you a playful grin. “But... if you’re so confident, then I dare you. Let’s dance. Haven’t had a proper Kitsune dance in years,” I said, my tail brushing against yours once more. There was a spark in me, a mix of nerves and excitement, unsure if I was ready to have you so close but eager to see where it might lead.

Ian sits by the window with a glass of sparkling drink, ignoring the crowd as he is focused on mimicking a flying ship that he saw just now for the first time. a finger lightly swayed about, purple orbs glimmered in fascination as liquid slowly forms into an airship, floating above the glass in circle.

@❦ Kim Hyo-jong ¥✔ Hajun waited for his answer, hoping that maybe he would be bold again. Let the booze take his ambitions and let his mind run wild for a moment in order for him to hide behind whatever was always holding him back. Hajun nodded as if to confirm that was his question. He couldn't but grin at the other as their tails entwined together. Hajun's tail gently patted the other's tail as they sat there together. Some would see it as reckless or simply just them enjoying each other's company. His smile stayed on his lips as he saw the glint of mischief flash in the other's eyes. Hajun shook his head. "Of course not - I always keep my promises," He answered, reaching out to poke the other's flushed cheeks. He couldn't help himself. "We could even do it right here - it wouldn't take much to conjure up some music and then I just pull you and have my way with you," Hajun pointed out with a tilt of his head and his own mischievous smirk that appeared on his face. Hajun let out a small chuckle at him using the bar to cover himself. "You think that I am not charming if I don't have a few drinks in me?" Hajun teased with a slight pout in his tone and a huff of his shoulders. "But, I suppose another drink wouldn't hurt. You can get what you think is nice," He added.

Kibum entered the tavern, their metallic limbs reflecting the soft glow of the firelight. The hum of conversation mixed with the scent of aged liquor and oil. Weary, they slid into a corner seat, gaze drifting across the room.

“Dionysium Alloy, chilled,” they said, voice steady but burdened.
As the drink arrived, Kibum stared through the glowing liquid. “Every failure... another chain,” they muttered. Another day spent chasing a solution, another day of others suffering. The fog of Heleo felt heavier with each passing moment.

@⚜ Wi Hajun You’re dangerous, you know that? You lean in with that smug little grin, and suddenly I forget how to breathe, let alone think straight. “Do I want it?” I echoed, my voice lighter than I intended, like I was trying to play it cool. My tail, though, had other ideas—it brushed yours deliberately, and before I could chicken out, I let it entwine with yours. Bold, right? Or maybe just reckless.
I leaned closer, just enough for you to catch the glint of mischief in my eyes. “Let’s just say I wouldn’t mind seeing you make good on that promise. You’re not all talk, are you?” I teased, the flirtation dancing in my tone, though the heat in my cheeks betrayed me.
To cover it, I gestured to the bar. “Another drink, then? My treat—for research purposes, of course. Got to keep you at your charming best.”

@❦ Kim Hyo-jong ¥✔ Hajun rested his chin in his hand as his elbow leaned himself up right, gazing at the other. He chuckled softly at the nudge and bumped him back. "You have a point here - but like I told you - you keep me to that promise then it will be all yours - don't you want it?" One of Hajun's ears folded over as he asked him the question. He already knew the answer - Hyo-jong had already said it. He said that he wanted a dance. He was giving the other a chance - or more like telling him anything was his for teh taking if he simply took it. It was as simple as that. Hajun then shook his head at his next comment. "And who are all these creatures lusting after me?" Hajun glanced around then landed back on him. Hajun felt his tail brush against his, glancing down for a second. He reached out with one of his feet pulling the other's stool back to where he was and a little closer. One of his tails curled around his stool to keep him there. "You don't have to run - even if I had a fanclub - I wouldn't speak into existence any promises for them. Only for you," Hajun said, easily. He let his tail rest next to Hyo-jong simply just resting there.

@⚜ Wi Hajun Your words—Hyo-jong—they lingered in the air, a gentle caress to my name, and every time you said it, it was like a quiet praise. I couldn’t deny how much it made me want to be worthy of that approval, your approval.

I swallowed, the weight of your questions sinking deeper. "I guess," I muttered, trying to sound nonchalant but failing miserably, "but you can’t just go around throwing promises like that, you know?" I nudged you with my shoulder, the playful tease barely masking how your words made my heart race. "You’ve got a whole fan club of creatures lusting after you." The warm brush of my tail against yours made my stomach do flips, and I couldn’t stop the shy smile or the flush on my cheeks. I scooted away.

@❦ Kim Hyo-jong ¥✔ (( it's okay, you know that i don't mind long replies ))

Hajun set down the glass that he was drinking out of simply watching Hyo-jong from his spot. At times the other reminded him of a young buck or a sheep in the way that he acted. He let the other think that he was following him - but he could tell behind the eyes looking at him that there was much more to the story that the other ways saying. But, Hajun was never one to pry information out of someone when he could easily get it without force later on. He raised an eyebrow about him selling his freedom to fulfill an old obligation. "Could you not fulfill that obligation while also being a freeman?" Hajun questioned, simply just trying to understand. He wasn't trying to say he made a bad decision or anything like the sort. "I am not trying to say it is a bad decision or saying whoever you made this obligation isn't more important than your freedom - but Hyo-jong don't less this person squander or get in the way of your own dreams and ambitions," Hajun told him.

Hajun couldn't help but smile at his words and reactions. Most wouldn't say that he was kind nor was he much at times - so he wondered why he was with Hyo-jung. Maybe after all the days and minutes where he previously was - he wanted a bit of time not to be evil and horrible to survive.But instead to just be - just exist. Hajun shrugged one shoulder. "Then hold me to my promise - Hyo-jong. When you want me, send for me and we'll dance or do whatever you want," He told the other, leaning on his elbow on the bar top. Hajun nodded. "Then a dance you will get," Hajun stated, reaching out gently using his knuckles to rub behind one of Hyo-jung's ears.

@⚜ Wi Hajun [sorry apparently I no longer know how to make short replies OTL]

You'r words hit me like a slow-burning ember, igniting something I hadn’t expected. My name—Hyo-jong—rolled off your tongue with an ease that sent a shiver down my spine, leaving me momentarily breathless. I avoided your gaze, swirling the remnants of my honey wine in the glass, using it as a shield for the tumult of emotions threatening to surface.

“Well,” I started, a weak laugh escaping as I tried to sound casual, “I, uh... sold my freedom, you could say. New master, old obligations. Guess it’s just easier that way.” It wasn’t a lie—not entirely—but it wasn’t the truth either. The shame of my real reasons clung to me like the mist outside.
Then he said it—“Do you really need a ball or the Winterfest to dance with me? We could anywhere and dance together.” My heart stuttered. I dared a glance at you, and the sincerity in your eyes nearly unraveled me.

“I—” The words faltered, heat rushing to my cheeks. “That’s... kind of you, Hajun,” I mumbled, a small, bashful smile breaking through. “But careful. A promise like that might make me hold you to it.”
For the first time, I let the vulnerability show, my walls lowering just a fraction. “I’d like that. A dance with you.” My voice was barely above a whisper, the admission feeling like a step into uncharted territory.

@❦ Kim Hyo-jong ¥✔ Hajun raised an eye brow when the other mentioned that he had a new master that wasn't the vampire prince anymore. "You aren't under the vampire prince anymore? Who are you with now? Did you earn your freedom when you were crowned the blood trail champion?" Hajun was slightly confused as he didn't understand why Dawn was now with another master if he had won his freedom. Did he not choose that? If he didn't then he must have a good reason to why he didn't pick to be free anymore beyond it being overrated. Hajun then nodded. "I would like that - to explore with you and see all your hidden spots," Hajun sipped his drink.

Hajun snicked a bit, nodding in agreement. "A dance would have been nice, I have to agree. But, now Hyo-jong - do you need really a ball or the winterfest to dance with me? We could anywhere and dance together," He pointed out to the other. He caught the moment of disappointment as Hajun let out a small sigh. "I am sorry I didn't make that happen for you - next ball or party - I will whisk you on the dance floor and give you dance of your dreams," Hajun winked at him, meaning his words.

Winter nodded at Jiyong and looked at them and what they are playing, “What are you playing?” She asked the two.

Sora’s skepticism hit me like a brick, but I just laughed it off. “No catch, just a little something for those who know how to take it,” I said, leaning closer, eyes twinkling. “I’m not handing out favors, but I do know a good investment when I see one.”

Winter’s sudden arrival stole my attention. I grinned, pulling her closer. “You know, Sora, this one’s part of the family now. And we’re all about adventures, right?” I winked at Winter. “How about it? You, me, and Sora. The road to fortune and freedom could use a bit more chaos, don’t you think?”

@⚜ Wi Hajun Hajun laughter was a soft melody, and I couldn’t help but smile, even as the weight of your words settled between us. You settled onto the stool, tails curling around, a picture of comfort and ease. I envied that ease, that ability to be so… yourself.

“Shame,” I murmured, my voice a little softer now. “Would’ve been nice to share it with someone, especially with the ball hosted at my… former master’s place.” The words felt foreign, but they were the truth. “But, maybe I could show you around the castle sometime, give you a tour of the places I actually enjoy—my favorite corners of the garden, the hidden spots… where it’s quiet.”

I met your gaze, a little bolder than usual, the wine loosening my tongue. “A private dance would’ve been nice, don’t you think? Though I suppose that’s a dance I’ll never get,” I added with a teasing smile, but the disappointment slipped into my eyes before I could mask it.

Hajun shook his head, turning and pulling out a stool to sit on while his tails curled up around him or around the stool. Hajun wouldn't lie that this a bit more bold side was pleasant to see but that didn't mean he didn't enjoy the other's more introverted nature either. It was just a nice change even if it was brought on by booze. "Overated, hmhm? I suppose that it could be but at the same time - it does give you the strip you the notion of being limited," He pointed out with a small shrug.

Hajun let out a small laugh. "I was around and made an appearance - maybe not a loud one but the winter solstice was never a happy memory. My parents never celebrated when I was a kid - we taught to give back and stay at the shrine. Help the needy and the lost spirits that weren't being honored but inexchange their families sought presents and a frilly tree," Hajun honestly spoke, taking a sip of his new drink. "Besides I had a feeling my sister would sick her minions on me if I showed my presence too much - and I might be new but I know not to cause a big scene in the courts," He nodded

I barely noticed him at first, but then the weight of your presence hit me—the soft rustle of your coat, the faint warmth of your body near mine. Hajun. I swallowed a mouthful of honey wine, feeling the burn spread through me as you leaned against the bar beside me.

I blinked, caught off guard by your question, the alcohol giving me courage I didn’t usually have. My lips curled into a coy smile, and I met your gaze, eyes just a little too bold.

“I think freedom’s overrated,” I teased, my words dancing in the air. “But you know what I’d really like to know, Hajun? What’s the Winter Solstice to you? I didn’t see you at the ball. Were you too busy being... mysterious?” I let the flirtation hang there, hoping it’d be enough to mask the nerves twisting inside me.

Sora’s eyes narrowed, the smoke curling lazily from her cigarette as she studied Jiyong. His grin was too confident, and the hint of a "generous reward" made her spine prickle with suspicion. "Freedom with no strings attached? How convenient," she quipped, voice laced with wariness. "What’s the catch, Jiyong? You’re not exactly known for handing out favors."

But before she could press further, Winter came barreling toward them, her presence a welcome distraction. Sora’s protective instincts kicked in, her gaze softening as the young werewolf skidded to a halt. "Watch yourself, pup," Sora muttered, brushing a lock of hair from Winter’s face. "Don’t want you getting tangled up in whatever Jiyong’s plotting."

Hajun had been given his first drink, but down it faster than normal - so he found him venturing back down to the bar to order another drink. He caught the familiar visage of the new blood trials champion out of the corner of of his eye. He leaned against the bar close to the other, glancing at him. "Why is freedom a joke? Didn't you want that?" Hajun asked him

Winter walks in and sees both of her fellow wolves, she ran into them and hugs them in a surprise hug.

I grinned at her, the flicker of the lanterns catching the mischievous glint in my eye. "A leash? Please, Sora. You wouldn’t know what to do with one even if I handed it to you."

I stepped closer, the worn floorboards creaking underfoot. "But you’re right—no moon promises. Instead, how about a job off Materia Highlands? High risk, high pay. The kind of job that doesn’t come with a leash, just a very generous reward."
Leaning in, I whispered, "And for someone like you? A little freedom... if you play your cards right."

Sora arched an eyebrow, eyeing the shattered dart and the blades buried in the board. "Oh, how impressive," she mocked, her voice dripping with sarcasm. The tavern’s glow cast long shadows over the worn wood, reflecting the flicker of amusement in her ruby eyes.

"Fortune and freedom, huh?" She leaned closer, the faintest smile curling her lips. "Sure, Jiyong. But you know, I don’t take kindly to people promising me the moon and then handing me a leash." She took another slow sip from her pint. “Careful, I bite.”

The firelight danced as I tipped back my glass, letting the honey wine burn away the roar of the Blood Trials crowd still echoing in my mind. Freedom had been mine for the taking—a prize for my victory. Yet, I’d chosen chains. Officially, it was to watch over Emily, to keep her reckless self alive. But the truth?

Freedom terrified me. My tribe would never welcome me back, my sisters were gone, and without them, the world felt like a void.
I raised my glass with a bitter laugh. “To freedom,” I muttered, voice laced with irony. “The cruelest joke.”

Your dart hit dead center, and you smirked like you’d just bested the Demon King himself. Then again you've always had a flair for theatrics, but two could play that game.

I chuckled, sauntering to the board. "Sour, are we? Don’t worry, Master Gunner, I’ll show you how it’s done." With a flick, my blades landed back-to-back in the bullseye, slicing through her dart.
Turning, I raised my mug, the froth spilling over. "Here’s to fortune and freedom, Sora. The next mission’s ours—chains don’t suit you anyway."