#// 'So disgraceful! So disgraceful!' | Pre-Entertainment Verse \\

[deathly-toxins]

@fallesto - “Don’t you want to be saved?”

He was convinced now.

The world wanted him AND his sister dead. There was no other rhyme or reason, no reason for these twisted as hell adults to burn his poor sister alive like they had. He should have been there, he SHOULD have been with her today..

But no, no he had to be out scrounging for what ever few coins he could find to at least get Ume something to eat. Something to stave off starvation just another day. Stupid.. STUPID!

He'd kill them, he'd kill every last one of them if this world let his sister die. So he cried out, he held her charred body ever so close, hoping that something.. someone.. anyone would listen.

But it was no god that listened, no Buddah...

"I don't care about myself! I just want to save my sister! She doesn't deserve this! She never deserved this!" Tears were falling down his face like waterfalls, even if the temperature was far below freezing. They burned with fury, anguish and hatred.

"Please.. Please you have to save HER! I.. I don't care the cost!" He was begging now, he didn't care if this strange man had limbs dangling around him, he didn't care if the cold air reeked of death. The blood staining the ground meant nothing to him, only Ume in this moment.

Only her fading heart beat and breath.

[littlelord]

the ASOIAF / HotD / GoT fandom does not talk about the Velaryons enough, (and i know y’all know why. work on that.) so let’s talk about them. I present:

Velaryon Appreciation Day 1:

Corlys Velaryon

The lack of recognition for Corlys is DISGRACEFUL in this fandom.. I genuinely didn’t know he was a main character until I watched the show this week.

So here are some reasons you should appreciate or at least recognize Corlys:

1. He loves his wife more than anyone on that show. Easily the best husband out of the lot.

2. Literally Rhaenys’ #1 fan

3. Puts aside his long-held ambition to have his blood on the throne when Rhaenys asks

4. Is one of the biggest supporters of Team Black

5. ..I’m not kidding, do y’all remember how he kept vying for Rhaenyra’s claim long after her death? Yeah

6. Dude got arrested and sentenced to death for plotting to unseat Aegon AFTER RHAENYRA WAS DEAD

7. Like instrumental to Team Black and Rhaenyra’s line succeeding the throne, especially post-dance

8. Some of the best hair in the series i mean COME. ON. :

the gold bands? that length??? outdid.

9. Some of the best outfits, especially among the men of HotD

10. He is THE Sea Snake, ruler of the seas!!!!!! Lord of the Tides, Master of Driftmark, Head of House Velaryon, and Princess Rhaenys’ husband (the final is obviously his best and most important title).

11. My dude is HARDY. Recovered from a near-fatal stab wound and intense fever at 70(ish) years old.

12. He is so sweet to Luke. Fights for him as heir to Driftmark despite knowing they are not blood related (“it was just so the Velaryon name stays on the throne!” so? he could’ve supported Vaemond’s claim but he chose to support Rhaenyra’s child, his grandchild)

(look at little Luke and his grandsire😞)

13. Driftmark is cool as fuck and he’s the Master of it so that’s another point to Corlys.

14. I said it once I’ll say it again: GILF.

15. (extra credit): Steve Toussaint (Corlys’ actor) seems to be a great guy. He’s funny, v entertaining in interviews, comes across so genuine, bffs with Eve Best (Rhaenys’ actress), and is a huge GoT nerd (seriously. he is the only one who can answer any questions about GoT in the interviews i’ve seen him in). And fun fact- as I was looking to see if he’s overtly problematic, I discovered that all of his twitter likes are just “human kindness” and funny animal videos.

And the worst thing is that if he looked like his pre-HotD fancast/fanon version, people would not shut up about him.

“He’s soo fine”

“I need a husband like him”

“We need to talk about him more.”

..and you know i’m right!

FINALLY:

I am not saying you have to like Corlys (especially if you do not fw any asoiaf men, which i deeply respect), but free him and House Velaryon from this double standard you hold them to.

Like I better not see anyone who appreciates, recognizes, or likes Daemon or Aemond or Criston or even Alicent talking about how Corlys is “too prideful,” “too ambitious,” because look the fuck around!!!!!!! who isn’t in this goddamn verse!!?!??!!! and also you know what?? if my beautiful amazing badass wife was denied her rightful throne, i’d be mad about it too!!!!! even after she said she was over it!!!

if you made it this far, i’m thoroughly impressed and even more grateful that you have heard me out in this Corlys Velaryon rant!

[themusicenthusiast]

Single Review: “Lightning Strike” by Judas Priest

The Priest is back!! …It’s not like they ever went away, though. Nearly four years since the release of their last record, Judas Priest is finally offering a glimpse of the new music they’ve diligently been working on from the forthcoming FIREPOWER, coming in the form of “Lightning Strike”. Scheduled for release on March 9th (and out via Sony Music Entertainment UK Limited), it’s looking like this will be some of Judas Priest’s most incredible work to date, so suggests this lead single. “Lightning Strike” reaffirms that the British quintet is one of, if not the, greatest purveyor of metal music ever. Still retaining their edge, even over four decades in to this legendary career. While it comes across as sounding like classic Priest, there’s undoubtedly some new spark present that defines this song – something that presumably will be noticeable throughout FIREPOWER – that defines this as its own era within Judas Priest’s impressive discography. Perhaps that’s due to the band making sure they took somewhat of a different approach to crafting this release, ensuring this eighteenth studio album would stand on its own. Maybe it’s because Richie Faulkner is still new, FIREPOWER marking just the second album that he has contributed to, and thus providing a slightly different flare. Whatever it may be, “Lightning Strike” is unquestionably new Priest, with a classic touch.

“I'll bring you the head of the demon. I'm peeling the skin from his face. The life that you lead is inhuman. Its cause and effects a disgrace!” Rob Halford begins, that first verse, lyrically speaking, being an instant classic in regards to Judas Priest’s material; Halford sounding as immaculate as ever. Singing, belting, and occasionally, shouting, he puts his vocal chords through the paces fans have come to expect, though they’re no less astonishing than they’ve ever been; a sense of ferocity radiating from Halford’s voice as he sings. Built upon an exhilarating rhythm section that the combined forces of drummer Scott Travis and bassist Ian Hill form – the two setting the swift pace that is crucial to the track – it is punctuated by a plentiful helping of soaring guitar riffs.  Glenn Tipton and Faulkner are in rare form on “Lightning Strike”. From letting loose licks that, at different times, embolden either the rhythm section or the vocals, to demonstrating their full prowess, be it on the solo in advance of the final chorus, or the sweet licks that adorn the instrumental segments between the verses, it’s essentially an all-out shred fest that elevates the single from outstanding to epic. Combining the sounds that made Judas Priest fresh and riveting so many years ago with some modern -- or at least slightly new -- elements has resulted in an astounding blend of both eras of Priest. Exciting and compelling, it would seem that FIREPOWER is shaping up to be some of Judas Priest’s strongest work to date; and if you want to read into “Lightning Strike”, it would seem to be making a notable statement by addressing some societal issues. With a month and a half or so to go before the release of this new album and thirteen more songs from it to hear, fans will have to wait a little longer to get a better picture in regards to what FIREPOWER will be like. But based off of this one single, it’s rightfully deserving of being one of the most highly anticipated releases of 2018. Pre-order FIREPOWER on: iTunes | Google Play | Amazon MP3 Visit Judas Priest’s websites: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Youtube Current Shows: March 13--Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza--Wilkes Barre, PA 15--Covelli Centre--Youngstown, OH 17--Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum--Uniondale, NY 18--The Anthem--Washington, DC 20--Prudential Center--Newark, NJ 22--Mohegan Sun Arena--Uncasville, CT 23--The Palladium--Worcester, MA 25--The Arena at TD Place--Ottawa, Canada 27--Budweiser Gardens--London, Canada 28--Tribute Communities Centre--Oshawa, Canada 30--Casino Rama--Rama, Canada 31--Masonic Temple--Detroit, MI April 3--The Riverside Theater--Milwaukee, WI 5--Resch Center--Green Bay, WI 6--The Venue at Horseshoe Casino--Hammond, IN 8--Grossinger Motors Arena--Bloomington, IL 10--Casper Events Center--Casper, WY 11--Budweiser Events Center--Loveland, CO 15--ShoWare Center--Kent, WA 17--Veterans Memorial Coliseum--Portland, OR 19--The Warfield--San Francisco, CA 21--LAS RAGEOUS FESTIVAL--Las Vegas, NV 22--Microsoft Theater--Los Angeles, CA 24--Comerica Theatre--Phoenix, AZ 26--Bok Center--Tulsa, OK 28--The Bomb Factory--Dallas, TX 29--Smart Financial Centre At Sugar Land--Sugar Land, TX May 1--Freeman Coliseum--San Antonio, TX 5--Corona Heaven & Hell Festival--Mexico June 5--Spektrum--Oslo, Norway 7--Rockfest--Hyvinkaa, Finland 12 PILSEN HOMEMONITORING (HM) ARENA--Pilsen, Czech Republic 13--Spodek--Katowice, Poland 15--Full Force Festival--Grafenhainichen, Germany 17--Firenze Rocks--Florence, Italy 19--Messenhale--Freiburg, Germany 20--Sick-Arena--Friedburg, Germany 22--Hellfest--Clisson, France 24--Graspop Metal Meeting--Dessel, Belgium 26--Samsung Hall--Zurich, Switzerland 30--Download Festival Caja Magica--Madrid, Spain July 2--MEO Arena--Lisbon, Portugal 5--Rock Fest--Barcelona, Spain 19--Rockwave Festival--Athens, Greece 21--Hills of Rock Festival--Plovdiv, Bulgaria 24--Budapest Arena--Budapest, Hungary 26--Metal Days Festival--Tolmin, Slovenia 28--Stadthalle--Vienna, Austria August 2--Hauptstraße 47--Wacken, Germany 6--013--Tilburg, Netherlands 10--BLOODSTOCK FESTIVAL--Catton Hall, United Kingdom

[deathly-toxins]

"HA-HAHAHA!" He cackled as Kiba twisted and thrashed in his arms. This was all too much fun, at least in Gyutaro's mind. He couldn't get away with any of this with Daki. He could not handle her so rough...

Well.. He could. But that was his sister, he wasn't going to do that to his little sister!

But Kiba? Kiba was free game!

"How? That's easy, I'm older.. I'm stronger, and I got those big brother senses, you know?" His smile was wide on his face as Kiba kept thrashing against him. Even the claws on Kiba's legs could do little more than dig into the tough skin that covered the muscle of Upper Moon Six.

He was known for his durability, for skin that slayer blades couldn't even cut. What good could Kiba do.

"Let go? Okay!" Letting go was.. an understatement as instead, Gyutaro slammed Kiba into the ground by his head. Right as the kick landed in his face and at least knocked him back a foot or two as he stumbled back, a wild grin on his face. But he did 'let go' in a sense, as in releasing Kiba from his grip.

"Like hell you are, pipsqueak." He cackled, looming over Kiba in his usual stance. Hunched over, his yellowed eyes glowing in the dim light of the house back storage rooms.

"You don't have a ghost of a chance to beat me, you gotta play smarter than that, Kiba! You're as dense as Daki is!" He chuckled, not even bothering to draw out his sickles. Why? This was not someone he was trying to put down, to kill and dice into ribbons. Nah, it was some wild demon that him and his sister wound up 'adopting' in a sense. Which meant Kiba was target for the same heckling he gave her.

"Now you gonna want to eat or not? We can save this for after, alright? I didn't eat on the job, so I'm starving." He grumbled, smile fading a bit as he took on a more serious tone as he slipped fully into his typical form. The grey and blotchy black skin, the green fading into the strands of his hair, and his terrifying grandeur in full display.

Kiba had been rather reluctant to leave his mountain behind, at first. But when Muzan in person came to offer him even more strength, in exchange for the promise that he would seek to accomplish his potentiel beyond the limits of a mere mountain... Kiba couldn't refuse.

No more waiting for food to find him. Kiba had set out to actively hunt down the slayers, to destroy the small villages on his way, and leave no survivor behind.

And when he had found out about cities... it was truly jackpot.

Endless sources of humans, crawling at his feet, waiting to be devoured. He had caused quite the ruckus when he had attacked this place, where the humans never seemed to sleep as they usually did.

He should have expected to find other demons there. Upper Moons.

Kiba refused to concede defeat. He would show up again and again, a little stronger each time, hoping to see the day when he would beat the mantis guy.

Today wasn't that day.

"Screw you!! How d'you always find me?!" Kiba barked, twisting and thrashing in the other's grip. "Let go!! I'm definitely kicking your ass tonight!! I can feel it!"

His legs twisted at impossible angles, the claws on his feet aiming to slice into the wrists that kept his arms captive. Either he could sever the hands entirely, or he would use the effect of surprise to try and kick his fellow demon in the face with enough force to break his neck.

Harmless sibling fun!

[deathly-toxins]

@cryopathiic - Continued from HERE

The past few days had been tumultuous at best. Memories, hazy with just enough to cling to in order to both understand his predicament, his sisters and also still hold onto the many reasons why he chose this path to take.

But it didn't make things much easier, when had it ever been easy for him or his little sister. The world didn't like to show them mercy, at least until now. And only after they were brought to their lowest point.

This temple was, at least for now, a home. A place of stability that they didn't ever know. He had taken to the transition far easier, more lucid in his mind even as they were given their very first bits of flesh to dine upon. At least compared to his sister, a testament to how strong the boys mind was, is.. what I could grow into eventually.

This little place, the Lotus Ponds.. He enjoyed visiting quite frequently since coming to the Temple. He never got close to much here, however. He kept a healthy distance from the ponds, the flowers, keeping to the well trodden paths the followers tended to. A patch he could sit in and simply watch as everything existed without disturbing it.

This place was a stark contrast to himself... He knew he was hideous, a terrifying sight. But there was a pride that swelled in him when someone brought it up. He knew, and he owned it. But there were moments like this, that his pride did waver. Especially when surrounded by beauty, and he was the horrid beast. While his sister, a gorgeous white rose, fit in perfectly.

He didn't know exactly why he outwardly uttered those words, but sometimes when those worries bubble, they boil over and spill out before you can put a lid on it. Ume.. no- Daki, the new name she'd taken for herself, was usually the one to quickly soothe those worries, but.. she was else where in the moment.

So when Dōma touched his shoulder, he couldn't help but move his yellow and red gaze to meet crystalline. Brows furrowed before he looked back down to the ponds. And he couldn't help but lean into the others touch, albeit it was an unconscious effort. If Dōma's followers were around, he might have pushed it away. But.. not in a quiet space like this.

"I know I've.. been a trouble and a half since you brought us here." He admitted, he was still trying to come to terms with the blood that coursed through his veins now. Even talking with a mouthful of now all too sharp, and straight teeth was a challenge when they'd all been broken and crooked before.

"How your Followers try to avert their gazes when ever they're around me, can't be easy to be around me in that case." So much beauty, and he seemed to be getting more monstrous as each day passed as his status as an Oni grew; as his strength was growing.

"I'm usually fine with it.. but.. I guess it just got to me tonight." He grumbled, idly scratching at the underside of his jaw. Still not used to how sharp his nails had become.

"Maybe I'm just hungry..." That's gotta be it, right?

[deathly-toxins]

"Nii-san, I saved you some food."

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

A dull thud of a few unconscious humans echoed in a hidden chamber beneath the Entertainment District as they were shaken free from their strange Obi-prison. The Princess of the upper moon finally had a moment alone.. and in a rare moment of quiet, Daki found herself wanting something. Something dear.. something, close. Something.. that she at times believed to be utterly worthless when spoken about by pathetic humans. Companionship.

"Eat with me."

Just because she was the face of their status as Kizuki, it didn't mean that Gyutaro was going to be neglected by any means. Muzan's favorite of the pair needed to grow stronger after all. Perhaps his sister took pride in making sure someone was able to closely watch over him and made sure he had meals often enough to do just that.

It wouldn't take much more than her quiet invitation for him to come out of hiding, to emerge from where he always lay hidden. Within her own body. Normally, he rested there, slept.. laid in wait until he was needed.

Maybe some moronic humans needed to be slaughtered in the back alleys, or some slayers came sniffing around to cause trouble. Or.. he was just feeling a touch bit chaotic and wanted to bother his dear sweet, little sister.

Either way, it only took a whisper and he'd come to Daki's aid, every single time. But.. this was a calmer moment, so suffice to say, he breathed a sigh of relief when he was greeted with the sight of the hidden chamber under the Orian House.

"What's wrong.. didn't want to eat alone?" His tone was naturally teasing to her; a hint of a chuckle in his tone as he slumped down next to her and eyed the unconscious bodies. Ooohh.. still breathing~ That obi of hers was quite something.

Even so, he wasn't blind to notice his sister's low attitude. So his usually willy grin faded away to one that was a touch more flavored with concern. So he'd raise a hand up, and gently brush a few stands of her pretty hair behind an ear.

"Someone give you trouble today or something?" He may have slept most of the time, but he did pay attention to the clients that came in and out of the establishment. Didn't take much to manifest an eye to peer on out, and he'd always been discreet in it. But he didn't catch anything today... Hmm.

But if someone did give her trouble... There was certainly that dangerous edge in his tone.

"If they did, you know I can take care of them..." Always willing to do the dirty work, just to make Daki feel even a little bit better. After all, they had the power to just.. get rid of idiots that gave them issues. And eating them helped to ensure they never got caught.

"Unnlleessss." That grin twisted it's way back on his face. "This is them, eehh?" Another chuckle.

[deathly-toxins]

@astra-stellaris - ∗ o5﹕ sender  comforts  receiver  in  the  aftermath  of  a  nightmare . //i giv big sister astra

It had been brutal...

Up until this point things had been incredibly simple. Eat humans, grow in power, repeat each and every night. But being made by the, at the time Upper Moon Six.. it meant that both Gyutaro and Daki had some massive weights on their shoulders. They were expected to start battling up the ranks, to show that Douma's choice had not been wasted.

The brutality didn't come from the blood battle, in fact it was almost too easy. The once Lower Moon Six was a pushover, completely and utterly overwhelmed by the might of both him and his little sister. But neither of them were prepared for what joining the ranks actually meant.

It meant more of 'His' blood being gifted to them.

It had only been a drop but it was agonizing. Daki was taking it the worst as he held her in his lap, arms around her.. cradling her as she tried to sleep it off. The fact neither died then and there though meant that they'd gained that favor, that they would rise in the ranks.

And in both their eyes.. 'Lower Six' was carved.

Entering into the ranks of the Kizuki also meant they were allotted new privileges. They'd been working on a way of existing among the humans, away from Douma's Temple, but in the mean time were now allowed to stay in the confines of their master's fortress, the Infinity Fortress. A room all of their own.

It.. was nice, a stable, quiet place to get their bearings and let their new power settle into their flesh and blood. It gave him a moment to think back on the battle. The ones present who were watching. There had been their master, of course.. presiding over the bout. Then the Upper ranks at his side, At least two of them had certainly been keeping a close watch on the battle. Especially the one who stood closest to Kokushibo, Upper Moon One.

Those thoughts and his churning blood finally pulled him to sleep. Demons didn't need it, not normally.. but it helped pass the time, helped him relax for the mean time.

Until it didn't.

He didn't know what time it was, only that he was.. disoriented. Memories, flashes of his old life plaguing him. Fears welling in him that if he dared open his eyes that everything they'd worked on to this point would be lost. That they'd wake up.. on the streets again, surrounded by snow.

No.. worse, waking up to his sister's charred body in his arms and that no one would come for them.

Gyutaro's eyes snapped open and he shot up in a mild panic. Looking around.. Their room in the Infinity Fortress greeted him...

But, Daki was no where to be seen. Instead, there had been a blanket pulled over him. No doubt she'd done that, getting up before him to go else where.

At least she'd recovered, that was a weight off his chest as he pulled the blanket off of him and tossed it to the side. The problem now was.. where had she gone? With a grumble, and still quaking from the 'nightmare' he left the room. It was about time he took a look around this insane labyrinth.

Upon stepping out though, he wound up seeing someone else. It was the other Upper Moon that he'd spotted next to Upper Moon One during the blood battle. What was she doing here?

Still, minding his manners, he taught Daki them after all, he bowed his head to the other, not even daring to lift his eyes to her eyes out of respect for those higher in rank. If it had been another Lower Moon, he might have tried to antagonize them..

But not an Upper Moon.

[deathly-toxins]

@fallesto - Continued from HERE

"Makes them painfully easy to exploit. It's disgusting, honestly." The hunched over figure grumbled out. This whole conversation sprouting as the two looked out over the well-lit streets of Yoshiwara. Humans bustling about without a care, many drunk or in various state of stupor from the air and general nature of the infamous Red Light District.

All the while, the room they sat in was dark, well concealed, perfect for keeping out of sight and out of mind.

"But it means we can benefit from their behavior. They throw it all away, so I gotta make em' pay for it." Even Gyutaro understood a need for the services this district provided. He was just baffled no other demons had the mental capacity to set up in a place like this.

Well.. The smart ones got the prime hunting grounds.

Still, it was.. pretty rare to have the Demon King himself show up though, out of all people who walked through the establishment doors. Especially with how Daki ran the place, he was essentially a high value guest, a VIP, which meant Muzan-sama could simply walk right through like they owned the place.

And it wasn't essentially wrong, either. Considering a good amount of money they made from this place, went right to the Demon King's coffers.

It didn't make the nature of the area any less unsavory though. Gyutaro HATED how humans just threw away their lives in this place. How disgustingly loose they were with their coin and lips. It was privilege at it's finest, and it made him twitch to an unbearable amount.

But, it all meant Daki could get things she wanted. Anything she ever wanted... And that made it worthwhile to Gyutaro.

Plus well, he still worked as this orian houses 'Debt Collector'. The only caveat is he ate the people who were late on their dues. A silver lining since people were murdered, went missing and were taken out all the time here. The rivers ran deep with blood here, and not necessarily due to demon hands.

Still, his master's words did give him pause, and he turned to look at him almost.. bewildered? He knew praise was rare to get coming from the Demon King, according to Douma..

But it felt damn good to hear it, none the less.

Sure him and Daki had risen quite quickly into the ranks of the Lower Moons over the past few months. And they were already making plans to move further. Not satisfied with being on the lowest rung. Especially after they've taken out almost three Hashira already, who had come snooping around.

They'd essentially been catching up to the one who brought them into the fold. Well, Gyutaro had. Daki was..

They were a packaged deal, and Gyutaro always made that very, VERY clear. Where he went, his sister went. And vise versa.

"Yeah, she's performing tonight for a high profile guest. Pays real well and upfront, so that was a priority." And they figured it was best that the 'favorite' of the two be the one to receive their Master while she continued with the outward face for the establishment. It's what let them live so covertly like this, and in such good conditions.

Humans basically willingly walked right into their waiting maws.

"She's also been working her charm on some more bookish-folk that have been coming around lately." Another use for this place.. Information.

"Been trying to expand that field so we can see if anyone knows about.. the thing you're lookin' for." The flower... Seems the two demon siblings had been quite busy since Muzan's last visit!

[deathly-toxins]

@fearsnosun - ❝ what is this fighting all about ? ❞

Damn rich bastards. A set of drunkards that stumbled in as customers and had the gall to gawk and ogle Daki while she was working. Which was typical, but these dimwits went a whole different step further while ruining her gorgeous new kimono.

So.. he took care of them. Let them wander off into the Red Light District until they were in the alleys, then he struck. He wouldn't even give these bastards the honor of being a meal for him. They weren't worth it, disgusting.. Disgraces!

Then, someones voice picked up. Shit-

He was gonna have to kill a third person tonight eh? No witnesses, mean murders and shit happened in this place every damn night of every damn day, what'd matter if...

Wait a second.

He stared at the half-pint that had so brazenly approached. That isn't a human, his eyes narrowed.. bright yellow eyes that read 'Upper Six', scanning over this other. Another demon, no doubt about it, the stench was all too recognizable. But it wasn't one he recognized. Especially since most stayed way the hell away from this district.

Confusion was the first look on his face, the long and awkward pause that followed was all too palpable.

Were they lured in but the fresh kill? Mean he wasn't going to eat them. The corpses reeked of booze which already made his gut turn, and he only saw them as trash for how they ruined his sisters kimono.

Then again, vultures were good at picking off what the predator didn't want. Maybe that was the case.

"Eehhhh? Nah.. Just some stupid humans. Who are you? You want em? I don't give a shit, I killed em' for fun, and revenge. But that shit isn't important." He grumbled, turning away from the small demon. They were tiny, didn't look strong, not a threat so he didn't care.

Still...

He looked over his shoulder, hunched as he normally was.

"Waaaaiiittt.. how long you been here for? You better not be looking to take our turf here, this place belongs to Upper Six, you got that? Me and my sister, you got it!" He bared a row of all too straight, sharp teeth at the demon. A smile, but it was anything but friendly. Malicious, to back up the threat.

A threat was usually enough to scare off lessers once they heard he was of Muzan-sama's upper ranks.

[deathly-toxins]

❝ Please don't tell me that there is no escape from here... ❞ (kiyo)

"Escape?" He looked a little confused at her words as he scratched the underside of his jaw. This place was a maze, sure.. but what city in this damn country wasn't? Considering how the humans built so many things so damned close together, the winding alleys really could get dizzying.

"Not really. Mean.. my sister and I tried to when we were humans, and look at us now.. we came right back." He huffed bitterly, paired with the sound of a crunch as he tore a humans arm from the socket. An easy night of hunting while Daki was hard at work at the Kyogoku House. Sure, he could have eaten a human from the storage room she kept, but he wasn't going to bug her when the orian house was so busy.

Plus, he could hunt for himself. It wasn't hard.

He wasn't expecting to be followed by another though. Didn't this one hang around the Master a bunch?

"But if you mean physically getting out of here? Yeah, eventually you'll get to the main street. And they always got that lit up brighter than the day. Shit doesn't even quiet down until dawn starts peekin' over the mountains." He hated it too, because even in the day it was noisy. It made it hard to sleep the day away.

It made him miss Otousan's temple, how quiet it was. How no one bothered him.

[deathly-toxins]

Territory. Something that mattered the most to Oni. How much they had, how good the hunting grounds within it were..

Both he and Daki had found their own, nestled within a populated district called Yoshiwara. Their old stomping grounds, and it was all too easy to slip into the roles to play there.

But.. it was no 'home'. Not much one one, anyway. But what was home to an Oni? Maybe it was a bit of humanity Gyutaro still clung to, but.. the Temple was that 'home'. The humans within were all too pleased to see the 'prince' come for a visit. But it was not them he was here for..

He simply waited, waiting to be addressed as he watched the elder Oni enjoy the falling rain. Tensing at the nickname the other so 'lovingly' gave to him.

"I ain't see no written law on that." Maybe for lessers but I don't think that applies to you know.. us. He snapped back, his usual demeanor. In the time they had become beasts of the night, Gyutaro had ever so quickly earned favoritism from their Master. Even so far as to seemingly get away with ensuring his sister rose in the ranks with him. Plus.. at a time four Oni lived within the temple halls. A 'family'...

But it didn't change the fact that the rebellious Oni was a typical 'rule breaking teenager' still in his mind. He got snappy with some, snarky and sassy with others. Though no one could ever admit a small crack of a smile from their master when Gyutaro back-talked upper five at the last meeting.

"Daki's been busy with the Orian gig in Yoshiwara. And we had some runt run off without paying, so tracked him out to the country side.. And.. well.. figured I stop by, since it was on the way." A small smile broke onto his face.

"Actin' like it's a bad thing I wanted to stop by and see ya' Otousan. Letters are fine and all but.." Ever so crude in his words, but the feeling was there.

Gyutaro missed this place, and of course, wanted to see Douma again. Nothing wrong with that, in his mind. One of the two stable adults in his and Daki's lives.

He wondered where the other was right about now...

[deathly-toxins]

“It had to be done. You understand that?” From Daki over on @mamorihqs 🥺👉🏻👈🏻

"And just look what that did..." Gyutaro let out a disgruntled huff as he carefully brushed back Daki's hair. It was a mess, her pretty new kimono was a mess, there was blood and viscera everywhere.

"You're a mess..."

They'd sent more this time to investigate. More slayers, another Hashsira.. And they were little more than smears now on the wall. But they just had to strike when the two were separated; while he was out collecting dues from clients of the Kyogoku house while under a human-like guise.

Had to make sure the dumb humans paid on time, or they'd become food.

Yet, of course the Slayer Corps would strike then, which means they had to be wiped out to prevent that information from getting out. How long had they been investigating? He didn't know, and didn't care.

"We'll need to get you a new kimono..." Not too big of a deal, they could get that done tomorrow night with the dues he's already collected. The house made them more than enough for their own expenditures outside of what the gave over to Muzan-sama.

He did NOT expect.. however.. for his precious little sister to go after them alone. Thus leading to the current mess. Still, he couldn't fault her for taking action, as brash as it was it.. in her words 'had to be done' or else they'd have escaped by the time he returned.

What the slayer group had not counted on, however.. was them crossing with his patrol rounds. Thus was their undoing.

Another worthless Hashira under their belt, a few incredibly weak slayers now in featureless heaps of poisoned flesh on the ground. But that didn't change the fact that his sister was a mess because of it.

"Let's get back and get you cleaned up.. ehh? Gonna need to lay a bit low if they're sniffing around like that. Disgraceful.."

[deathly-toxins]

// Tags Drop | Verses \\

[deathly-toxins]

Gyutaro's brows creased with worry. That was one thing he refused to let go of, his sister and the memories that brought them this far. It's what truly kept him going, remembering and being able to push ahead so they could have a better life. To get out of that horrible hole humanity shoved them into, and rise above them.

Still, sleeping wasn't something he expected to need to do. He knew some other demons did so to pass the time, or stave off mental exhaustion; but never physical. So at least he didn't feel as bad engaging in sleep even now, even if their bodies didn't physically need it. After all, it's what he did while hiding within Daki's body.

He slept. It helped keep his mind sharp for when he needed to protect her.

"I'll do that next time, then. She'd love to see something like this. We never had the chance to visit such a place." Living so far from the coast was a big contributing factor. Unable to afford the ability to take a trip out to the coast to even enjoy the sights was far beyond what they could do as humans. And now, they were focused on establishing themselves in Yoshiwara.

The sudden ferocity in Astra's voice did give Gyutaro pause. For the samurai to even still be alive now, even if he hadn't gutted him like a pig, would have been impossible. Humans don't live that long, and the samurai was certainly old. He still didn't expect to see someone get mad on his and his sisters behalf though.

"That so? That's.. good to know. Daki and I certainly have aspirations to rise higher. She's... enamored with the master." Which wasn't a bad thing, not at all. And his tone showed that. If anything he was amazed she even was so determined to prove herself to their master. With how men in her life as a human treated her.

"And having multiple places to lay our heads is always good." Gyutaro seemed to have still some gentleness to him. But it was obviously only reserved for his sister, and perhaps those he cared about. And it was all too obvious when ever he brought her up. He was a force driven on vengeance and protection, and while yes.. he was a demon, he was gluttonous and greedy.. He funneled it into a purpose of making him and his sister happy.

He valued their happiness.

That was why they made a push to join the Kizuki ranks. It was a step up in power, another way for them to gain the happiness they both desired. And their eyes were aimed toward the Upper Ranks. To prove to the one who made them that they could, that they were strong.

That the world couldn't keep them down.

"She's good at reading people, always has been. " He did note the number in her eyes. Upper Four. She didn't look like much either, but if what she said was true then.. his sister truly had a chance. Even he had to admit that she wasn't as strong as he was. He was the muscle being their duo, faster, smarter, and far more deadly when it came to his blood art.

But at the same time she flourished with her influence, with her silver tongue and ability to manipulate humans with her beauty. She'd even undermined a few demons in that way as well. They countered one anothers weaknesses, and even became unkillable because of their unique circumstance.

"I-.. thanks. I'll keep that in mind." A small smile pulled at his face, it was strange seeing it from him. For such a lumbering creature that so many would turn and scorn, to just have a warm smile that seemed actually quite thankful. But it came from a place of hurt, of having no one in your life to actually show care and support.

So to have that, finally? It certainly felt nice.

"That extends to you too.. Daki and I are set up in an Orian House in Yoshiwara, the Kyogoku House. It's surprisingly safe and really quiet in the day."

[ ― ❝It's a proven thing -- unless the memories were severely traumatic, they fade very quickly. I've seen demons forget names, faces, even that of their own family. They become nothing to them, during that time... and it's the very same for humans. The mind is a very dangerous, and very wonderful thing, and must be taken care of, regardless of demon or human--❞

Astra knew what she was talking about.

❝So that means you're going to be sleeping regularly. Both of you. One's mental state is always worth that.❞ And forcing the demons to do so was something that she did quite often. Her studies and research spanned years -- over a century, and the more she learned, the more she put things into practice. She may not have been able to forget anything, but she could assure him that those memories would fade the longer he lived.

❝Maybe next time you can bring your sister. This is a quiet place for me, and--❞ Kokushibo, but she wasn't about to tell him that. She had to admit that he was a little intense... and very intimidating. Even to her sometimes. And that was alright, they were both intimidating in their own way-- ❝Well, you'll learn about that eventually.❞ She would have to make sure that she invited them during the night, specifically because... during the day they would die.

❝That's my name, yes! I really enjoy watching fights, so I was very excited to see yours -- you know, I love swords, and I've been making more forms lately. Maybe we could spar later, and we could help each other out, yeah? You were very clever and very quick. You put things together really fast, so you'll really enjoy fighting me.❞ They were both fast like that.

And then --

Her claws dug into the table.

❝It's a very good thing he's dead, then,❞ she commented, ❝Because if he weren't, I would hunt him down and kill him myself, and then bring you his head to display in your bedroom.❞ Because nothing comforted someone more than watching the person that caused so much trauma die.

❝... The infinity fortress is open to those that are higher ranked. You can have a permanent home, here, or you can find one out there, or both. As you can see, Nakime's blood art extends to those places where we consider ours. This place leads to my home, and it brought you here, and when the door opens, you'll be back in the fortress' hallways. As long as Nakime has been there, and been able to leave some of her blood... it is possible to travel to there. So you're never too far away.❞

There would always be a safe space to retreat to.

Demons weren't kind. They weren't nice. They weren't anything other than demons. She felt as if she and Hades were an aberration of the highest order, being able to retain the majority of their previous personalities, and their minds. But that probably had to do with the fact that once she realized that they would fall to the same path... she worked on it and figured out a way to have everything.

Watching Muzan and Kokushibo begin their recoveries were more than enough.

❝... Be mindful. Your sister understands -- but I'm not sure you fully do. The world is painted in shades of grey, never black and white only. Sometimes those that are your friends truly aren't, and some only hang on to you to drag you down.❞ She cautioned. ❝Demons are very much the latter. There are others you'll come to know that will use everything they possibly can to rise in Muzan-sama's esteem. And sometimes, all it will take is a single misstep from you, a single wrong sentence, and they will destroy you with it.❞ Gyokko and Hantengu, and to a lesser extent, Douma.

❝And then there are those that appear the opposite, who would help you more than you realize. Most of what they say about demons are true -- we enjoy bloodshed, we would eat our own if we were given permission to,❞ of which Kokushibo was allowed to do, ❝And there are those that can understand and help you, and those are few and far between. Power is a currency among us. The stronger you are, the more you're respected and the more you're allowed to do and have. Or, you become one of Muzan-sama's favorites, regardless of the number in your eyes.❞

She pointed to her own, ❝And you prove yourself to him in other ways.❞ Upper Four, hers would read. ❝I'm not as physically strong as other demons and for that, I work towards when I can take a spot higher, the same as you will. If you make yourself stand out, if you prove that you're an exemplary demon... you will find more ways to rise and more ways to become more than your eyes suggest. This world is cruel, but with us, you have rules and know where you stand among those who matter.❞

❝You can consider me a safe place for you to rest. Hades, too. You've... done enough... to earn your place, here. And I like you. You have my favor, and no one's had that for a very long time. If anything happens, come to me, and I'll have it disappear. No matter what it is. Unless you've displeased Muzan-sama directly, and then -- well, that's a personal problem.❞ She laughed. ― ]

[deathly-toxins]

This little pipsqueak couldn't be actually serious right now. How fresh faced were they? How did they have no idea what a demon Slayer was?

Wow, how pathetic did you have to be? Or lucky to not come across them.

"Black uniforms, use dumb, special swords to behead people like us, really annoying and preach about revenge or self-righteous bullshit all the time. They're really.. really obvious." He never took his eyes off the weird girl. Mostly out of both curiosity and weariness. Was this some sort of new trap laid by the Corps? Using some weak, disillusioned demon as bait to lower his guard?

Nah, they were never that smart. They charged in and caused nothing but havoc on their dumb 'missions' to kill demons. Sure that worked on weak ones, or those who went utterly feral but.. the smart ones? Nah...

"Usually got crows following them around too, haven't been any around here though." He grumbled angrily. Good. Him and Daki worked rather hard to make sure no one knew where they were hiding. They blended in neigh seamlessly into the city. His dear sister, a high-ranking Orian and well.. he hid within her body unless someone had to die...

Or his sister got lonely and wanted company...

Oooorrrr he wanted to be the annoying big brother and heckle her.

"But uhh.. you see those jerks? Steer clear of them. They only want to kill you." That was about all the 'advise' he'd give to such a weak demon.

"Better get out of here, I'm feeling generous and lettin' you go on your way. But this territory belongs to me and my sister, Upper Moon Six. You got that."

Confusion seemed to have sprung up on her face. He wasn't attacking her like the rest? He could easily do so and yet he's just telling her to leave. She shook her head at him when he asked if he was ugly. Maybe he is ugly, but she wasn't put off by it. So this is the redlight district? The first place she walks into after so long, and it's taken over by another demon? She assumed she would have gotten attacked again like last time, forced to defend herself and fight. When he called her weak, she looked down at herself, maybe that's why she got attacked? She then looked back up at him with what looked to be thoughtless eyes.

She stared at him as he rambled on about how 'perfect' She looked, and dismissed her. But then he said 'Slayer'. Her gaze finally broke as it appeared that the word snapped her out of her thoughtless trance, emotion flickered in her eyes once more.

"What is a slayer?" She asked as she seemed to have spoken once more. Her voice was just as soft and innocent as before. She really did seem like a defenseless kitten.

"What do they look like?" She had not seen any slayers unless they were the scary people with special-looking swords assisted by crows? Maybe that's what he meant? She was still trying to get a grip on what is going on, and why were there people trying to hurt her. She just felt so lost, and confused about everything.

[deathly-toxins]

There was a long, long pause from the boy. Not that he was contemplating his answer, or that the ramifications of the murder was weighing on him. He was simply taking the moment to curl up under the nice, soft blankets next to his sleeping sister. Though he stayed sitting up for now, looking toward Douma-sama.

"It felt like for the first time I had control over something.." The boy smiled. "It felt good. It felt good to be able to control something for once, to control the outcome..." He put a hand over his mouth as he yawned. He was exhausted, today had been...

Horrible, but it ended with a miracle. Their worst nightmares had begun, but it was soon stopped by a pale, rainbow eyed man. Sounds like something out of a folktale..

The second pat on the head made the boy give a light grunt in acknowledgement. He wasn't exactly sure why Douma-sama did that. Was a weird gesture but, maybe it was just how the eccentric man was.

Once the candles were blown out, the room cleaned and the door was slid to a close.. He turned to look toward his sister.

She'd hardly stirred this entire time, the occasional turn, or her hand reaching out for something. But never did she once open her eyes. So, he turned to her and tucked in the blankets around her to make sure she'd be warm before making sure the futon he would use was right next to her.

For the first time, they wouldn't have to share their warmth, or what little covers they had.

It felt.. wonderful, he felt safe.

"Things are finally looking up, Ume."

And thus, his eyes would draw to a close, lulled to sleep by a full stomach and the warm blankets.

It was a mouthful to try and spit out, but it was better to use his name than his title and not fill Gyutaro head with too much information, little human boys, he doubted they would know anything truly of what was out there, what was happening within the darkness, he supposes now, Gyutaro living within the slums for that long, might have been a blessing for him, to avoid another demon finding him and chewing him up.

Yet he had nothing to worry about, he had a single diet, and little boys and girls were not part of it, besides, he had already worked wonders on the little girl, the little boy was soon to be next and he would finally have what he wanted.

A chance to gain something far grander for himself.

“Did you like it Gyutaro? That feeling of a life within the palms of your hands, and being the one who decides, what to do with it?” As he leaned closer to judge his reaction, killing was sinful, but sometimes it needed to be done to those who sought to harm you, he has killed those like samurai, too many times now, little slayers running around with there swords, they were rather dangerous little things if they knew what they were doing with them.

“That is incredible ..”

The fierce look in his eyes, at the mention of his sister.

He could hardly see a problem with such a thing, perhaps this was what was needed, to push Gyutaro, quicker than he should, as he did not wish to sit around and wait too long, he had a date with destiny, a handful of years at the most was all he needed to shape Gyutaro into something quite fearsome, allow him time to adjust, grow as well, little demon children, always died, he needed this one to be big and strong, like him.

“You truly don’t need them here.” A little wave of his fan, through the air to knock back the fluttering scent of food away from him and to show him, that his weapons, while they were wonderful and the blood of the samurai was still on them, they were not needed, not here, especially with him around them both, no one wished to hurt anyone within this temple, everyone wished to live in peace with one another and be happy. Little curved blades in a boy’s hands might not be the wisest idea.

“You don’t have to ask Gyutaro, but I want to spoil you.”

No little treats for him them, what a shame, but already the wheels had started to shift and turn inside his head, as he had another gift for him then, in a few days times he would give it to him and he knew Gyutaro would just love it just as much as he would seeing his eyes soften at how generous he can be.

“Well, it hardly matters, it seems you are full to bursting and tired, you have been through so much Gyutaro, please, please, lay down and rest.” He would have the trays removed, the spot cleaned, the candles blown out to give Gyutaro some peace, a room all for him and his sister, somewhere safe, secure, warm as well, with people around them that did not wish to harm them, they only wished to serve them and help them, as he stood up and walked across to him, and the same hand as before touched the top of his head and gifted him little gentle pats.

“Get some rest Gyutaro, you have been through so much, tomorrow, will be a better day for you.”