#surging storms and rushing tides: starter

[voxdaemonica]

@ocean-eyesahq​​ (Tidus & Mahina)

Being a member of the Summer Court’s guard, if Tidus was being honest with himself, involved far more errand-running than he liked to admit. With all the recent events as of late, the High Lady had been on a full diplomatic assault, sending of nobles left and right to mingle with the Courts and draw out whatever small bits of news that could give them an edge in the coming conflict. It was that very mission that had him wandering around the Widowed Oak now, a parcel of Summer Court medicines that were meant to be delivered as a gift to the resident healer while some duchess or another flirted with the Wild Hunt’s militia. 

He wandered from room to room, poking his head in until he had found something that most resembled an infirmary. The strong, potent smell of medicine being brewed, coupled with the abundance of bedside chatter made it one of his more educated guesses. “Knock knock. Anyone home?” He called out, looking at the bedridden patients and healers milling about in hopes of finding someone who seemed more in charge of the situation. Yet aside from a few sideways glances to the Summer Court insignia emblazoned on his uniform, no one seemed to pay him any mind.

The guard spotted a petite, but curvaceous Fae near an assortment of jars similar to the Summer Court apothecaries, and decided to take his chances. “Greetings little Miss. You know where I can find someone to pass these off to? It’s a special delivery from the coast.” Tidus gave her an easy grin, flashing pearly white teeth in her direction as he sized her up. “So what’s got the Wild Hunt all up in arms here? Too much fun on the full moon?” Did the Wild Hunt even experience problems following their more involuntary shifts? Given how hard they had been celebrating the night of the Beaumont-Wren wedding, it really wouldn’t have surprised him. “Or did someone mix up the lavender tea with wolfsbane again? Hate it when that happens.”

[rosaiel]

Octo Expansion Mem Cake Starters/Prompts! 🐙

I was trying to complete the Octo Expansion when I was inspired to make this because of the Tentakook Mem Cake poem! I don’t think anyone has done this before. Anyways, thought they’d make for some really great roleplay starters and writing prompts, so have fun! ❤

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“At last we meet, my so-called foe. But is our fate to spray this hate? Perhaps we'll learn in depths below...”

“With tresses pink and eyes a blank, A smile so faint, it hides your feint, You slip on past—outfoxed! Outflanked!”

“You paint the turf with graceful strokes. With watchful eye, I breathe a sigh. From sniper's perch, I go for broke.”

“The rolling column splatters all. A stray shot shakes the trees awake. The summer turns, here comes the fall.”

“You gaze seaward with azure hope. Between each blink you calmly think, As when you use a Splatterscope.”

“The world I knew seems like a trap. I'm drawn now to the strange and new. Would my old friends think me a sap?”

“The fat and heavy locks hang low They frame your face above a base Of stumpy leg and pigeon toe.”

“A hilltop picnic, friends and fruit. Your whirling blades provide us shade. I raise a hand in mock salute.”

“Destroy your troubles—bombs away! A tempting thought: bring all to naught. No wonder your friends tend to stray.”

“You face away, thinking me blind, Like I don't know what you won't show. Your love is still clear from behind.”

“So principled you might explode, But when you burst, who's really cursed? Your loved ones have to bear that load.”

“It seems to you a sly attack, But for your pains you make no gains. You only get shot in the back.”

“How loftily you float on high, Suspended there in starry air As you drip purple passing by.“

“How desolate this star-marked limb. Is what awaits me this same fate? I must not dwell; it's much too grim.”

“Though parted by the ocean deep, My oldest friend, we meet again. I touch your face; you rouse from sleep.”

“You overwhelm with crowds and throngs. At every turn, you writhe and churn. Why can't we simply get along?”

“Now nights grow long; summer abates. The tides recede as squids stampede. With fireworks, we celebrate.”

“Your motor whines; the ocean roars. No ink can halt your firm assault. Let these invaders know the score.”

“When problems stack too tall to see, Just chip away and, day by day, You'll grow to live a life carefree.”

“Where love could blossom, spite congeals. Faced with these thieves, I aim and heave A cluster bomb right in the feels.”

“The hunt leads down a winding path. Tightly coiled and well-oiled, These dirty squids could use a bath.”

“Erupting eel glimpses the sky. Its eyelids squint against the glint Of sun unseen by creatures shy.”

“A sudden drizzle bars my way. It's no hour for this shower, But light rain won't ruin my day.”

“Each glittered scale shines so bright. You're my last ditch to strike it rich And tilt my bank balance aright.”

“Finality's not what it seems. When your end comes, rise up and run. Don't let defeat dissolve your dreams.”

“I topple from the tower ledge And choke back tears to see the gears Eliminate our hard-won edge.”

“We're torn apart so many times; I must be bold and keep my hold To make their team pay for their crimes.”

“When four are one, they make a team. But one from ten? Uhh, come again? It's like some kind of fever dream.”

“You teach the virtues of the still, And yet I spurned the lesson learned. My problem is I have no chill.”

“Oblivious, adrift, and round, You hold inside a tempting prize. Who doesn't love that popping sound?”

“To plant a tree's its own reward After you're gone, it will grow on In memory, initials scarred.”

“The polished nozzle gleams and shines. Unblemished gun reflects the sun. A good day's match; victory's mine.”

“I shake the squeegee to and fro. As I do laps my color saps; A fair trade for a mighty blow.”

“Closer to pyramids than spheres— Let fly the bombs! A sigh, then calm. A pillow stained with ink—or tears.”

“Not everyone can be a scourge In tense combat. I toss this splat, A monument to my last surge.”

“Though it flies errant or amiss, Should its sly arc hit near the mark, Your fate is sealed with its kiss.”

“No stealth or guile, not for you. You pave the way as plain as day, Foreshadowing imminent spew.”

“Its friendly face, its easy stride— That's all a front. Let me be blunt; It leaves you with nowhere to hide.”

“The sickly sweet aroma spreads. Its stagnant arms bring only harm, Along with sluggish, looming dread.”

“"I rule," you said, "It's in my blood. Don't step to me — ESPECIALLY If you can't hang with my best bud."”

“They told me you had gone to ground, And your rad groove was concrete proof That you made it safe and sound.”

“Two friends who never are apart: One's always cool, the other stews. I love them both with all my heart.”

“I watch your tendrils undulate A blue bouquet that twirls and sways, As central mass swells and deflates.”

“Hmm, Slosher? Inkbrush? Curling Bomb? I'd gladly browse for hours and hours Your gushing ramble brings me calm.”

“Black, bulging eyes stare far inside. What does he see deep within me? From his sharp gaze, no one can hide.”

“How long must I wait in his line? Such tragic lack of Crusty snack... I'm almost there! It will be mine!”

“Behind his dour, one-eyed stare, Our urchin friend conceals a yen For making the most out of gear.”

“A patch of sun? A fresh-caught fish? No bribe will swerve your eye for turf, However desperately we wish.”

“Oh, what I'd give to be employed! Better, I'd say, to work for pay Than ride this subway through the void.”

“Our sweat dripping from every pore. The harsh, hot sun won't stop this run. We grit our teeth and ask for more.”

“I hate the sea but love the breeze. The sandy shore I will endure Just for that brisk, zephyrous tease.”

“A Skalop brand atop your crown Will turn some heads but really shreds When it is simply turned around.”

“Squids often wear this as they strike With bomb and brush. It's quite a rush. I wish I could know what that was like...”

“Your 'tude is righteous, as you say. Is your science as defiant? Prove that your battle rhymes can slay.”

“I see you standing in the rain. Within a storm—forever warm. Powerful as a hurricane.”

“Put down the phone go shelve your book. Get ready, champ���it's time to camp! We'll share a drink right from the brook!”

“Constructed of glass and concrete, A city stays in dull, drab grays Till we splash color on its streets.”

“Mistakes of youth teach us a lot. We skate too fast and have a blast And learn quickly not to get caught.”

“"When going through here, play it cool!" Or get a clue and don't go through! I won't bend on this! Them's the rules!”

“I pack my feelings in a box: A parcel stuffed with hope and love And trimmed with stamps unorthodox.”

“I've seen this, but I'm not aware Just what the splat I'm looking at! Is it a frog or a brown bear?”

“How I admire Li'l Max! The highest rank to be so swank That my rivals have heart attacks.”

“The tides go out and take the light. How will I greet you when we meet? It keeps me up on inkstained nights.”

“Your song inspired a blush of love. It gave my heart a fresh new start. Now I ascend to shores above.”

“I leave without ceremony. Don't be too sore; I wanted more. My sincerest apology.”

“When I get my hands on these fish I might exchange them on the range, Except that they look so delish...”

“A mystery rolled up and bound— Oh, what's the use? It's too obtuse. I'll dump it in the lost and found.”

“Beneath a summer sky I walk, Through valley, plain, and back again, Dreaming of what you might unlock.”

“The rhythm etched in little jolts Those idols sing and put a spring In my steps as I crank the volts.”

“Encased in a sturdy sphere of glass. It breaks my heart to see you caught With whiskers trembling as I pass.”

“Though slick with slime, I keep my grip. The chill seeps through my gift from you. I mustn't let this cargo slip.“

“I don't quite trust this stark white brand. It's more for squids or little kids... And where's the pop? It's oh-so bland!”

“This swells a stir of royal pride. In small or large, you lead the charge. The ink of nobles flows inside.”

“On colder days, I like these clothes. With other threads I'd stay in bed— It's too frigid to be exposed!”

“I see you walking down the street. You think you're slick in those lime kicks, But they'd look fresher on my feet.”

“The squishing footsteps trudge in muck. Their path revealed by heavy heel. My heart beats quick a stroke of luck!”

“Such devilfish-may-care couture— The colors clash and make a splash! Without a doubt, footwear du jour.”

“It keeps the elements away: No rain, nor heat, nor wind, nor sleet. But does it guard against ink spray?”

“No matter thickness, brim, or gauge, A well-done purl will awe the world. These handmade hats are all the rage!”

[voxdaemonica]

@gvldntrbl​ (Tidus & Isadora)

“Look who’s finally peeked out of the corals! I was starting to think you went full hermit on me, Isadora.“ It was a rare occasion, when Tidus went without seeing the Warrior Fae for several weeks. But with the preparations to go to Night Court and dealing with its subsequent fallout, both the knights and the guards had been run into the ground in an effort to meet the High Lady’s overambitious demands. While he had kept an eye out for his friend throughout the night, the rest of his time there had been spent controlling one rowdy Carter Blackthorn while nursing another Lorelai Caerwyn back to good health. There had been no time in between to see how his nearest and dearest friend had handled the entire affair, or if she had accompanied them at all, for that matter.

But a day off meant it was tavern night, and that it was high time to make sure his deeply intellectual friend didn’t pull herself further into reclusiveness. After checking her usual hideaways, her mother’s residence, the training grounds and the palace, Tidus had managed to find her in the library of all places; a ghastly place to spend a fine autumn evening alone. “You know the fine brews of Zhēnzhū won’t drink themselves, and I believe you owe me a story or two. Don’t think I didn’t notice your little disappearing act, young lady.” He flashed her a cheeky grin, nudging his head towards the door. 

He glanced down at the pile of books beside her, picking up one to examine the title idly. “Tell you what: we get these books of yours checked out and I’ll give you a solid ten minutes of uninterrupted reading time when we get there. We can even talk about whatever it is you’re reading here.” It looked like some sort of military document to him, but his interest in literature started and stopped precisely with the Fae before him. “But we have to make happy hour. A guard’s salary is good, but not full-price in Zhēnzhū good. Sound like a plan?”

[voxdaemonica]

@theartofruling​ (Tidus & Skai)

Though the moon was risen high above them, the night markets of Zhēnzhū were as lively as ever. It was times like these that Tidus was grateful to finish his shifts late at night, if only so he could enjoy the height of the Summer Court’s best kept secret. Smoke filled the chilled air as large grills blazed with all manner of delights, while the merry sounds of entertainers looking to make quick coin filled the streets with a cheerful vibrancy. The Fae had only just changed out of his uniform, a few hu jiao bing in hand as soon as he had been able to fight his way to the front of the line.

As he eyed another vendor selling spiced lamb skewers, he was jostled by another patron rushing by. Tidus stumbled into another person and he reached out, hoping not to knock his poor neighbour to the ground with his bulky frame. “Oh, duìbùqǐ Miss.” He said hastily, the apology muffled in part by a mouthful of pork and sesame. But once he registered who exactly he had run into, the sheepishness melted into delight. 

“Well if it isn’t my future High Lady’s lady.” The guard piped up, a clear look of satisfaction with his own play on words. Aside from Isadora, Tidus didn’t often run into people he knew from the Coral Palace, but Skai Rai was a welcome sight indeed. “Princess got you running errands at this hour? I didn’t strike her as the night market type.” He chuckled, a teasing grin falling easily into place. When they were working, Skai was practically the princess’ shadow, but just what exactly was she like on her lonesome? This didn’t seem like the sort of place where a noble would spend her free time, which made it all the more intriguing. “Are you familiar with these parts, my lady? I can take you around the neighbourhood if you like, so long as you excuse the informalities.”

[voxdaemonica]

@covrtofnightmares​​ (Tidus & Carter)

Social events were where Tidus thrived. He loved meeting new people, tasting exotic food and drink, and enjoying anything remotely resembling a good time. And as uptight as the Night Court tended to be, he had to admit that when they really wanted to, they knew how to throw one hell of a celebration. It wasn’t nearly as vibrant as the Summer Court of course, but it was so pretentously festive that there was a unique charm he could learn to appreciate. The abundance of Nymphs, with their barely-on floral dresses and sultry looks, were certainly a bonus. He was only meant to be on duty half the night, and with the Summer Court circling the guests like a school of sharks, the Fae felt comfortable with picking up a glass of rosé (because of course even the drinks were French) and enjoying his night from afar. Just close enough that he could leap into action when it was warranted, but far enough that no one would breathe down his neck for not following along with the same snobbery expected of the nobility that night. 

As he strolled behind, keeping and eye on the princess and her clique, he spotted a rare and friendly face among the other guards doing their best to be subtle with their actions. A broad grin immediately fall into place as he clapped a hand on the other man’s shoulder. “Damn, Blackthorn. You didn’t need to go all out to get my attention, but I appreciate the effort.“ Tidus winked playfully at the Spring Court Fae, a chuckle escaping him. “I know your Court has a reputation, but did you have to bring all the flowers along with you as well? The Queen might wonder if she has competition.” It was a joke of course, but there was no doubt that the bodyguard had an enviable sense of style. “A far cry from the usual armor, isn’t it?”

Tidus shared a rare and unusual friendship with Carter. They had only met on a handful of occasions, when the princesses of Spring and Summer would cross paths. Yet in the short time they had, he had discovered a unique affinity with the fellow guard of sorts. Empathy was frowned upon among his own kind, so perhaps it was that quality that he had found so fascinating about the other Fae. “I don’t see the princess anywhere. You finally get a day off?”

[voxdaemonica]

@lepinedoree​ (Tidus & Idalis)

There was an influx of guests at the Coral Palace that morning. With the Summer Court sitting relatively safe compared to several of the other Courts in Astralis, all manner of visitors had been flooding the royal estate looking to appeal to the High Lady, it seemed. Artists from Night, merchants from Autumn (which Tidus had to admit was a bold move to make), and any number of minor lords and ladies in between swarmed the halls swathed in their finest attires and bearing the kinds of gifts worth more than his year’s salary. 

The sudden influx of strangers meant that Tidus was busy juggling two roles that day, keeping an eye peeled for potential threats against the High Lady’s life and ensuring that these delegations were well-attended. There was, apparently, some sort of advantage to be gained by currying favours among the nobility, even if the High Lady wouldn’t deem them worthy of her attention. He didn’t entirely understand what the point was, but then again, it wasn’t really his job to worry about the little details. All he really cared about was making sure the heart-stopping nymph who had waltzed through the palace doors was happy with their hospitality.

“My apologies, Miss. Her Grace is entertaining a full room at the moment, so I’m afraid you’ll have to wait to seek an audience with her.” Much to his credit, he had managed to stick to the script that he was given without getting tongue-tied. “But as a sign of goodwill, I’ve been instructed to see to it that you’re satisfied with your stay here.” Tidus smiled broadly, his stance relaxing now that the formalities were essentially out of the way. “So, my lady, how would you best like to be entertained? A walk in the garden? Tea by the pavillion? I also know my way around a deck of cards if you want to see some human magic tricks. What would please you?” 

[voxdaemonica]

 @gvldntrbl​​ (Tidus & Geneva)

The Summer Court delegation was just finalizing its numbers, the captain of the guard going over the guest list meticulously as carriages were packed and injuries were seen to. The High Lady and her progeny had long since left, but someone had to stay behind and see that the rest of the citizenry got home. A good dozen battered and bruised Fae remained, huddled together in more comfortable clothing while Tidus readied another carriage for travellers. The shock of such blatent savagery the previous night seemed to have clammed up the snide lords and ladies who had been throwing out insults all week. It was a welcome respite to work in silence, even if his own body ached from being tossed around in the fray.

As the next set of passengers settled into their ride, Tidus was interrupted by one of the other guards. “Wait, what did you say?” Confusion marred his face a moment, before he noticed the new addition to their small camp. He could hear the murmurings of the other Summer Court Fae as he crossed over to get a better look at her, expression brightening as his memory clicked. “Oh, I remember you! From the party, right?“ Tidus beamed at her, genuinely happy to see that she was okay and in one piece. Admittedly their first meeting had not been under the best of circumstances, but they had both managed to get out safely, it appeared. “Honestly I didn’t expect to run into you again this soon. I figured you would have hightailed it back home after that close call. That’s what they’re planning to do.” He nodded over to the nobles, who scowled but said nothing.

“But really though, how are you? It was a bit of a rough night.“ The smile faltered a little bit, concern making its way into his tone. Combat wasn’t as much of a problem when it was something one was trained to do, but the Fae before him was anything but a warrior. “Were you able to find your people that night? Hope you didn’t lose anyone.”

[voxdaemonica]

@wickedgxmes​ (Tidus & Hiro)

Tidus was most certainly not a stranger to the delights that were Summer Court’s nightlife, but rarely had he ever been tasked with going to one of the higher end establishments as part of his job, or instructed to visit one such bar in the middle of the day, of all times. The entertainment district was hardly stirring as he strode past the buildings, feeling out-of-place with his polished uniform and trident in hand. However, a request was a request, and if some nobleman needed an extra hand hauling boxes around before opening, Tidus was all but obliged to assist him.

He wasn’t sure what to expect when he arrived at Venom, but he found himself letting out a low whistle as he entered the establishment. Without the crush of bodies and the pounding music, it space looked far more impressive than it usually did, which was saying something given how popular it was. “Not too bad. Looks like his Lordship knows how to party.“ He muttered, eyeing the expensive-looking bottles from behind the bar as he scoped out the vicinity. Tidus knew of the Tanakas to some extent, as many merchant families tended to know one another, but he had yet to meet the current Lord for himself. 

After a few minutes of waiting around, a worker finally pointed the guard in the right direction, straight to the young master himself. “Hey, Hiro Tanaka, right? I got a missive from the palace to come down here. Apparently you needed some extra muscle or something for the day?“ He asked, the usual formalities forgotten in this strange, but not unwelcome environment. A friendly smile grew across his face, and he reached out a hand in greeting. “Tidus Stormpike at your service. I don’t suppose helping you out today might waive the door fee later, does it?“ He joked, chuckling to himself. “Although, I suppose I already owe you one for getting me out of patrol today. So what’s the deal? You shortstaffed or something?“

[voxdaemonica]

@wickedgxmes​ ( Tidus & Noa )

Unlike many of the guards, Tidus actually enjoyed patrolling the border of the Summer Court. Gliding over the coastline, watching the sea serpents snapping at one another and monitoring who entered into their territory at least gave him the liberty to drop the uptight facade he had to wear in the Coral Palace. And given how few on land routes there were to the heart of the Court, it made spotting the occasional traveller child’s play. With the routes relatively well-attened by other guards, the only thing he really had to worry about were the strays who sought to sneak pass the border check-ins. 

That particular day had been a quiet one- enough so that Tidus had found the time to check in on his sea serpent Jìfēng as he made the usual rounds up and down the coastline. He had been at the very end of his shift, debating whether to turn in early that day, when he spotted a disturbance to the north. Veering away from his route, the High Fae flew over to where he had seen birds scattering, and as he grew closer, he could hear screaming. Immediately, he shot down below the treeline, barely missing a Lesser Fae as they flew off towards the safety of the Court. “What the...?” The guard tensed, spotting a hooded figure breaking through the bushes in pursuit of the fae.

Tidus dropped to the ground then, trident in hand as he called out to the civilian’s pursuer. “Hold on one second. You weren’t going to pass by without saying hello, were you?” His eyes narrowed, body tense as he tried to assess the stranger before him. It was hard to see who it was with the heavy fabric covering them, but he was fairly confident the odds were in his favour. Though he couldn’t tell much, Tidus knew well enough that he had the advantage when it came to size, and he sure as hell knew he had the upper hand on his home territory. “You want to tell me what you’re doing here, or why that person was screaming bloody murder from your general direction? Or am I going to have to get answers out of you the hard way? Your call, friend.”

[voxdaemonica]

@mncmosyne​ ( Tidus & Matthew )

Tidus didn’t quite understand what the whole point was, for the High Lady of Summer to wish to visit an enemy Court. He never paid much mind to politics, but it seemed rather nonsensical to build all this rancour for a meeting that would likely consist of little talking and more glaring. Still, when High Lady Liling wanted something, he was obliged to obey, even if it meant leaving his current fling behind to cross the whole of Astralis and stand beside some other Autumn Court guard while their leaders spoke. Stationed outside the room, he could only faintly hear the lilting purr of the High Lady, and though he kept a pleasant facade of being alert, there was no mistaking that the guard was bored out of his mind.

He glanced over his companion for the shift, wondering if he was supposed to be shooting off the same snide comments that he was sure were being exchanged between the Court rulers inside. But it wasn’t really his style, and the fae beside him had about as much say about how the discussions were going as Tidus did. On top of that, it wasn’t often that a Summer Fae ever had a chance to step into Autumn without some sort of trouble, and while it was not the most patriotic of sentiments, he couldn’t help but be a little curious about the place. 

The guard leaned on his trident, shifting to get a look at the other man’s face more carefully.  As soon as he was sure that none of his superiors were looking his way, he broke the silence that had been hovering between them for a good part of an hour. “So what are the chances that we’re going to have to fight to the death today? Fairly certain? Or vague enough that we could negotiate the terms of our respective demises over a pint?” He joked, keeping his voice quiet enough that the captain wouldn’t hear him from the other side of the door. “Can’t say I know a lot about your Court, but from what some of the older guards have said, you guys know how to throw one hell of a party. Is that true?”

[voxdaemonica]

@etherealfaefolk​ (Tidus & Tobias)

There was something to be said about the Summer Court’s steadfast dedication to posturing. Despite the snide quips that to participate in such an event as the Highwinds Tournament was to display unnecessary barbarism, it certainly hadn’t stopped them from making a most thorough selection of champions for each respective event. Tidus, although more notably Isadora, seemed to have been an early choice as representatives, seemingly determined through the usual manner of meaningful looks across the room and messages that were subtlely passed on from hand to hand. 

Well, whatever dastardly machinations had brought him there, he was just happy to show off.

The first day of the duelling tournament passed without issue, and as night crept over the merry scene, Tidus found himself in a mood to explore the place for himself. Yes, Autumn Fae were simpletons and brutes officially, but when the uniform was folded and tucked away, he was just another wayward traveler looking to enjoy the hell out of himself. 

He found himself in one of the backrooms of a pub, particularly enthralled by what seemed to be a human landing an impressive right hook to the jaw of another. The crowd around him roared, as ale was passed and all manner of Fae and humans cursed at their ticket stubs or celebrated their winnings. “You know, I’ve got to give it to him.” Tidus commented to his neighbour, flashing him a grin. “Humans are far tougher than most of the lot here would give them credit for. That knockout was a beauty.” Not to mention the brawl had made his pockets noticeably heavier. “What say you about these next two? Warrior Fae versus Wild Hunt? My money is on the shapeshifter, personally.”

[voxdaemonica]

@covrtofnightmares​ (Tidus & Laurent)

Despite the familial ties the Stormpike family had to the Day Court, Tidus could count the number of times he had actually returned to his ancestor’s homeland on one hand. It wasn’t as though he was entirely disinterested in where he came from, more as it was always a matter of politics. It had taken years (decades, really) to earn the trust of his superiors in the Summer Court, and even longer for his parents to convince the High Lady and her officers that they were fit to stay among the commoners to sell their wares. It was a relationship that had taken much blood, sweat and tears to build, and one which required a very consciously-maintained distance from thier place of origin.

 As much as he would have liked to think that his attending of the Summer Court nobles to Day was a sign of trust in him, after many years of dedicated service, even Tidus could recognize a test when he saw one.

He stood outside one of the many lavish buildings in the Golden City, doing what he felt was a remarkable job of feigning indifference to his Day Court counterparts on the other side. But even if he spoke far less than he normally would during these types of missions, his gaze wandered to the vibrant scene of travelers and merchants from across Astralis hawking their wares with merry voices. In some ways, it was delightfully similar to the Summer Court he knew, but the sights, sounds and people were entirely foreign to him. Had circumstances been different, Tidus had no doubt that he would have delighted in the secrets the city had to offer. 

The soft click of the door behind him was almost lost in the cacophony of the busy street, but it was enough to snap the guard out of his daydreaming. He brushed off his uniform and stood at attention, his gaze lingering on the latest person to approach the meeting hall. “I’m afraid I’m going to have to stop you there, sir. The building’s off-limits unless you’re on the list.” Tidus called out to the stranger, offering a polite, almost apologetic smile before stepping in front of the entrance himself. “You know displeased the nobility get, especially when there are unexpected guests. It’s nothing against you, of course. Just business.” Not to mention security, given that the one ally the two enemy Courts had burned up fantastically, if the rumours were to be believed. “So, do you have an invite or not, sir?”

[voxdaemonica]

@nymphcts​ (Tidus & Melody)

Tidus stood before the entrance to the Garden, trying desperately to look like a proper Summer Court guard and less like a child in a candy store. He had heard stories of course, of an oasis of women at the heart of the Cloverwood Forest, and he had certainly fantasized about being allowed onto it’s hallowed grounds, but never had he anticipated an opportunity to visit through legitimate means. Even with the lumbering centaurs glaring at him, nothing could sink his buoyant mood. After the stress of dealing with the Night Court and the fallout from the Autumn Court tournament, it seemed as though someone in a higher place had decided that he was due for a far more pleasant trip abroad.

It was one of the best assignments that Tidus had ever been given; a once in a century opporunity that he would have given one of his wings for. Apparently some young nymph had requested an escort to visit her parents, and in a demonstration of good will, the benevolant, indulgent High Lady Li Liu had granted the duty of escorting to one of her own. That, paired with a little luck and a begrudging captain had seen him flying off at first light, bedecked in his finest uniform and grinning like an absolute lunatic. The bragging rights alone and the jealous looks of his peers would give him weeks of gloating power. But getting to spend a leisurely trip with a drop-dead gorgeous nymph at his side? The guard could have died happy.

“You guys really don’t crack, do you?“ The fae mused, chuckling as the centaur huffed at him. Even when he was an expected guest, the Queen of Roses certainly didn’t mess with her security whatsoever. But he had little time to muse on the humour of a magical creature. Not so terribly long after he had arrived, the guards parted, letting him steal a glimpse of soft floral scents and breathtaking beauty as they allowed for his ward to leave, allegedly for the first time if his captain had been correct.

To say that the little lady was alluring would have been an understatement, but Tidus didn’t expect anything less from one of the Queen’s own. She was undoubtedly from Summer Court, but there was an almost unearthly quality to the nymph that spoke to her true nature, like sunshine balled up in the form of an almost impossibly petite woman. “Miss Melody, is it?” Tidus asked, offering his best charming smile. “Nice place you have here. I was just here bonding with your centaur friends out here. Great conversationalists.” He gave them a cheeky wave before approaching, bowing slightly in greeting. “So I’ve been told a certain lucky nymph is looking for a travelling partner to Summer. I certainly hope I can live up to your expectations, princess.”