songerein | { frozen nightmare }

Entry tags:

{ frozen nightmare }

FROZEN NIGHTMARE

On the morning after Christmas, December 26th, everyone will awaken to dark clouds that have come in overnight, or how the snow keeps falling and falling and falling throughout the entire day…and the next until it's less snow and now a blizzard of sleet and hail, threatening to freeze over not only Reverein, but to the lands beyond, including Dragefjell, dragon island. Everyone is forced to take shelter inside, and while some dare to go out, it's dangerous.

On the fourth day, before people really start going mad, strange messages written in frost will appear on their windows:

hElp
mAd
qUeEn
Not ominous at all. Nor is how everyone will suddenly fall asleep and awaken in a strange dreamscape, with a young man floating in front of them. Well, what looks like a young man. He's a bit… Fragmented, his entire body made of shards of ice. He will be the one to help explain the situation: his name is Jack Frost, and the Ice Queen has succumbed to some nightmare he can't wake her from. He needs their help to figure out the cause of her nightmares and free her. They must traverse through a strange candy land to reach the ice mountain the Ice Queen is currently in. Unfortunately, he doesn't have enough power left to do more than appear like this, so it's up to the Dreamwalkers to save the day. Again.

More details on everything can be found here. As a reminder, events double as our TDMs and information can be found here. Any outside characters participating in the log are canonly logged as appearing in Songerein in December and will remain in Songerein from anytime in December. TDM only characters can only thread within this log. Anyone who apps in and is accepted will have their character count December as their first time in the game without any disruption, so all content will carry over. Those who do not apply will disappear which should not seem too unusual, however players in game can choose to retcon and pretend a character was never there to begin with if it would be easier; or even think their presence was just a dream.

IMPORTANT! All outside characters MUST have "TDM" in their subject line, even if you might not app. This will help people differentiate those who are already in the game and those who are not.

TDM threads are required for samples. Refer to the Game Info for general information and feel free to toss any questions here. Reserves will open December 25th and Applications will open on January 1st. Our application cycles are bi-monthly so the next cycle after won't be until March.

TDM Toplevel Link Directory (click to view)

Ace Attorney - Simon Keyes
Amazing Digital Circus - Pomni
Final Fantasy XIV - Hermes
Genshin Impact - Furina de Fontaine
Genshin Impact - Nahida
Genshin Impact - Paimon
In Stars and Time - Siffrin
Legend of Zelda: Link Between Worlds - Ravio
Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time - Malon
Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword - Fi
Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom - Mineru
Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom - Purah
Limbus Company - Dante
Miraculous Ladybug - Gabriel Agreste
Undertale - Frisk

We will request any thread submissions for certain prompts during AC and TDM threads will count. For more information, refer to the Game Notes.

I. REVEREIN

A. Stuck Indoors. Upon waking, anyone who looks out the window will see that everything outside is frozen solid. There was a terrible blizzard the night before, and it left Reverein an icy wonderland. It's beautiful, but freezing cold and potentially deadly. But the real challenge will be trying to prevent cabin fever as the days go on. Perhaps some games over the journals could help stave off boredom. There will also be shelters quickly made for those who need better living arrangements, and various games and food will be provided for those in need as well.

B. Outdoor Help. Due to the sudden nature of the blizzard, not everyone was able to find shelter, especially those who were out in the Wildlands which have also been hit by the blizzard. Those able may need to try and help rescue those caught outside.

⛑️ Rescue efforts. Not everyone made it out of the blizzard safely, either entirely by coincidence or due to sheer stubbornness. These people are stuck outside frozen and need help being taken to safety. Thaw them out and bring them inside!
🐿️ Animal help. There are little critters, too–ones that didn't get back to their own homes in time. Don't overlook the littlest residents of Reverein, because they need help, too.
⛄ Snowman aid. The snowmen that popped up during the previous weeks will help assist those who may need it. For a brief time they can create a little barrier around the individual, stopping some of the cold, and will even hop over to give anyone stuck their own scarves, mittens, and hats should they have any.

C. Delivering Heat. While dreamotion can help keep the hearths warm, there are more efficient ways to keep the heat through fire cores. Orkili has also sent word that they will send heating devices, and the dragons will also make the flight down to help replenish stocks so everyone can stay warm for as long as this mysterious blizzard lasts. Now the question is, how to deliver everything.

🎿 Braving the cold. The most direct way to try and get anywhere is to venture outside, but that can be a risk in itself. Those who try should bundle up! Those who can use either ice dreamotion to control the cold, or fire to help generate heat, will be best suited for this.
🚧 Tunnel system. The gnomes will try to clear some entrances to allow anyone stuck outside or trying to travel around a way to do so safely through the crystal tunnels that sprawl beneath Reverein. However, other creatures have also fled to the warmer caverns so beware. Some are just as frightened and will be harmless, but others will be aggressive for the same reasons.
⛏️ Stuck sandworm. The Orkilins were already working to create a connection between Orkili and Reverein via underground tunnel system. The blizzard has hastened this endeavor, which unfortunately means a rushed job that leads to the sandworm crashing through one of the crystal walls and becoming stuck, with the gnomes not happy. Help dig it out! In the meantime, others can work to deliver the heating devices it carries to those who need it.
🐉 Thawing dragons. Unfortunately, even the mighty dragons will succumb to the might of the blizzard, their wings freezing over as they try to fly down. Since they can't really burn themselves, they'll need someone else to use their dreamotion or some other means to help them out. However, they may be grateful enough to just stay around and help keep things warm with their dragon flame along with the fire cores they carry.

D. Ice Elementals. As the sun sets, a rumble disturbs the quiet of the snow that blankets Reverein. Two enormous ice elementals have appeared on opposite sides of the city, and they are determined to smash their way through the town. They stand five stories tall, icy blocks of fists can send anyone and anything flying, and their frigid breath can leave people encased in ice in seconds. They're tough, but not impossible to take down, especially with a group. Party up and beat these things back!

🔥 Flamethrowers. The Orkilins that arrived to help already had some flamethrowers packed to help get rid of the snow, and they are now allowing those facing the elementals to use it against them. The power will increase by those who are capable of using fire dreamotion.
🧊 Ice against ice. Those who can use ice dreamotion can try to manipulate or control either the ice elementals themselves or their attacks. It will only be a brief time, less than a minute, but even that much might be enough to provide openings!
🦵 Aim for the knees! Due to their towering size, aiming low may serve better than trying to go high. Destroy their legs, and they will topple over. However, they can slowly regenerate, so act fast!

II. CANDYLAND

Welcome to Candyland! Everything here is wintry and sweet, and so is everyone else. Upon awakening in this dreamscape, everyone will find themselves transformed to match. Perhaps drastically changed into a unicorn in any combination of colors and sparkles, or part of the winter landscape as an ice sprite, with forms varying from cute pixies to elegant fairies to blocky ice creatures. Some may find themselves mostly the same, but made out of candy. All abilities can be called upon and new ones based on their form can be developed. But those who usually use weapons may find them changed to match their form and setting. Those who turned into unicorns, well—horns and hooves count as weapons, right?

The Ugly Get-Along sweaters from town will also appear inside, which may make crossing through Candyland and the mountain ahead a bit more…interesting. But everyone must hurry through to reach the Ice Queen.

(Note: Players do not have to strictly follow die rolls and can select specific prompts or locations if they wish, but it is otherwise encouraged for more silliness and fun!)

A. Playing the Game. Traversal through Candyland is akin to a board game with some changes. Dreamwalkers must roll a large gummy die to determine what color square they must move to. (Number corresponds to position on the list, ie 1 = red, 2 = orange, etc). Simple enough, but there's a catch–each color space has an effect, and they are unfortunately at the whims of the board. Only after the effect is enacted can they roll again and keep moving forward. The effects will be strongest on the square and can last for a little while even after moving from the square. (Note: rolls are going to mostly be for the individual character for ease of meeting others on the board, however the die may randomly decide to be used for the group for a few turns.)

🟥 Combat alert! Here come the cherry bats–fight them off!
🟧 People can suddenly hear all unfiltered thoughts and they can't lie about them.
🟨 Oops! The first thing they touch is now stuck to them and can't be removed until either the next yellow square or until the end of the game.
🟩 Time for a little nap. No one's in a hurry, right? Go on, just lie down on that marshmallow bed and close those weary eyes for five minutes. (Or longer.)
🟦 They must eat five random flavors of jelly beans from a jar of every flavor possible. Pick a winner and see how well they do.
🟪 Everyone is suddenly slimed, causing their movements and speech to be sluggish as if in slow motion. This effect will last for a few squares.

B. Special Locations. Sometimes the die will suddenly shake and turn completely pink and change to an eight sided die. Players must now roll again and see which location they will be ported to. Each location will provide some kind of item or bonus that can be helpful for dealing with the frigid threats and dangers of the ice mountain. (IMPORTANT: A character can potentially go through all locations, but they are limited to two items or buffs gained. They can swap what they have as they progress, but they will still only end with two rewards gained from the locations.)

🌳 Gingerbread Plum Trees. Where Plumpy sits eating plums from his gingerbread trees. Help him collect some plums and in return he will let them take a small basket. Give these plums to anyone who is starting to freeze and they will immediately start to thaw.
🍬 Peppermint Forest. A snowy thicket of peppermint candy canes. Mr. Mint will ask those who arrive to help chop down the canes and will let them have one or two to turn into durable weapons to fight against the monsters of the mountain. Mr. Mint will also give them a handful of special peppermints that will help re-energize those who may be sluggish from the cold.
🏰 Licorice Castle. A black and red licorice castle with licorice bats. Help Lord Licorice clear the bats and he will reward with both red and black pieces of licorice. Red will burn for a long time, making it useful as a torch. Black is a risky one to eat due to its taste, but it will help warm one's belly—or give fire breath.
⛰️ Gumdrop Mountains. A shortcut to bring players closer to the mountains. Jolly will help guide them through and tell those who make it to mine all the gum drops they can, as they can be used as destructive explosives that can break through ice and walls.
🥜 Peanut Brittle House. A cottage made of peanut brittle with peanut plants growing outside. Gramma Nutt needs part of her house repaired by using a bucket of peanut butter and smearing chopped nuts over the broken patches. In return, she will give peanut brittle bombs that will explode and make everything sticky.
🍭 Lollipop Woods. A forest of rainbow lollipops resembling trees and easy to get lost in. Guide Princess Lolly out of this confusing forest by finding and following the swirling lollipops. Upon reaching the exit, Lolly will give them a special lollipop wand that will conjure a set of swirling portals that will allow those who go through to cross over short distances.
🍨 Ice Cream Sea. A bubbly ice cream sea where Queen Frostine resides. To pass through, they must build ice cream float boats or else swim through the sticky sea. At least it's tasty, and traversing through either by boat or swim will grant everyone an ice resistance buff that will last for half an hour upon entering the mountain. It has a long cooldown before it activates again.
🍯 Molasses Swamp. A swamp of molasses with brown popsicle plants guarded by Gloppy. Those who end up here will end up having to trudge through the sticky swamp, but collecting some could be useful to help slow or even trap hostile foes in the mountain.

Bonus: Liopleurodon. At random times, a strange creature will appear in the space Dreamwalkers are trying to get onto. It will only move if they can create a candy made of dreamotion and feed it. They have three attempts, and if they fail or the taste is not to its liking, the liopleurodon will knock them with its tail back several spaces or to a random location. If they are successful, however, then it will send them ahead several spaces. (Players will roll again to determine what space or location to use next.)

III. FROZEN MOUNTAIN

Should they manage to reach the end of the board, they will find themselves staring up a giant mountain. From the distance it looked like any other mountain, but closer inspection reveals that it, too, was once made of candy. However, it's all frozen over and instead of sweet, delicious delights, monstrous creatures lurk within its halls…including music that just continuously plays.

Transformations will remain, so this trek may prove challenging to some. Utilize the bonus buffs and items gained from the game to get through!

A. Don't Freeze. Forget about Jack Frost nipping at their noses, the chill from the mountain will constantly threaten to freeze everyone inside. They must work hard to keep warm, using dreamotion, positive thoughts, and other means to do so. Otherwise they risk freezing into a frozen statue and must be dethawed or they'll be kicked out of the dreamscape. Jack Frost will help by trying to drop random items that can be used for warmth: coats, gloves, scarves, blankets, torches, pocket heaters, hot water bottles. Hey, he's an ice spirit he can only do so much.

B. Monsters. There are numerous monsters and aggressive creatures that lurk through the halls of this frigid mountain. Fire is definitely the way to go, but any candy buffs and items received from the Candyland game will also drive them away. They apparently don't like sweets.

❄️ Ice elementals. Coming in all shapes and sizes, they will cast freezing magic and those caught in it will slowly start to freeze up. Gum drop bombs will destroy these quick, with the licorice, plums, and peppermints aiding those frozen. Those who are Ice sprites may be able to sneak past without being noticed.
🐻 Yetis. These large creatures will hurl giant snowballs. Counter with the peanut brittle bombs to hinder their movements. Those who are made of candy will deter yetis as they are not a fan of candy and will run away in fright.
🐐 Five-horned mountain goats. These goats will charge at anything they see and those horns are not something you want to get maimed with. Molasses will be great to slow them down. Those who are unicorns may find themselves with an admirer instead as the goats will find them quite lovely and enchanting.
🐍 Ice snake. One look from these white snakes will instantly freeze any caught in their gaze. The eyes on the ice surface will also cast the curse. Any of the Candyland items will be good against these, especially if they can cover the eyes, or use the lollipop portals to try and skip over them. Plums will be needed to rescue anyone caught. There is no transformation advantage.

C. Ice Mirrors. Made from frozen ice, the mirrors will reflect twisted visions of loss and abandonment. Loved ones suddenly leaving; homes in ruin or desolation; their own reflection in an empty void. Yet rather than despair, there will be a strange feeling of acceptance as the cold begins to wrap around them, as if it's better to be alone than to have things around them. Not only must the affected be pulled back, but the mirrors must be destroyed. Doing so will release a golden colored light that will fill a crystal chalice that will just mysteriously appear and disappear. The more lights captured, the fuller it will get.

🪞 Mirror effects. Those who stare into the ice for too long will be drawn towards it, and should they touch the surface they will begin to freeze over. They must be pulled back and warmed up both physically and convincing them of good things from their lives.
💥 Destroy the mirrors. Break the mirrors in any way possible. Dreamotion and Candyland items, especially gum drop bombs will work.

D. Ice Queen. Those who make it through the mountain halls and the mirrors will find the throne room where the Ice Queen sits. Right in the middle of her chest is a giant shard of glass stained black, the nightmare energy palpable even from the entrance. That's clearly the problem, and the solution? The crystal chalice will appear and Jack's voice will be heard urging them to somehow pour it over that shard. Getting there will, of course, be a challenge as the Queen herself will stir upon hearing Jack's voice and start shrieking like a banshee, creating an ice storm within the room and summoning beasts that must be fought. Physical attacks will be effective, but dreamotion and anything based on positive, warm emotions and ideas will also help, especially to stave off the intense nightmare energy that will be around. The lollipop portals will also be useful in traversing through the room, even if cast in mid-air.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[The bastard has been dragging him back repeatedly over the course of a thousand years, so it stands to reason that his hold wouldn't be loosened so easily. If there's a way of fully escaping him, Yato doesn't know. ...no, he does know, but it'd entail risking his lifeline. Risking himself. And right now, even if his dad was here, he's not brave enough to try it. He's too damn scared of the man. What can he do against a sorcerer who's capable of reincarnating?

The best he can do is enjoy his time with Hiyori and Yukine for as long as he can, pretending that everything is fine and their happiness can go on forever, even if it is a lie. Distract himself from the reality that his dad could attack at any moment, could hurt the pair of them the second his back is turned.

All he can do is keep smiling. Which he does now, if somewhat ruefully.]

So many of your troubles would've been avoided had you never gotten involved with me... I can't ignore that, Hiyori. I've brought you so much pain, though I will acknowledge that being here probably isn't my fault. [This time.] And you would've made the right choice eventually about your career given time, I know it. You're kind and strong like that.

That's why I--

[The shaking caused by the roar is enough to make him put an arm protectively over her in case any debris falls, as he glances around trying to pinpoint where the noise came from. Further in, is it? Is something coming for them...?]

Sounds like the time for chatting is over. C'mon, Hiyori, let's do this thing. Together!

[ fine. yes, he's right. those troubles could have been avoided, but would that have been worth it if it meant never meeting yato? or yukine? everyone?

no, never. this feels just like when tenjin convinced yato to sever their ties, but she had a wish -- to be with him longer. yato has it in his head that all he's brought her is pain, but that's absolutely not true. there have been so many good memories, too. she's... she's also a different person compared to when they first met.

he still helped her. has continued to help her. here, in reverein, he's helped her so much. she can cook now! without his father in the way, she's been more aware than ever of yato's goodness. how he deserves happiness as much as he wants to bring it to others as a god of fortune. ]

Yato. [ this conversation isn't over yet, she hopes he knows that. she's not giving up until he gets it through his head. it's never been yato that brings her pain. it's always been his damn father behind the scenes! ]

Yeah. Alright, together!

[ insert wrestling bell here. something is coming for them, for sure.

it's a giant snowball. yetis inbound! hiyori leaps out of the way of that snowball just in time and hisses down the hall, hackles and tail bristling. lumbering giants come with thundering steps their way, building another snowball the size of the boulder. ]

J-just... whatever you do, don't look at the mirrors! Okay!?

[That's just something he can't seem to see or grasp - that meeting everyone, going through all these wild adventures together, experiencing everything both high and low - was all worth it to her. That their meeting, if not predestined, was at least the epitome of fortunate. Because without it, surely as the sun rises, he would've remained stuck in a holding pattern, unable to step out of the darkness that hounded him for so long.

And while he has still brought her some trouble, he's done a world of good for Hiyori as well by helping her grow. Both back home and here. He just... can't get over the harm he's brought to her most of all. His father won't let him forget it.

But that all will have to wait for another time. He acknowledges the stubborn tone in her voice with a smile, one that probably says he's going to try weaseling his way out of her lecture later.]

Make sure you're careful. You probably won't be as durable as a cat made of cotton candy.

[Standing up, he dodges out of the way as well, cursing under his breath. That thing is huge compared to them! If they're not careful, they're gonna get crushed. A dreamotion sword in hand he takes to the air, bounding over the next snowball and landing on the first giant's head, where he thrusts the blade into with a yell.

Nobody gets away with almost hurting Hiyori--!]

Yeah, yeah! I gotcha! Eyes on the enemy only!

[ the smile is on the face of a child with the biggest, bluest eyes. over a thousand years those never changed, and having them flash over toward her playfully - so briefly - forces her to suck in a sharp breath and then forget to breathe altogether.

we live together, idiot, you're not getting out of it!

reminding her that she's SO USELESS IN THIS FORM, nearly sends her into depression but she digs her claws in and stands her ground. ]

I may not be durable like this-- [ no rushing in recklessly like a brute, hands flailing and feet kicking. praying to her wrestling god, touno, to guide her. hiyori darts over to hide behind the first snowball, peeking around to watch yato land and bury his dreamotion weapon into the yeti's thick skin. it roars furiously and tries to shake him off in a wild rage. ]

But I'm pretty fast.

[ about the only thing that carries over from her phantom form is just how quickly she can move. her body is so light, lighter than ever. she can see things more clearly when she focuses. like that second yeti behind the first, throwing another snowball at yato.

she's a pink blur. running between the legs of the first yeti, dodging a stomping foot, and towards the second. as it winds its arm back, not noticing tiny cat hiyori, she scrambles up its fur and then starts clawing at its face with a hiss until it drops the snowball and seems to screech at her. ]

No! You! Don't!

[Good thing they're not still on an orange square or there would be much playful bantering going on. Because sure as hell is going to try to get things to go back to normal once they get out of here.

And not useless, never useless - she's far too clever to never have an idea of how to help - just more... delicate. She is a cat, after all. They're not typically designed for fighting huge, hulking monsters.

Holding onto his sword with both hands, he gets flung around like a pinwheel until the yeti wears itself out, allowing him another chance at yanking the blade out and then back in for another thrust, this one hitting a vital spot and sending it falling forwards.

He leaps clear of it in time to see Hiyori disrupt their second opponent, earning its ire as it begins raging about. One of its huge hands comes up to try grabbing her, but Yato is quicker, launching himself at its arm so that his weapon pierces it in time for Hiyori to get clear.]

You're even quicker in this form! This could work out well.

[He leaves the dreamotion sword in the yeti's arm and flips over to the other one that's moving to smack the pink puffball off its face, summoning a second sword to slash it's palm, earning a loud roar that shakes the walls and ceiling, bringing down chunks of ice. That won't stop it for good, but it should slow it down somewhat due to the pain.]

Time to back up, Hiyori! Regroup!

[ back to normal. honestly? she can't wait to be in her own body again when this is finally all over.

as the yeti rages, hiyori clings on with all her strength and tries not to scream, too, in fear. her claws dig in, which PROBABLY makes the yeti all the more angry. yato grants her a chance to let go when he turns his attention on the one she attacked and she's jumping off to land back on the ground. she can't help but stare up at yato's dreamotion sword embedded in the second yeti.

yato fighting yeti. there's a joke here, somewhere.

there's this very strange ache and exhilaration in teaming up with yato. listening to his train of thought and quiet praise of her abilities. she winces at the slice, unhappy about having to hurt the yeti, but they're not being given much of a choice. ]

H-huh? O-oh! Right! I'm coming!

[ both of their yeti opponents are VERY UNHAPPY AT how this is turning out, but hiyori suddenly gets an idea of how to get two birds with one stone as they regroup some distance away. she looks between their flailing limbs and the crystalline surface of all the mirrors lining the walls. ]

Yato, we should lure them closer to the mirrors. They could break them for us that way.

[Truthfully, he's the same way. It was kind of fun at first, being a kid again, but by now the novelty's worn off. He misses having a greater reach and more height to him. Though being able to fly is pretty cool... Oh well. He'll take normal over being made of ice.

Standing by Hiyori's side, catching his breath, he keeps his eyes on their opponents. Just in case they've got anything up their proverbial sleeves. When she chimes in with her idea though, his head swivels around so he can beam at her. That's...]

Great idea! And the shards of mirror should do some damage while they're at it. Alright, let's go!

[He picks her up under one arm, cupping his other hand to his mouth to call out as they dash towards the mirrors:]

Hey, ogre-faces! Over here! Come and get us if you can--!

[Hearing his voice echo throughout the hall, both yetis return their focus to the pair of them, roaring with indignation and rage before lumbering after them. In a much short time than anticipated, they're looming above with raised fists. Yato gets both arms around Hiyori, crouching down for a moment.]

Hang in there-- Here we go--!

[He springs straight up into the air, sending them sailing between their huge hands as they come crashing down on the mirrors behind them, spraying shards everywhere. He curls up to shield her from the flying fragments, a plan that works a little too perfectly - several sharp pieces embed themselves in his back as he kicks off the now bare wall to change their direction. He floats somewhat wobbily to a safe distance and lands, dropping to his knees.]

Ugh... Okay, maybe that wasn't the best way to go about it...

[ ah. he's praising her again. there's a happy wag of her tail, short and sweet as that's all she can do before yato's grabbing her. at any other time, she would complain from it.

not this time.

everything sort of moves in slow motion after that. yato's goading and the resulting anger from the yeti. the barreling fist coming down towards them and how yato leaps out of the way, just in time. behind them, there's a resounding devastating smash of a couple of those mirrors shattering beneath those angry fists they missed them.

but not entirely. she knows there's something wrong immediately when yato drops to his knees again. there's no re-energizing candy to use. one yeti wails in pain from having all those shards in its hands but she's more worried about her ice sprite. circling his body reveals those shards in his back. ]

You always want to do things on your own, that's why! [ they don't have much time to rest, but... she can buy yato some time. ]

I'm going to draw their attention and hopefully get them to shatter a few more mirrors while you recover.

[ with that, she runs off toward the yeti and mirrors. she's so small, just a pink dot amongst all the ice and snow. all she has to do is play a little cat and mouse with them. they don't know what to do about the tiny creature weaving in and out of their legs but stomp around. all they do is step on each other's toes and there's a lot more hollering and wailing.

slowly but surely, she trips them up enough as they try to squash her until one of the yeti stumbles in a mirror and knocks it over. it, too, shatters as it topples with the floor and shards go scattering.

strangely enough, if yato pays attention there's a chalice that appears after that mirror breaks and a subtle golden light flows from the shards into the chalice.

those shards in his back are flowing with golden light, too. ]

[Thankfully it's only a series of small shards and not any larger ones... Though it still leads him to breathing harder, struggling to reach around to pull them out. He winces both at the pain and Hiyori's tone, biting his lip.]

Sorry... Didn't want you getting hurt. [A soft hiss escapes from between clenched teeth as he pulls on piece of mirror out and glances over his shoulder at her.]

Huh? H-Hiyori, wait--!

[His call comes too late; she's already on her way towards their enemies, so tiny and delicate compared to them. With renewed vigor he starts yanking at the remaining shards embedded in his skin, making a series of pained noises with each one. The yetis' cries are reassuring at least, proof that Hiyori is getting the better of them in spite of or perhaps because of her small size.

A crash follows soon after, getting him to twist all the way around so he can see what's going on. Another mirror down. She's doing far better than he was able to, that's for sure. A faint smile plays at his lips, until he notices the chalice and glowing light.

What the...?

It's coming from the shards around him as well, startling him as the couple pieces remaining in his back begin to feel warm. Hurriedly, he pulls them free and tosses them to the ground, breathing hard. He doesn't know what's going on, but better to not find out firsthand.

That done, he staggers to his feet and summons another sword as he floats forward at a reduced speed. He's got to get over there and help her...!]

Hang on, Hiyori, I'm coming!

[ like she wants him to get hurt, either! that's why she's upset. that's why she rushes off so he can recover and she can play decoy. maybe... maybe it too is because she has a lot of pent-up aggression. thinking about yato's father again and about the terrible things he did, is continuing to do. how he waits in the shadows to strike other people where they're weak. she wouldn't be ALL THAT SHOCKED if the reason the queen has gone mad is because his dad has done something.

the light from those shards gathers. pouring into the cup with such a warm glow that it catches hiyori's attention while running over to another mirror for them to break. what is happening...? what's that cup? what is this, H*RRY P*OTT*R?! hiyori is so caught up in staring at that strange, floating chalice that she doesn't notice the giant snowball flying her way.

it doesn't hit hiyori like one might expect, but smacks the mirror so a torrent of snow pours over her, trapping her within.

no! nono! she's so small that she struggles to claw her way out, the cotton candy fur freezing.

the yeti are ambling over to find their prize, digging through for the tiny pink cat that is hiyori but she hisses and swipes, terrified. don't touch!! ]

[The goal is for them to protect each other, though that's not always how things shake out. Like him getting nailed by the shards. It was an oversight he neglected to predict, and it cost him. But he can't let something similar happen to Hiyori - she's far too delicate and precious, especially in her current form. If he'd had his way, he never would've let her around anything so dangerous as these yetis. Because he's afraid of exactly what happens-- her becoming cornered by them.

As she's pinned down by the sudden snowfall, his flight picks up speed as panic sets in, breath coming in broken gasps as he works to get there in time.

Just as the pair of monsters are about to reach her, he dives between them with a spinning slash, catching them in the sides of their faces and sending them flailing backwards with screams as their massive hands cover their new wounds. Yato immediate drops into the snow pile,thrusting an arm into the cold and scooping Hiyori up under one arm, swiftly kicking off to escape their predicament.

Once a safe distance away, he drops her on the ground and immediately dives back into the fray, furiously plunging his sword into the back of one yeti and sending it sprawling. Resting there for a moment on its downed form while his breath comes in heavy gasps, he has to take a moment to refocus his energy into a blade. He needs to finish this, and quickly...

The other yeti is next as it turns towards him, earning it a stab through the chest as Yato launches himself with everything he has. The creature goes over backwards with a cry, taking him with it. Thankfully it doesn't recover, allowing him to rest.]

Haa... Hah...

[His breath comes in short gasps as he crumples into a heap, one hand coming up to grab at his shoulder due to the searing pain in his back. He really cut it close this time...]

Hiyori... You alright?

[ hiyori nearly swipes at the next hand that reaches in for her but it's small. pudgy. soft and gentle as it scoops her right up and pulls her in close.

Yato..!

she doesn't land on her feet when he drops her, snow clinging to her fragile fur. and as she lays there, she watches as yato quickly dispatches the two bothersome yeti like a god possessed. both their forms lifeless on the ground, she slowly gets to her feet. the moment yato collapses, she runs over. he must sense her near because before she can ask if he's okay, he's asking her. ]

I-I'm fine, [ because he saved her again] but you... Yato... your back--

[ now that she can see it more clearly, it's like those shards chipped away at the ice of his form. anxiety curls viciously in her stomach because she's just... this cat! if she were human she could at least carry him. ]

D-does it hurt? Maybe I can... go see Mister Mint again and get more candy or something...

Edited (i need to preview every tag istg) 2023-12-20 09:49 (UTC)

[Once Hiyori is close enough, Yato latches onto her in a firm hug, relief washing over him. She's okay... that's what matters here. He's a god, and he's made of ice currently. He can withstand it, this pain. It's nothing he hasn't suffered worse than before. Though the sharp stabs that happen as he breathes makes him gasp now and then. Gradually, he releases her in order to sit back, eyes closing.]

I know. I'll be fine. Just... give me a minute. Or three.

[He pets her head, finding comfort in the gesture and the softness of her candy fur.]

A little... But no-- I don't want you going anywhere alone in case you end up getting rained on. It's too risky. Um... How about-- [He looks around, glancing back to where the yetis are.] Can you get some snow? And pack it in the gashes? Maybe that'll help.

[By acting as a sort of bandage since he's made of ice. At least, that's the theory he's working off of here. It beats trying nothing.]

[ a-ah. a hug. not that long ago, she told him that she didn't mind hugs from him. after the initial stiffening in shock, the cat in his arms relaxed and even buried her face in his shoulder. that was... scary. honestly. those yeti were WAY bigger than her and yato got hurt. his relief is palpable so she doesn't fight this.

the sound of his hitching breath worries her terribly, though.

once he pats her head, she feels her stomach loop and flip but sets it aside once he admits it hurts. yeah, maybe running off on her own isn't a good idea, but she can't stand here and do nothing either. luckily, yato has a downright brilliant idea. why didn't she think of that? ]

Of course. You're made of ice and snow is-- be right back!! [ she cries, dashing off to that pile of snow she was stuck in and figuring out a way to make a snowball out of it. she ends up piling it all on her stomach and then curling it into a ball before carrying it over in her paws. they're freezing but it doesn't matter.

without a word, she moves behind him and squints for the worst chips in his body. then she grabs pawfuls of snow and packs it in as gently as she can, still mindful if he's in pain or not. ]

At least, after this, we can go save the queen and... go back home. I'll get a fire going and we can make cocoa again...

[ home. the treehouse. ]

[Not only did she say she wouldn't mind hugs, but for some reason it's easier to be affectionate when they're both like this, in these forms. It's more... innocent. Less dangerous. That and after such a scare, it's good to feel Hiyori safe in his arms, even if she is a cat.

She makes him feel safe, like everything is going to be alright.

And maybe it will be using his idea. The similar one worked to help her, so perhaps it'll heal his injuries as well. It's worth a shot, anyway. He smiles down at her as she picks up on what he's getting at and runs off like a mad thing. Chuckling, he lets himself lean forward to rest his head against his knees with a shaky sigh, eager for her to return quickly. It's not a pleasant feeling, missing pieces of himself. It aches and stings, though at least it's not bleeding as far as he can tell.

...does he even have blood like this? He's not sure. When Hiyori arrives back, he lifts his head to smile at her, bracing himself for their attempt at treatment.]

Thanks, Hiyori. [As her paws press the snow into his gashes, he sucks in a hissing breath, flinching away until he forces himself to remain still while she works.] --I definitely gotta be more careful, though.

[Nodding at her comment he sighs in relief once she's done.]

That sounds so nice... Even as an ice sprite, I'm still sick of the cold! I'm ready for a beach vacation, heh.

[Sandcastles and the sea and beach volleyball~ Hnnngh. They'll have to see what warm activities are available once they get back. He stands up gingerly, testing his back with care first before reaching down to pick up Hiyori.]

Okay, shall we?

[ hard to have things get dangerous when you're hugging a cotton candy cat.

moderation matters too, though. yato is usually not great at that. at all. but she could admit that he's gotten much better or far less bad-mannered, too. he thinks before he talks a little more. hugging him doesn't sound like the most awful thing in the world. besides, though he doesn't say what's on his mind or in his heart as he embraces her close, she knows. there's no need for an orange square to know.

she feels the same.

thank goodess, thank goodness...

they've had so many close calls over the year. a couple in reverein, too. the first hiss of yato's breath gentle her hands even more. as if she's a surgeon. she mutters an apology under her breath but presses on to finish the job until it looks like all the chips and missing bits are replaced with snow.

no kidding he has to be more careful!! argh!! so does she. she sighs, unevenly against his back, and sits back once she's done. there's still plenty of winter left, so she doubts they'll get much of that beach vacation here. unless someone has a dream about it.

though she's surprised by him picking her up, she allows it. her tail lashes back and forth as they look down the hallway. at the imposing double doors that likely lead into the queen's sanctum. the final stretch. ]

Yeah. Let's go and free the queen!!

[ GOD SAVE THE QUEEN. ]

Edited 2023-12-21 04:48 (UTC)

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

{ frozen nightmare }

to lure unsuspecting victims to their dOOM

i go willINGLY

me tOO

HE HAS TWO HANDS ONE FOR EACH OF US

SKIPS OFF TO LALA LAND WITH HIM

BACK TO CANDYLAND IMMA LIVE IN ICE CREAM SEA

IT'S THE SWAMP FOR ME YO HO HO

DLKGJDKG WHY SWAMP

SO I CAN RISE FROM THE DEEP AND OOZE AT PEOPLE

SOL NO

HAHAHA...

🧼🛁

✨✨

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