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 Posted: Thu Jun 22, 2023 11:58 pm
Quote: It was already late in the evening but the merchant seemed unfazed by the passing of time. He sat, poised and elegant, watching the world around him. He didn’t seem bored, even as he leaned forward and laced his fingers atop the table; below it, he kept his toe tapping to some silent tune in his head. He was tall, by human standards, though while sitting down he didn’t seem particularly threatening. If you didn’t look at his face. He had graceful features--sharp and refined. His chin and nose tapered to a point, giving him an air of sophistication, but that, combined with his slitted eyes and pointed teeth, there was something undeniably predatory about him. He watched with a hungry gaze and a mischievous, nearly sinister smile. His ears were pointed and were prominent despite being tucked behind his vibrant, multi-colored hair. The most intrusive feature that indicated there was something not human about him were the curling horns protruding from his temples and the oil-slick black scales that brushed his cheeks and forehead. He was well dressed, in a fashion obviously otherworldly, and seemed to enjoy dressing himself up in glistening gemstones. His table was somehow both simple and overwhelming; it was draped in a dark purple tablecloth, with extravagant embroidery in different designs. Scattered neatly atop the table was an array of items that seemed to carry some magical weight to them. He did not seem intimidated in the slightest and, upon noticing that the barrier surrounding him rippled when his visitor entered, he smiled. He did not rise to meet them nor adjust his position in the slightest. He followed them with his fierce eyes and greeted, in a silky voice, “Welcome.” It had started out with an innocent conversation between Aogashima and Rune, whereupon she had mentioned her encounter with the mysterious alien merchant a few years back, and obtained a cute dress and a pair of boots that oddly had seemed to be just her size, despite having never met him before. Then, Rune had mentioned her senshi charge's run-in with the very same merchant, which had led to the Mauvian being gifted a medallion that Morishita had acquired, and Aogashima suddenly had the best idea: why don't they visit the merchant together this year? The Cosmos squire had previously told the merchant that she wanted to sing for him again next time, after singing the short TV version of an anime OP song for him during their first meeting, and while she had never received any sort of affirmation that he was interested in that sort of thing, he also had never said that he didn't want to hear her sing again, so. Also, she'd never actually caught his name, but after a lot of pleading and cajoling, had gotten Morishita to divulge it through a series of text conversations. Hopefully, he'd remember her, even though it had been a couple years, and she was a squire now. Also hopefully, he'd like to meet Rune, too? She figured that if there was anything better than one person putting on a performance, it was two 'talented' vocalists performing for him! And, well, just in case, she had brought some of her brother Kiro's cooking with her as well, in a plastic container, in the hopes that that would sweeten the deal. Tochi didn't know what aliens liked to eat, aside from Val's odd tastes, but the ones she had escorted around town a couple years back had loved boba, so she figured Earth food couldn't be that bad, right? As the two arrived at Almadel's table and entered the barrier, Aogashima was delighted to find that the merchant was once again peddling his wares again this year. "Hi! Last time I thought you were a cosplayer, but I guess you aren't, huh? I don't have any of the fruit your sign said you wanted, but I brought some other food! I hope that's okay that I brought a friend, too." She happily motioned towards her 'friend', the Mauvian Runelucia, who was currently in her human glamour. Aogashima didn't see any sign saying that it had to be one customer at a time, at the very least, so surely he was alright with this arrangement, right?
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Posted: Sun Jun 25, 2023 9:36 am
“Oh, nice to meet you, sir merchant!” Runelucia in her limited-time human glamour beamed a smile and straightened her posture slightly. For once, she is meeting the esteemed merchant for the first time! What an incredible opportunity. She has heard much from Morishita about him, so she was eager to meet this certain personage herself. For this occasion, she simply tagged along acting as backup and moral support. She deeply hoped that this exchange would turn out well for both of them. “As Aogashima said… we don’t have the fruit you requested... But, I can vouch for her brother’s cooking! It’s phenomenal! And apart from the food, may I interest you in… a bag of assorted fan goods you may be interested in?” Runelucia gingerly lifted the tote bag she hauled along with her to show him the contents. Inside the bag, there was a signed autograph board, a photo card, a sticker, and a badge pin. The personage was of an earnest idol with long shimmery hair and eyes and a cute frilly sleeveless flowery dress decorated with lacy ribbons. The idol in each item was either singing at a concert or singing toward the viewer. “You may have everything that’s in this tote bag in addition to the food if that works in exchange. Otherwise, we also have something very special to show you as well,” Runelucia added the final statement just in case, but truthfully, she believed it was something worth far more than the goods she had on her. It was something Aogashima and Runelucia had prepared for this very moment, which was no easy feat when she had to take advantage of her limited-timed human glamour day after day to practice their song and dance. In addition, both of them had painstakingly prepared their outfits for the occasion, too. There was planning, material collecting, designing, fitting, and construction. Above all, both of them had to be synchronized both in spirit and vigor, since they were planning all of this for this exchange.
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Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2023 8:30 pm
Though Almadel very briefly seemed disappointed to hear the announcement that they did not have what he was looking for, it took him only a brief moment before he was nodding thoughtfully. “Well, I suppose life is worth taking risks for. I must say, I’ve gotten quite the assortment of fruit already–more than I thought I might, so I suppose I can consider something else. And there’s something charming about home cooking, I think. I’m always eager to try new things.” Especially when he couldn’t just walk into a restaurant and order it. “Food and friends are very welcome at this booth,” he assured, and seemed like he was pleased with their company. “Especially when you have such nice manners. I can’t say I quite know what ‘fan goods’ are, though. They might be a bit difficult to offload elsewhere, but. We’ll see. I like your attitude, you two have a sparkle about you. And you’ve piqued my interest. I must know what this ‘something special’ is you have to show me.”
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Posted: Wed Jul 05, 2023 9:33 am
Aogashima bounced excitedly to hear that their offering was accepted, and even though they hadn’t actually done any trading yet, went ahead and set the food down on a part of Almadel’s table where it wouldn’t get in the way. It would have been rude to set it down on the ground, after all, and Rune had her hands full, too, not to mention they needed space to move around in for what they had planned on next… “Okay! Sooooo last time, a couple years ago I said I was going to sing another song if we met again, right?” Aogashima began, though he likely had so customers that it would be impossible to remember such a specific little detail, “I didn’t get a chance to do it until now, but Rune and I want to put on a show for you!” Once again, he’d never said anything in the positive or the negative about her offer those couple of years ago, so Aogashima had automatically taken the lack of response for enthusiastic agreement. Equally, she’d never mentioned bringing a friend with her next time, but here she was and here they were, ready to disturb the peace show off their talents to Almadel! Fishing her trusty mp3 player and Bluetooth speaker out of subspace, she started setting things up, making sure she had the correct song selected, and turned to Rune. “Are you ready?”
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Posted: Wed Jul 05, 2023 5:57 pm
“Yes, I’m ready. Let’s put on a good show,” Rune smiled (as did her human glamour), getting into position. She turned her body slightly away from Alamdel and began tentatively stepping back and forth to the beat present. Hopefully, Aogashima could process what’s going on, too. Next, Rune balled her hands into fists, not too tightly, of course, and began to move along much like a cat beckoning at who knows what. Even though this upcoming choreography was but a mere imitation of a cat’s behavior, and setting aside the fact that Rune usually appeared as a kitten herself, she kept going. In other words, she bore little question or any embarrassment over it. She was serious about it. It’s about time for a special performance of “I Shall Be a Cat.” She took one more breath and then, she began to dance. But wait, there’s more! Her mouth opened slightly and then a telltale line from the song could be heard. The first verse of the song was approaching. She took the initiative and began singing, “meow meow meo-meow-”
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Posted: Thu Jul 06, 2023 5:24 pm
As Aogashima spoke, Almadel nodded. He made no effort to disguise his interest as she pulled out a speaker and set things up. He wasn’t often one to forget names, faces, or promises, so when she mentioned her intentions, he was visibly delighted. He could tell how serious the two of them were, and he could only imagine how much they’d practiced for a show like this. Almadel had nothing to compare it to; he didn’t know if this was a song they composed and performed, or someone else’s; he didn’t know if the choreography was theirs or another’s. What he did know was that it was delightful. He was a glutton for simple pleasures, and a personal performance like this? How could he not be enjoying himself. A few seconds into the song, he made a silent, ‘Oh!’ and seemed to have a sudden epiphany; he didn’t turn away from the girls, but he did fish around in a nearby box and pull out four small golfball sized spheres. He pressed a button on each of them before he tossed them into the air–where they remained, and then–as if of their own accord, floated above the girls to encircle them. Light lit up suddenly–a rainbow of colors that shifted in tune with the music. They seemed to have an infinite range, and no matter what sound or beat the music took, the lights seemed to instinctively perform accordingly. The lights had something special about them–a unique, magical sheen. It shimmered as if there was glitter in the miniature spotlights. For as beautiful as they were, Almadel’s eyes were on the two of them, and he seemed to be taking into account their performance with great appreciation.
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Posted: Thu Jul 06, 2023 8:15 pm
The two girls continued their performance for Almadel, Aogashima in particular being very thrilled to find that the merchant seemed to be enjoying their song, if the lights he had suddenly set out to accompany them was any indication. She was glad she had followed through with her promise now, and had managed to recruit Rune to join her in her plans. Certain naysayers (re: her sister) may have expressed their doubts about whether Almadel would have wanted to hear her sing or not, but it was a good thing Aogashima never listened to them! Not that she'd told her sister about her intentions or anything. There had been countless other songs Aogashima had wanted to perform, and if she had all the time in the world, she would have been content to put on a mini concert for Almadel. She hoped that eventually, she could get the theater on her wonder back up into a sort of good condition to where she could put on performances there, where it could reach a great deal many more people... and also so she could prove her sister wrong about anything she ever said about school being more important than being an idol. Don’t force yourself to laugh
Don’t force yourself to look downwards
Don’t force yourself to frolic around
Just be your natural cat self
Meow~ yes!Skipping steps, stealthy steps
Sneaky steps, eager steps
Catlike steps, moving smoothly and flexibly
What should we call ourselves who are chasing after love?
(Meow, meow!)Aogashima continued to sing together with Rune, as they reached closer and closer towards the end of the song. Although the tiktok challenge that had inspired her to choose this song had cut off after the first chorus, Aogashima had chosen for the two of them to perform the full song, because it was all or nothing, right? Neither of them were professional vocalists of course, though Aogashima could at least point to the years of vocal and dance lessons she had taken, but she hoped that their passion for being idols would shine through, and that Almadel would be pleased with the end result. The Space Cauldron linking a potato quality vid of the only full live performance on yt for choreo ref lmao
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Posted: Fri Jul 07, 2023 9:07 am
Rune was smiling widely soon as their performance ended. She had not failed to notice the myriad of glittery iridescent lights that shone throughout during their performance. To her, they were almost like captivating stars. As if the galaxy from far, far away has heard of their call. How thrilling! Overall, it felt like Aogashima and Rune’s efforts to put on a special show were being validated by their intended recipient. Her heart fluttered happily at the thought of being graced with such a positive reception. As a performer, these were some of the things that made her happy. After the performance ended, Rune bowed gently, her smiling ever radiant on her face. Based on his contribution to their performance, she had enough confidence that this moment would grant Aogashima what she hoped to obtain from his innumerable wares of value. nyamomask will there be an encore, I wonder
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Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2023 11:29 pm
Almadel watched with rapt attention, and when their song came to an end he clapped loudly and enthusiastically for the both of them. “Beautiful, perfect. Lovely. Your choreography was flawless and your song choice–so catchy. It’ll be stuck in my head most certainly. I’m impressed, I haven’t had such a nice show in so long. I loved it. You most certainly deserve a reward.” Entertainment was fleeting, but he’d seen so much in this universe, how could he not enjoy this singular moment? This performance would never happen again, not like this. He traded for rarities and things he enjoyed, and this was both. The little orbs he’d released shined a pale, pretty white light around them when the music stopped. Almadel didn’t try to recall them, but he gestured the girls closer. “You’ve more than earned a trade. I’d give you those if you wanted,” he gestured to the lights. “Instant light show. The batteries are self charging and they can sync to any music or tune. I haven’t done enough tests on it, but I think the mood of the performers can influence them as well. But I’ve got many other things here as well, let’s see. Oh–” It took him a moment to make a little space on the table before him, but he moved several things into view, including a fabric of impeccable make and color. He had a few different fabrics and set them in a stack. They seemed durable and beautiful, and of a high-grade weave. “I’ve had these for a while, it’s not my color. I don’t know if you could make something out of it? Oh, but I’ve got music boxes, too. Shall I see if I’ve got anything to match our previous trades?” he asked, looking at Aogashima. They must have inspired him; he seemed pleased and delighted and kept moving things on the table to give them a wide selection. He was determined to send them off in as good of a mood as he was in.
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Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2023 5:55 pm
Aogashima looked over the wares that Almadel was offering them, very fascinated by the things on display and still delighted to know their performance was a success. There were so many options to choose from, and she just wasn't sure how she'd be able to settle on just one thing, especially when he was offering the lights that had accompanied their performance as well! More costume pieces were very tempting, because it was amazing how Almadel had managed to acquire things that both fit her perfectly and were suited her so well, but a music box would be nice, too, because surely it played some song that was (quite literally) from out of this world... "We'd love the lights, if you'll let us take them home!" she said happily, "But oh, I can't decide... you have so many nice things for trade again! I wish my wonder's theatre was in working condition- then we could put together an even bigger performance!" For the moment, she decided she would help Rune out with picking out something that the Mauvian would be able to make use of. Picking through the bolts of fabric that the merchant had set out, Aogashima looked at her disguised feline friend, pointing out a few that she felt were best, in both color and material. "Oh, what do you think of these, Rune? I bet we could design a new outfit for you with these!"
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Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2023 10:45 am
Rune's eyes were transfixed by the marvels before her. Such a wonderful selection, Alamdel. Well done! She went 'ooh and ahh' and then some over the offer of performance lights that automatically read the mood. What a splendid addition that would be! Oh, but there's more... Next to it, she spied some a music box that would certainly be highly valued by Aogashima. It was a strong choice, all right. And yet... Rune couldn't stop staring at the spools of fabric that were easily high quality and of shades both Aogashima and she would choose to wear especially during their live performances... While they aren't wearable in their current raw state, Aogashima is a skilled seamstress. She could help conceive their future outfits down the line. Upon being asked by Aogashima, Rune answered while pointing at several different spools of fabric. Admittedly, she was honestly pointing at nearly all of them and making it clear what she favored the most. “You know, this shade of pink is certainly right up my ally.. and these shades suit you very well.. They aren't usable yet, but could you imagine what they could be like in the future?!* Rune's eyes twinkled excessively while she clenched her hands excitedly. Had her glamour been able to include her tail, her tail would waver around excitedly along with her. She... didn't have much to offer to Almadel in exchange, but hopefully her performance together with Aogashima was sufficient? Or not.. but wait, there's more. "Oh yeah... Would you be interested in an encore, Almadel? Could we... perform one more act and claim a second item in exchange? Oh, and I do have this bag of fan memorabilia here that could be included in our exchange after all-" Was it wise to bargain further? Rune smiled brightly and hoped for the best outcome. It was already good , but could this exchange be improved with this offer? nyamomask sorry I wrote this after 2:30am please forgive my late night attempt
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Posted: Mon Jul 17, 2023 10:54 am
Almadel watched the two and seemed delighted. He was a businessman! Sometimes, you had to be a bit flexible. “Well,” he said, after a lengthy pause. Finally, he nodded. “I don’t often get such treats. I’ll make you a special deal. You both seem very creative and trustworthy, after all. I’ll make you a very generous offer. You tell me what you want, and I’ll let you leave with it. Within reason. And in exchange, I will take you up on that encore, but you have to promise me that then next time I see you, you bring me something nice. So keep your eyes out, won’t you? I want something special. Something unique. Can you do that for me?” It was an investment, but it was one he was willing to make. The two here seemed trustworthy, and as long as he kept bringing nice treasures he was sure they’d want to come back, anyway.
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Posted: Fri Sep 15, 2023 8:34 pm
"Of course! I can definitely do that for you, I promise!" Aogashima swore, and she really meant it. She'd search up and down throughout Destiny City- perhaps even throughout her and her sister's wonders- to find something she could really impress Almadel with, that the otherworldly merchant had never seen before, and would find a worthy trade in exchange for the things the two were asking for. "Um, so, I hope we don't sound greedy, but I was reaaaaaallly liking both the music box and maybe also another costume piece to match the one you traded me last time... but also, we'd both like the lights- oh, and I think that this fabric would be perfect for Rune?" she said, holding up the bolt the two had decided on. The Cosmos squire was kind of speaking for her Mauvian friend a little here, but she knew that Rune wouldn't object, and two things for two people... hopefully was fair enough for two songs, some homemade cooking, and a merch set from one of Rune's favorite entertainers? "Okay! So this next song is... Diamond City Lights!" Aogashima didn't really know if Almadel had really heard of vtubers or if he was even a LazuLight fan, but it was one of her go-tos for karaoke streams, so she knew the lyrics pretty much by heart at this point. The Space Cauldron so sorry these are taking so long, time management is not my thing
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Posted: Sat Oct 14, 2023 6:06 am
“Ah, this song! Good choice, Aogashima.” Rune motioned happily. She had practiced this together with Aogashima for a while, so performing this together with her shouldn’t be a problem. Oh, what a splendid encore this would be. With its encouraging words and vibrant tune, it was fairly certain to sufficiently impress Almadel. Rune then readied herself. She took her place on their “stage” and followed Aogashima from start to finish. Throughout the performance, she backed her up with well-timed harmonies and slid into her designated sections of the song before bouncing the lead back to Aogashima. Eventually, they finished the song on a good note. “Well, what do you think?” smiled Rune. “Will this suffice for the additional exchange, Almadel? As for me, I sure would love to use the fabric towards a brand-new outfit. And, whenever I meet you next time, I’d show you what it looks like.” Rune hoped that she wasn’t being too overly pushy, but in the end, it was to Almadel to decide. The Space Cauldron my time management hasn't been amazing too - IRL affairs kept me busy RIP
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