Cyr's Scrap Pile

“Alright,” he replied after a long moment of consideration. “Let’s see it, then.”

For a beat, he just stared at her. She met the stare, not aggressively, but not backing down. After a handful of seconds, her brow raised in question. Then he agreed. Bez clapped her hands together in eager anticipation. This was going to be fun!

“Alright everyone, I hope you’re ready. Our brave guard here has just agreed to a game! So, we’re going to play Liar. Everyone familiar with the game? No? Well, here are the rules: We’ll go around the table. To start out, the person to your right asks you a question but we can switch it up after a round or two. Answer with truth or a lie. Anyone but the questioner can call out "Liar!" if they think you are lying. If you are lying, the question asker picks a punishment. If you're not, those who called “Liar!” get the punishment.

If you say you're telling the truth, but everyone unanimously still thinks you're lying, you still get the punishment. However, before the vote is final, you are allowed to argue your case. Let the game begin! I’ll start!”

Bez turned her attention back to Amos, a wide, devilish grin adorning her face. Her eyes, however, narrowed harshly. “So, A-mouse, first question: What did you discover that made you suspect an assasination attempt was imminent?”

Amos's wary expression immediately turned to a frown when the Gluttony demon looked his way again. He crossed his arms loosely over his chest, staring unhappily at her. "I was only called over later, I wasn't privy to the original chain of suspicion," he replied at length.

Ah, what a delightful game. They'd be able to find out more about the culprit and each other. Nice touch. Val sat up more, issue with thr seat stealer off his mind for a moment as he watched Amos. "I think.... you're telling the truth." Honestly je thought everyone was lying but he wanted to gain some points with Amos. He was next on his list to fluster later.

"Hmm...I think truth" Ino leaned forward, lacing his fingers together under his chin. "He doesn't look like a captain or anything like that. Unless he was the one to discover the evidence, I suppose~"

At least, Ino didn't recognize this guard as one of the ones that stayed close to the Prince, and the guard hadn't actively recognized him. So he was no one important, most likely.

They were all demons here, right? So surely they'd not be bold-faced liars, right? A little smirk. That was what made the idea of this game so interesting. Parsing through the information for the half-truths or any little shred that one would offer up would ultimately be useful, even if they were all selfish. They lived too long not too have a little fun. Not to live a little dangerously.

"I suppose it ultimately doesn't matter, right?" Meu smiled congenially, giving his masked answer of 'truth' in this way. There was no way Amos could actually be in the dark, though, could there?

Cyr hadn't been paying attention, and when the others started talking, he looked around, feeling somewhat alarmed. "Uh...truth?" he said, eager to get the attention off himself as he ducked his head and stared at his plate.

Vivian considered her options. Did the guard have reasons to lie? Clearly. But did she want to be on his bad side? Not really, and the others seemed to think he was being truthful so... "Truth".
Ino had a point, this guy didn't look that high-ranking.

Or maybe she was still mad about earlier.

Eris wriggled unhappily in her chair as the others spoke. Why was everyone playing so demure and nice?!? Clearly this guy was a liar and a rat. She banged her little fist on the table and gestured past Bez at the awkward guard. "He's obviously lying!!" she half-yelled, her face growing slightly ruddy. "Don't let him get away with spouting whatever he wants!"

Bez watched, disappointed, as each of them gave gave a verdict of "Truth." Were they that intimidated by this silly little Pride? His answer had been careful, but there was room for argument. It was unfortunate that she had been the questioner, or she would have personally enjoyed poking holes in his statement. She concealed her annoyance, lazily watching the table through her lashes under sleep-heavy eyelids. She didn't have to feign the tiredness. The previous night had been rough.

Thankfully, Eris came through. The rage was clear in her voice and the slam of her fist. A smile bloomed on Bez's face, bringing energy back into her posture. "Ahh, I was wondering if anyone would call you out." She winked at Eris. "It's no fun if everyone believes you, after all. Well, Amos? What do you have to say? Is it completely the truth? You have no idea what this plot is?"

Amos sat quietly for a moment, seeming to consider his words. It was hard to tell if the other demons truly believed him or if they had some ulterior motives (who was he kidding, it was definitely ulterior motives) but the little wrath seemed set against him.
It couldnt hurt to agitate them a little further with some vague information, right? "Well," he said at length. "All I know is that there was another individual who was apprehended in an unrestricted area with contraband on him, who self-immolated when we caught him. He didn't seem to be working alone."
Amos pressed his lips together. "You all were subsequently deemed suspicious in the resulting investigation, but I don't know why. Beside the...uh...obvious wrongdoing."

"Well, well, well, isn't that interesting," Bez said with a smile. "With that in mind, would anyone like to change their verdict to liar? If not, poor Eris gets the punishment! " Bez turned an eager grin toward the Wrath.

"O-ho! So you are lying. Omitting knowledge is a form of lying" Val sang, tapping a long tail against the back of his hand. "And I put such faith in you," he mused.

Bez grinned at Val. However, as much as she appreciated the commentary, no one else seemed interested in switching their verdict. She sighed and shook her head. "Unfortunately for dear Eris, the second vote has to be unanimous. Therefore, Eris, your punishment will be..." she gave a dramatic pause, then her grin widened viciously, "you and Ino must switch seats for the rest of this round."

Ino gave Bez a bit of a dirty look, couldn't she tell he was trying to feed over here? Or maybe he'd actually been subtle in his intentions. That was a good thing. Still. He waited for Eris to come over before he gave up the best seat in the room.

Eris's expression was equally as dour as she unfolded her legs and stood, circling around the table behind Cyr to stand beside Ino. When her eyes turned to the white haired greed demon, her expression turned somewhat baleful. "Don't be weird," she commanded Myut, looking profoundly pitiful.

Ino slid off Myut’s lap, waving a goodbye before skipping to Eris' vacated seat. He elbowed Bez as he settled. Entirely by accident, of course.

"Lovely~!" Bez clapped her hands together for emphasis. "Well, now, luckily or unluckily for you, Eris, now it is between you and Meu to decide who is the Questioner and who gets to lie-- I mean, answer!" She winked.

Wait, why was he being punished? A careful look of disdain mixed with sour, comical betrayal flitted upon his features as his head shot over to Bez upon her announcement. He almost wanted to grab Ino's arms and root him to the spot, but, alas, he allowed the little envy to slide off his lap without a word.

The look Eris was giving him had him shrinking back into his chair. "Worry not." He muttered down at her, staying as stock-still as absolutely possible. His appearance and posture hinted him to be just as gruff and gloomy as she, breaking down a bit of his otherwise gentlemanly mien.

Eris nervously perched on his knee like a sparrow ready to bolt. "I....I'll ask a question," she said, her voice uncharacteristically shy, her hands tucked in her lap. Her desire to cause chaos and discomfort was deeply at war with her own discomfort, and truly, all she wanted right now was to ensure that this greed demon felt just as uncomfortable as she did in close quarters with him.
"Um...what's the most valuable thing you have with you now?" she asked, looking at Bezabelle because twisting to look at the white haired man would be too weird.

"Ooh," He mused, giving a slight nod of approval at the question, though he dare not grin despite the delight of getting to show off his nature. Normally he would have perhaps laced his fingers together with a thoughtful hum or brought his hand up to his chin in thought, but his fingers were currently too preoccupied with death-gripping the seat of the chair so that no mistakes would be made.

"With me, that would be the little vial of ink I've kept-" Well, best not tell them where. He redirected his statement a bit here to cover the break in his sentence, "For a little while now. It's got a rather high latency for spellbinding in absorption and the potential for transmutation into healing and/or regeneration. Quite the story of my acquiring of it, and certainly worth no measly sum in any currency. I thought to bring it for barter since quite the many would want their hands on something like this for protection, whether that be their person or their territory. Comes with plenty steep cost though, as all such manner of things do." At this revelation he did give a bit of a wry, knowing grin. "Very tiny amount of it, though." He downplayed, ensuring a bit of safety over such a thing as though it wouldn't really be worth any of their time.

Bez watched Myut's face, and his white-knucled grip on the chair, with a grin. She leaned forward lazily to rest her chin on her palm. "Truth. Probably."

Val was momentarily amused at Eris and Myut. He grinned at the two. "Booo, boring. Truth. " He was sure Myut couldn't possibly be lying about his treasure.

"Truth" Vivian nodded. That sounded exactly like something a Greed would have.

"If I say lie, can I get my seat back?" Ino teased. "But no. Truth, I think" He winked at Myut.

Now that ino was no longer sitting on him, Cyr finally properly looked in his direction. "Truth," he said his eyes flicking from him to Bez before dropping back to his plate.

Amos, not one to be the odd man out, also said "Truth."

Bez sighed. "Boooring~! At least try to make it seem possible you're lying, Silly Meu." She stuck her tongue out. "Well, that means it's Viv and Val! Give him a good one."

Give him a good one, huh? Viv really didn't want to disappoint her mischievous girlfriend, but she couldn't think of anything that wasn't either blasé or raunchy. But she needed something... something good... "What's one secret you'd never want anyone outside this room to know?"

Ah, so it seemed it was his turn to answer. He wondered what Viv would ask of him. He couldn't think of anything that would really be shocking. But then she surprised him. "Oh my," he mused, his lips sliding into an easy grin. "Now that's an interesting question. " and what should he answer? "I'm a pretty open book, as Bez and Eris can attest too. I don't have secrets in afraid." He had maybe one or two but those he kept close to his chest. Only Bez knew of one, a d his fears.

"Liar" Vivian didn't hesitate.
Everyone has secrets. Then she hesitated. That was a terrible move strategically. But it was too late now, she doubted she could walk it back.

Ino settled back, wondering if anyone would deviate from the obvious verdict.

Bez laughed. "Unfortunately, Viv, since you asked the question, you don't get to call out 'Liar'," Bez said cheerily. "I, on the other hand, pronounce you a Liar!" Bez's eyes narrowed, and she pointed accusingly at the Sloth.

No secrets? Well that just couldn't be right. Especially if he was picking around so sneakily at night. He would have had a better chance lying here regardless of whether or not he truly held no secrets. Myut couldn't blame Viv for the automatic response of 'liar' even though she was the questioner. "Yeah, I don't believe you either." Meu grinned benignly.

Eagerly following Bez's lead and riled by Myut's response, Eris pointed at Val too. "Yeah!" she agreed. "You're definitely lying." Luckily for Myut, she did not leap up on her chair.

Cyr nodded. "Everyone's got secrets," he replied.

"Well, Val. Time to fess up! You're lying, aren't you?" Bez raised an eyebrow, as if daring him to claim it was the truth.

"Oh boo," he mused as he leaned back and stretched, though he'd known he'd be called a liar. This was much easier to work with than trying to come up with a lie and be called a liar fot his effort, or say something truthful. That was far riskier. "Sold out by my dearest friends," he scoffed with feigned hurt. "I suppose even an open book has a few hidden stories."

"Alright, Viv! He confessed so you get to pick the punishment." Bez rubbed her hands together in anticipation.

Huh. Viv had no idea how to punish Val. But when telepathically asking Bez for ideas failed, she swept her eyes across the table and- "Let... let Eris put whichever colors she likes in your hair". Because it was white, right? Just like a canvas.

Val blinked. That was a surprisingly mild punishment. He thought she was going to go at him for making a huge deal out of the chair situation. He just laughed and reached up to tug at his hair which was still mostly clean from the shower, save a few marks. It was his face that was covered in paint on the right side from when bed fallen asleep while painting. "Okay, " he mused.

Eris did not hesitate to hop up and shuffle through her things, retrieving a pot of magenta paint. She had been shy earlier to sit in Myut's lap. Not so with Val, she sat down right on him and gave him a bright purple streak reminiscent of Ino's, a smug smile on her face as she did so.

Val chuckled and held Eris"s hips so she wouldn't fall off. He didn't raise a fuss and smiled in turn. He reached up to touch the new streak and looked at the paint that stained his fingers. "Pretty color. Hey, ino! We match!" He chuckled.

"That's my look" Ino joked, running his fingers through his dyed hair. "Don't get used to it~"

"Hmmm, personally, I think he needs more color. It'll show so nicely with that raggedy mop of white hair, won't it!" Bez stuck her tongue out at the pair. "Even so, Eris, once you're done, you'll need to return to your Punishment." Bez winked at Meu playfully. "That's in affect until the end of the round for you, my friend."

Eris puffed her cheeks out unhappily. She much preferred to sit on Val's lap. She looked at Myut, then looked at her purple-smeared hands for a moment before skittering back to her room to put her paint away, leaving streaky purple handprints on her bedsheet-doorway before returning to gingerly sit on one of Myut's knees, as far away from him as possible.

"And now, Cyr, you get to ask Ino a question." She peered around at Cyr with a smirk, clasping her hands to hurry him along.

His turn for a question, huh? Cyr turned his eyes to Ino, who, it seemed, had purposefully gone to sit on Myut to make him jealous. Cyr was not normally a particularly petty person, but he couldn't resist. The game had been so light so far, but he could fix that. "So...what's the deal with that poison, Ino?" he asked, his voice light and casual.

Ino's eyes narrowed the tiniest bit, and he almost flipped Cyr off under the table. How fucking dare he?

But at the same time, he'd been waiting for this opportunity. He just hoped that he could sell it. This had to be perfect--neither overacted, nor too casual. He took a short breath, showing how nervous he was, because who wouldn't be nervous when accused of attempted murder because they had poison on them? Briefly, he considered telling the truth, but that would include admitting he hadn't had the gut to go through with this, so no.

"It's called heartbird," he began, splaying his fingers across the table. "But I don't think you want the chemical ID of it, do you, Cyr? It's a metabolic accelerant. I'll be blunt, at high doses, it can cause heart failure. At a low dose, though, it makes drugs and alcohol hit that much harder and faster. Doesn't do much for sex, though, I'm afraid." he smirked a bit, dropping his head into his palm. "If our guard will bring some wine, I'd be glad to demonstrate its effects. Can that be arranged, Amos?"

Amos had honestly mostly checked out of the conversation, and resumed pushing a bean around his plate, occasionally taking a bite as the demons teased each other and chatted casually. His ears perked up, though, when one of them mentioned the poison. Ino's explanation was not wrong, though it was fairly rare to take that particular drug off someone using recreationally. He was, however, caught off guard when his name was spoken, and he straightened awkwardly, choking on his food when he tried to speak.
"Why..." he said between coughs, "why do you have so much?" He shook his head. "No one's overdosing on stimulants in this place."

A lifetime of practise kept Ino from bristling, let him paint a teasing smile across his face. "The low dose wears off in a matter of hours. That, and I do have friends to share with. Sorry Bezzie, I didn't have it on me that time we were hanging out~"

He then turned his attention back to Amos. "You really can't think of a single reason a demon might want a faster, more intense high? Hell, I bet Cyr would like being able to get drunk off 2 drinks instead of... how many can you normally take, anyway?" He tipped his head to the side.

Cyr blinked. "I don't prefer to be drunk," he replied, glancing at Bez, who, admittedly, seemed to prefer getting him drunk.

"What! Ino! I'm disappointed. You have had this the whole time and never once shared! That is beyond rude," Bez pouted. "How long have you had this stuff anyway? No, wait, more importantly, when can I try it?" Her attention switched to Amos, her tone turning petulant. "He's right, you know, Amos! We need alcohol right now to try this out and confirm his story! Otherwise I'm calling Liar!"

Amos frowned. "No alcohol," he replied, feeling a bit prickled by being bossed around so much.

Ino relaxed just a little bit. "Hey, no, you obviously believe me if you want to take it! You can't call Liar just because we can't get drunk!" He laughed, eyes bright.
Please let this work.

Viv chuckled a bit, considering the situation. The story almost made sense, but when she'd spoken to the older demon, he'd seemed calm and measured. Not the sort who searched for a high. Then again, she was the daughter of his peer, he likely wouldn't let loose around her... "Conditional Liar, if we can't test it. Sorry, Ino"

"Ugh. So rude" He seemed to take the accusations in stride, and she almost wanted to change her vote. If he was lying, wouldn't he be getting more upset?

"Hmmm" Val mused as he slumped in his chair. He honestly wasn't sure if Ino was lying or not, he did want someone else to get punished though. "Sticking with liar."

Eris tipped her head slightly. She wasn't thrilled about this guy, but he had helped her get the painting down, and he hadn't let her fall on her head. Plus he had that purple streak, maybe he was a crazy partier? "I think it's the truth," she piped up, folding her arms over her chest.

Meu took a beat to glance about at everyone gathered as Viv doled out Valrien's punishment. It wasn't anything particularly spectacular, but it did get Eris off of him for a while, which he was deeply grateful for. He grinned at the mimicry of hair color, eyes sliding over to Ino to see his reaction. Classic of an Envy, he regarded them with jealousy, teasing the others in a continuation of the good-natured atmosphere that had been going on. It was boring. They could be asking risky questions.

At Bez's reminder that Eris must return to his lap, an instant frowny pout scrunched up his face as he crossed his arms. Eris at least had the good sense to take care of her wet paint - that would have had them honestly butting heads had she gotten his clothes stained. He wouldn't be so meek and avoidant of the wrath demon any longer had that misstep occurred.

Perching upon a far knee like some tattered sparrow had Meu resigning himself to his fate once more, his brief respite now unfortunately having come to an end.

Bez, their ever vigilant and oh so helpful game master then announced it to be Cyr's turn, and, honestly, Mew couldn't have been more eager to hear what the demon would have to say. Definitely not because of the rich baritone with which he'd undoubtedly speak.

But Damn! He was not expecting that question! Myut almost whistled in delight and schadenfreude. My my, he was impressed with Cyr. It was of Meu's particularly greatest interest to know more of Ino and his poison, since that seemed the most dastardly and likely path to a culprit for attempted murder.

All eyes were on Ino as they waited for his response. He revealed the name, nature, and applications for the poison, one which Meu was generally familiar with. He supposed that made sense to bring to the biggest event known especially for its debauchery. Still, he was an Envy. But there was still no motive he could think applicable to the Prince. He needed more information.

Ino seemed to be handling himself well under the spotlight, and even offered a little test drive should Amos humor him with some wine.

Fat chance.

There was a reason the guard hadn't brought any alcohol, so to suggest he bring them some for the sole reason of getting an even more severe high....

The guard did not answer such right away, though, which surprised Meu. Instead he swallowed some food wrong and started choking - it was enough to elicit a feeling of pity and protectiveness over how naive the guard's response had been.

With a concerned look thrown over Amos' way, Meu tensed his muscles, ready to come to the rescue if need be. Their guard got it under control, though.

No one overdosing? Well, overdosing was the correct word. Using, certainly, but no one foolish enough to accidently overdose? It was a moot point regardless. Meu did not know why Amos had mentioned it, seeing as it did not do anything to particularly link back to the ruler of Hell. If anything it helped Ino's case. Perhaps he should have rather mentioned if it was being used by others at the party. That would at least give Meu more information to decide if Ino was the one he should narrow his focus down to.

Ino explained that he had so much on him in order to share with more demons and to keep things going longer. That made enough sense.

Mew in turn also blinked with the tidbit Cyr provided at Ino's generic mention. Things to know - always lovely.

Bez's excited voice returned, accusing Ino of having not shared. Was it weird that Ino had not had any set aside for Bez, who knew everyone very well and was known for indulgence? Perhaps.

Bezabelle chirped for alcohol to be brought right away, and it was then that their guard made it clear that was a no go. Any terseness in the air dissolved with the laughs and banter provided over the current verdicts.

Meu shrugged as though nonplussed about the whole ordeal. "It sounds reasonable enough, though."

Was that what the Greed really thought though? Well, it certainly wouldn't do to put the Envy on alert towards him. "I also think he's telling the truth." He nodded after Eris in agreement.

"Val, Bez, I thought we were friends" Ino pouted in their direction, playing it up that he was unconcerned. It seemed that his explanation was...plausible.
Plausible was unideal, but simultaneously, it hadn't been called as a lie. Especially since the only lie had been in an undertone, that the purpose he described was why he had brought it.
"Myut, Eris, you have my thanks" He bowed his head to each in turn, then turned his attention to Cyr. Based on the question, if Cyr got to pick, his punishment wasn't going to be fun. Under his glamor, Ino was very much afraid.
"Though I do disagree with the conditional Liar verdicts. I was fully happy to prove it if I had the materials to do so~" He teased.

Val offered an innocent grin. "We are. I was just curious what the punishment would be. I don't really know whether you're lying or not. You never indulger me " he mused, thinking back to a previous discussion they'd had quite some time ago.

Cyr glanced back and forth between Viv, Val and Bez. He'd really just wanted to make Ino sweat a little, he hadn't even thought of a punishment. Then his eyes drifted past Bez, to the unhappy looking guard. "Why don't you...kiss the person to your left?" he suggested.

Viv, looking immensely uncomfortable, leaned over and gave Val the tiniest possible kiss on the cheek. There. Condition fulfilled.

Val's smile immediately turned into a chershire cat grin. A light in his eyes. Oh this was going to be fun. He accepted Viv's kiss without fuss before he turned to Cyr. "Well, well. I hope this means you wanted to kiss me as much as I want to kiss you," he purred. He reached over to bring Cyr's face towards him before he leaned in to give him a passionate kiss. He may be a sloth, but he was a damn good kisser when he wanted it.

Cyr had been distracted by watching Bez until his face was redirected towards Val's. Caught off guard, he was not prepared for the amount of lust behind the boyish sloth demon's mouth. He didn't so much respond as promptly give way to him, holding on to his shoulder with one hand. When he was released, paint from Val's hair now smeared across his forehead, Cyr looked rather dazed.

"Gorgeous," he cooed to him when they seperated and touched his lips. "That was nice. I would love to see where more of that goes, should you be game."

Bez's eyes lit up at the Cyr's pronouncement. Her eyes flitted around the table, resting first on Viv's discomfort as she gave Val a quick peck. Bez blew her girlfriend a kiss and winked in encouragement. Then, the main event, as Val took full advantage. Bez couldn't help a small, excited gasp, her hands coming up to either cheek. She was and was not surprised that Cyr engaged so willingly. It felt good even for her. She was excited to see where it may lead for her dear, obstinate Cyr.

She forgot for a moment, that she was also technically included in the punishment. As was....

"Well, Amos?" She said as she turned, adopting an innocent, almost shy smile. The expression looked innocent, perfectly so as she was using her abilities. She would let their little Mouse take the lead on this one. At least at first...

Amos turned to look at her, deeply displeased by this situation. He didn't do anything! Why was he being included? Reluctantly, he leaned over, offering her his cheek the way the tall girl had kissed the sloth demon.

Amos offered his cheek. Bez thought it was cute how he believed that she would let him slide by with just a peck.

Bez rested a couple fingers against Amos's chin, leaning closer. At the last moment, the pressure of her fingers sharply increased. He could pull away if he really wanted, but her nature would mean that any bit of desire would be very hard to resist indeed.

Her kiss was gentle, soft, but also hungry and persistent. She would not be the first to break off, and she was going to make it hard as possible for Amos to realize that he should pull back.

Amos's eyes went wide as his face was pulled around, and the girl kissed him searchingly. He grabbed the table to hold his balance as he was pulled closer. And the kiss didn't seem to be ending. Unsure what to do, it didn't seem to even occur to him that he could be the one to pull away for several moments until he needed to breathe. Abruptly, he pulled away, breathing heavily, his face red.

It was a good thing he pulled away, because Vivian was ready to frisbee her plate into the side of his head. He fingers had even curled around the edge just so, ready to send it flying if the kiss had continued any longer.

Bez watched the red- faced guard as he pulled away, pleasure and amusement written on her features. He sat back, but she stayed close, still leaning in. "Consider that punishment for failing to answer this round, Amos. Perhaps next time, you won't forget, hmmm?"

She readjusted, looking around the table, as if in her book, the moment was forgotten. It wasn't, but she was great at pretending.

"Now, let's see... next is.... Ah, I think it's you and me, Amos. Hmmmm, since I already asked you at the beginning of the round, why don't we make it your turn, hmmm?"

Myut gave a small, involuntary grin at Val’s comment on just wanting to know what the punishments would be. That was an excellent point, but not one that necessarily worked for Meu. Instead, he watched intently while Cyr announced his punishment for Vivian, Bezabelle, and Valramir. It had made Viv clearly uncomfortable, but she had gotten away with a simple peck on the cheek. He couldn’t blame her. Val was a menace.

Speaking of menaces, who but the demon himself to go next, who, apparently, was now assigned by fate to Cyr of all people. Had Cyr thought that through? Meu’s fingers rapped along the surface of the table as Val pounced, not able to take his eyes off the two. So troublesome. Though Cyr looked dazed by the end of it, he had physically responded in turn to embrace the boy in some way. A wet purple adorned his forehead now, and Meu was lost somewhere between feeling amused, bemused, and a little bit irked. Especially at Val’s next comment. That made Meu lose his appetite. He wasn’t smiling anymore.

Interest completely shattered, the Greed had moved on to see what Bez was doing with their poor guard. Their poor, poor guard. He would have offered his other knee for Amos to retreat to, but, besides the fact that he’d never take him up on it, it would have been little shelter in the face of the others’ doggedness. The blonde tried to get away with what Viv had pulled, but that stunt wouldn’t work twice. Especially not with Bez. Poor naïve lad. Myut carefully kept his face neutral so as not to upset the guard, but he wanted to grin at Bez’s antics. Especially when the guard finally pulled back a few moments long later with an absolutely cherry red face. Cute. Meu did allow a little whistle of awe/approval and a sly grin then, seeing as how the guard hadn’t put up a fight and perhaps even enjoyed himself a little? He was very eager to hear more from Amos, now that it was his turn and all as well.

"Ooo" Ino hopped up, the threads of envy from Myut reminding him of something else. "Round is over, so Eris can have her seat back." Because he liked Eris now, so he would be nice.

Also sitting in Myut’s lap was a win.

"That okay, Myut?" He asked again once he made it to his side.

Eris was more than happy to propel herself out of Myut's lap and hurry back to her seat, tripping over the food cart in her haste, causing it to rattle angrily.

"Yes, please." He answered swiftly, moreso for the fact that it would mean Eris would be removed.

Ino sat himself in Myut's lap carefully, looping an arm around him. "Thanks for believing me~" He murmured. "You look like you know something about plants, so I guess that makes sense. Plus you didn't have kiss Eris, hmm? Though it seems to have worked out" his eyes drifted to Val and Cyr. "I wonder if he'll take him up on that... lust demons need to feed somewhat often, right?"

For all the soft curiosity in his voice, Ino was very much bringing that up on purpose.

Meu allowed Ino to get comfy once more, not seeming to be particularly plussed by the extra arm contact it came with. In fact, Myut angled himself a bit more comfortably so his arm could more easily reach the table, and it just so happened that it guarded Ino's side closely now, almost nestling the boy into the crook of his elbow.

The Greed demon simply nodded at the thanks the smaller purple-haired one gave him, and offered a wry grin at the half-tease in mentioning kissing Eris. Yes, very fortunate things didn't play out that way. He didn't want his mouth ripped off or anything, after all.

At Ino's mentioning curiosity over Cyr and Val, Myut bristled a bit at the unpleasant thought, reminded similarly of what happened in the baths earlier. "It's not any of my business," he drawled in response, fingernail tapping harshly at the wood of the table to betray his displeasure/annoyance.

As the surprise of the kiss wore off, Cyr's eyes darted towards Myut, who was looking at Ino. He promptly looked away, his expression looking as if he'd just swallowed a lemon. He'd been planning on making amends with the little envy after their little game, but now he was reconsidering that.

Amos, on the other hand, was still quite flustered, a bit red. He stammered a bit before he finally was able to form proper words. He didn't know any of these demons very well, it wasn't like he could just come up with a good question. Or even a very useful one. "H....how many people have you kissed?" he blurted.

Bez laughed, full and unreserved. She really had flustered their cute little guard, hadn't she? She didn't mean to be rude, really, but with having just kissed him, it really was funny to see him continue to focus on the subject. She had definitely gotten to him. A small win, but one she would savor.

"Oh, Amos. No, sorry, I'm afraid you'll have to ask another question. I don't know the answer to that one. I lost track years ago. I'd have a hard enough time just answering how many people I've kissed at the gala! So no, try again."

This flustered Amos further. Off guard, he struggled to straighten out his thoughts. "Er...well....if....um..." he struggled hard to form a proper sentence. Finally, he cleared his throat and calmed slightly. "Alright," he said, not making eye contact with anyone. "If...if you could switch lives with anyone in this room, who would you pick?"

"Ohh, that's better. Hmmm." Bez knew her gut impulse, of course, but she held back. Why not have some more fun?

Bez took a long moment, tapping her chin thoughtfully as she regarded the demons around the table. "Let's see. I have to think about this one." Suddenly, she whirled dramatically toward Amos, pointing at him. She may as well tease him a bit more after all! "With you, there is the benefit that you get to come visit with our lovely group quite often for now. But, you also have to take ridiculous orders from stuck up higher-ups, and you seem clueless about where these orders even come from half the time. I also don't know much about your life. Yet. So, no thanks, hard pass."

She stuck her tongue out, then moved on to look to Eris beside her. "Eris, on the other hand, is a load of fun, a wonderful painter, and gets in the middle of so much drama! Though as much fun as it is to have lots of enemies, I don't know if I could keep up your zeal." Bez shrugged.

"Oh Cyr," she sighed, looking fondly exasperated, "you mentioned once I'd make a good Lust, but the whole mess you've got going on, and the necklace thing…." She shook her head slightly. "Though, you do have a lot of fun opportunities, no?" Bez raised her eyebrows suggestively. Then her focus shifted.

"Dear Val, as much as I appreciate your troublemaking and love napping with you- forced or not- I don't think I'd be able to handle feeling so sleepy and sloth-y all the time!"

"Viv, now you're a temptation. I do know your family somewhat by reputation, and that fantastic motorcycle of yours! Not to mention you're also ridiculously gorgeous, so that's a big plus. Still, I am having far too much fun getting to know you better in all sorts of lovely ways. Don't think I'd be willing to give that up!"

"Then there's Ino, the center of delicious drama. Also apparently the owner of poison slash not-poison that I desperately want to try." She pouted dramatically. "Oh the secrets I could learn. Especially about…" She wriggled the fingers of both hands a moment, then laughed, unable to suppress it.

"Then there's Meu!
All those contacts and connections and sources! Your wonderful collection of rare items and books and plants. Not to mention all the opportunities you have to get more! Whenever I visit, your home is just," she raised her shoulders, wiggling in her seat in excitement, "so cozy! Alright, that settles it. I'd pick Meu!"

Vivian seemed pleased by Bez's description, if the smile and blush were anything to go by. Pride demons thrived on this sort of thing, and Vivian took a deep breath, letting it sink in. Bez had played the table masterfully. Her girlfriend was so smart and amazing~ "Truth".

Ino, meanwhile, smiled also, before dropping his gaze to his plate, taking a few more bites of fish though his appetite was lost. That really was his reputation, wasn't it... He'd wait to see what the others thought before he spoke up.

Val was still smiling smugly from the kiss. He could still taste the man's lips and thr Bez's show was amazing. She one uped him but that was fine. It was all good fun. So far these punishments weren't so bad.

At Bez assessment of his life, he just chuckled. "You'd make a great slothy." He and Bez often sloothed around anyway. "But truth I suppose."

Eris grinned. She liked the thought of Bez as a greed demon. All those things... "Truth!" She agreed.

Myut flashed Bez a wry smile as she announced to the table that her choice of swap would be him. "Good; I'd have called you a liar if you had said anyone else~" He joked openly, mirth clear on his features.

"Truth, obviously." Ino folded his hands. "I'm not about to be the only dissenter~" He joked.

"I will." Cyr said a bit stridently. Whether it had to do with what happened after their bath, or from Ino's misbehavior, but he was feeling self destructive. "I think that's a lie."

---

"Oh? Unfortunate, my poor Cyr, unless you can convince everyone else to change their answers, you've just earned a punishment." Bez said with a wink.

Cyr seemed somewhat unruffled by that. There was no way he could get everyone else to change their minds. "Oh dear," he said, resting his chin on his hand. "What do you have for me?"

"No, no. Not me! Amos, the pleasure is yours," Bez declared, inclining her head graciously.

Amos had, again, stopped paying attention. "Eh?" He asked, looking up when he heard his name. "Um...do twenty push-ups?" He suggested. Good enough, right?

Ino snorted. "Why don't you also ask him to sit in his chair and breath a little while you're at it?"

Cyr couldn't help but laugh. Even if Ino was majorly annoying, that was pretty funny.

Amos didn't find it so amusing. "Well...fine. How about..." His eyes flicked around the table a little helplessly. "Switch shirts with Ino then."

Ino sputtered. "It's not going to fit him! He's massive!" He complained, but he already knew no one would help out. He pulled his shirt off and balled it up, tossing it to Cyr. It smelled faintly of peaches.

Cyr caught it, looking somewhat reluctant. "I won't force it," he replied, pushing his chair back as he stood up to undo the buttons on his dress shirt before tossing it over. He'd only worn it for a little bit, but it had been mixed in a bag with other things he'd been wearing, so it smelled a lot like him and a little like wine and amber.

Indeed, the shirt didn't fit over his shoulders, so he left it there around his neck like an overlong scarf.

Ino slipped on Cyr's top, only doing the first few buttons. It hung on him like a dress, and he swore softly, rolling up his sleeves until he could use his hands again. The large shirt softened him, making him look younger, more innocent.

At least it smelled nice.

Ehh? What was this? Cyr openly stood against the group verdict, willingly offering his underbelly to the pack of wolves around him. What was the point of that? Should Meu be offended that Cyr wouldn't think him worth the time of day to switch lives with? Nah. He could care less, especially as this seemed to be more of a personal matter for Cyr. It definitely made things exciting again though, with another punishment to go around! He wondered what Amos would give him.

Cyr didn't even try to give a reason of debate on why he thought Bez might be lying. Why so eager for punishment...?

Amos was caught off guard once more, offering the bare minimum of a punishment. A deep and true laugh shook Myut's chest; twenty? That was it? He'd be doing thirty times that as a single rep for fun later.

Ino echoed his thoughts exactly with his retort to Amos, and he gave a low, quiet chuckle so as not to be caught agreeing with Ino against the poor guard. Amos certainly wouldn't like that. And that was certainly very true, since, in the next instance, Amos turned against the envy demon and forced him to be tangled up with this punishment.

Amos certainly had a much better backup punishment, and Meu pressed his lips together against the laugh that threatened to spill out, so only a 'pffft' came out against his huge grin.

Ino complained about the massive size difference, and Myut was very tempted to tell him to say goodbye to his precious shirt. However, he figured it better not to send a jab at the poor boy.

Cyr, being quite the benevolent gentleman, announced that he would not be forcing Ino's small top against him, and it instead adorned his throat like some scarf.

Ino's swap had him laughing again with a congenial air. "You look like a wee babe." He commented through a genuinely amused smile, meaning no ill-intent with the comment.

Bez almost groaned at Amos's first suggestion. It was so awfully boring! Ino beat her to it, objecting with a similar complaint. Which, of course, led him to get roped in with Cyr to a much more amusing punishment.

"Ohh, look Ino, now we match!"

"Well, first round is officially done! Now, I think to be fair, everyone who didn't get to ask a question yet will get to ask for this next round. As a bonus for having to wait, you'll get to ask of anyone at the table! Myut, I believe you are first!"

His turn, huh? It was difficult to narrow down on a question, as he wasn't sure if he wanted to hear some entertaining stories or ask something more pertinent to their situation. Perhaps something in the middle?

"Eris?" He gave a measuredly small non-threatening smile, "What's the worst thing you've ever done?" He wanted to see if he could reveal how violent and explosive this wrath could truly be. Perhaps she was someone they should be putting up higher in their lists of suspects? Regardless, as a wrath demon, she was sure to have something interesting to spill.

Eris tipped her head slightly, her eyelashes darkening her cheeks as she considered his question. Was he just wanting her to brag? There were so many good candidates. "Worst?" She asked, kicking her legs back and forth slightly. Which kind of worst? The thing she regretted the most? The cruelest thing? The thing that had the most lasting impact?

She chewed on a fingernail as she considered this. "I killed one of my neighbors once. Well, I didn't exactly mean to, he kept pushing into my territory so I hired an escort to seduce him and make his wife leave him, and while he was distracted I pushed his border and burnt his home. Not my fault he was still in there." Perhaps not the actual worst thing she'd ever done, but it was a satisfying one to brag about. Something light and easy to talk about.

"Hmmm," Bez pretended to muse, tapping her chin to add drama. "True." When it came to that sort of thing, there was no way the Wrath would lie. She was far too territorial and proud of it.

Cyr had no particular desire to draw Eris's attention his way, regardless of how maudlin he felt. "Truth," he agreed.

"True" Ino wasn't about to be causing trouble, too busy subtly ogling Cyr's abs. Damn lust demons...

"Hmmmmm," Val answered. Eris certainly had a lot of fun things. He certainly thought their combined take over had been the best thing, or worst thing he supposed. People were already saying 'true.' He could go with the flow, avoid punishment. Buttttt he was bored. He wanted some fun. Maybe a little punishment would be fun, or he'd at least stir the pot. "Gonna have to say liar, Eris, dear," he sang.

It was a good thing that Meu didn't have a say in this. He had seemed to tactically position himself in this way. He would have said liar instantly. There was no way that was the worst thing she had ever done. Come on, he was expecting something more like mass hosticide or torture. She was very short on the details, making it sound more like an accident that she committed murder than an intended intent for revenge. There was absolutely no way this nasty little thing would consider something so easy to be her 'worst' act ever. But perhaps that was on him for not asking it more specificly.

Good on Val for speaking up on their shared opinion in the matter. Maybe he could use his other head after all. It might get the Sloth in a bit of trouble, but Myut was glad he wasn't the only one thinking this about Eris. Perhaps the others were just being cautious, but that would hardly get them anywhere.

"Hmmm, you think she's lying, Val? Why is that? I may be willing to change my answer."

Vivian looked around the table. She'd grown up with a wrath demon brother, a wrath demon father. She knew the things they could do when provoked. Honestly, accidental murder sounded entirely on brand.

"You shouldn't" she murmured to Bez, before sitting up. "Truth"

Val have a Cheshire cat grin. "Well, we've done a fair share of fun things I would at least consider is worse that that little mistake," he mused.

Eris waved her hand in the air dismissively. "He asked me the worst thing I've done, not the worst thing we've done," she replied, though she looked rather self-satisfied by his acknowledgement. "Doesn't count if I had help."

"Ah! So you admit it! It does to count. Even if you did it with someone else, you still did it. He didn't ask the worst thing you did alone. I'm definitely changing to Liar!"

"I will too," Cyr piped up. If the tide was going to turn this way, he might as well follow it, right?

"Any other takers? How about you, my dear?" Bez asked, looking to Viv. "She did just admit to doing worse with Val, after all!"

Viv nodded along. "Okay, yes, lie." She said, not wanting to suffer any other punishments.

"Yes, lie~" Ino piped up, not wanting to get left behind. "How about you, Myut? You haven't voted?" He asked, looking up at his 'seat'.

"It was Meu's question, no? So I think that just leaves Amos! Any thoughts, Mr. Detective?"

Amos looked around. "Sure, it was a lie," he agreed.

"Aaah! Looks like a bad time to lie, Eris. You've earned another punishment. Nice!" Bez proclaimed, perhaps just a little too loud, and rubbed her hands together. "What do you got, Meu!"

"Oh boo," Eris said, turning her gaze to Myut with an expression that surely did not say 'punish at your own risk.'

"At least you know we won't be swapping seats~" Ino joked.

Val couldn't help but grin. He so had not thought everyone was going to follow him into the call out. He'd been willing to suffer a punishment but this was so much better.

Myut had been surprised that everyone had been swayed over to he and Val's side. That was a first for their game. That meant he had to come up with a punishment for Eris - something he hadn't initially been expecting to do.

"Am I allowed to pocket one for later? I'd like to have a get-out-of-jail-free card in case I make a mistake and rub you the wrong way in the future."

Eris puffed out her cheeks. "You'd better not do any sort of rubbing," she retorted grumpily.

"Nothing of the sort; ideally...." He pursed his lips and raised his eyebrows with a bit of an uncertain squint, "Hopefully not."

Eris crossed her arms and looked entreatingly at Bez. "Tell him it's not allowed!" she asked, pointing at said 'him.' She didn't exactly want someone to have something over her head for later. It'd make it harder to do things if issues cropped up.

Bez laughed, shaking her head. "Much as I want to say yes, sorry, Meu, but Eris is right. The punishments are just for the game. Not some vague long term commitment. Now," she flapped her hands playfully, "come up with something entertaining, or lucky Eris here will get away Scott free."

Myut let out a puff of air and stuck his tongue out a bit. "Fair, I felt like it could have been a bit of a reach. Worth an ask." He shrugged unchagrined. "Alright, Eris can tell us about her most embarrassing social encounter. No lies allowed."

Suddenly, Eris went from indignant to bashful. Embarrassing moments? Even just talking about stuff like that was embarrassing! "Well one time when I was a teenager and still living with my ma, she arranged an event thing and there was this guy there who had a really nice engraved pocket watch that I wanted, so I was trying to get closer, but I didn't know that Ma invited him cause she wanted us to..." Eris made a vague hand gesture. "You know, and so went I went for the pickpocket he uh...thought...um..." her face was turning an unfamiliar light pink as she thought about it. "So I had to set his tie on fire to get away. And he still tries to talk to me when he sees me." Eris had to sit on her hands so as to prevent herself from clapping them over her face and hiding, but her eyes didn't leave the table as she spoke, except to bashfully glance Bez's way at the end of her explanation.

Bez looked aghast. "Eris! How could you not tell me this sooner! Can you imagine just how much drama we could have caused with this guy? You have such an advantage over him. I bet he would do whatever you wanted if it came to it. Oh, what fun you could have!"

That was enough to make Eris hide her face. "Nooo," she replied. "It's too embarassing. I don't wanna see that guy again."

Val chuckled and leaned forward on the table. "I could always put him to sleep for you. But I do agree with Bezzy, you could have so much fun with him."

"C'mon! Just one con or trick or prank, or anything really! I would settle for demanding a really elaborate favor!"

Eris peeked through her fingers at her two friends. "I'll...I'll tell you later," she said at length.

Bez gave her a searching look, then her brow raised and she smiled, "Deal. Now, moving on! Who's next? Let's see.... Ino, have you asked anything yet? I think it is you."

Ino sat upright, looking around the table carefully, considering his options. There was Cyr, but Ino didn't really want to needle him further, that could be dangerous in the future. He couldn't afford to accidentally create an enemy. There was Bez, he could pull something out to really make her squirm, but she'd get back at him one way or another. Perhaps teasing Eris? Though she was a wrath...

The answer came to him when he couldn't crane his neck further, so he tipped his head back, smiling at Amos. "Oh, hello~" He chirped. "My question is to you. Why do you work for-- no, why are you loyal to Abadeer?~"

The answer should help them all plan, truth or lie~

Why wouldn't they just leave him alone. Amos sighed, rubbing his face. At least this was an easy question. "He's the Prince," he replied, straightforward. "That's why."

"Why does that matter to you?" Bez interjected, unable to resist.

Amos frowned more. "It's my job to serve the Prince." he replied, sounding a little annoyed.

"So what if it's your duty?" Vall asked. "You're still a demon. Loyalty... is rare. You have to have a motivation beyond 'duty',, something you get out of it, so until you really answer. You're a liar."

"Yes, what makes you care about your little job, A-mouse?"

Unfortunately, Amos got picked again, and picked on again. Myut was getting antsy that the others might push him too far and scare him off. "Protection? Prestige?" He offered him some outs that would make sense. Amos actually looked pretty young. Was the status and roof all he needed?

Viv considered it. A pride serving a pride...
"Unless you're doing it for free, I need to say liar" she said, folding her hands primly. Nothing wrong with a paycheque. She'd have found it much more believable if Amos had paired loyalty with literally anything else.

Amos's eyes cut to the other pride demon in the room. Ah, she was a Lacerta, rich already, she wouldn't understand what it was like to be a lesser Pride demon, scrabbling for scraps among the rabble. When your success teetered on a finite resource above a harsh and unforgiving landscape, you did what you could, you did it well, and you did it without complaint. "My family, actually," he snapped. "Not all of us were born wealthy."

Viv straightened her back, eyes flashing. "If you need a better job, I can put a word in with my father" she shot back, gracious in the worst way possible.

Amos half-lifted his chin. "I'm perfectly happy where I am," he snapped back, bristling slightly.

Oh dear. Things were starting to get a little testy. Val steepled his fingers as he allowed his aura to ease into the air around them and to dull some of thr sharpness between the two pride demons and to hopefully help Amos loosen up a little.

Viv settled quickly, casting a worried glance at Bez.

Bez felt Val's cooling influence, but she ignored it with little issue. After all, she was not worked up; she was simply amusing herself at Amos's expense. Her eyes drifted half-lidded, her head supported in her hand as she watched Amos. A crooked smile graced her lips. "Oh, family you say? What, did your mommy and daddy get you the job? Couldn't snag it on your own merit, hm?"

Viv sucked in a breath. that was a terrible thing to say to a pride.

Perhaps Val's aura would have worked, if Bez's next words hadn't wound him tighter than a ten day clock. The veins on the back of his hand twitched as he lowered it under the table. "Ha," he said, standing up slowly. He was tired of this. His face didn't change, unlike before when his emotions had very clearly flickered across. Of course, he'd let himself get sucked in by this circus. But really, what did it matter. He could just leave. So that's what he turned to do.

Family, huh? That brought back some old, not unpleasant memories. He could certainly commiserate with wealth not being given but needing to be gathered. And with the way Amos had snapped at them, Myut believed him to be telling the truth, though not that it would have mattered since he'd have taken his side regardless. Unfortunately, Mew wouldn't get the chance to voice his opinion as the others drowned him out with the chance to pounce on new information.

Val was of little help, though Myut did appreciate him reading the room and trying to aid in the situation with his abilities. But Bezabelle was incorrigible - damned that he loved her for it though. It just made Myut's careful little dance more tricky. But perhaps this also could come to his aid.

Meu stirred beneath Ino, leaning forward and taking the Envy with one muscular arm, the other swiping off a place clear for him, and placed him seated on the edge of the table. Amos had already begun walking away from the table, and Mew was quick to step up behind him.

A large hand came to rest very softly at his far shoulder, though there was no pressuring pull to it. Rather, he made touch to encourage him on to the door. Hopefully this way it would keep the others from jumping after their poor guard. "Ah, I do suppose the night grows late. I'll take his punishment since he's retiring." He smiled charmingly back at the rest of the group while his touch on the mousey blonde's shoulder now gently compelled Amos towards the door. Hopefully his offer to take Amos' place in the game would placate the other six demons.

Ino detected the tension. He was ready to bargain with Myut, a little deal in exchange for getting up, but then the Greed grabbed his hips and firmly placed him on the table.

After that, Ino couldn't scheme much, his pupils blown wide, mind hazy with lust.

Amos's anger flicked to confusion when he was touched. Which of the large ones was this? The greed. What was he doing? The greed hadn't bothered him before, and honestly, seemed content to mind his own business for the most part, which was an admirable quality.

But why exactly was this one steering him to the door? Yeah he wanted to leave, and sure he'd initiated going, but he still had things he needed to do. Like get that damned painting. And those airy words. The greed certainly wanted something from him.

"I don't have anything valuable on me, if that's what you're looking for," he said in a low voice as he carried on towards the door after a moments hesitation.

"What do you think I am, some sort of brute or pickpocket?" He clicked his tongue down at Amos, "No, no. I still need your help with that proposition, and if making sure you get out with as little fuss as possible gives that a better shot~." Myut reassured him in an equally quiet murmur. They were nearing the door now.

"Unless you didn't actually want to leave just yet?" Removing his hand from his shoulder, the Greed angled a suggestively joking sort of half smile to the younger demon. Clearly Amos didn't want to have anything more to do with this lot, but hey.

As Amos came to a stop in front of the spot the opening to the outer world would usually appear, Meu placed a hand protectively on the side of the wall to the left of Amos, being sure to guard him closely in case anyone else was going to try to stop him. Their conversation should remain private in any case. "I can see if I can get that painting for you too; that's what you were after in the first place right? It'd be easier with less people."

The demon spoke to him in a soft, low voice. Ah, right. This one had asked about a personal matter before. As he stopped in front of the door, which certainly wouldn't let him through with the demon right there, he half turned to look at him, only to find the other leaning close, an arm half-caging him in-between the wall and the taller man. What in the Hell??

"Uh...er..." he said, his mouth going a bit dry. The painting. Yeah, the painting. he swallowed, nodding as he leaned back against the stone wall, away from the other. "W...what did you...er...what was it you needed from me?" he stammered, eyes darting to the arm that was rather close to his head. Of course, he could slide down the wall away from him, but that would put him back in the line of sight of those other nasty-mouthed creatures. At least this boy was nice.

Meu was almost as equally surprised to find Amos suddenly so close in proximity when he turned around to face him. Mew found himself abruptly gazing down into those piercing emerald greens, only half listening as he awkwardly cleared his own throat, swift to drop the arm so he wasn't cornering the poor boy like some sort of small prey item. He took a partial step back for good measure as well. Cornering the boy hadn't been his intention at all. What had Amos said just now? Oh. What the Greed was after.

"The other guards don't know how to behave themselves." He started seriously, voice still low and quiet. "They took some things of mine without asking. That's a definite no-go for Greeds, you see. I want my stuff back." He pocketed his hands and eased his body language, careful not to let the anger boil through. "Badly." He clenched his fists in his pockets, pressing harsh crescents into his palms with his fingernails all while carefully trying to manage his facial features.

"But as you can see, I'm in a bit of a pickle here and can't quite take care of that myself."

Thankfully, the other stepped back, though he continued to pin him down with that searching gaze. Amos frowned slightly. The other guards were stealing? "Um.." he said, straightening his shirt, now that he had a little space to himself. "If you provide a list of missing items I can launch an investigation and return your things to you." What a bad look it would be for the guards if it turned out one was stealing. Or more than one.

"I'm sorry that happened," his previous frustration with the gluttony demon was all but gone, replaced by an earnest look.

"That. I can do. Vivian is also missing some items." He lifted a thumb to point back in the direction of the table to accentuate his point, "I'll take care of a list promptly, then. Let me know what you want in return." There was that suave smile once more, though it was genuine in its delight at the revelation that Amos would help him out. He hoped it showed as much.

The guard took it a step farther, and even apologized to Meu. Sincerely. That helped to instantly soothe the bitter sting that had stirred deep in his nature. Now, only the stinging in his hands remained. Amos' words caused Myut's looks to soften. Crossing his arms comfortably and non-threateningly, Meu took a few showy, though small, steps back to indicate he was placid and had no intention of trying to make a run for it when the door opened. He still remained protectively close to Amos in relation to the others still seated at the table, though. He hoped it would be far enough from the door for Amos to feel comfortable leaving.

"Let's talk about that later," Amos replied, relaxing more once the demon exited his direct surroundings. Granted, the greed's things probably weren't any safer in here with some of the other contenders milling about. And to boot, who knew which one was the true culprit. But he could do this small niceness.

He turned back to the wall to request to be let out, only for a hand to reach through what seemed to be solid stone and grab him by the front of his shirt, yanking him through with little ceremony.

"Hmmm, there he goes after all. Well, shall we finish? Got a good question to end the game, Val?"

"Actually, wait, no! Who all called liar? Ino, you get to pick some punishments! If I am recalling right, Meu even volunteered to join in getting punished. Such a masochist." Bez winked at Meu.

Eris sat quietly. She'd been too engrossed in watching Amos get riled up to put her two cents in, and now she was wondering whether she should stand by her principles or keep her mouth shut. In the end, keeping her mouth shut won.

"Oh dear. Looks like we fell for a punishment... though I still think he lied, he did have motives beyond "loyalty, "... unles... the boy did say family. Was he related to the prince? Oohh, that would be interesting. "Alright then, what is our punishment, dear Ino?"

Personally, Ino had agreed that the guard was lying. Badly, at that. And it wasn't even a play like Val's claim of no secrets... pathetic. Besides... Cyr and Eris hadn't voted. He considered it, and then let it slide.

How to punish the three... really, he just wanted to get Val for the indulgence comment. He thought they'd had an understanding, so hearing the sloth keep on complaining had lit his ire. It was none of Val's business if Ino didn't want anyone in his bed. But then Vivian and Myut...hmm...

"You three will go to the baths and wrestle. One of you three must end up in the water~" He steepled his fingers, eyes bright. Hmm... "Someone should go to supervise too. Cyr? You're already dressed for it~"

A look of distaste filled Meu's features as Bez announced he'd get to join in the punishment. "I had meant if Amos ended up getting one with a unanimous verdict." He walked to the head of the table, crossing his arms and looking none too happy about what Ino decided they were going to do. There was no way Bez would let him off the hook now that she had made that announcement, though.

A lot of things had all happened at once. First, Cyr had been distracted by the wave of lust that had emanated from the little envy demon. Ew, he wasn't interested in knowing about that. Then, it was the way Myut hurried over to trap the shrinking pride demon, exchanging some low, quiet words with each other.

Ino's words made him frown a bit more he'd certainly get wet, even as a bystander. "Ah," he said as be stood aa well. "Looks like you're getting a bath, Val."

Val blinked. That was thr punishment? It certainly was a huge punishment for him. He gave a pout. "Nooooo" he whined. "Wrestling without getting off is just a chore. And I took a bath already," he intoned , forgetting all the paint on him currently. "All that effoorrtt". He stood slowly then. He knew he wasn't going to get out of it after all. "Fiinneeee."

Vivian flipped her hair, a little annoyed. The guard had obviously lied. But...only one of the three had to end up in the water? Her and Myut had already moved Val before. Maybe they could just do that again? She tried to signal an alliance to Myut with her eyes alone, which probably wasn't going to get through.

"I'll come along too, this'll be fun~" Ino announced, slipping off the table and skipping ahead.

Viv moved forward, carefully avoiding being first. Option two was just tackling Val straight away...she could probably take him down...

She moved to be behind the sloth, looking at him analytically.

Bez popped up as well, a huge grin on her face. "I'm coming too! No way I'll miss out on the fun."

Meu sighed as everyone excitedly skittered off to the room with the baths. He saw Vivian looking back at him, and he gave a slight nod of his chin. Hopefully she'd be willing to work with him against Val. He followed slowly behind the rest, entering the steamy room with a disdained look.

Val sighed. Geeze, everyone was going to the bathroom with them? This was turning into a show. Well, he supposed it could be fun to have a little show, even Iif it required a little effort on his part. It seemed he was first with everyone behind him. That was a littler unnerving. "So what are the rules for this punishment?"

Vivian figured if Val hadn't been paying attention, that wasn't her problem. She shifted lower, strength coiling up her muscles, setting her feet before she launched forward. In two steps, she was right behind him. They were around the same height, so she twisted down, driving her shoulder into his back--he was a demon, he could take the hit--and hopefully bearing him to the ground with her own weight.

Val gasped initially in surprise. His wings snapped open however to counterbalance. He managed to catch his foot and twisted around away from Viv and let her stumble forward without him. Unless familiar with his background, most people didn't know he was a trained fighter. It would take more than that to knock him into the pool. He grinned then. Okay. So maybe this was going to be fun too.

Oh, they were already fighting. Cyr quickly hurried past Ino and Bez, moving to stand near the pool slightly off to the side in case someone got hurt, his eyes fixed on the tussling pair like a hawk.

Viv caught onto him, using him to catch her balance. Now she was the one closest to the water, which wasn't great. On the other hand, most of her was itching for a fight, and she was surprised to find it from a sloth of all things. She brought her arms up and prioritized moving away from the water first, her smile wide.

Val was characteristically lackadaisical as they all came into the room. He asked for specifics on their punishment, which gave Vivian the perfect chance to go straight for the kill. She pounced, and Valramir surprisingly managed to keep himself mostly steady, which led Viv to stumble toward the pool. She recovered quickly as well, and the stood in a bit of a face-off.

How was Meu supposed to find his way into this mess? He supposed he'd attempt to come in behind Val and hope Viv got the message.

Val glanced back at Meu when the other demon inched towards his back. He'd have to keep an eye on him. "Wary of Lil old me?" He poked, trying to get Viv to charge at him again

"I mean, I didn't expect you to hold your own. Last time you were just a rag doll~" Viv taunted, but she did get closer. She needed to try to grapple him so that Myut could get a hold.

"Mmm I suppose I should lead with, 'don't underestimate me'". He answered. He may not like to fight, but that didn't mean he couldn't. Viv didn't lunge as he hoped but he started to try move to keep both demons in his line of sight.

Viv turned, angling so Val couldn't get a good lead on Myut. She was the fighter here. She came a little closer, trying to tempt him into a lunge.

Meu was persistent in staying behind Val's back. "Come on, we don't have to make this so difficult, yeah?" Perhaps he should try getting close enough for Val to focus on him and turn, giving Viv an opportunity for a blindspot.

Val's gaze flicked back and forth, trying to keep an eye on both demons. Myut was getting dangerously close, as was Viv. He couldn't back into a corner since they circled with him and kept him in the center. If he lunged forward, ateadt Myut wouldn't be close any longer and maybe, just maybe, he could get around Viv. So, he lunged.

Viv got her hands on Val's shoulders and gripped hard, keeping him in place. Of course, he could grab her back, which wasn't ideal. On the bright side, Myut had free access to the sloths legs now. She let Val force her a step back to stretch him out.

Bez rushed to the pools, not willing to miss even a moment of excitement. By the time she got there, outpaced by her fellow demons with much longer legs, Val already seemed to be in trouble. It seemed Viv and Meu had an understanding. With Meu flanking him and Viv's fighting prowess, Val wouldn't stand a chance unless he fought very smart. Regardless, Bez knew what side she was on.

"Go, Viv! Get 'im!" She laughed, clutching to the doorframe excitedly.

Once Viv had a grip on him, Meu pounced swiftly to secure Val's feet by the ankles, large hands closing easily around them in an ironclad grip.

When Viv gripped him, he in turn grabbed a hold of Viv. Initially, he was thinking of swinging, using his weight to throw Viv closer to the water or into Myut. However, before he could, the demon in question grabbed his ankles. His eyes widened in surprise. Oh shit. He tightened his grip on Viv then.

Hell yes! The plan had worked! Now Viv just had to figure out how to detach Val, whose grip had tightened uncomfortably around her shoulders. She could knee him in the face, but Ino had said wrestle, not brawl. So she let go of Val and grabbed the sloth's wrists, squeezing hard to try to force the hands open.

Val hated pain. He lived most of his life in avoidance of such a thing. So, when Viv's grip on his hands produced it, he winced and his own grip slacked a little. The Sloth did not have very good pain tolerance.

In the meanwhile, Myut pulled his arms in close to his body as he stood, attempting to lift Valramir from the ankles and throw off his balance even further. Ideally it would aid Viv in getting a better grasp on his wrists.

Viv pried up and away, forcing Val's hands together and gripping them tight, grateful that Myut was doing most of the lifting, which made the maneuver much easier.

"Ready?" She asked, starting a light swing. "1...2..."

"Ack!" Val cried out when he suddenly found his legs getting lifted. He tried to grab onto anything, not liking the feeling of suddenly not being on the ground. The swinging certainly didn't help.

Myut provided ample power to bring Viv's light swing to a full force throw, "3!" He finished, making sure to really launch Valramir so he'd go clear into the water. It'd be super awkward if Viv stumbled at all and the Sloth demon ended up smacking into the stone floor mere inches from the pool.

Viv released Val, then whooped as the sloth demon went flying. They were both strong enough, he should make it in fine.

Val felt himself lift as they started to toss him. He tried to grab onto Viv but she slid from his grasp. His wings expanded out to try and catch himself but he was not a flyer they were thin and not used to the effort. He hit the water then, his right wing smacked the side of the pool and momentarily stunned the sloth as he sank. After a moment he made his way back up to the surface. He coughed from inhaling water and shook his head. Ugh his wing was still hurting from the way he hit it. The water somewhat helped since he didnt have to move it. "Ugh... you win" he mumbled.

Viv laughed a little and waved. "Sorry Val!"

Meu gave a little sigh of relief knowing that this punishment was over and his clothes were out of danger now. He put a hand in one of his pockets, glancing over a now very soaked Val. "Take it up with Ino if you've got any objections."

He made sure not to near the pool in any way shape or form, lest Val start feeling a little splashy. He had heard that loud leathery smack, though. "All good?"

"Hurts a bit" he admitted. He scrubbed at his face and hair to get most of the paint off. Now that he was in the water. When it was mostly out of his hair, he inched out of the water. The wing he smacked shook a little when he bent it but it was just strained, nothing broken. He let it droop a little.
Val pouted a little and looked up at Cyr who was their "referee" kiss ot better?" He teased. He wanted to rile Meu up in retaliation and he get closer to cyr next.

Bez watched in delight as the match concluded, giddy as a child watching entertainers. The fight, two against one, was practically decided from the start. Not that Bez was surprised. Val had seemed a bit over confident. By the time he was in the air, Bez was already in motion.

"Cyr! Get 'im! Get Meu!"

She, on the other hand, had her eye on a particularly lovely Pride demon. Bez jumped, intent on latching onto Viv's slim, athletic form as she called out, "Viv, catch me!"

With Viv's proximity to the pool, and Bez having both momentum and surprise on her side, Bez had high hopes they would end up making their own splash!

Viv shrieked as she was launched forward, spinning to try and catch her balance. She failed, going over the edge. What started as a shove became an embrace as she dragged Bez down with her, not letting her get away.

She surfaced, sputtering and laughing. "Bez! I'm in a gown!"

She then planted a kiss on her, Bezabelle was too cute.

Ah, well, that was certainly a thing he could do. Cyr looked up from where he'd been making sure Val surfaced alright (which yes, yes he did, with a flirty little line) Bez was already flinging herself at Viv. Then began a quick calculation. Was it worth it?

But oh, it would be worth it, wouldn't it. And he could just blame Bez. So he surged forward, quick on his feet despite his size, aiming his arms low around the other's waist so he could bowl Meu over into the water.

Ino was laughing, his eyes bright as he watched the chaos. Now everyone was going into the water. After a moment of thought, he strolled over, offering a hand to Eris. "Shall we?~" He asked.

Eris had been cheering on the fight, a wild grin on her face. Her expression suddenly grew a bit shy, however, when Ino approached. But then again, he had been her partner in crime earlier, and seemed fairly trustworthy. "Yeah," she replied, grabbing his hand, tugging him along towards the water.

Ino followed, laughing, and jumped into the water, right between the two other couples, curling up for a nice big splash.

Dammit, he should have known better. BEZ. Such a troublemaker. He should have left the room as soon as was possible, but he had not been expecting the neutral party to suddenly turn feral, all under Bezabelle's mischievous command. He didn't have time to spin around to try to find Cyr by the time it registered in his brain that Bez had meant to out his poor clothes.

There was no way he would have been able to stop Cyr anyway, who was bigger and, like Bez with Viv, had the advantage of forward motion against a stationary and largely unawares object.

His body turned just enough in reaction to be caught somewhat sideways, Cyr's arms wrapping around his waist and the two of their large bodies being flung into the pool.

Val's wings drooped a little more. Cyr didn't even bat an eye and launched passed him to meu, and everyone else grabbed a counter part. Now he was the only one out of the water. Well then. So much for that plan.

He pulled off his wet icky shirt and sat back to watch the others, not willing to go back into the bath just yet.

Cyr twisted a bit so he'd fall first and Meu's head wouldn't get dunked. Okay, yeah, this was a little bit fun. He surfaced, shaking his wet hair, and gave the white haired demon an apologetic grin. "I have trouble saying no~" he said as he released him.

Meanwhile, Eris, who had made as big a splash as was possible with her little body, paddled over to where Val was sitting by the side of the pool. "Come back in!" she said holding up her arms for him. Her fire didn't quite work underwater, but she could heat up her direct surroundings, turning the water to a pleasantly warm temperature.

Viv went down with a shriek, and Bez felt the Pride's arms wrap snugly around her. Then they were in the water. As they popped back up, Viv scolded her, but it was immediately negated as she kissed Bez. Now it was Bez's turn to not let Viv get away as she deepened the kiss, wrapping her arms around her neck.

Val perked up when Eris came to him. He smiled. "Alright. Since you asked, " he mused and slid in again. "For prison this is much like a vacation, " he mused

Meu had been expecting to get a face full of water as Cyr took the both of them towards the depths, but Cyr had somehow managed to alter their positioning so that he broke surface first. What little grip he had around Mew’s waist lightened markedly, and Myut was able to get his feet under him and avoid getting his head wet. That was a huge relief, as he had been a bit concerned about gulping water and inhaling it through his nose, not having had enough time to properly prepare himself. How considerate of Cyr, he smirked.

The Lust resurfaced, letting go fully of the shorter Greed with an apologetic smile and a cheeky comment. “Oh? Good to know.” That playful smirk reappeared, and Myut chuckled despite himself. His clothes were probably more or less fine – there was no use crying over spilt milk. This’d be the only way to wash them while they were here, anyway. At least there were no harsh chemicals to ruin the thread. It was just uncomfortable as hell. The lower end of his white tie floated between them, and Myut lifted two heavy, sopping-wet sleeved arms to comically whip his hands back and forth a little as though he were drying himself of a few stray drops of water. He grinned stupidly as he did so, making it clear he was making a joke of it. No hard feelings. A good thing he hadn’t been wearing the matching blazer indeed.

“At least everyone else has to suffer being fully-clothed too,” He made a cheeky show of glancing down at Cyr’s bare chest before sliding his gaze back up to the other’s face, “Mostly~” He smirked, noting Ino’s poor shirt wrapped around the back of Cyr’s neck.

“BEZABELLE,” He suddenly roared with a laugh, turning and bouncing on a foot to launch himself toward the two femme demons busily wrapped up in each other’s arms. “Don’t think Viv can save you now!”

Viv, ever the hero, dropped Bez in the water so she could get in Myut's way, arms up, ready to get his head wet if he tried to go after Bezzie. Her eyes were sparkling brightly, fighting had put her in a good mood for now.

"Wanna reconsider?" she taunted. She could totally bring him down if she had to.

That single look was more than enough to make Cyr sink back into the water, a pleased flush crossing his face. He backed up a little ways, only his eyes above the water, watching as Myut created waves, making a beeline for the girls. Viv and Myut fighting? He didn't think he'd mind watching that wet wrestling match.

"I'm not complaining," Eris replied, wrapping her arms around Val's neck and kicking with her legs to stay afloat as she watched the others gambol about in the water. "We'll just have to get out when it stops being fun," she said in a low voice in his ear.

Bezzie's eyes narrowed. She moved around to Viv's side, hands on her hips, though underwater. "Save me? I don't need Viv to save me. I could take you on my own." She put her fists up dramatically, biting her lip in mock concentration. "But..." She put a hand on Viv's shoulder, "with us together, you don't have a chance!"

It was honestly enough just to interrupt them. Meu was already thoroughly wet, so he didn't really care if he got his head dunked under. Viv put up a guard, and Bez made to mimic her, the two swimming side by side. With the two of them so neatly packaged together, he grinned, spreading his arms wide before tackling the both of them into the water, hoping to send all three of them under with his weight. Worse comes to worse, Viv could hold him too and then he'd have ample opportunity to tug at Bez's cheeks.

Viv shrieked again, unable to hold against the much larger man in heels in the water. She swam back, sputtering again, unable to contain her laughter as she immediately splashed Myut in revenge.

Bez squealed, unable to flee in time as Myut dunked them. She popped back up with a dramatic breath, filling her lungs enough to bellow, "Meu, you nerd!" She joined Viv in splashing, aiming for his head to make sure the Greed was drenched as possible. And if others got caught up in her watery assault, even better!

"Yeah, yeah, yeah," He spoke dismissively at Bez's comeback and their splashing, "You asked for this." He grinned brightly, narrowing his sights on Bezabelle once more so that he might grab her and fall backwards into the water with her. And if Viv wanted to join he wouldn't stop her.

Once again, Bez was pulled down, putting an end to her splashing. This time she was better prepared. She'd get back at Meu, on way or another!

As she dipped back under, Bez wriggled free of Meu's arm. Then she braced her feet and waited. As soon as Myut's head breeched the surface, Bez popped up too. She spat a stream of water at him, then ducked back down and swam toward Val and Eris.

Time to move this game along!

She popped up, aiming to splash the pair as much as possible. "Gotcha!" She stuck her tongue out. "Well, since everyone is here, Val, you got the last question?"

Val manages to close his eyes before the watery onslaught came at him and ran a hand through hisbhairnto smooth the wet strands back.
"Ah. I totally forgot. My question was for Amos, but he's gone now. Shame. Hmmmmmm what should I ask, and who?" He mused and tapped his lips as he looked around at the demons. Hmmm. He wanted to ask Cyr about the necklace but he didn't want to gain the man's ire just yet. Ino was already under fire from the poison. Meu amd Viv seemed quite cross with him already. Every question he thought of ended up with someone pissed at him. Ah well. Might as well keep pickin on Myut. Je wondered when the guy would realize he was pushing buttons just to rile him up? "Meuuuuuu," he called, "what is your goal with Amos? You seemed quite chummy with him."

Bez escaped his clutches underwater, and as he resurfaced to try to find her again, he instead found a stream of water spat directly into his face. A comical frown swiftly tugged his lips down, "Eugh, Bez." He responded, grossed out. Okay, he was done playing with her now. The greed shook the water from his hair. He let her swim away and instead started making his way to the edge of the pool.

Val stopped him with his question and he turned to face the Sloth. "Those other guards stole my shit, so I need someone not-in-this-room to get them back before I never see them again. Who knows where they'll be in six days' time. They took some of Viv's stuff as well." He nodded toward the tall lady to corroborate his story.

"Can confirm." Viv nodded, making her way through the pool, her skirts swirling in the water. "Truth for sure. If I don't get those back, my da might actually get angry"

"True," Cyr agreed. It seemed perfectly in character for those guards to have sticky fingers.

"Wait, they stole stuff?" Eris asked, using Val to crawl out of the pool, shaking herself off before darting to her room to make sure none of the stuff she'd stolen had been stolen.

"Truth" Ino said from where he'd floated. Briefly, he considered saying lie just to end with a bit of fun, but he wasn't sure how much more he could take. Knowing Val, he'd lose his pants or something in the process.

Bez swam around Val's back as Val asked his question, then set her hands on his shoulder and her chin on her hands. She peered at Myut from behind Val.

"Hmmmm." Bez listened as one by one, everyone said 'truth.' Eris started hurrying off, likely to check on her own precious hoard. And Myut was probably telling the truth, but... was it the whole truth? Probably. But that wasn't a fun end to this game!

"I say lie! I doubt that's all you want with our handsome little Mouse. Like Val said, you were getting quite cozy back there. Trying to sweeten him up, hmm?"

"Bez, you'd know best out of anyone here that the way I do my business is catered to the situation. What else would I do with him?"

",mmmm looked to me like you wanted to kiss him at the very least, " Val mused and arched an eyebrow at his friend. One had used him to get out of the water and now Bez was using him as a guard wall. Ah well. ~

"There was a definite... tension in the air. And the way you drew him aside, Meu! Even my heart was fluttering. What must Amos think about what you really want from him? Can you honestly say you would just stop at getting your stolen trinkets back if you could get a bit More from our cute guard?"

Ino snickered a bit, eyes flicking over to Cyr. How did he feel about this exchange? Ino half wanted to point out Cyr could tell them if Myut had lustful feelings for the guard...

Cyr had waded over to the edge of the pool and hefted his dripping self up to sit on the ledge, watching the exchange. He could feel Ino's eyes on him. "We can catch him and tie him up for you next time if you want, you know," he said with a lazy smile. "Though I think the little thing might prefer Bez."

Meu let out an exasperated sigh, letting his head dip back against the water. "Come on. Look, this is exactly why I'm being so nice. You're all menaces - the last thing I need is a hog-tied guard who wants nothing to do with me; he's so skittish I barely got to ask what I needed to even with all the pomp and circumstance. How else are we supposed to interact with the outside world if not through him? Bez, you already know how I feel about that sort of stuff anyway."

"Right now, it isn't what I think that matters. I already called you a liar anyway," Bez giggled and stuck her tongue out. "The real question is whether anyone else will back me up and call you a liar too! So, any takers?" Bez asked, looking around expectantly.

---

It was quiet. "Ah, it appears like you're the odd one out this time, Bezzy dear," Val mused. "Let's see.... since you know everyone best, your punishment is to impersonate someone in the room until someone gets it right. Not their sin, but them personally. Like mannerisms and things they'd say."

Disappointment flashed over her features. It was betrayal! Pure and simple! Kind of. Not really. She was just being a "menace," and her gamble didn't pay out. Val's punishment, however, made her eyes light up. That could be quite fun, and it definitely played to her strengths. Plus, it was a golden opportunity to either stir up some drama or some embarrassment, if she played it right. Val was right, she did know each and every one of them Quite well.

She thought a moment, then had a devious idea, one that should suit her purposes quite nicely. Now, she just needed a volunteer.

She waded over to the edge, kneeling on the ledge so she was higher out of the water. "Hey, Cyr? Mind coming over here to help me? I need a prop.

Cyr heaved a sigh. "Don't involve me in this," he protested, even as he slid back down into the water and waded over to her. "What do I need to do?"

"Just stand there," she patted the water. Then, taking him by the shoulders, adjusted his position just slightly. "No, actually, about there. Perfect!"

Bezzabelle cleared her throat emphatically, making sure she had everyone's full attention before she started. She held her posture just so as she angled toward Cyr, who stood barely a handspan away. Bez knew she could perfectly immitate her target's voice if she wanted, but for this, she decided she would get a better effect if she approximated. She pitched her voice lower, but the slow, gentle cadence and the pleasant tones would be dead on. Even the precise pronunciation and the way the demon in question moved as they spoke would be accurate to the highest degree. However, Bez took the liberty of being dramatic as possible as she cupped water in her hands, holding it up toward Cyr and looking disturbed as she said
"Mmmm... My tea is cold. A shame too. It's a rare blend with roots from the Ivory coast and leaves from a Himalayan village that has since disappeared to time. What a waste. Unless.... You can save it Cyr, if you will consent to... kiss me." She leaned forward, eyes fluttering closed, as she went in for a kiss.

Cyr promptly went bright red at the first words. Of course Bez would do this. He'd heard Bez do perfect parrots before, and this wasn't that, but it was still completely obvious who she was playacting as.

"Shameless," he scolded as she leaned forward, an embarrassed pout on his face as he fended her off with a splash, backing off just out of her reach.

Meu was relieved that it was only Bez who was putting up such a fuss to get reactions. Unfortunately, her punishment wasn't any ice to his ire. It seemed she was far from through with poor Mew. Worse yet, she roped Cyr into her nonsense again. At first it was more or less tolerable, but by the end of it she had Meu just as flushed as Cyrus. The audacity. The sheer ridiculousness of it. Cyr really had put it the best way: Shameless.

"Oh, how cute." He deadpanned, giving a slow, fake clap. "What a performance. So glad I got to witness that." Face utterly bereft of any mirth, though admittedly still quite pink, Meu turned and hefted himself out of the pool. "At least this means we're done now." He spoke, facing the far wall toward the door. As he began making his way toward the exit of this situation, he cupped his hand in order to run it against his sopping wet clothes in attempt to wring them out somewhat so he wouldn't drown his room's pitiable carpet.

Val chuckled as he watched the scene. Looked like they got more of a show than originally planned. He was glad Bez was able to stir the pot with Myut and Cyr. "Oh, such a sore spot for you. Mew mew," he teased.

Viv frowned, not liking how close Bez had gotten to Cyr. She tried not to glare at a lust, but a little of that slipped through anyway. But Bezabelle was just joking around, right?
She climbed out of the water and started to wring water out of her skirt, trying to soothe her pride demon core.

Ino let out a soft laugh at the impersonation, then turned to the target. "Do you really collect rare teas?" He asked curiously.

Meu heaved a hefty sigh as he heard Val's comment, coming to a stop. No, no. The sloth was right. He shouldn't be letting himself get so visibly rattled by this, especially since it was just a prank from Bez. So terribly naughty. It was all fun and games until you ended up as the butt of the joke. He waved his hand as though dismissing his prior huffy attitude, turning back to face the group. "Nah, not gonna lie, she had me in the first half. But what was that ending, Bezabelle?" He puffed out a cheek and blew air to help relieve any lingering tension or resentment.

It was then that Ino spoke up, with a laugh that Meu easily overlooked. After all, it wasn't actually him they were laughing at. It was Bez's ridiculousness. "Yeah," He shrugged, "it's one of my personal interests."

Cyr still felt profoundly embarrassed, and it wasn't abating. But Myut was right, the game was over. And he really wanted to be out of here right now, so he could simmer more in his myriad bad feelings. He retreated further from Bez, still wary of her mouth and of Viv's eyes he could feel on his back, and pulled ino's wet shirt from around his neck. He didn't warn the envy demon before tossing it in his direction, though.

"Well," he said as he hauled himself out of the water again for the third time that day. He paused a moment to shake the hanging droplets out of his hair before pulling off his sodden pants so he could wring them out. "If we're done here, I am going to go sit by the fireplace and dry."

Val was amused by the events of thr game all in all. He arched an eyebrow when Cyr then decided to strip. Oooh, fun. And he certainly was a handsome demon. He wondered if myut would take up the, presumed, offer? Well he wasn't going to let it go by as he too pulled himself out of the water and shook off, extending his wings a moment. "Mind if I join you, Cyr? I promise to behave. Mostly." He said with a fanged grin. "Cuddle party."

Ino was smack in the head by his wet shirt, unexpected enough that he wobbled, flailing on the spot to catch his balance. He whipped back to look at Cyr. "Fuck you, this is mine now!" He shouted, pulling the oversized top closer around his body. He absolutely did not let his gaze linger. Fucking lust demons and their eternal need for attention. He was sure Val would be happy to provide.

He ran a hand through his wet hair and sighed. "I have a few tea ingredients with me too. Do you only collect for rarity? Or taste and effect?"

Ugh. He didn't want to be here any longer. Just standing awkwardly around in wet clothes. Myut figured he had done enough to save a bit of face in lingering and responding. His interest was nonexistent now, and he was just about to slip out the door when he heard Cyr's voice pipe up.

He turned to give the man his attention, and found himself quickly startled to see Cyr stripping his trousers off. Mew swiftly averted his gaze. How Cyr didn't mind in the slightest utterly baffled him; the others were here, it was like inviting trouble. But maybe Cyr wanted some trouble. How brazen. The discomfort and distaste at the prospect only darkened when Val excitedly invited himself over to the Lust. Hell no, he was getting out of here before Val decided to do anything uncouth, or worse, turn his attentions on Meu himself.

He caught the tail end of Ino's next question. Myut didn't want to have any more conversations right now. He didn't like that he felt he should awkwardly linger for Ino's sake or to be polite. "Flavor." He responded flatly, pushing the door open with a shoulder and exiting. He wasted no time in making a beeline to his room.

Ino wilted, just a little, before pulling himself together. Whatever, then. He didn't need anyone's attention or friendship or anything like that. They were all enemies here. He stalked out the room and into his own, stripping off his wet things and then sitting on the bathroom floor, head in his hands. He just needed a minute. He'd be okay.

Bez watched as each of the dramatic reactions unfolded. Cyr was right, she was shamelessly enjoying herself. She tried not to look amused and utterly pleased with herself. She tried. Though she was able to keep her face fairly passive, glee still shone in her eyes. Meu was pissed, that was certain. It had been a while since she had made the Greed this grumpy! And both were cherry red. Yes, she had picked her targets well. Hopefully it would serve one of her long term goals as well.

Cyr backed off, looking wary, then turned to get out. Bez made her way toward Viv at the edge of the pool. Cyr's mentioning the fireplace, and subsequent stripping out of his clothing, had given her another idea.

When she reached Viv, Bez pulled herself onto the underwater ledge and stood so she and Viv were face to face.

"You know, I had a thought, and I wanted to know what you thought of it."

Bez leaned forward, one hand on either side of Viv's hips, as Bez whispered in Viv's ear.

Cyr scanned the room for a moment before looking back at Val. "Alright," he said putting his pants over his shoulder before going to raid the shelf for towels. He put one on the top of Val's head before wrapping another around his waist. Then he sauntered out into the main room, gingerly avoiding the wet footprints of the other three who had already crossed.

He laid out his poor wet pants, then his towel so he could stretch out by the warm fire. Maybe he'd press ino to get his shirt back later. Maybe not.

Oh. Oh sahweeet. He totally thought Cyr was going to shut him down again. He was happy he didn't. He grinned and pulled off his own wet clothes and left them on the floor before accepting thr towel Cyr gave him. "Thanks. " He wrapped the towel around his waist and followed after the lust demon.

Val quickly lay down beside Cyr and snuggled up close to him. Cyr was so warm. He settled his head on his chest and arms wrapped around him.

Viv turned bright red at Bezabelle's closeness, quickly distracted as she wrapped her arms around her warm wet girlfriend.

"I...uh...I..." she stammered, entirely flustered.

Unable to resist, Bez snuck a kiss. Not a long one thus time, just a quick peck, then she moved to Viv's side and pulled herself out of the pool. She went to the towels, stripping with no concerns about who was still in the room and pulling the towel around her. After grabbing another for her hair, she grabbed another couple towels for Viv, padding back to her with a casual grin as she held out the towels.

Viv was even redder than before, somehow. She checked that they were alone before pulling off the sopping wet gown, quickly wrapping herself in the towel. Underthings could wait until she had replacements. She then took a towel for her hair and wrung out the dress before making a beeline for her room, knowing Bez would follow. She had to change into something dry before the mischievous girl followed her into her bathroom...

Bez followed, stopping by the fireplace to deposit Cyr's wet shirt. She paused to wink at Cyr and Val, then disappeared into Viv's room.