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[ { "text": "Angel Haruki\n\"Grace! I hope I've found you in good spirits tonight, child.\" Mr. Dialtone's cheery voice greeted you from within the receiver. \"I need to cash in your Debt. Did you catch the headlines on Awareness Radio earlier? Ol' Edward Farley bein' done wrong by someone in the City Council? Well he ain't about to take that lyin' down. And I can only do so much from in here, so I need somebody to lend a hand from out there. Reckon you could be that somebody?\"\n\n\n\"I doubt lifting prints from those cards would help.\" Trinity tells you with a shrug. \"This looks like the Trader's work. Faeries don't leave fingerprints. Do your thing, Kendra.\"\n\n\nA portal appears in the living room doorway, the music now sounding like it stems from the portal rather than everywhere and nowhere at the same time. After that, it doesn't take long for the musicians to start manifesting. They march into the living room out of thin air, playing their music loud and proud. Once they have all walked through the portal, the musicians sort themselves into two lines that form a walkway between the portal and you.\n\nThe music then begins to build and build as the sigil of Paimon appears on the surface of the portal. Then, as the music reaches its crescendo, a crowned dromedary camel steps into the living room, the King of the West riding upon its back. The camel moves along the walk way at a relaxed pace as its rider lounges on its back and enjoys the music. As always, King Paimon is as ostentatious as he is beautiful.\n\nThe camel stops as it reaches you, its arrival coinciding perfectly with the end of the musician's song. Paimon looks down upon you then and speaks. \"Ni, Paimon, Cin j'ez harl Klith mej Av Ith'mab Egjeth ez Lucifer, glevjixel ao pafrel ilgwej, Mitra Singh!\" The King of the West exclaims in joyous greeting. As always, he arrives speaking in his native language, and will continue to do so until told to speak plain.", "username": "rush99999", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Kendra\n\nKendra gave a nod to Trinity before picking up the playing cards. She tried to keep her expression as neutral a she did so, but to Aliss and Trinity she probably appeared quite grim. In truth, Kendra had also suspected the Trader was involved the moment she had seen what had been taken, yet had hoped if she didn't say it aloud it wouldn't be true and would turn out to be the workings of some mortal criminal instead. Visions of doom and ghost murder mysteries were bad enough without adding fae mischief into the mix. She supposed she should be grateful that the Trader had decided to pick on her rather than her less supernaturally-minded housemates. Kendra felt she brought them enough trouble already, after all. \n\nThat did beg the question though: did the Trader know from whom they were stealing from? The cards being their target suggested 'yes', but if so, wasn't that a bit risky? Taking from someone who could potentially locate them? Or was this just the beginning of some elaborate faerie game? \n\nTaking a deep breath to steady herself, Kendra closed her eyes and focused.\n\nKendra uses Psychometry on the playing cards and gets an 11. She asks:\n• What is the history of this object?\n• What secrets or mysteries has this object been privy to?\n• What strong emotions have most recently been near this object?", "username": "XxFellsingxX", "char_name": "Kendra Molony" } ]

[ { "text": "You call upon your powers and your powers answer, granting you visions of the deck's past, the secrets it has been in the presence of, and the feelings it has been saturated in.\n\nThe first vision is of the cards sitting on a table in a living room devoid of people. After a few moments of nothing happening, a small goblin in a threadbare dress crawls out from under a sofa, radiating feelings of entrepreneurial eagerness as she begins to search the room. The goblin eventually stops to look at the cards on the table, letting out a very impressed \"Ooh.\" as she radiates curiosity and a strong desire to possess the cards. The goblin then reaches down to a satchel that is hanging across one shoulder and begins rummaging around in it, eventually pulling out a handful of poker chips which she then proceeds to set down on the table before taking the cards, slipping them into her satchel, and crawling back under the sofa from whence she came as she radiates a feeling of satisfaction at a good deal done.\n\nThe scene of the vision then changes from the poker chips sitting on a table in an empty living room to the cards sitting on a table in a simple hovel with two people in it. One the goblin from before. The other a homunculus in business attire tailored specifically for its small size. No strong feelings can be detected from the homunculus, but the goblin is still radiating that same entrepreneurial eagerness she had back in the first vision. \"Now just to be clear, my master isn't interested in the cheap imitations that have become so common on Earth.\" The homunculus says. \"He wants genuine tarot cards. The kind that can be used as prophetic tools. You will be rewarded handsomely for every deck you find. Do you find this deal to be to your liking?\" The goblin nods her head furiously, the eager grin on her face more than enough to show that she feels that this is an exceptionally good deal.\n\nThere is one last change in scenery then. This time, the vision begins in darkness. After a few moments, light shines down from somewhere up above, revealing that this last vision has begun inside the goblin's satchel. Still radiating that same feeling of entrepreneurial eagerness, the goblin pulls the deck of playing cards out of her satchel, revealing the interior of your apartment. The goblin is standing over your tarot cards, which she proceeds to pick up and replace with the playing cards. The goblin then stows the tarot cards away and crawls under a nearby sofa, feelings of satisfaction at a good deal done and excitement for another big payday fully detectable even though she is a good distance away from the cards now. As the goblin crawls though, an eight ball falls out of her satchel without her noticing and rolls under a foot stool as the goblin disappears into the darkness.\n\nOnce free of the visions, you would easily be able to find the eight ball and realize that you could use it to track down the goblin. Misty Starbuck, a wizard indebted to you, knows a tracking spell. All she would need is something that belongs to the goblin, something like the eight ball, and she'd be able to point you in the right direction.\n\n\nThe King of the West grins at your command and subsequent request to speak plain. \"I merely spoke a greeting to you just now. Something hardly important enough to warrant repeating.\" Paimon states, speaking now in Hindi. \"What is important is that I have a task for you.\" At those words, a scroll sealed with the sigil of Paimon materializes floating in midair in front of you. \"You are to take this scroll to the wizard known as Misty Starbuck with all haste.\" Paimon commands you. \"She lairs in the abandoned Shakes dance studio on the outskirts of the city. I would suggest beginning your search there.\"\n\nAngel Haruki\n\"Don't you worry yourself a moment about Kendra and Chandra.\" Mr. Dialtone says reassuringly. \"Mrs. Singh's son-in-law, Mitra, is one hell of a hindrance to any would be assassin. Her life's in good hands. Her career is a different story though. Farley's fixin' to have her replaced. I don't know how he's gonna do it, but it involves findin' the right set of tarot cards. Kinda like the ones Kendra just had swiped. You help them find the thief, I'm fairly certain it'll set Farley back just enough that he'll hold off on goin' after Chandra for the time bein'.\"", "username": "rush99999", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Kendra\n\nAs Kendra recovered from her vision and tracking down the magic eight ball, she felt whimsical enough to ask it question. \"Magic eight ball, how likely is this whole thing going to turn into a wild goose chase?\" she said before giving it a little shake. \n\nAfter a moment, the eight ball responded: \"Better not tell you now.\"\n\nKendra glared down at the object. \"Smartass,\" they muttered. She turned her attention back to her roommates. \"Hey, either of you busy? Need someone to give me a lift,\" she asked. Given the spontaneity of her visions, she didn't like to drive herself, even though she could. Far too hazardous.", "username": "XxFellsingxX", "char_name": "Kendra Molony" }, { "text": "Grace\n\nGrace couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at the mention of Chandra Singh's son-in-law. She didn't exactly know who that was right now. She doesn't even realize that she had seen him before...\n\nShe listened to Mr. Dialtone as he continued his explanation. She answered his words, with a grin, and the excited and understanding tone clear in her voice, \"Ahhh, I see now,\"\n\nShe looks back towards Kendra's room and she comments, \"Then I better get back to Kendra's side soon. Knowing her, she's probably 'seen' something by now. Is there anything else that I should know before we end this electric conversation?\"", "username": "Guardian Angel Haruki", "char_name": "Grace" } ]

[ { "text": "\"Much as I'd love to join you on this latest adventure, I promised Charity I'd help her with her homework.\" Aliss apologizes.\n\nTrinity considers your request for a moment. You know that she likes to relax for an hour or so once she gets back from work. But at the same time, you also know that she's well aware of the fact that a vision coming to you while you're behind the wheel would end poorly more often than not. \"...Alright. I'll drive.\" She finally concedes. \"But you're buying drive through if you don't want to walk back.\"\n\nAngel Haruki\n\"There is one thing.\" Mr. Dialtone says. \"That new hunter in town, Abberline Winchester. My sources say he's gunnin' for the Trader. If you want to help Kendra find their cards, you'd better do it fast. And be careful out there, child. This city ain't usually the safest of places durin' the night, but it'll be all the more deadly while Winchester's out there. Even for those who've died once already. See you around.\" With that said, the call disconnects.\n\n\n\"By the way, do be careful out there.\" Paimon adds as his musical procession forms up in front of the portal. \"Between your mother-in-law kicking the hornets' nest, that enterprising little thief-merchant from Arcadia, and that new trophy hunter prowling the night, things are dicier than usual in this corner of the Earth... Give Ravi my regards when next you see him.\" With that said, Paimon's camel turns around and the musicians strike up another tune. Soon enough, you are alone.", "username": "rush99999", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Grace\n\nWhen Grace first heard about this mission, she thought it would be easy to get the tarot cards back. But now hearing that Abberline Winchester is practically after the Trader's head? If a ghost could sweat, she'd now be sweating bullets. The phone disconnects before she can say anything else, and she looks concerned as she hangs up the phone and lets herself become nothing more than air once again as she comments, \"I better hurry then...\"\n\nShe then phases through the wall and makes it back to Kendra's side. \n\nAs soon as Kendra's alone, Grace manifests so she could be felt and heard, and she boops Kendra's nose while quoting a Legend of Zelda fairy in a comical greeting, \"Heeeey, Listen!\"\n\nShe makes her point to Kendra, \"I'm coming with you to help you get your tarot cards back. Mr. Dialtone just cashed in my debt to him. Also, you might want to be extremely careful. Apparently Abberline Winchester is also after the Trader,\"", "username": "Guardian Angel Haruki", "char_name": "Grace" }, { "text": "Kendra\n\nKendra nodded to Aliss, before turning back to Trinity. \"Sure,\" she said. \"Sounds good to me. I'll go get my stuff.\" She turned away, and was in the process of gathering up her coat and bag when a certain specter materialized from nowhere and gave her gentle yet surprising boop on the nose. They jumped slightly, before turning her gaze on Grace. \"One of these days,\" they said, shaking their head slightly as they took a deep breath to recover from the shock. \"One of these days, you are going to give me, or someone else, a heart attack.\" Grace's words didn't help her stress either, as she recalled her earlier vision about Abberline Winchester. \"Oh boy. First a kleptomaniac fae, now a psychotic hunter,\" she responded in a flat voice contrary to words. She glanced back down at the magic eight-ball still clutched in her hand. \"Magic eight-ball, could my evening get anymore exhilarating?\" She gave the object another little shake.\n\nThe object responded yet again with a non-committal answer: \"Cannot predict now.\"\n\nKendra grimaced. \"You know, I never understood the appeal of these things,\" they said to Grace as they held the eight ball up for the ghost to see. \"I mean, granted, I don't see the appeal of most of these hokey divination tools, but this one in particular seems pretty unhelpful.\"", "username": "XxFellsingxX", "char_name": "Kendra Molony" } ]

[ { "text": "\"I need something for the spell to work on,\" You tell the hunter.\n\n\"I am aware.\" Abberline replies before gesturing to the empty bag with the word 'Candy' embroidered onto the side that he threw to you a moment ago. \"The bag belongs to my quarry. I trust that will be enough for you to work with?\"\n\n\nAs you announce that you'd rather avoid anyone getting shot tonight, a strange intuition comes to you. An intuition you know from experience to be a result of your powers. Abberline knows of the prophesy foretelling his doom at the hands an alliance between all four factions. As a result, he will be quick to retreat if confronted by even the smallest gathering of Mortality, Night, Power, and Wild.", "username": "rush99999", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Mitra\n\nMitra was about to answer when the ghost shows up. And apparently recognizes him. Confusion creases his brow before he takes the worst possible choice - he brushes it off. Seems the ghost will explain 'later', though he doesn't appreciate her 'warning'. He's a fairly reasonable and hardworking individual, especially for someone who's for all intents and purposes soulless. He couldbe a far worse and less reliable individual, he's heard the stories and knows he's walking a tightrope.\n\nAnd as for the comment about shooting someone...\n\n\"You've heard the expression 'don't shoot the messenger', yeah? Not many take it to heart. So I just have this to ensure I don't get shot more than once. It's empty right now, see?\" And he does open the barrels so this mystery lady and ghost can see for themselves. He only gives them enough time for that, though, as it sounds like his target's in trouble. If nothing else, he'll be in trouble if he fails to deliver this message.\n\n\"So, you're not Misty. I have a message for her.\" He nods towards the building. Abberline. Figures. So his target's not a regular human either. Abberline probably has bullets for her. They might be holy. \"I can take a shot or two, if that helps. Is she tainted?\" He's not willing yet to put all his cards on the table, but he may as well find out the odds that the hunter is prepared for someone like him right now.", "username": "RBYDark", "char_name": "Mitra \"Snake Eyes\" Singh" }, { "text": "Kendra\n\n\"Fair enough,\" Kendra said in response to the stranger's response, though there was still a hint of doubt in their voice. They also raised an eyebrow at his comment about 'being able to take a few bullets' and him asking if Misty was 'tainted'. \"No, Misty's a wizard,\" she said. \"Or witch. Sorceress? I don't know how she labels herself, but she can do spells.\" As she was saying this, a thought began occurring to her as she remembered the prophecy she had had about Abberline. She glanced toward Grace, back at the stranger, and then towards the dance studio. \"I have an idea about how we can scare Abberline off, but it's risky.\" \n\nGrace was a ghost, making her of the Night faction. Misty was Powered. As for Mortality, well, Kendra could potentially pass as a 'normal'. She certainly wasn't about to involve Trinity or any other bystanders. That left this strange man. Kendra scrutinized him again: they had no idea of his alignment, but they got the sense from his lack of reaction towards Grace's spontaneous appearance and the things he was saying that he was not a normal man. He said he had a message to Misty, presumably from someone else, and it didn't seem as if he wanted her dead. That was a start. \"So, hi: I'm Kendra. I have visions sometimes,\" she said. \"What's your deal exactly?\"\n\nKendra rolls a 9 to Figure Mitra Out. They want to ask:\n- Who's pulling your strings?\n- How can I get your character to trust my plan?\nMitra can also ask Kendra one of the questions from Figure Someone Out.", "username": "XxFellsingxX", "char_name": "Kendra Molony" } ]

[ { "text": "Kendra\n\n\"Huh,\" Kendra said, now with both eyebrows raised. She'd been expecting his employer to be unusual, but demon king had definitely not been her first thought. \"If that's the case, then the chances of this plan working have improved considerably.\" Under normal circumstances, she would not want either herself or any of roommates, living or otherwise, to make any dealings with anyone who associated with demons. Fortunately - or unfortunately, depending who you asked - everything relating to Abberline was, at least in Kendra's book, labelled as anything but normal. \n\n\"When Abberline first came to town, I had a vision that he was going to become a major problem,\" the Oracle said. \"And that his defeat would only come about at the hands of an alliance between all four Factions.\" They rolled their eyes. \"Which I initially dismissed as being as likely as Hell freezing over, if you'll pardon the expression.\" There is the faintest hint of a smirk forming on Kendra's face which Mitra will get the impression - and something Grace will know for a fact - is not something she does often. Clearly, she thought what she just said was very witty. \"However, it just so happens that Abberline has heard of this prophecy too, and he's apparently far less cynical than I am. At even the hint of alliance between all four factions, he should retreat.\" She pointed to Mitra. \"Your association with a demon, Misty's occupation and Grace being, well, Grace means we've got Wild, Power and Night covered. We're only missing Mortality.\" Mitra will notice as Kendra is saying this, her eyes are very pointedly trying not to look toward the car she exited from, where Trinity is still seated. \"I don't advertise my gifts often, and do my best to keep my head down when I can. There is a chance that Abberline doesn't already have me on his list of future hunts, and that I may be able to pass as a normal human being.\" That hint of a smirk became more obvious as she added, \"For once in my life.\"\n\nThe smile then faded completely to a much grimmer expression, which looked far more at home on Kendra's face. \"However, if he doesn't fall for it, we may end up escalating the situation and he might end up hurting Misty, presuming he hasn't already. And even if it does work and he flees, well, we've just revealed our faces to a man who hunts the supernatural for shits and giggles. If Abberline doesn't already have a file on each of us, he will after tonight, and we'll probably have raised up in his hitlist.\" Kendra shrugged. \"Now, Abberline doesn't scare me, but I don't know about how well that would sit with you.\" She turns her gaze from Mitra towards Grace. \"That goes for you too, Grace. I won't force either of you to do this if you're not prepared for the problems it's very likely going to bring.\" She shrugged again. \"Then again, Abberline's probably going to end up being a whole lot of peoples' problem sooner or later. You don't get a MacBeth-styled prophecy about you by being lowkey.\"", "username": "XxFellsingxX", "char_name": "Kendra Molony" }, { "text": "Grace\n\nGrace looked to Kendra when she spoke up, stopping her from disappearing and acting on her own. She listened to Kendra as spoke. The ghost nodded in agreement with Kendra's sentiment that she didn't want anyone to get shot at tonight. Grace noticeably looks irked when the man seemed to have brushed her off like she was nothing.\n\nDid he really not remember last week? Sure, they saw each other for the first time back then, but who would forget witnessing a murder?!\n\nThe ghost was silent as she listened to her friend and the strange speak with each other. When Mitra introduced his first name, surprise crossed her face. She couldn't help but ask, \"Wait. 'Mitra'? As in, 'Mitra Singh'?!\" Her eyes were wide with surprise more so than rage this time as she asked. \n\nConsidering that Mr. Dialtone mentioned him as Chandra's bodyguard earlier, and she was here to save Chandra's career as well as find Kendra's tarot cards, she had serious doubts that this was a coincidence. Besides, how common of a name was 'Mitra' anyways? \n\nMitra Singh and the guy who she called to help her at the moment of her death were the same guy?!\n\nHer attention was drawn back to Kendra from her whirling mind drawing rapid conclusions. She listened as Kendra explained Abberline's prophecy. She gave a smirk as well when Kendra did. Her smirk faded as well when Kendra explained the dangers of this plan.\n\nShe answered Kendra's words, \"I'm in. I trust you, Kendra. Now that I'm like this, I can't just stand by and do nothing when someone is about to get hurt,\" When she spoke the last part of her sentence she pointed her gaze and words at Mitra. They were full of bitter venom as though to silently say \"Like someone here did,\" \n\nShe calmed herself down, reminding herself to talk to Mitra about it later. \n\nShe asked Kendra, \"What do you need me to do?\"", "username": "Guardian Angel Haruki", "char_name": "Grace" } ]

[ { "text": "Kendra\n\nKendra also noticed the venom in Grace's tone, but decided not to comment on it. From the way she spoke, the Oracle sensed this man was at very least not Grace's murderer. Even so, the spirit didn't seem the kind of hate without a damn good reason, and Kendra would normally be hesitant to work with anyone who earned so much of Grace's ire. Again, Misty's life and Abberline's threat took priority here. She was just glad that both parties had agreed to act civil long enough for them enact this plan. \n\n\"What do you need me to do?\"\n\n\"Not much,\" Kendra said. \"Once we've entered the building, you just need to do what you normally do.\" They shrugged. \"You know, suddenly appear. Walk through wall. Appear before Abberline in an appropriately ghostly way.\" She glanced at Grace. \"Don't overdo it, obviously. As fun as it would be to see you attempt to crawl out of a TV Sadako-style, I somehow doubt Abberline would appreciate the theatrics.\"\n\nWhen Mitra offered Kendra the gun, the Oracle was hesitant in taking it, and even after she was holding it, she held it well away from her body. \"Ah. Right,\" she said, eyeing the firearm as if it were a bomb about to go off. \"Thanks.\"", "username": "XxFellsingxX", "char_name": "Kendra Molony" }, { "text": "Grace\n\nGrace glowered at Mitra's guess that he had simply offended her to earn her ire, and she shook her head. When he suggested discussing it another time, she agreed, \"Like I said before: Later,\" \n\nShe then turned her attention to Kendra when she explained that she wanted Grace to do the usual ghostly stuff. Grace's smile widened as an idea came to her. She answered Kendra \"I have some ideas on how to pull off some ghostly theatrics without endangering myself,\"\n\nShe then told the both of them, \"I'll go on ahead. This dance studio's missing something important,\"\n\nShe grins again and finishes with the word, \"Music,\" before she vanishes, allowing her manifestation to fade. \n\nShe phased through the walls of the studio, and made her way over to the old stereo system that played music. She allowed herself to manifest once again, this time so that she could touch and be heard, but remain unseen. She turns on the stereo and presses play, causing the dance studio to echo with the distorted soundtrack of...\n\nThe Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy from Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite...\n\nGrace nodded in approval as the once innocuous song is made creepier by the distortion of the old stereo. After that, she allows her manifestation to fade once again should Abberline come and investigate. \n\nLet me know if I need to roll anything for this. ^^\"", "username": "Guardian Angel Haruki", "char_name": "Grace" } ]

[ { "text": "\"No what I mean is... you know what, no need to over explain, keep a little mystery and all that,\" Misty agreed.\n\nAbruptly the speakers stuttered to life and the Dance of the Sugar Plum Faries began to play.\n\n\"It's an old building, as you can see I havent' exactly kept up with the house keeping...\" Misty temporized. The barrel was a huge black hole that swallowed the world.\n\nShe kept her hands raised and edged across to take the bag. Moving to a relatively open spot on the floor she crouched down and began to scribe symbols on the floor. Three connected circles, one surrounding the bag, another surrounding the compass and a third surrounding her. She linked them with tripple lines of oddly asymetric runes. Misty paused and looked up at the Hunter, staring down the barrel of his rifle. Given the choice of wetting herself and making a smart remark, she made the obvious choice.\n\n\"If anyone asks, I danced naked under a harvest moon or some shit,\" she told the hunter and then closed her eyes and began to whisper. Arcane power rushed into her like a torrent. The fine hairs on her arms raised and her hair began to prickle with static. It was sweeter and stronger than any time in recent memory, almost as strong as her sixteenth birthday when she had worked her first spell. Something was in the air tonight. Misty very much hoped it wasn't that she was about to take a bullet to the forhead. Chalk dust rose around her in a shimmering veil, sparking with miniature eletrical discharges. Misty gathered her will and made a quick chopping motion. Energy stabbed down in a vortex which swirled around the toy compass like water circling a narrow drain. With a soft crack the spell was over and the needle on the compass swung deciviely to the south east. The spell was complete though arcane energy still crackled in the air. \n\nThe sensation of power swelled inside Misty. Suddenly she felt more than a vagrant squatting in a dance studio. She was a Witch. She was a Magus. Her eyes rose to meet Abbeline's. She wasn't going to let this mortal pissant push her out of her sanctum.\n\n\"A deal is a deal,\" she said in a cold steady voice.\n\nRolled a 13 on channeling. Spent one for tracking. Holding 2.\n\nhttps://www.roleplayerguild.com/rolls/24845", "username": "Candykane", "char_name": "Name Misty Starbuck" }, { "text": "Kendra\n\nKendra had been planning for them to enter the building all roughly at the same time, but it seemed Grace had other plans as the spirit disappeared. Inside the studio, Kendra could hear the distorted sound of Tchaikovsky beginning to play. \n\n\"Well, guess we're going in right now,\" Kendra muttered under her breath. She was definitely going to have to have a word with Grace about her tendency to disappear and reappear without warning. Before she could make her way towards the front door, Mitra spoke up and handed her his jacket. \"Uh, suuure,\" she said, awkwardly taking it before she witnessed Mitra's slow - and frankly excruciating - transformation. Kendra wasn't religious - it was hard to believe in any force that was both all-powerful AND benevolent when you saw half the things she had seen - but she had been raised catholic, and seeing something clearly demonic must have triggered some of those old religious habits because she found herself clumsily making the sign of the cross.\n\n\"Err, right,\" Kendra said when Mitra addressed her again, clearly surprised he was still able to talk in his current form. She quickly turned away and made her way towards the studio door. She paused to glance behind her again before awkwardly kicking open the door and making her way inside the building. She attempted to refocus herself, holding the gun in front of her as purposely as she could muster as she came into the view of Misty and Abberline. \"Good evening,\" she said, trying to sound as nonchalant as she could muster given the circumstances. \"Hope we're not interrupting.\"", "username": "XxFellsingxX", "char_name": "Kendra Molony" }, { "text": "Grace\n\nGrace watched as Abberline reacted to the sudden music. However, she grew more antsy and worried when she saw that Misty completed the spell and enchanted the toy compass. \n\nAbberline shouldn't have it…!\n\nGrace darted down to the compass and looked up to see Kendra entering with…\n\nWhat was that monstrosity by her side?! Was that Mitra?!\n\nShe shook her head to shake off the horror and surprise she felt. As soon as Abberline's attention was on the both of them, she manifested so that she could touch and be heard. Once again, she remained invisible in this manifestation.\n\nShe picked up the enchanted toy compass causing it to appear as though it was floating in the air by itself. It floated up until it was at Grace's height before remaining there for a moment.\n\nShe gave a quick whistle to Mitra before throwing the compass to him and quickly dropping the manifestation before Abberline tries to fire at her. \n\nThe compass is thrown overhand, so it flies in an upward arc towards the ceiling at first before hopefully falling into Mitra's talons.", "username": "Guardian Angel Haruki", "char_name": "Grace" }, { "text": "\"A deal is a deal,\" You say in a cold, steady voice.\n\n\"Of course.\" Abberline speaks an even reply before gesturing for you to hand over the compass.\n\nBefore you can act though, a second armed person and an unarmed demon make their entrance into your sanctum.\n\n\n\"Good evening,\" You say as nonchalantly as you can. \"Hope we're not interrupting.\"\n\n\"Oh no, you aren't interrupting anything.\" Abberline says to you, utterly unfazed by your shotgun and demonic companion. \"I'll just be taking this compass and heading off, Don't mind-\" The sound of whistling comin from no discernible source interrupts Abberline then, and causes him to turn and see the compass floating in mid air.\n\nAngel Haruki\nAbberline looks on in visible confusion as you hold the compass in front of him. Confusion turns to realization, and then to annoyance as you throw the compass to Mitra.\n\n\nAbberline rounds on you and Kendra as you snatch the compass out of the air. \"I told you I am in no mood for games, witch!\" Abberline barked over his shoulder. \"The magic may fade if I shoot you, but I know killing your friends here will not break the spell!\" With that said, Abberline takes aim and opens fire on you and Kendra.\n\n@RBYDark\nKeep Your Cool to avoid being shot.", "username": "rush99999", "char_name": null } ]

[ { "text": "Kendra\n\nAt this point, Kendra wasn't really thinking about the prophecy or that Misty had just abandoned the group. Their mind was so muddled with anger, adrenaline and, of course, guilt, that they weren't really thinking at all as they raised the gun at Abberline. \"I fucking warned you, asshole,\" they said, just as they pulled the trigger.\n\nKendra rolls to Unleash An Attack on Abberline. They roll a 7, and choose:\n- Inflict terrible harm on Abberline\n- You find yourself in a bad spot", "username": "XxFellsingxX", "char_name": "Kendra Molony" }, { "text": "Misty reappeared in a cloud of multicolored chalk dust. She sneezed violently and then leveled the pistol.\n\n\"Sorry, left my asshole repellant in my other pants,\" she explained. Still on a high from the arcane forces swirling in the air, she opened fire, muzzle flash painting long bottles of flame in the dusty air.\n\nUnleash an attack -10\nInflict terrible harm\nTake something - Abberlines finger\n\nroleplayerguild.com/rolls/24879", "username": "Candykane", "char_name": "Name Misty Starbuck" }, { "text": "Mitra\n\nIn retrospect, maybe getting shot at again would've been alright.\n\nMitra stares down the weapon, his twitching tail betraying his fear. He doesn't know why Abberline wants this compass so badly, or what he's planning on hunting tonight. Maybe it'd be for the best to return the compass. Their plan was impulsive and contingent on several factors, none of which seem to have panned out. But also, giving Abberline the compass feels like letting him win. Like he and the spirit got shot for no damn reason. Like he handed over his shotgun and trusted these people for nothing.\n\nThen the shotgun goes off. Then the handgun.\n\nMitra yelps and feels his hand contract. Hears a crunch. Feels pain. It turns out the sound of a shotgun and a gun going off in rapid succession is actually quite startling when you're not the one pulling the trigger. He opens his hand to reveal, to himself and Abberline, assuming Abberline's even capable of paying attention at this point, the broken toy compass.\n\nSome magic could probably fix it. But that's a resource Abberline doesn't have the most regular access to, Mitra's pretty sure.", "username": "RBYDark", "char_name": "Mitra \"Snake Eyes\" Singh" }, { "text": "As the bullets fly, Abberline lets out a cry. But it is a cry of frustration over the compass being destroyed rather than a cry of pain from being shot so many times. For while several shots find their mark, most of the bullets miss and the few shots that do strike true either graze the hunter or hit the Kevlar beneath his clothes. The worst of the few injuries Abberline receives from the barrage is when Misty shoots the ring finger from his left hand. Kendra is quick to realize what is happening. The Winds of Fate have kicked up a Vortex of Coincidence around Abberline. Unless he stands before the alliance fated to defeat him, no fatal blow may land. And from the look on his face, Abberline has just realized that Grace's words about Kendra being from Mortality aren't true.\n\nBefore he can act on this realization however the flash of red and blue light outside, accompanied by a siren song all too familiar to city dwellers, heralds the arrival of the law. It seems that Trinity heard the sound of gunfire from the car and called in back up. \"I only wanted a way to track my prey.\" Abberline says to you all. \"But you just had to make things harder than they needed to be didn't you?\" He then addresses one final sentence to Misty. \"When I'm done with the Trader, nowhere will be safe for you, witch!\" With that said, Abberline sinks through the floor and vanishes from sight in a manner that Grace will realize to be quite similar to her own ability to pass through solid objects.", "username": "rush99999", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Kendra\n\n\"Are you fucking kidding me!?\" Kendra shouted in frustration as neither their nor Misty's shots seemed to do much damage to Abberline. She didn't seem to be shouting at the Hunter himself, rather the universe in general. Even the sound of the police and Abberline's supernatural disappearance didn't seem to quell their rage, as they turned to nearest table and gave it a small kick. \"Fuck!\" they shouted, again not at anyone in particular. \"I. Fuckin'. Hate. Prophecies.\" They shook their head before turning to Grace, and at the sight of the injured ghost, their rage quickly disappated into a much more familiar mixture of exhaustion, frustration and concern. They went over to the spirit. \"I am so sorry. I really didn't think things would go to such shit.\" They looked her up and down. \"How... do you feel? Can you stand... or float, or whatever it is you do?\" It was clear from their tone they had no idea what to do in this situation. Again, ghosts were very much not in Kendra's wheelhouse.", "username": "XxFellsingxX", "char_name": "Kendra Molony" }, { "text": "\"The enemy cannot pull a trigger… if you disable his hand,\" Misty misquoted, bending down and picking up Abberline's finger. She took a zip lock bag from her cargo pants and bagged it up before tucking it away.\n\n\"I fucking love that movie,\" she admitted, then made a sensual growl in the back of her throat. \"Casper Van Dien, damn!\" The haze of gun smoke and the scent of ectoplasm hung heavy in the air and she looked down at her own smoking pistol as though surprised to find it there. Her hand was trembling slightly and she suddenly felt a desperate need for some chocolate ice-cream and a bottle of tequila. The approaching sirens didn't afford her the option.\n\n \n\n\"I don't want to seem ungrateful or a bad host,\" she went on, hastily scooping up casings and shoving them into her pockets.\n\n\"But I can't be here when those cops arrive, pretty sure my parole officer will take a dim view of me being found at the scene of a shootout,\" she explained, then cast a glance at Mitra, \"Not to mention, consorting with 'ye olde powers of darkness' or whatever the fuck is going on here.\"", "username": "Candykane", "char_name": "Name Misty Starbuck" } ]

[ { "text": "Mitra\n\nMitra takes the jacket and gun with a grunt. \"You can't choose what your visions say.\" He pauses, eyes Kendra with some skepticism, and then shakes his head and slithers over to Misty. \"If you're leaving, I have a message before you go.\" He pulls the scroll out of the jacket and hands it off to her. \"I think the powers of darkness have already found you. Take it from me, the deals aren't as glamorous as they seem.\" As if for emphasis, all the eyes below his waist blink independently of each other. \"Also, if you could point me to a corner where I can hide and regrow my legs for the next five minutes, I'd be much obliged.\" It's clear he's not being that serious about feeling obliged, but says it out of habit rather than a promise of a debt.", "username": "RBYDark", "char_name": "Mitra \"Snake Eyes\" Singh" }, { "text": "Misty opened one eye, relieved that the dropped shotgun hadn't gone off and done what Abberline had failed to do. Letting out a sigh she opened the other. She could at least hope the cops would be there in a few minutes. This was a bad neighborhood afterall.\n\n \n\n\"Other than an open invite to a sarcophagus, I'm afraid not. I can probably hole up in a motel for a few days though,\" she replied to Kendra. Abberline had made it sound like he was going to take care of Trader first which meant she had a few days before he was likely to show up here. Maybe if she tipped Trader off he could exchange Abberline's liver for a sack of kitty litter or something equally useful.\n\n \n\nShe gave the demon thing a long level look. She took the scroll from him and bounced it in her palm.\n\n \n\n\"No harm ever came from reading a book right?\" she asked, not at all certain that becoming pen pals with Beelzebub was a good idea.\n\n \"There is a changing room back there,\" she told Mitra, making a gesture to the rear of the studio.\n\n\"Just don't use the one with tinsel on the door it's a por... I'm just don't use that one.\"\n\n \n\nFigure out Mitra (11) -Hold 2\n\nSpend 1 to figure out how I can put Mitra in my debt\n\nSaving one for later..", "username": "Candykane", "char_name": "Name Misty Starbuck" }, { "text": "Kendra\n\nKendra raised an eyebrow at the sarcophagus line, not sure whether it was Misty's sense of humour or a genuine fact, but decided it was best not to ask. Instead, they pointed with their thumb to outside the studio where they assumed Trinity was still waiting. \"Well, err, I'd have to talk it out with my roommate, but we have a couch if you needed somewhere to crash,\" they said. \"Our apartment has three living people and one ghost - you met Grace already. It'd be a bit crammed but...\" They shrugged, clearly feeling awkward about offering a place to stay to someone they admittedly didn't know that well. However, they felt they at least owed Misty the option considering their less-than-stellar rescue attempt. \"I don't know, considering what you've just been through, you might want the company.\"", "username": "XxFellsingxX", "char_name": "Kendra Molony" }, { "text": "@Candykane\nAs the conversation continues, you two suddenly notice that the floor has become blanketed in a fine layer of mist that rolled in from under a nearby door. As you look down at this mist, it strikes you that some vampires have the ability to turn into and travel as a cloud of mist. With this it mind, it comes as no shock to either up you when the mist rises into a trio of columns before dispersing to reveal a trio of vampires in police uniforms, a young albino brunette dual wielding a pair of 9mm Glocks, a fair haired black man of indeterminate age bringing to bear a Walther PPK, and an older man with greying black hair pointing a light cavalry saber at the group. \"Good evening.\" The senior officer speaks with a deep southern drawl. \"If you would kindly lay your weapons down and place your hands behind your head, my colleagues I would greatly appreciate your compliance.\"\n\n\nHaving noticed the vampire's approach, you would be on guard enough to realize thanks to your connections to Trinity that these vampires are part of the Copper Web, a vampire clan that is intertwined with the city's police force. Knowing this, you are fairly certain that name dropping Trinity would put them in a more agreeable mood.", "username": "rush99999", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Grace\n\nGrace noticed the mist, and before she could manifest again and warn anybody, the mist formed into three policemen! She watched this event take place, and she looked to her Kendra, Misty, and Mitra, waiting for them to act first before she does anything else. \n\nWhile taking in the events that occur, she keeps a hand over the wounds she just received, not just to cover them, but also to see if they were healing while she remained ghostly.", "username": "Guardian Angel Haruki", "char_name": "Grace" }, { "text": "Kendra\n\nIt took a lot of restraint for Kendra not to heave a loud sigh when she caught sight of the Copper Web members. She'd been hoping to just to have to deal with regular cops. After the confrontation with Abberline, she wasn't sure how much more supernatural politics she could take tonight. The universe really wasn't making things easy for her today.\n\nStill, it wasn't the worst thing. She felt she knew enough about these guys that she could potentially stop this from getting out of hand. \"Good evening, officers,\" they said, raising their hands to show they had no weapons on them. Not anymore, at least. \"I'm Kendra Molony, Trinity Abrams' roommate? I'm pretty sure she's the one who called you about...\" They motioned around themself vaguely. \"All this.\" They paused before adding, \"I just want to start by saying that nobody who is currently in this room was the one who started this.\"", "username": "XxFellsingxX", "char_name": "Kendra Molony" }, { "text": "Sometimes reality beggared metaphor. Fucking Vampire Cops, as if the real kind weren't blood sucking parasites enough. Misty placed her pistol on the ground and straightened up placing her hands behind her head and interlacing her fingers, having no desire to be shot and or sabered having just escaped from being shot and or bayonetted by Aberlinne. She kept the buzz of arcane power alive in her mind, just in case a quick exit should be required.\n\n\"What seems to be the problem Officer,\" she said, unable to completely eradicate the urge to snark.\n\nPut a face to a name on the senior officer - 8\nMarked Night", "username": "Candykane", "char_name": "Name Misty Starbuck" } ]

[ { "text": "Kendra\n\nKendra glanced at Grace when she made the comment about needing practice. They had a feeling they knew what, or rather who, the spirit was referring to, and wasn't entirely sure how to respond to that. Was Grace just joking or did she seriously hope to take out her murderer that way? On one hand, it would probably be a simpler way to deal with him than trying to find enough evidence to get him convicted. On the other hand, what was to stop him coming back as a spirit himself, and likely a much more dangerous, malevolent one than Grace herself? While Kendra had been aware of the supernatural for some time, they hadn't had much experience with ghosts until Grace showed up. Now she was left with that existential concern: what cause people to linger after death? Obviously, it didn't happen to everyone, and it wasn't a curse that was passed on like vampirism or lycanthropy.\n\nWhat's to stop me from coming back after I die? was the question Kendra was trying not to ask herself. She found the world an aggravating enough place in life, to think she'd still have to put up with it even after death was ghastly. But then again, what was the alternative? Once Grace passed on - if she passed on - where would she go? Was there really a heaven? A purgatory? A hell? Was reincarnation true? Something else entirely? Or was there nothing? And which of these options was worse? It was questions like these Kendra had found herself wondering about ever since Grace had come into her life, and questions she had been doing her best not to bring up with the girl in question. They wondered if these things had occurred to Grace.\n\n\"Hm?\" Kendra had been so caught up in their own thoughts, they'd almost missed Grace's question. \"Oh this! The Trader dropped it when they took my cards. I'm hoping a certain spellcaster I know might be able to use her powers on it to help me track the Trader down.\" She grimaced. \"Hopefully we can reach them before Abberline finds them. Otherwise, I might end up having yet another spectral roommate.\"\n\nCan fae even come back as ghosts? Kendra had to stop herself from adding, before shaking her head as if physically trying to shake those thoughts from her mind. Nope. No more of that. Find the tarot cards first, have existential dread later.", "username": "XxFellsingxX", "char_name": "Kendra Molony" }, { "text": "Grace\n\nGrace listened to Kendra as she answered her question regarding to the Magic Eight Ball. Grace unwittingly asked Kendra's question, \"Can fae even come back as ghosts?\"\n\nShe then shrugged her shoulders and she said to Kendra, \"Let's get going, then! No time to waste, right? Don't worry, I'll be with you,\" After that, she allowed herself to fade from her manifestation and follow Kendra when she was ready to go.", "username": "Guardian Angel Haruki", "char_name": "Grace" }, { "text": "The drive to the studio is largely uneventful by the standards of the city you live in. You drive past a vampire charming a meal out of a pretty face one moment, a werewolf stalks you as you pass through a neighborhood it has claimed as its territory the next, but nothing gets in your way though. The only noteworthy event that actually effects you is when you pull into the parking lot of the abandoned Shakes dance studio. As you do so, you notice another car pulling in through the entrance opposite the one you're pulling in through.\n\n\nYou finish your preparations and head out to the car, Trinity has already started it up so you are nice and safe from the chill of the night when you climb in. Aside from Trinity being indecisive over which radio station she wants to listen to, nothing much happens on the ride. Occasionally, you would catch glimpses of the city's goings on. The day shops closing their doors as the night shops open theirs. The occasional old timer in a beat up pick-up making a supply run or a delivery run. But nothing that immediately concerns you until you pull into the Shakes studio parking lot and seeing another car over at the opposite entrance doing the same.\n\nAngel Haruki\nYour intangible form keeps pace with the car easily enough. And thankfully no one seems interested in bothering you or your friends. A few of the spectres you fly past are even varying degrees of friendly, calling out greetings or warning you to stay safe out there with Farley, Abberline, and the Trader out and about. When you arrive at the abandoned studio, you notice the other car pulling into the parking lot just as quickly as Kendra does. But from your vantage point above the car you also catch sight of a woman in the building through one of the upper level windows... As well as the man holding her at gunpoint.\n\n\nLife can have quite the sense of humor sometimes. Take tonight for example. Within an hour of hearing Mr. Dialtone talk about Abberline Winchester on the radio, the sound of a rifle round being chambered alerted you to the presence of that very same hunter in your sanctum, armed with a high-powered, scoped, silenced, drum-fed abomination of a gun which he has pointed directly at you. He claims he hasn't come to kill you though. \"I'm looking for a faerie.\" Abberline explains. \"Perhaps you may have heard of them. Here on Earth, they are known as the Trader.\" Abberline pauses then to produce an empty bag labeled 'Candy'. \"I have an item of theirs and I know your kind can use magic to track your prey using items they own.\" Abberline states as he tosses the bag to you. \"You point me in the Trader's direction and I forget your choice of profession long enough for you to find a new lair. Do you find this offer agreeable?\"", "username": "rush99999", "char_name": null } ]

[ { "text": "Kendra\n\nKendra also noticed the venom in Grace's tone, but decided not to comment on it. From the way she spoke, the Oracle sensed this man was at very least not Grace's murderer. Even so, the spirit didn't seem the kind of hate without a damn good reason, and Kendra would normally be hesitant to work with anyone who earned so much of Grace's ire. Again, Misty's life and Abberline's threat took priority here. She was just glad that both parties had agreed to act civil long enough for them enact this plan. \n\n\"What do you need me to do?\"\n\n\"Not much,\" Kendra said. \"Once we've entered the building, you just need to do what you normally do.\" They shrugged. \"You know, suddenly appear. Walk through wall. Appear before Abberline in an appropriately ghostly way.\" She glanced at Grace. \"Don't overdo it, obviously. As fun as it would be to see you attempt to crawl out of a TV Sadako-style, I somehow doubt Abberline would appreciate the theatrics.\"\n\nWhen Mitra offered Kendra the gun, the Oracle was hesitant in taking it, and even after she was holding it, she held it well away from her body. \"Ah. Right,\" she said, eyeing the firearm as if it were a bomb about to go off. \"Thanks.\"", "username": "XxFellsingxX", "char_name": "Kendra Molony" }, { "text": "Grace\n\nGrace glowered at Mitra's guess that he had simply offended her to earn her ire, and she shook her head. When he suggested discussing it another time, she agreed, \"Like I said before: Later,\" \n\nShe then turned her attention to Kendra when she explained that she wanted Grace to do the usual ghostly stuff. Grace's smile widened as an idea came to her. She answered Kendra \"I have some ideas on how to pull off some ghostly theatrics without endangering myself,\"\n\nShe then told the both of them, \"I'll go on ahead. This dance studio's missing something important,\"\n\nShe grins again and finishes with the word, \"Music,\" before she vanishes, allowing her manifestation to fade. \n\nShe phased through the walls of the studio, and made her way over to the old stereo system that played music. She allowed herself to manifest once again, this time so that she could touch and be heard, but remain unseen. She turns on the stereo and presses play, causing the dance studio to echo with the distorted soundtrack of...\n\nThe Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy from Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite...\n\nGrace nodded in approval as the once innocuous song is made creepier by the distortion of the old stereo. After that, she allows her manifestation to fade once again should Abberline come and investigate. \n\nLet me know if I need to roll anything for this. ^^\"", "username": "Guardian Angel Haruki", "char_name": "Grace" }, { "text": "Mitra\n\nitra watched Grace fade with the puzzling comment about music, before he shrugged it off the same way he shrugged off his jacket. The message was safely inside - he again offered the item to Kendra. \"Hold this please?\"\n\nIt started with a faint tear down the bridge of his nose. He barely had to pull at it before the layer pulled away: pale green scales replaced the brown skin. The split grew larger; black hair turned white as he peeled the layer of skin from his skull. His left eye blinked, followed by the three right eyes. A thick gnarled horn sprouted with a loud crunching noise from above the right ear, which had elongated and looked more like a fantasy elf's ear than anything human. He shrugged the layer and clothing off his shoulders. He tugged at the fingers on his left hand, until the skin pulled loose and he was able to pull his arm free as if he was undressing instead of shedding his humanity. He repeated the process for the right arm, until both arms were free and tipped with talons rather than fingernails. He pushed the skin and clothing down past his hips, where bony spikes burst forth - or perhaps they were teeth? - and encircled the humanoid-looking torso. Mitra kept pushing, now exposing a chitinous surface littered with large eyes and a pair of small, taloned limbs that bent and seemed to await a target to skewer. The section was much thicker than either leg; how it came from the skin being peeled could only be attributed to dark forces. He kept peeling, a new ring of bone spikes separating this section from a massive tail that flicked the remnants of Mitra's human form from its outline. Spikes lined the spine of the tail, and several eyes stared out from beneath the second ring of bony spikes.\n\nAll in all, the transformation had probably taken anywhere between 15 and 30 seconds. The first time, it had dragged out for nearly half an hour of utter agony, of bones breaking and resetting, of skin tearing and blood beading, of nerves on fire as they set new routes that no human nervous system had ever experienced before. Now, it was litle more than an annoyance, something to get over with as soon as humanly possible.\n\nHe stretched, reaching well above his head as he did so, and idly picked between his teeth, cannibal-sharp and far more numerous than what should fit into a person's mouth, no matter what kind of person they were. \"So,\" he said, and it was just wrong hearing a human voice coming from something so wildly inhuman. \"Care to lead the way? I have a bad habit of crushing doors like this, see.\" And he grinned, and never had the expression 'ear to ear' been so literal before.", "username": "RBYDark", "char_name": "Mitra \"Snake Eyes\" Singh" }, { "text": "Angel Haruki @RBYDark @XxFellsingxX\nThe music that Grace puts on coincides perfectly with the beginning of Mitra's transformation and is loud enough to carry outside the studio and give the tainted's transition some appropriately eerie ambient music.\n\n\nMeanwhile, inside the studio, the sudden sound of music causes Abberline to tense up and begin pointing his rifle directly at Misty's head. \"What do you think you are doing?\" The hunter demands to know as his finger moves over the rifle's trigger. \"I am in no mood for games, witch. Cease this mischief and cast the tracking spell.\"", "username": "rush99999", "char_name": null } ]

[ { "text": "\"Fuck!\" Misty shouted, clapping her hands over her ears against the thundering report of the gun. It rang tinnily in her ears as it echoed around the excellent acoustics of her dance studio. The demon thing appeared to have hocked a gobbet of acid onto the hunter, which was both badass and disgusting in approximately equal terms. She then realized that Kendra, who to Misty's knowledge had never fired a gun before, was point a shotgun in the general direction of a man standing right next to her. It didn't take a genius to realize that if she didn't get the holy blue fuck out of here the best she could hope for was an ass full of buckshot.\n\n\"Telos!\" she shouted and vanished in a puff of chalk dust, reappearing in the reception area with a thunderous sneeze. She shoved her hand into the pocket of a jacket hanging on the door and pulled out her glock. It had been a gift from a pimp who had tried to add Misty to his stable after word got around about that oh so hilarious solicitation charge. Well if by gift you meant took it out of his bag after she had creatively rewired his memories in such a way that inspired him to find a new line of work. The words 'I cast fireball' had been scratched into the slide in clumsy block letters and then filled in with red nail polish during a subsequent arts and craft hour. She flicked off the safety and whirled back to what was fast becoming the murder on the dance floor, or at any rate a Tchaikovsky cover of it.\n\nMisty spends 1 hold to teleport to her gun and out of the line of fire.\n2 Holds remaining.", "username": "Candykane", "char_name": "Name Misty Starbuck" }, { "text": "\"If I wasn't here, you would have killed someone from the Mortality Faction. How much more blood must be spilt until you are satisfied, Abberline?! Because quite frankly, you're just begging to be haunted,\" \n\n\"Mortality?\" Abberline says in response to Grace's words, more concerned by the presence of someone from each faction than he was by anything else she has told him. Distracted by these words, Abberline is unable to avoid Mitra's acid spit. As the weaponized saliva makes contact with his arm, Abberline cries out in shock and pain. He lets go of his rifle to clutch at his injured limb, unknowingly leaving the weapon in Grace's grasp. Abberline then turns away further from Grace to look at Kendra as they make their threat. Abberline regards the three visible people in the room with a nervous look on his face. He had come here looking to spook some information out of a wizard, but now he has more to deal with than he expected. The night is not panning out well for him.\n\nAnd then Misty teleports away.\n\nAbberline's apprehension vanishes in an instant when this happens, total confidence taking its place. \"Dearie me. It looks like the witch wasn't as friendly with you as I thought.\" Abberline says as he turns fully to face Mitra and Kendra, shaking the dissolving clothing off of his arm to reveal the unharmed flesh underneath. \"Hard luck, you two. You were going to need her.\" As he says that, Abberline reaches into his jacket and withdraws a long chain of blades and mace heads. Made of a metal that Mitra instinctively knows to be of holy origin. \"As much as I'd love to kill a demon tonight, I'd be to exhausted to chase my real prey afterwards. So how about you just hand me that compass and I'll get out of your hair.\"", "username": "rush99999", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Kendra\n\nAt this point, Kendra wasn't really thinking about the prophecy or that Misty had just abandoned the group. Their mind was so muddled with anger, adrenaline and, of course, guilt, that they weren't really thinking at all as they raised the gun at Abberline. \"I fucking warned you, asshole,\" they said, just as they pulled the trigger.\n\nKendra rolls to Unleash An Attack on Abberline. They roll a 7, and choose:\n- Inflict terrible harm on Abberline\n- You find yourself in a bad spot", "username": "XxFellsingxX", "char_name": "Kendra Molony" }, { "text": "Misty reappeared in a cloud of multicolored chalk dust. She sneezed violently and then leveled the pistol.\n\n\"Sorry, left my asshole repellant in my other pants,\" she explained. Still on a high from the arcane forces swirling in the air, she opened fire, muzzle flash painting long bottles of flame in the dusty air.\n\nUnleash an attack -10\nInflict terrible harm\nTake something - Abberlines finger\n\nroleplayerguild.com/rolls/24879", "username": "Candykane", "char_name": "Name Misty Starbuck" }, { "text": "Mitra\n\nIn retrospect, maybe getting shot at again would've been alright.\n\nMitra stares down the weapon, his twitching tail betraying his fear. He doesn't know why Abberline wants this compass so badly, or what he's planning on hunting tonight. Maybe it'd be for the best to return the compass. Their plan was impulsive and contingent on several factors, none of which seem to have panned out. But also, giving Abberline the compass feels like letting him win. Like he and the spirit got shot for no damn reason. Like he handed over his shotgun and trusted these people for nothing.\n\nThen the shotgun goes off. Then the handgun.\n\nMitra yelps and feels his hand contract. Hears a crunch. Feels pain. It turns out the sound of a shotgun and a gun going off in rapid succession is actually quite startling when you're not the one pulling the trigger. He opens his hand to reveal, to himself and Abberline, assuming Abberline's even capable of paying attention at this point, the broken toy compass.\n\nSome magic could probably fix it. But that's a resource Abberline doesn't have the most regular access to, Mitra's pretty sure.", "username": "RBYDark", "char_name": "Mitra \"Snake Eyes\" Singh" }, { "text": "As the bullets fly, Abberline lets out a cry. But it is a cry of frustration over the compass being destroyed rather than a cry of pain from being shot so many times. For while several shots find their mark, most of the bullets miss and the few shots that do strike true either graze the hunter or hit the Kevlar beneath his clothes. The worst of the few injuries Abberline receives from the barrage is when Misty shoots the ring finger from his left hand. Kendra is quick to realize what is happening. The Winds of Fate have kicked up a Vortex of Coincidence around Abberline. Unless he stands before the alliance fated to defeat him, no fatal blow may land. And from the look on his face, Abberline has just realized that Grace's words about Kendra being from Mortality aren't true.\n\nBefore he can act on this realization however the flash of red and blue light outside, accompanied by a siren song all too familiar to city dwellers, heralds the arrival of the law. It seems that Trinity heard the sound of gunfire from the car and called in back up. \"I only wanted a way to track my prey.\" Abberline says to you all. \"But you just had to make things harder than they needed to be didn't you?\" He then addresses one final sentence to Misty. \"When I'm done with the Trader, nowhere will be safe for you, witch!\" With that said, Abberline sinks through the floor and vanishes from sight in a manner that Grace will realize to be quite similar to her own ability to pass through solid objects.", "username": "rush99999", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Kendra\n\n\"Are you fucking kidding me!?\" Kendra shouted in frustration as neither their nor Misty's shots seemed to do much damage to Abberline. She didn't seem to be shouting at the Hunter himself, rather the universe in general. Even the sound of the police and Abberline's supernatural disappearance didn't seem to quell their rage, as they turned to nearest table and gave it a small kick. \"Fuck!\" they shouted, again not at anyone in particular. \"I. Fuckin'. Hate. Prophecies.\" They shook their head before turning to Grace, and at the sight of the injured ghost, their rage quickly disappated into a much more familiar mixture of exhaustion, frustration and concern. They went over to the spirit. \"I am so sorry. I really didn't think things would go to such shit.\" They looked her up and down. \"How... do you feel? Can you stand... or float, or whatever it is you do?\" It was clear from their tone they had no idea what to do in this situation. Again, ghosts were very much not in Kendra's wheelhouse.", "username": "XxFellsingxX", "char_name": "Kendra Molony" } ]

[ { "text": "Grace\n\nGrace held the gun she took from Abberline and simply pointed it at him during the entire encounter. But she never pulled the trigger. She knew the pain and the experience of dying by bullets. She wasn't so inclined to subject another person to that fate. \n\nThough, to her surprise, it seems like Abberline might already be dead, because he just phased through the floor to escape!\n\nBecause she opted to remain invisible, nobody could see her shocked face as she recognized that method of escape. But thanks to the gun she was holding, Kendra was able to walk up to her. What better way to tell where an invisible person was than a floating item?\n\nShe answered Kendra, with a groan at first, \"Owww...I'm fine. I just...That really hurts. I'm still standing...\" \n\nShe gave a chuckle and she asked, \"How about you? Better I get shot than...well, anyone alive, right? I'm still new to this whole...'ghost' thing,\" \n\nThen Kendra and Mitra spoke up about getting out of there. She nods, even if that couldn't be seen, and she answers, \"Right...I'm still 'missing', so I don't think letting anyone else know I'm here is a good idea. Maybe dropping this manifestation can help heal me? Either way, I'll be staying close by...\" \n\nAfter she says that, she drops the manifestation and the gun clatters to the ground uselessly.", "username": "Guardian Angel Haruki", "char_name": "Grace" }, { "text": "Kendra\n\n\"Oh, err, right,\" Kendra said in response to Mitra asking for his jacket and gun back. She'd been so hyped on adrenaline and rage she'd completely forgotten. She handed his stuff back to him. \"Thanks, by the way. For backing me up.\" They grimaced before adding, \"Sorry it didn't go... quite the way I planned.\"\n\nThey turned back to Grace. \"Yeah, I'm fine, thanks to you.\" They wanted to say more than that. They were somewhere in between wanting to apologize profusely to Grace and wanting to scold her for her reckless behaviour, but as their companions had pointed out, this really wasn't the time. \n\nGrace then decided to de-materialize, causing the gun she'd taken from Abberline to drop to the ground. Kendra immediately backed off, flinching in case the gun suddenly went off. When nothing happened, they lowered their arms and hissed a curse under their breath. They added 'gun-safety' to the list of things they'd have to talk to Grace about once they got out of here. However, there was one thing they wanted to address before they did anything else. They turned to Misty. \"Hey, so, err, are you okay? Do you, erm, have anywhere else to stay since your hideout is now...\" They gestured around themself. \"You know, compromised?\"", "username": "XxFellsingxX", "char_name": "Kendra Molony" }, { "text": "Mitra\n\nMitra takes the jacket and gun with a grunt. \"You can't choose what your visions say.\" He pauses, eyes Kendra with some skepticism, and then shakes his head and slithers over to Misty. \"If you're leaving, I have a message before you go.\" He pulls the scroll out of the jacket and hands it off to her. \"I think the powers of darkness have already found you. Take it from me, the deals aren't as glamorous as they seem.\" As if for emphasis, all the eyes below his waist blink independently of each other. \"Also, if you could point me to a corner where I can hide and regrow my legs for the next five minutes, I'd be much obliged.\" It's clear he's not being that serious about feeling obliged, but says it out of habit rather than a promise of a debt.", "username": "RBYDark", "char_name": "Mitra \"Snake Eyes\" Singh" }, { "text": "Misty opened one eye, relieved that the dropped shotgun hadn't gone off and done what Abberline had failed to do. Letting out a sigh she opened the other. She could at least hope the cops would be there in a few minutes. This was a bad neighborhood afterall.\n\n \n\n\"Other than an open invite to a sarcophagus, I'm afraid not. I can probably hole up in a motel for a few days though,\" she replied to Kendra. Abberline had made it sound like he was going to take care of Trader first which meant she had a few days before he was likely to show up here. Maybe if she tipped Trader off he could exchange Abberline's liver for a sack of kitty litter or something equally useful.\n\n \n\nShe gave the demon thing a long level look. She took the scroll from him and bounced it in her palm.\n\n \n\n\"No harm ever came from reading a book right?\" she asked, not at all certain that becoming pen pals with Beelzebub was a good idea.\n\n \"There is a changing room back there,\" she told Mitra, making a gesture to the rear of the studio.\n\n\"Just don't use the one with tinsel on the door it's a por... I'm just don't use that one.\"\n\n \n\nFigure out Mitra (11) -Hold 2\n\nSpend 1 to figure out how I can put Mitra in my debt\n\nSaving one for later..", "username": "Candykane", "char_name": "Name Misty Starbuck" }, { "text": "Kendra\n\nKendra raised an eyebrow at the sarcophagus line, not sure whether it was Misty's sense of humour or a genuine fact, but decided it was best not to ask. Instead, they pointed with their thumb to outside the studio where they assumed Trinity was still waiting. \"Well, err, I'd have to talk it out with my roommate, but we have a couch if you needed somewhere to crash,\" they said. \"Our apartment has three living people and one ghost - you met Grace already. It'd be a bit crammed but...\" They shrugged, clearly feeling awkward about offering a place to stay to someone they admittedly didn't know that well. However, they felt they at least owed Misty the option considering their less-than-stellar rescue attempt. \"I don't know, considering what you've just been through, you might want the company.\"", "username": "XxFellsingxX", "char_name": "Kendra Molony" }, { "text": "@Candykane\nAs the conversation continues, you two suddenly notice that the floor has become blanketed in a fine layer of mist that rolled in from under a nearby door. As you look down at this mist, it strikes you that some vampires have the ability to turn into and travel as a cloud of mist. With this it mind, it comes as no shock to either up you when the mist rises into a trio of columns before dispersing to reveal a trio of vampires in police uniforms, a young albino brunette dual wielding a pair of 9mm Glocks, a fair haired black man of indeterminate age bringing to bear a Walther PPK, and an older man with greying black hair pointing a light cavalry saber at the group. \"Good evening.\" The senior officer speaks with a deep southern drawl. \"If you would kindly lay your weapons down and place your hands behind your head, my colleagues I would greatly appreciate your compliance.\"\n\n\nHaving noticed the vampire's approach, you would be on guard enough to realize thanks to your connections to Trinity that these vampires are part of the Copper Web, a vampire clan that is intertwined with the city's police force. Knowing this, you are fairly certain that name dropping Trinity would put them in a more agreeable mood.", "username": "rush99999", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Grace\n\nGrace noticed the mist, and before she could manifest again and warn anybody, the mist formed into three policemen! She watched this event take place, and she looked to her Kendra, Misty, and Mitra, waiting for them to act first before she does anything else. \n\nWhile taking in the events that occur, she keeps a hand over the wounds she just received, not just to cover them, but also to see if they were healing while she remained ghostly.", "username": "Guardian Angel Haruki", "char_name": "Grace" }, { "text": "Kendra\n\nIt took a lot of restraint for Kendra not to heave a loud sigh when she caught sight of the Copper Web members. She'd been hoping to just to have to deal with regular cops. After the confrontation with Abberline, she wasn't sure how much more supernatural politics she could take tonight. The universe really wasn't making things easy for her today.\n\nStill, it wasn't the worst thing. She felt she knew enough about these guys that she could potentially stop this from getting out of hand. \"Good evening, officers,\" they said, raising their hands to show they had no weapons on them. Not anymore, at least. \"I'm Kendra Molony, Trinity Abrams' roommate? I'm pretty sure she's the one who called you about...\" They motioned around themself vaguely. \"All this.\" They paused before adding, \"I just want to start by saying that nobody who is currently in this room was the one who started this.\"", "username": "XxFellsingxX", "char_name": "Kendra Molony" } ]

[ { "text": "Six Months Ago:\n\nSteve Rogers had seen the end of a lot of battles, having served through most of World War II. And yet, standing in the ruins of New York City, Steve couldn't help but despair. Among the destroyed streets of Brooklyn, Steve walked slowly. Even though a lot had changed since the 1940s, Steve could still recall the neighborhood in which he grew up.\n\nAs he turned the corner, Steve passed by where the barber shop he used to frequent once stood. It was a testament to the destructive power of Hydra, as many major cities around the world were just as ruined. The fall of SHIELD had led to great heartache, as civilians walked among their ruined homes, still visibly shaken from the battle that had ended a mere day ago.\n\nEventually Steve Rogers reached his destination. In front of him was a small apartment building. It was mostly intact, save a collapsed wall on its west side. Steve couldn't help but remember those propaganda posters he had seen during the war, what would happen to their homes if the Nazis reached America.\n\nAnd yet the Neo-Nazis of Hydra had reached America, infiltrating its government and controlling global events. While this deception had been revealed, it came at great cost. From where Steve was standing, he could still see the SHIELD Helicarrier, crashed into the bay just outside of the city. But that wasn't as bad to him as seeing the building in front of him. It was once Steve's childhood home.\n\n\"I'm sorry,\" said someone from behind Steve.\n\nThe man known as Captain America didn't need to turn to know it was Nick Fury. The former head of SHIELD had been a constant part of Steve's life since awakening in modern day, having been instrumental in forming the Avengers.\n\n\"Nick, how could we let this happen?\" Steve asked.\n\n\"We were blindsided Rogers, too secure in our own power,\" replied Nick Fury.\n\nThe one-eyed spy master took a step next to Steve Rogers, \"New York seems to have caught the worst of it.\"\n\n\"It's bad all over,\" stated Steve.\n\n\"I only saw the beginning of it before Hydra shot down my Quinjet over the Northern Atlantic.\"\n\n\"And I assume that means you're dead.\"\n\n\"Not just Nick Fury, but SHIELD as a whole is dead. The world would never trust us again.\"\n\n\"Then what? We let AIM, Zodiac, and countless alien invaders have their way with the planet?\"\n\n\"No. Someone needs to step up. The Avengers must step up.\"\n\n\"Even with the Avengers and all the other hero teams, we barely defeated Hydra.\"\n\n\"Look, the Avengers are already called Earth's mightiest heroes. Would it be a stretch to make them Earth's greatest defense organization.\"\n\n\"Do you mean that the Avengers replace SHIELD?\"\n\n\"No, I mean that the Avengers become better than SHIELD ever was.\"\n\n\"Nick, people don't want this happening ever again.\"\n\n\"No they don't. But they also love the Avengers. Your online ratings are at an all time high.\"\n\n\"So you want us to step up?\"\n\n\"Only if you want to,\" Nick Fury then began to walk away, \"Just an idea to think about.\"\n\nSoon, Steve Rogers was left alone in front of the damaged building he had once called home. Seeing the destruction and the plight of the civilians made him angry. But he knew that he had to use that anger in a productive way. He never wanted this to happen again, and perhaps he could prevent it if he stepped up, if he led the Avengers into a new, different frontier.\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nTHE TORCH\n\nCurrent Day:\n\nIt had been almost eighty years since Jim Hammond had last lived in New York City. Created in the lab of Dr. Phineas Horton, New York was all that Jim had known for the first year of his existence. But sure had it changed from the nineteen-forties to the twenty-twenties. It had gotten just so, tall.\n\nBut height didn't matter to Jim as he was able to soar through the air, a bright fireball streaking the modern skyline of Manhattan. The man once known as the Human Torch lived up to the name, brightening up the sky. Of course he had now dropped the Human part from his name as another more well known hero was using the name the Human Torch. Plus, Jim wasn't exactly human.\n\nBorn a synthetic person, Jim was a marvel of science, his exact creation methods still mostly unknown. Yet why his powers worked, didn't matter so much to Jim, just the fact that they worked. So he rose over the tops of the skyscrapers, his flames flickering a little bit in the part of the sky with thinner oxygen. Not wishing to risk it, Jim dove back down through the clouds.\n\nOnly to encounter a news helicopter right in front of him. The fiery android had to make a quick maneuver to dodge the blue helicopter. As he readjusted himself in air, Jim spotted what the helicopter was following.\n\nOn the streets below was a squad of police cars following a black van. Even from up in the sky, Jim could hear the rattle of gunfire. Wanting to help, Jim swooped down, launching a torrent of flames. The intense heat of the flames melted the back wheels of the fleeing vehicle, causing it to skid out and crash into a pole.\n\nJim then landed next to the crashed vehicle, raising his flaming hands as the thieves exited the vehicle. Clearly not wanting to deal with someone seemingly made of fire, the criminals raised their hands into the air.\n\nAs the police arrived, one went up to Jim, \"Thanks for the help, Human Torch,\"\n\n\"Actually I'm the Torch, no Human,\" replied Jim as the cop walked away.\n\nA little miffed, Jim decided to not stick around. But before he could lift off back into the air, a beeping came from inside his suit pocket. Extinguishing his flames, Jim pulled the Avengers ID Card he was issued out of the pocket of his red fireproof suit. The image of Steve Rogers, director of the Avengers, appeared in the corner of the card.\n\n\"This is Director Rogers calling all members of the New York branch,\" stated the card, \"Please report to Avengers Mansion for a mission briefing.\"\n\nOnce the image disappeared, Jim put the card away. This would be his first actual mission as an Avenger, only joining them after Steve put him high on the list for Project: Unlimited recruits. Jim immediately joined, glad to be working with his former comrade again.\n\nJim then lifted off the ground and began heading towards Avengers Mansion, the original home of the Avengers. Within a few minutes, Jim landed in front of the building. As he got close, a whole array of sensors scanned him, confirming his identity.\n\n\"Welcome, the Torch, to Avengers Mansion,\" said a robotic voice.\n\nThe doors then swung open, letting the synthetic man inside. Jim briskly walked through the entrance hall, coming upon the elevator at the end. Once inside, another voice asked him for his destination.\n\n\"Briefing room please,\" Jim stated.\n\nThe elevator then began to descend almost effortlessly. There was no noise as the elevator traversed the large tunnels built beneath the mansion. Within thirty seconds, Jim had arrived.\n\nTaking a step into the briefing room, Jim saw that the walls were completely lined with monitors, and that there was a massive table in the center of the room, easily sitting twenty plus people. Seeing that no one else had arrived yet, Jim decided to take the seat nearest to the elevator.\n\nOnce sitting firmly in the comfy office chair, Jim relaxed and began to wait. Truth be told, he wasn't entirely sure what the final line up of the New York branch had ended up being, so this meeting would be a good chance to get to know his teammates.", "username": "Martian", "char_name": "Jim Hammond" }, { "text": "Kate woke up screaming. Another nightmare, another memory of the fall of New York and her near death experience at the hands of Hydra and her own parents. It had been six months after and she still couldn't get over it. Sighing, she got up and got dressed. It was during her morning routine that she got a message in the mail. It was a card. An AVENGERS card. She blinked, astonished as a hologram of none other than Captain America.\n\n\"This is Director Rogers calling all members of the New York branch,\" stated the card, \"Please report to Avengers Mansion for a mission briefing.\"\n\nHuh, the Avengers are still around? I thought they disbanded?\n\nHours later, she was standing the Avengers tower lobby, presenting her card to the person at the desk.\n\n\"Briefing room please!\"\n\nAnd then, one Elevator ride later, she was right beside a man who looked like the Human Torch.\n\n\"Oh! Are you the Human Torch?\"", "username": "ImaginedBird67", "char_name": "Katherine Bishop" } ]

[ { "text": "Kate woke up screaming. Another nightmare, another memory of the fall of New York and her near death experience at the hands of Hydra and her own parents. It had been six months after and she still couldn't get over it. Sighing, she got up and got dressed. It was during her morning routine that she got a message in the mail. It was a card. An AVENGERS card. She blinked, astonished as a hologram of none other than Captain America.\n\n\"This is Director Rogers calling all members of the New York branch,\" stated the card, \"Please report to Avengers Mansion for a mission briefing.\"\n\nHuh, the Avengers are still around? I thought they disbanded?\n\nHours later, she was standing the Avengers tower lobby, presenting her card to the person at the desk.\n\n\"Briefing room please!\"\n\nAnd then, one Elevator ride later, she was right beside a man who looked like the Human Torch.\n\n\"Oh! Are you the Human Torch?\"", "username": "ImaginedBird67", "char_name": "Katherine Bishop" }, { "text": "Captian Marvel didn't bother with the front entrance, she just flew in through the roof. She didn't even need to ask where the briefing room was, she knew this tower inside and out, being an Avenger herself. As she walked, she remembered her failure. HEr failure of defending New York against the Hydra horde. They still won, but now even months later, New York was still recovering and Shield had disbanded. What was to come of the future?\n\nNever mind that, she thought, there's a new mission to be had.\n\nAs she floated down, see two newcomers. A young girl that fancied herself \"Hawkeye\" no doubt, and another person that she mistook to be the Human Torch at first but at second glance realized he wasn't.\n\n\"Nice to know I am not the first to arrive.\" she said conversionally as she touched down.", "username": "ImaginedBird67", "char_name": "Katherine Bishop" } ]

[ { "text": "Location: Angel Grove, - California\n\nEpisode #1: Power of the Dragon\n\n---\n\n\nInteraction(s): @Omega Man - Gabriel | @Dragonfly 9 - Joseph | @Eviledd1984 - Midori | @Martian - Colton | @Double - Various\n \nPost #1.1: Beginnings...\n\n\n\n\nEverything on the roads was electricity powered now. Emergency vehicles and police hovered about ten feet above the ground. The advances in technology seemed meaningless when otherworldly creatures began attacking the west coast metropolitan area weeks earlier. Tommy Oliver's storage bunker had been raided by an unknown enemy and several weapons and artifacts from his past were taken including the Sword of Darkness, the staff of Rita Repulsa, various zord blueprints, as well as a reconstructed Red Lightning Turbozord. The thief remained in the shadows after giving the items to Scorpina, who had set up shop in a cave system on the edge of a cliff very few people knew the location of. Ever since, Scorpina has unleashed bastardized versions of old Power Ranger enemies trying to perfect the dark magics of the staff. \n\nAfter the incident at the bunker, Tommy Oliver reached out to Billy Cranston and the two began preparing for what was to come. With the Aquitarean starship of Cranston's, the two men quickly built a new HQ underground close to where the old command center was located in the 90's. With a mostly reconstructed Dragonzord and Red Dragon Thunderzord they knew where to start when fashioning another group of Rangers. The Dragon Morphers were tied to the technology in the new Ranger's zords and had the appearance of serpentine smart watches mixed with slap bracelets. While the zords were not completed, the morphers and the suits as well as the Dragon Daggers were ready to go. Billy was just waiting for Tommy's word to let the morphers choose their owners. \n\nOn a day like so many others, Gabriel stormed out of Mr. Cranston's room and bumped into Dr. Oliver at Angel Grove High School. The bell had rang, and Gabe grabbed his red flannel jacket and backpack and was the first student out the door. He was so quick to get out as fast as he could that he walked directly into Dr. Oliver and dropped his backpack. \n\n\"Where's the fire?\" Oliver asked as the kid picked up his things and hurried off.\n\nAs the teenagers exited the room of Cranston, Dr. Oliver stepped in. It was the end of the school day. They locked eyes and Oliver nodded. It was time. \n\n\n\nGabriel was at the local park. His motor bike was spray painted and messed with before he could get to it in time after school. A few guys on the football team liked to break his stuff because they were under the impression his parents would just buy him new things to replace it. That wasn't always the case, but for no reason at all some of the same football players were also at the park and in a mood to start trouble. Gabe was just trying to walk around a bit and get out of his head, maybe try to find something cool off of the regular paths. He saw what appeared to be a red lizard of some kind on the ground, but then the football players came up and shoved him. \n\n\"Thought I smelled tacos…\" the one idiot commented. \n\nGabe was on the ground now. Outnumbered three to one, suddenly he felt something crawl up his hand and arm. He looked down at his hand and it looked as if a red robot-lizard dragon thing had wrapped itself around his wrist. And in another strange twist… now a strange grey shape-shifting creature approached the teens making an awful gargling noise as it breathed life. \n\n\"Timothy… what the hell is THAT THING?!\" another football player screamed as the three of them took off up the path. \n\n\"Great… first my bike and now THIS thing… I'm not going down without a fight.\" Gabriel thought as the eyes of the dragon bracelet lit up and transformed him into the Red Dragon Force Ranger. \n\n\"THAT wasn't expected…\" he thought out loud. As the putty monster approached, Gabe noticed some sort of weapon on his side, \"Sweet, some kinda dagger… okay monster man, you want a piece of this?!\" he yelled charging at the creature.", "username": "Omega Man", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Midori Tokage\n\nEating her breakfast quickly as Midori didn't want to interact with her father. Her mother had come down to the kitchen to make herself a cup of coffee. There was not much conversation between herself and her mother. Midori did not have a good relationship with her parents. Her mother was very passive, not caring much about the well being of her daughter. While her father was very strict, wanting to pressure her to join the military. Midori quickly finished her breakfast and grabbed her backpack to leave. \"Goodbye.\" Midori's words were curt and short, she didn't want to interact much with her mother. Her mother's response was equally short, taking a sip from her cup of coffee. \n\nMidori made her way out of her house and made her way toward her bike. The ride to school was not very eventful, mostly ignoring her surroundings with the music she was listening to. (Song she is listening to youtube.com/watch?v=zMuFcsl1a2Y). Only stopping to steal an energy drink from the local convenient store. Parking her bike at the bike rake, she slowly made her way inside. For the most part, Midori didn't care much about school, nor the stuff that was being taught to her. For most of her classes, she was doodling in her book. Thinking about skipping Mr.Cranston's class to go watch a movie. Midori was glad to hear the bell ringing, signalling that the class was over. Quickly making her way out of the classroom, and towards her locker. Picking up a few things, before she left the school and towards the movie theatre. Stopping at a park along the way. \n\nSitting down on one of the benches, pulling out the energy drink she had stolen before. Enjoying her drink, while watching the people passing by.", "username": "Eviledd1984", "char_name": "Midori Tokage" }, { "text": "COLTON TAKAO\n\n\n---\n\n\nInteraction(s): @Omega Man- Gabriel | @Eviledd1984 - Midori\n\nLike most school days, Colton had barely paid attention in class as he found the subjects terribly boring. He questioned why he had even picked a law class, as it was definitely the least interesting subject he had ever taken. The only stimulating thing Colton did at school all day was getting his pulse up in physical education class. While most certainly not a jock, Colton did love keeping in shape, still taking karate lessons in his free time. He figured that it helped make him well rounded.\n\nDuring his study period, Colton retreated to the Angel Grove High library. Once there he decided to just read some of his favorites. While he knew he should be studying for his social sciences test, Colton was not in the mood to go over various anthropological terms. Instead he grabbed the over sized hardcover of the complete works of Edgar Allan Poe, which was slightly related to his studies as they were going over him in English class.\n\nWhile the works of Poe were freely available online as it was public domain, something about having an actual physical book in front of him made Colton feel nice. It was getting harder and harder to find new physical books, as many of the local book stores had closed in the last few years as ebooks and other mediums of media became more prevalent.\n\nRegardless, Colton was able to enjoy his book, rereading The Facts in the Case of M. Valdemar for the umpteenth time. His phone then chimed, reminding him that he still had one more class to attend. So Colton left the library and went to his biology class on the other side of the campus. The class was uneventful.\n\nOnce the school day was over, Colton made the conscious decision not to take the school bus home. He was in somewhat of a mood today and didn't want to deal with his father right now. So instead he decided to walk home, taking the scenic path. That route brought Colton through a park popular with his fellow students.\n\nColton walked slowly through the park, taking in the greenery and creek that flowed through it. Eventually he came across his favorite part of the park, an abstract art statue placed on top of a water fountain. Colton liked to come here and relax to music while ignoring everything else in the world.\n\nColton took a seat next to the fountain, taking out his wireless ear buds. But before he put them in, he noticed that someone had left something next to the fountain. Turning to get a good look at it, Colton saw that it seemed to be a black watch with a dragon motif going on.\n\nCuriosity overtook Colton as he picked up the watch. As he inspected it, Colton saw the watch do something strange as it automatically snapped itself around his wrist. This shocked Colton, causing him to rise to his feet.\n\n\"What the hell?\" wondered Colton.\n\nBut as Colton stared at the watch, his attention was overtaken by the sound of screaming. Colton whipped around to see a woman pushing a stroller as fast as she could. From behind her, a gray figure emerged. As it got closer, Colton recognized it as the same kind of monster he had seen in online videos. But Angel Grove hadn't had a Power Ranger team in many years, so who would fight them?\n\nColton's initial instinct was to run as well, but then he noticed that a wheel broke off the woman's stroller, making it hard to move. But then the voice of Colton's Sensei entered his mind. Part of learning how to defend oneself also involved helping others. Steeling himself, Colton ran toward the monster, placing himself between it and the woman with her child.\n\n\"Come on then, you clay monster, or whatever you are,\" said Colton.\n\nThe gray creature briefly paused to look Colton up and down, before charging the teen. Colton then began to ready his fist, only for the eyes of the dragon on the watch to begin to glow. Colton was then bathed in a dark light, armor forming over his whole body. He had suddenly become the Black Dragon Force Ranger.\n\n\"Woah,\" muttered Colton.\n\nThe monster paused once more after this transformation, before resuming its charge. In response, Colton swung his fist, finding that he could now move a lot faster. He wasn't even focusing on the fact that he was now a Power Ranger, instead totally caught up in the battle with the monster.", "username": "Martian", "char_name": "Colton Takao" } ]

[ { "text": "COLTON TAKAO\n\n\n---\n\n\nInteraction(s): @Omega Man- Gabriel | @Eviledd1984 - Midori | @Dragonfly 9 - Joseph\n\nColton, now garbed in the armor of the Black Dragon Force Ranger, raised his fist to strike the charging clay monster. With a strength he had never felt before, Colton's fist collided with the monster's face, instantly breaking its rock like skin. Before Colton could react to what he had done, the monster's face shattered before the rest of his body turned to goo before disappearing completely.\n\n\"Damn,\" Colton muttered as he stared at his fist.\n\nA wave of energy rushed through Colton's body as he wore the Ranger armor. Just wearing it made him feel incredible, like everything about him was heightened. Colton paused for a few seconds to just take in the sensation, having a power within like he had never felt before.\n\nBut a scream for help broke Colton's focus on the new power. With a much faster pace than usual, Colton took off into the deeper part of the park. In almost no time Colton found the source of the scream, a couple that was surrounded by four of those clay things. Colton wondered just how many of these things were in the park.\n\nOut of his peripheral vision, Colton spotted another person in Power Ranger armor, this one clad in red. Colton also noticed that he was using a dagger to fight off a monster. Wondering if he had one as well, Colton finally realized that he had a Dragon Dagger attached to his belt. With a quick motion, Colton armed himself with the blade.\n\nColton then charged at the four monsters, but as he did so, he saw another person running to fight the monsters. He recognized her as Midori, but saw that she was not wearing any Ranger armor. Colton wondered how she would fare without the power the armor provided.\n\nBut Colton pushed that out of his mind as he lunged at the first clay monster. With a yell, Colton slashed out at it, knocking the creature away from the scared couple. Then with a roundhouse kick, Colton sent another one flying. The Black Dragon Force Ranger now placed himself between the two remaining monsters and the couple.\n\nFrom his new position, Colton could see that another Ranger had arrived, this one clad in white. But Colton couldn't focus too much on the newcomer's arrival, as both clay monsters rushed him. Colton managed to deflect one of their fists with his Dragon Dagger, but the other monster made contact, landing a blow to the Ranger's gut. Colton recoiled as the wind was knocked out of him.\n\n\"Crap..\" Colton muttered.\n\nHowever he recovered quickly, raising his left knee into the monster that had hit him, causing it to collapse to the ground. Colton then rolled over in the air, his dagger slashing into the other monster. This resulted in Colton on top of the monster, driving his dagger into its chest, causing it to turn to goo.\n\nColton then rushed to his feet, seeing that the other three monsters were also getting up. The Black Ranger raised his dagger, as the gathering of monsters began to move toward him.\n\n\"A little help?\" Colton asked.\n\nColton looked around the park, seeing the couple running away. But he was more looking for the other two Rangers and Midori, only to see some more clay monsters enter the park. Again, Colton wondered just how many of these things were out here? But he didn't have any option but to fight them, so he held tightly on his dagger, steeling himself mentally to fight off the monsters.", "username": "Martian", "char_name": "Colton Takao" }, { "text": "9@Martian\n\nMidori ran over to the group not wanting to watch Colton get hurt, picking up a large branch to use as a weapon. This was not the first time she had used a branch as a blunt instrument. When you are in a street fight anything around you can be used as a weapon. Getting close enough that she was in attack range of the clay looking weirdos she stated, \"Hi, heads up.\" \n\nUsing the large branch like a baseball bat, she smacked one of the putties in the head and sent it flying backwards. Now the attention was focused on her. Some of the weird putty creatures started to approach. One of them tried to throw a punch at Midori, but she was pushed onto the ground by one of the guys in spandex. \"What the hell was that for?\" she yelled standing back up to her feet.\n\nNot noticing a goon behind her it kicked her in the back. \n\n\"Shit.\" she cursed under her breath. \n\nShe got back up hopping onto her feet and kicking one of the putties in the stomach. But the putties were much stronger than they looked. Most of them immediately got right back up or morphed around. The putties were quickly starting to pile up on her. One held her arms behind her head, leaving her open to attack. Getting punched and kicked by the goons, she violently moved her body trying to escape. She used her legs to jump over the putty's head and kicked the one that held her into the other putty. \n\n\"Is that the best you got?\" she asked with a cocky smile on her face, kicking another putty that was coming towards Colton. \"HI-YAH! \" she screamed sweep kicking another putty. However, her prideful attitude got the best of her. After fighting so many putties she was starting to get overwhelmed.", "username": "Eviledd1984", "char_name": "Midori Tokage" }, { "text": "Location: Angel Grove, - California\n\nEpisode #1: Power of the Dragon\n\n---\n\n\nInteraction(s): @Omega Man - Gabriel | @Dragonfly 9 - Joseph | @Eviledd1984 - Midori | @Martian - Colton | @Double - Various\n \nPost #1.9: Beginnings...\n\n\n\"Looks like we came across the same type of little robot lizard…\" Gabriel said running up to Joe, now clad in the White Dragon Force Ranger suit. In the distance, the pair of heroes could see both the girl wielding the stick, and a Black Ranger wearing a similar suit to theirs. Three additional putty monsters emerged and headed towards a woman running with earbuds keeping her from hearing the commotion in the surrounding area. \n\n \"I bet athletic girls like guys in super-suits…\" Gabriel said smacking Joe's shoulder and running towards the putty menace. \n\nSomewhere on the other side of Angel Grove Tommy Oliver and Billy Cranston were seemingly in a new Command Center. Nothing looked familiar as it did before with Tommy Oliver's last underground HQ, but at the same time it did. \n\n\n\n\"When the girl picks up the last Dragon Morpher we should be able to teleport the group to the new base.\" Billy explained to Tommy from a control station. \n\n\"I can't believe how good it turned out. Transforming an old alien star-cruiser into a new HQ was genius.\" Tommy responded to his old friend. \n\n\"I figured one day I'd use it to travel the stars again but I think I'm going to stay grounded.\" Billy continued watching from a small surveillance drone that looked similar to the head of Alpha 5.\n\nBack at the park….\n\nThe team began to come together around the last three putty monsters. The woman jogging and her dog were nowhere to be seen. The drone that looked similar to the head of Alpha 5 was off in the distance about twenty-five yards away and about thirty feet above the ground watching on.", "username": "Omega Man", "char_name": null } ]

[ { "text": "Midori Tokage\n\nMidori sat on the bench, enjoying the various kinds of people walking passed her. Taking a few sips from the energy drink she had in her head. But from the corner of her eye, she could see a commotion going on. At first, she just thought it was some strangers getting ready to fight, but she noticed a few people from her school getting involved. One of those people is Colton. Gulping down the rest of her drink, she stood up from the bench she was sitting on. \"Kuso.\" She didn't want her friend to be beaten by some weirdos. Midori noticed that his friend and another guy suddenly wearing spandex. She had heard stories of the Power Rangers, but she mostly disregarded it thinking it was bullshit. \n\nMidori stood up and ran over to the other two. \"Oi putt heads, let's rock.\" She got into a fighting stance. Getting ready to fight them, having a good feeling she would be able to win.", "username": "Eviledd1984", "char_name": "Midori Tokage" }, { "text": "Location: Angel Grove, - California\n\nEpisode #1: Power of the Dragon\n\n---\n\n\nInteraction(s): @Omega Man - Gabriel | @Dragonfly 9 - Joseph | @Eviledd1984 - Midori | @Martian - Colton | @Double - Various\n \nPost #1.5: Beginnings...\n\n\nGabriel had an adrenaline rush like never before. He wielded the red dagger like he'd used a knife several times in the past. The dagger attacks seemed to do nothing against the monster, which appeared to be increasing its mass and duplicating after reforming itself. Unlike several Rangers of yesteryear, the Red Dragon Force Ranger looked to exclusively use hand strikes and grappling throws. The increase in strength and speed was surprising to say the least when he went to push off the ground and sent himself and one of the putty monsters twenty feet into the air. In the distance, Gabe could see another Ranger on the scene in black. \n\n\"Glad I'm not alone out here…\" the Red Ranger thought out loud. \n\nJoe, meanwhile, was currently sitting on one of the park's benches. He was lazily holding out bread crumbs for the ducks near him to eat, and allowed himself to smile a bit at the ducks' eager quacking. This was pretty nice, doing nothing for a change. Joe wasn't thinking of anything in particular, including constantly pretending to be average and never doing something that would disrupt that façade, which was also nice. If he could just stay here for a while longer, with no one judging him, that would be awesome…\n\nJoe's thoughts were suddenly interrupted by a chilling, inhuman screech. When he opened his eyes, he saw a strange monster who looked to be made of clay swinging one of his arms at him. Eyes wide, Joe quickly dodged the monster's arm, which then hit the bench he was sitting on and turned into gray goo, before the monster made another arm out of nothing and swung it at Joe again. Standing up, Joe looked at the monster…and ran away.\n\nYeah, he just… decided to run away. So much for being a hero.\n\nOf course, the monster chased after him, screeching all the way. Joe, at this point, had reached near the end of the park, and was just about to exit it when he saw someone else on the edge of the end of it, staring at the monster like a deer in the headlights. It wasn't just Joe who noticed this bystander, however, as the monster behind him probably thought that the young girl would be an easier target than Joe at this point and swung its arm at her. Joe, at this point, had two options. He could either run away, leaving the poor girl to defend herself or he could get the girl out of the way and likely have to defend both of them from the monster.\n\nJoe, despite every bit of him telling him to run away, to not worry about the girl, to just let her fight it off herself…\n\nHe chose to get her out of the way instead.\n\n\"Look out!\" Joe exclaimed, shoving the girl out of the way, just in time for the monster to hit him.\n\nJoe, not expecting the sheer force of the attack, while the girl, now not the monster's target anymore, got out of her frightened stupor to run away as fast as she could, screaming all the way. Joe, meanwhile, was grabbed by the monster and pulled close to it, with the young man in the white t-shirt punching and kicking the monster all the way. His attacks made no difference however, as the monster reformed the parts of its body that were being attacked always a split second after Joe hit them. Just as Joe was getting close to its face, however…\n\nA little robotic lizard, who Joe hadn't noticed was following him ever since he was running from the monster, crawled on his arm. It activated itself without Joe's knowledge turning him into… The White Ranger. Of course, the first thing he does after turning into a Ranger after the usual wonder of it all was to punch the monster so hard in the face that it let go of him and fell to the ground.\n\n\"...What the hell!?\" Joe said, doing a double take at his new costume. Oh yeah, and that, too.", "username": "Dragonfly 9", "char_name": "Joseph \"Joe\" Archer" } ]

[ { "text": "Nestled in a large enchanted forest, stood the large Fae City of Ali'theer; One of the most prosperous kingdoms of the land. This city was full of Scientists and Alchemists, Philosophers and Merchants, Warriors and Mages; Trade was Wealth, the city was well fortified to ensure they were safe, no matter what.\n\nAli'theer housed a large, lavish castle; standing on a gorgeous swade of land, a luscious garden surrounding every inch of the castle. The Royal Gardens housing many creatures that left much to the imagination; it was even said that A Pegasus and a Dragon lived within the grounds.\nThis Castle was known as Castle T'or; as it housed the Royal Family of Fae that controlled Ali'theer.\n\nKing Argrean was both feared and loved by his people; his claim to royalty a mystery to most of the citizens of his land. He ruled carefully and for the most part, fairly. He only asked for one thing; Complete and Total obedience. He garnered respect out of fear, and had his ways to twist other kingdoms around them into working for him rather than with him.\nQueen Emmerdale was the opposite of her Husband; She was loved and adored by her people. She was known as the 'Queen of the Hunt', ruling over the hunters and gatherers of the city with a soft gaze. She kept the forest that the Kingdom stood in flourishing; but these days she is often stuck inside the castle, as Argrean doesn't want to allow her too much freedom.\nPrincess Vianna no longer lived within the castle, the oldest child of the two Royals. She was married off to another Royal Kingdom of Fae, and had a good handful of children.\n\nThe final person within the castle is Prince Fenn.\nThe only son of Argrean and Emmerdale, the 'heir' to the castle itself once his pass away within the next thousand or so years. Not that Fenn really cared too much about that anyway.\nFenn didn't see himself as a 'Prince'; he took the role under his mother of undertaking the Mantle of ruling the 'Wild', as well as sneaking out under his father gaze to go off to find and dismantle poacher groups and traps.\n\nFenn was said to be something completely special; so said the Fates- Very Old, Powerful Fae who could see into the future and got visions of things that were going to happen. The Fates said that Fenn was going to do something amazing for the lands, not just the Kingdom itself; but as they Fates are, they were cryptic and vague, which caused Fenn to roll his eyes and not take the vision too seriously.\n\nBut there was something boiling on the horizon, a nearby human Kingdom was encroaching on their forest; starting to make paths into the woods itself, which caused scuffles between protectors of the edge and the Kingdom knights who joined the builders.\nTensions were rising now, and a war seemed to brim aggressively from either side. Argrean awaited the chance to demolish the humans with his army of strong Fae, but was surprised when he was send a letter from the Human Kingdom; proposing Peace and... A Merger.\n\n\n---\n\n\nKing Argrean sat in his carriage as it headed to the meeting point of both sides, he kept his eyes away from his son Fenn; he was already angry at him not dressing the way he instructed him to.\nA small Fae Advisor sat on the other side of the Carriage, as they were mainly there to keep note of everything and make sure that Fenn behaved himself.\n\nQueen Emmerdale would join later, but Argrean had told her to not join them as the peace treaty was a Mans job, and she was to come in when they needed the two Queens to plan out the wedding. Argrean didn't want her butting in at all when it came to negotiations; knowing she would show favour to the humans rather than the Fae, as she was known to be too 'soft' to those Argrean saw as enemies.\n\nFenn toyed with his gloves as the carriage moved along, flexing his fingers in them before his sharp claw-like nails easily tore straight through the leather. \"Oop.\" Fenn said softly before he pulled his gloves off with a sigh, \"Mamma's not going to like that.\"\n\"No.\" Argrean rumbled angrily, \"Your mother will be disappointed you broke the gloves she made for you.\" He said as he looked out side the carriage.", "username": "SporkoBug", "char_name": "King Argrean T'or." }, { "text": "The Kingdom of Eachoudia, inhabited by humans and ruled over by the Prendale family, sat on the edge of a great forest, one that for centuries they hadn't dared explore too deeply, although they of course knew of the Fae Kingdom that lay within. Eachoudia was mainly an agricultural kingdom, trading in crops and livestock, as well as various crafts like pottery and jewellery, and until very recently, they had mostly kept to themselves. \n\nUntil King Richard took the throne, anyway. He was… a good king, some may say - he kept his people alive, mostly listened to their requests and allowed them to live as they like, but it was his relations with other kingdoms that many disagreed with. He was hungry for power, he wanted everything for himself. It was mostly his wife that prevented him from doing anything too bad, Queen Annabella far keener to keep the peace, though there was only so much she could do to stop him entirely. \n\nHe started to expand, grow his kingdom more and more, at first out into unclaimed land but there was only so much unclaimed land to go around, and once he'd ran out? Well, there was only one thing to do - take land from elsewhere. Attempting to take it from the Faes was perhaps not a great decision, however, and it was clear that a war was brewing. \n\nAt this point, Queen Annabella once again attempting to step in, and managed to convince her husband to go about it a different route, attempt to negotiate with the Fae Kingdom and come to some sort of agreement. And at first, the King hated this idea, though soon devised a plan to combine the two kingdoms together - a marriage of convenience, to unite them. His two daughters, the twin Princesses Alicia and Eloise, would of course be too young, but he'd also been attempting to set up his son, Prince Anthony, with a spouse, now that he was of age. \n\nPrince Anthony was… less keen of this idea, marriage being something he'd never really thought about, or wanted for himself. He had other things to be focusing on, being a budding historian and, of course, preparing to take over the kingdom himself once his father passed, and even that wasn't something he particularly wanted. But it wasn't as if there was much he could do about it, his father had never been one he could argue with. And since the letter had been sent off before he'd even been told, it was far too late anyway. \n\nNow, he sat in the library at in the palace, in his favourite seat by the stained glass window, hunched over a book he'd read a few times before, but always seemed to pick up something new on each reread, scribbling his notes in the margins. It was quiet, peaceful, and honestly Anthony could have spent the rest of his life there, in that moment, never bothered by the world again. \n\nBut of course, his mother soon came through the door to disturb the peace. \"Anthony, your father is waiting-\" \n\nAnthony frowned. \"Waiting for what?\" \n\n\"For-\" His mother sighed. \"Gods, you aren't even dressed properly. Come one-\" \n\nAnd as he was dragged out of the library and up to his room to change into fancier clothes, even fancier than the usual fancy clothes he was forced into, he remembered that today was the day he was supposed to meet his future husband, the Fae Prince. Ah. \n\nAgain, not much he could do about it. He just had to go along with it for now, maybe they'd find that his Fae Prince wasn't a good fit for him and they could leave the entire thing behind them. Hopefully. Still, he accompanied his father in the carriage, sitting in silence as they rode to the meeting point, trying not to look too upset about the entire thing.", "username": "lotusthevoid", "char_name": "Anthony Prendale" }, { "text": "Fenn's ears flattened slightly at his fathers words, before he looked toward the Advisor, who flashed him a small smile.\n\"You're doing great.\" The Advisor said softly, speaking their native language. They ignored Argreans' glare as they kept watch of Fenn.\nFenn didn't want to be here; he didn't want to be in this carriage, with his father, going to meet the human royalty. He wished he was travelling with his mother, at least she was less likely to cuss him out if he broke anything.\n\nThe Carriage came to a halt, Fenn tensed up as his father started to move. King Argrean slowly slipped out of the carriage, his feet landing on the soft grass below him.\n\"Come.\" Argrean rumbled to both the Advisor and Fenn, as he walked towards the stone table that stood between the two kingdoms.\nThe Stone Table had stood through countless wars, trifles, peace treaties and the likes. The ground was a mix of ruined brick and overgrown grass; this stone table used to sit within a large castle; long before either Kingdom dared to stand.\nArgrean knew the history, as did Fenn, but unlike his Heir, Argrean didn't care for the history of this place. He stridden slowly over to the Stone table and looked over the wonky stone table.\n\nFenn and the Advisor followed after their King slowly, The Advisor keeping up with the larger fae as much as they could; while Fenn stayed a bit behind.\n\"Oh.\" Fenn said as he saw a couple of crumbled pillars and the vague outlines of broken rooms that once stood tall and proud, but now held only the agony of how they fell. \"I bet you have a vast history.\" He whispered to the ruins before he straightened up as Argrean gave a growl towards his son.\n\nFenn darted over to his side and straightened up, looking to his father for a moment before looking down again. He shook his head slightly before he looked towards where he expected the Human Royalty to come through. His feathered ears pricked up, trying to keep listening to whatever sound was around them.\n\nHe didn't want to do this, and his mother knew this too. But his father was very adamant on 1) getting him out of the castle, and 2) sparking this 'peace treaty' to gain more 'allies' for whenever he started a war over someone else. Fenn had more important stuff to worry about, black market trading was spreading almost like wildfire through his Kingdom, with ties and links to the Human Kingdom as well; plus the poachers that had started to trap and take a few of the 'less important'(In his fathers eyes) animals within the gardens.", "username": "SporkoBug", "char_name": "Fenn Orian T'or." }, { "text": "\"I swear if you make a fool of yourself-\" \n\nAnthony sighed heavily. \"Yes, father, I get it. I'll be on my best behaviour, whatever you want.\" Over the years, he'd found it was easier to just go along with his father's wishes, no matter how much he personally disagreed with them. And it wasn't often that he agreed with his father. \"We've had this conversation a million times, I know what I'm doing.\" It wasn't a surprise that his father would have little faith in him, as Anthony had been clear that he wasn't happy with this arrangement, and… well, he'd never been brilliant around people in the first place, although it wasn't as if the same couldn't be said about his father, albeit for different reasons. \n\nBut thankfully, that did shut King Richard up, and their journey returned to relative peace, moving through the vast fields of their kingdom, up towards the neutral meeting point. Once they arrived, Anthony still stayed in the carriage for a few moments longer, sort of wanting to delay this as long as possible, though soon enough Richard was moaning at him to get out, and he supposed there was no delaying the inevitable. He got out, though still stayed a good few paces behind as the king moved over to the centre table, ready to start the negotiations. \n\nHe, of course, wouldn't be involved too much in the actual negotiations himself - even if he wanted to be, he doubted that he'd get single word in with his father around. So instead, he stayed back, standing with his arms folded over his chest and trying to not stare too hard at the Fae Prince, though it wasn't as though he could help it, really not interested at all in whatever politics were going on and at least wanted to get a feel for the person he'd likely be spending a significant amount of time around in the future. \n\nThe prince… didn't look too bad, Anthony thought. And by the looks of it, he seemed just as unhappy to be there as Anthony was, which was probably a good sign. If he was lucky, they could just get this over with and then agree that it was all just for business and move on. Anthony could focus on his studies, the Fae Prince could… do whatever Fae prince's do, there would be no war in either of their kingdoms and everything could be right back to normal. \n\nHe shifted on the spot slightly, gaze falling down to the floor as he realised that he wasn't doing as well in the no staring department as he had thought. His father's voice faded into background noise as discussions began, Anthony instead trying to think about anything else other than the situation at hand. Still, he found himself glancing up at the Fae Prince every ten seconds or so, as much as he tried not to.", "username": "lotusthevoid", "char_name": "Anthony Prendale" } ]

[ { "text": "Fenn's ears flattened slightly at his fathers words, before he looked toward the Advisor, who flashed him a small smile.\n\"You're doing great.\" The Advisor said softly, speaking their native language. They ignored Argreans' glare as they kept watch of Fenn.\nFenn didn't want to be here; he didn't want to be in this carriage, with his father, going to meet the human royalty. He wished he was travelling with his mother, at least she was less likely to cuss him out if he broke anything.\n\nThe Carriage came to a halt, Fenn tensed up as his father started to move. King Argrean slowly slipped out of the carriage, his feet landing on the soft grass below him.\n\"Come.\" Argrean rumbled to both the Advisor and Fenn, as he walked towards the stone table that stood between the two kingdoms.\nThe Stone Table had stood through countless wars, trifles, peace treaties and the likes. The ground was a mix of ruined brick and overgrown grass; this stone table used to sit within a large castle; long before either Kingdom dared to stand.\nArgrean knew the history, as did Fenn, but unlike his Heir, Argrean didn't care for the history of this place. He stridden slowly over to the Stone table and looked over the wonky stone table.\n\nFenn and the Advisor followed after their King slowly, The Advisor keeping up with the larger fae as much as they could; while Fenn stayed a bit behind.\n\"Oh.\" Fenn said as he saw a couple of crumbled pillars and the vague outlines of broken rooms that once stood tall and proud, but now held only the agony of how they fell. \"I bet you have a vast history.\" He whispered to the ruins before he straightened up as Argrean gave a growl towards his son.\n\nFenn darted over to his side and straightened up, looking to his father for a moment before looking down again. He shook his head slightly before he looked towards where he expected the Human Royalty to come through. His feathered ears pricked up, trying to keep listening to whatever sound was around them.\n\nHe didn't want to do this, and his mother knew this too. But his father was very adamant on 1) getting him out of the castle, and 2) sparking this 'peace treaty' to gain more 'allies' for whenever he started a war over someone else. Fenn had more important stuff to worry about, black market trading was spreading almost like wildfire through his Kingdom, with ties and links to the Human Kingdom as well; plus the poachers that had started to trap and take a few of the 'less important'(In his fathers eyes) animals within the gardens.", "username": "SporkoBug", "char_name": "Fenn Orian T'or." }, { "text": "\"I swear if you make a fool of yourself-\" \n\nAnthony sighed heavily. \"Yes, father, I get it. I'll be on my best behaviour, whatever you want.\" Over the years, he'd found it was easier to just go along with his father's wishes, no matter how much he personally disagreed with them. And it wasn't often that he agreed with his father. \"We've had this conversation a million times, I know what I'm doing.\" It wasn't a surprise that his father would have little faith in him, as Anthony had been clear that he wasn't happy with this arrangement, and… well, he'd never been brilliant around people in the first place, although it wasn't as if the same couldn't be said about his father, albeit for different reasons. \n\nBut thankfully, that did shut King Richard up, and their journey returned to relative peace, moving through the vast fields of their kingdom, up towards the neutral meeting point. Once they arrived, Anthony still stayed in the carriage for a few moments longer, sort of wanting to delay this as long as possible, though soon enough Richard was moaning at him to get out, and he supposed there was no delaying the inevitable. He got out, though still stayed a good few paces behind as the king moved over to the centre table, ready to start the negotiations. \n\nHe, of course, wouldn't be involved too much in the actual negotiations himself - even if he wanted to be, he doubted that he'd get single word in with his father around. So instead, he stayed back, standing with his arms folded over his chest and trying to not stare too hard at the Fae Prince, though it wasn't as though he could help it, really not interested at all in whatever politics were going on and at least wanted to get a feel for the person he'd likely be spending a significant amount of time around in the future. \n\nThe prince… didn't look too bad, Anthony thought. And by the looks of it, he seemed just as unhappy to be there as Anthony was, which was probably a good sign. If he was lucky, they could just get this over with and then agree that it was all just for business and move on. Anthony could focus on his studies, the Fae Prince could… do whatever Fae prince's do, there would be no war in either of their kingdoms and everything could be right back to normal. \n\nHe shifted on the spot slightly, gaze falling down to the floor as he realised that he wasn't doing as well in the no staring department as he had thought. His father's voice faded into background noise as discussions began, Anthony instead trying to think about anything else other than the situation at hand. Still, he found himself glancing up at the Fae Prince every ten seconds or so, as much as he tried not to.", "username": "lotusthevoid", "char_name": "Anthony Prendale" }, { "text": "As soon as the Human Royalty arrived, Argrean seemed to suddenly change his entire personality.\nInstead of his stern and angry look, he was much happier; a soft smile on his face and his eyes hid the malice hidden in his eyes. He easily towered over any and all humans around him; something that Argrean reveled in, he enjoyed being the much larger creature. It instilled fear in most others around him, and that's all that mattered to him.\n\nIf his Prey was afraid, they were more than happy to give up things if it means for them to get safe. Which he was knowledgeable on twisting things his way, of course it was always for him and never for his family.\n\"Good afternoon.\" Argrean started as he saw the Human King approach, not even caring to attempt to perceive the Human Prince. His voice was booming, and seemed to shake the ground as he spoke so loudly, \"It's a pleasure to finally meet you.\"\n\nFenn, on the other hand, had walked off from his father, looking at more of the ruins before he flinched at his fathers voice. He headed back over to Argreans side as the Human King and Prince appeared. Fenns' eyes focused in on the Prince as he tilted his head slightly, one of his feather ears flattening downwards and the other prickling up, almost like a confused puppy.\nWhen his eyes caught the Human Princes, he looked away quickly and tried to make it look like he hadn't been looking at him.", "username": "SporkoBug", "char_name": "King Argrean T'or." }, { "text": "King Richard himself showed little fear as he approached the Fae King, though he still felt the power the he exerted, especially as Argrean spoke, and he got the idea that this was perhaps not the right person to make an enemy of. Which, in fairness, was the whole point of this meeting. He straightened out his back, standing as tall as he could - although in comparison to Argrean, that of course wasn't very tall at all. \n\n\"It's a pleasure to meet you as well,\" the Human King replied, bowing his head, although that was really all the pleasantries Richard was willing to give. Unlike the Fae King, he didn't change much of his demeanour, keeping a neutral expression. He was here strictly for business, not to make friends, and in Richard's mind, at least, showing such friendly emotions only showed weakness. \"I presume you've read and understand the terms of our agreement?\"\n\nOff to the side, Anthony seemed quite a bit more fazed by Argrean, trying his best not to look at him. He didn't know a whole lot about the Fae king, though he also wasn't getting the best of feelings from his presence. He instead decided to continue focusing on the Fae Princem really not doing a brilliant job at not staring, especially as when they caught eyes and the prince looked away, Anthony didn't.", "username": "lotusthevoid", "char_name": "Richard Prendale" }, { "text": "Argrean could sense the small amount of fear that the King gave off before he simply smiled and gave a nod.\n\"I did.\" He said calmly, almost unsettlingly, \"And I assume you've read them as well?\" The Fae King tilted his head slightly, \"I agree with the terms you have laid out, and I hope you understand and agree the terms I have laid out.\" Argrean having a glance towards Fenn for a moment, \"Especially the part of having the Fae Prince in your kingdom?\"\n\nFenn froze at that point, his ears pricking up before drooping them backwards as he glared towards his father.\n\"You're pushing me onto them?!\" He suddenly spoke up, causing his father to flinch before turning to face his son.\n\"Hush!\" Argrean hissed in their language, \"Do not fuck this up. This is for the both of us!\"\nFenns' feathers prickled angrily, his tail flaring out at the tip before he shook himself before crossing his arms.\n\nThe Fae Prince completely forgot about Anthony for a moment, the anger for his fathers words before he shook himself and relaxed his arms. He glanced towards the Human Prince again and gave a weak smile.", "username": "SporkoBug", "char_name": "King Argrean T'or." }, { "text": "Richard looked over at the Fae Prince for the first time due to his little... outburst, dropping his neutral expression for a split second as a frown formed on his face. He certainly wouldn't let his own son speak to him like that, though it did seem like the Fae King had it mostly under control, as after a brief word the Fae Prince did settle down. He turned back to Argrean, holding back a sigh. \n\n\"Of course,\" he replied. \"Likewise, I agree to everything. Arrangements have already been made to allow for the Fae Prince's stay in my kingdom.\" He looked back at the Prince again, for just a moment. \"May have to teach him some proper manners, but no worries, we'll get him in shape in no time.\" \n\nAnthony, on the other hand, seemed... a little more concerned, regarding the Fae Prince's outburst, compared to his father's clear annoyance at least. Of course, Anthony had known that the plan was for the Fae Prince to join them, staying in their kingdom, and he assumed that the Fae Prince knew as well - how curious, that he seemingly didn't. Still, when the Prince gave him a small smile, Anthony found himself returning it, almost trying to silently communicate that he was sorry about this whole situation, as it was becoming clearer and clearer that he was not happy with this arrangement, much like Anthony himself.", "username": "lotusthevoid", "char_name": "Anthony Prendale" }, { "text": "Argrean turned back to the Human King and gave a soft smile before holding back the urge to laugh at the idea of teaching Fenn manners. Oh how he wanted to tell the Human King 'Good Luck' on even trying to 'fix' his son.\n\"I'm glad we've come to an agreement.\" He said with a small nod, ignoring his son once again for the time being. \"Of course I will hold up my end of the deal as well with allowing your kind into our forests to hunt and build.\"\n\"Although they will have to be careful with all the wild magic.\" Fenn interrupted again, this time in a softer, less angry tone. \"I'm sure you've noticed the workers who have gone into the forest before have come back either sick or... different.\" Fenn ignored the glare his father was giving him.\n\n\"Thank you for that, my son.\" Argrean spoke with gritted teeth. Fenn glanced to his father with a small shrug.\n\"You seemed like you weren't going to mention it.\" Fenn added, almost giving a cheeky smile before he turned back to the Human King slowly. \"Apologies for speaking out of line, but as the Prince of the Wild; and since my mother is not able to join us just yet,\" He could feel Argreans' glare on him, a shame that the man had no powers otherwise Fenn would be in danger. \"But there are wild beasts within our forest that are prohibited to harm or hunt. Once we are back at your castle, I will be happy to show you which ones to leave alone.\"\n\nFenn glanced back to Anthony as he smiled to him, Fenns' ears flattened slightly before giving a smile back. He had a feeling his father wasn't going to say much on anything that could harm the humans from the opposite kingdom, but Fenn was going to make sure the Humans would know about what to look out for.", "username": "SporkoBug", "char_name": "Fenn Orian T'or." }, { "text": "Richard turned back to Argrean, nodding as well and about to reply, though he paused as Fenn spoke again, and didn't do too well to hide his annoyance. Yeah, definitely would have to teach him some manners, and also at some point he'd have to make it clear that he cared little for those sorts of affairs, especially as a deal had already been struck. But right now, he just wanted to get negotiations over with, and if that meant humouring the Fae Prince for now, as to avoid yet another outburst, then so be it. \n\n\"Of course, I'll- keep that in mind,\" he said. \"Perhaps we can discuss that further at a later date, although I do believe right now there are more important things to be focusing on. Just... remind me of that later.\" He sighed, turning back to the Fae King again. \"I believe we're done with everything here, then?\" \n\nAnthony was finding it increasingly harder not to butt into the conversation, sensing that his father really wasn't listening to what the Prince had to say, and understanding himself that it was actually rather important, but again, he wasn't really one for these sorts of things. He made a mental note to talk to the Prince himself about it later, and maybe he could try to mention something to his mother, who was more likely to actually try to do something. At the very least, he wanted the Prince to know that he at least cared for what he had to say, and he tried to show that by sending him a sympathetic look, as though to apologise on behalf of his father.", "username": "lotusthevoid", "char_name": null } ]

[ { "text": "The Kingdom of Eachoudia, inhabited by humans and ruled over by the Prendale family, sat on the edge of a great forest, one that for centuries they hadn't dared explore too deeply, although they of course knew of the Fae Kingdom that lay within. Eachoudia was mainly an agricultural kingdom, trading in crops and livestock, as well as various crafts like pottery and jewellery, and until very recently, they had mostly kept to themselves. \n\nUntil King Richard took the throne, anyway. He was… a good king, some may say - he kept his people alive, mostly listened to their requests and allowed them to live as they like, but it was his relations with other kingdoms that many disagreed with. He was hungry for power, he wanted everything for himself. It was mostly his wife that prevented him from doing anything too bad, Queen Annabella far keener to keep the peace, though there was only so much she could do to stop him entirely. \n\nHe started to expand, grow his kingdom more and more, at first out into unclaimed land but there was only so much unclaimed land to go around, and once he'd ran out? Well, there was only one thing to do - take land from elsewhere. Attempting to take it from the Faes was perhaps not a great decision, however, and it was clear that a war was brewing. \n\nAt this point, Queen Annabella once again attempting to step in, and managed to convince her husband to go about it a different route, attempt to negotiate with the Fae Kingdom and come to some sort of agreement. And at first, the King hated this idea, though soon devised a plan to combine the two kingdoms together - a marriage of convenience, to unite them. His two daughters, the twin Princesses Alicia and Eloise, would of course be too young, but he'd also been attempting to set up his son, Prince Anthony, with a spouse, now that he was of age. \n\nPrince Anthony was… less keen of this idea, marriage being something he'd never really thought about, or wanted for himself. He had other things to be focusing on, being a budding historian and, of course, preparing to take over the kingdom himself once his father passed, and even that wasn't something he particularly wanted. But it wasn't as if there was much he could do about it, his father had never been one he could argue with. And since the letter had been sent off before he'd even been told, it was far too late anyway. \n\nNow, he sat in the library at in the palace, in his favourite seat by the stained glass window, hunched over a book he'd read a few times before, but always seemed to pick up something new on each reread, scribbling his notes in the margins. It was quiet, peaceful, and honestly Anthony could have spent the rest of his life there, in that moment, never bothered by the world again. \n\nBut of course, his mother soon came through the door to disturb the peace. \"Anthony, your father is waiting-\" \n\nAnthony frowned. \"Waiting for what?\" \n\n\"For-\" His mother sighed. \"Gods, you aren't even dressed properly. Come one-\" \n\nAnd as he was dragged out of the library and up to his room to change into fancier clothes, even fancier than the usual fancy clothes he was forced into, he remembered that today was the day he was supposed to meet his future husband, the Fae Prince. Ah. \n\nAgain, not much he could do about it. He just had to go along with it for now, maybe they'd find that his Fae Prince wasn't a good fit for him and they could leave the entire thing behind them. Hopefully. Still, he accompanied his father in the carriage, sitting in silence as they rode to the meeting point, trying not to look too upset about the entire thing.", "username": "lotusthevoid", "char_name": "Anthony Prendale" }, { "text": "Fenn's ears flattened slightly at his fathers words, before he looked toward the Advisor, who flashed him a small smile.\n\"You're doing great.\" The Advisor said softly, speaking their native language. They ignored Argreans' glare as they kept watch of Fenn.\nFenn didn't want to be here; he didn't want to be in this carriage, with his father, going to meet the human royalty. He wished he was travelling with his mother, at least she was less likely to cuss him out if he broke anything.\n\nThe Carriage came to a halt, Fenn tensed up as his father started to move. King Argrean slowly slipped out of the carriage, his feet landing on the soft grass below him.\n\"Come.\" Argrean rumbled to both the Advisor and Fenn, as he walked towards the stone table that stood between the two kingdoms.\nThe Stone Table had stood through countless wars, trifles, peace treaties and the likes. The ground was a mix of ruined brick and overgrown grass; this stone table used to sit within a large castle; long before either Kingdom dared to stand.\nArgrean knew the history, as did Fenn, but unlike his Heir, Argrean didn't care for the history of this place. He stridden slowly over to the Stone table and looked over the wonky stone table.\n\nFenn and the Advisor followed after their King slowly, The Advisor keeping up with the larger fae as much as they could; while Fenn stayed a bit behind.\n\"Oh.\" Fenn said as he saw a couple of crumbled pillars and the vague outlines of broken rooms that once stood tall and proud, but now held only the agony of how they fell. \"I bet you have a vast history.\" He whispered to the ruins before he straightened up as Argrean gave a growl towards his son.\n\nFenn darted over to his side and straightened up, looking to his father for a moment before looking down again. He shook his head slightly before he looked towards where he expected the Human Royalty to come through. His feathered ears pricked up, trying to keep listening to whatever sound was around them.\n\nHe didn't want to do this, and his mother knew this too. But his father was very adamant on 1) getting him out of the castle, and 2) sparking this 'peace treaty' to gain more 'allies' for whenever he started a war over someone else. Fenn had more important stuff to worry about, black market trading was spreading almost like wildfire through his Kingdom, with ties and links to the Human Kingdom as well; plus the poachers that had started to trap and take a few of the 'less important'(In his fathers eyes) animals within the gardens.", "username": "SporkoBug", "char_name": "Fenn Orian T'or." }, { "text": "\"I swear if you make a fool of yourself-\" \n\nAnthony sighed heavily. \"Yes, father, I get it. I'll be on my best behaviour, whatever you want.\" Over the years, he'd found it was easier to just go along with his father's wishes, no matter how much he personally disagreed with them. And it wasn't often that he agreed with his father. \"We've had this conversation a million times, I know what I'm doing.\" It wasn't a surprise that his father would have little faith in him, as Anthony had been clear that he wasn't happy with this arrangement, and… well, he'd never been brilliant around people in the first place, although it wasn't as if the same couldn't be said about his father, albeit for different reasons. \n\nBut thankfully, that did shut King Richard up, and their journey returned to relative peace, moving through the vast fields of their kingdom, up towards the neutral meeting point. Once they arrived, Anthony still stayed in the carriage for a few moments longer, sort of wanting to delay this as long as possible, though soon enough Richard was moaning at him to get out, and he supposed there was no delaying the inevitable. He got out, though still stayed a good few paces behind as the king moved over to the centre table, ready to start the negotiations. \n\nHe, of course, wouldn't be involved too much in the actual negotiations himself - even if he wanted to be, he doubted that he'd get single word in with his father around. So instead, he stayed back, standing with his arms folded over his chest and trying to not stare too hard at the Fae Prince, though it wasn't as though he could help it, really not interested at all in whatever politics were going on and at least wanted to get a feel for the person he'd likely be spending a significant amount of time around in the future. \n\nThe prince… didn't look too bad, Anthony thought. And by the looks of it, he seemed just as unhappy to be there as Anthony was, which was probably a good sign. If he was lucky, they could just get this over with and then agree that it was all just for business and move on. Anthony could focus on his studies, the Fae Prince could… do whatever Fae prince's do, there would be no war in either of their kingdoms and everything could be right back to normal. \n\nHe shifted on the spot slightly, gaze falling down to the floor as he realised that he wasn't doing as well in the no staring department as he had thought. His father's voice faded into background noise as discussions began, Anthony instead trying to think about anything else other than the situation at hand. Still, he found himself glancing up at the Fae Prince every ten seconds or so, as much as he tried not to.", "username": "lotusthevoid", "char_name": "Anthony Prendale" }, { "text": "As soon as the Human Royalty arrived, Argrean seemed to suddenly change his entire personality.\nInstead of his stern and angry look, he was much happier; a soft smile on his face and his eyes hid the malice hidden in his eyes. He easily towered over any and all humans around him; something that Argrean reveled in, he enjoyed being the much larger creature. It instilled fear in most others around him, and that's all that mattered to him.\n\nIf his Prey was afraid, they were more than happy to give up things if it means for them to get safe. Which he was knowledgeable on twisting things his way, of course it was always for him and never for his family.\n\"Good afternoon.\" Argrean started as he saw the Human King approach, not even caring to attempt to perceive the Human Prince. His voice was booming, and seemed to shake the ground as he spoke so loudly, \"It's a pleasure to finally meet you.\"\n\nFenn, on the other hand, had walked off from his father, looking at more of the ruins before he flinched at his fathers voice. He headed back over to Argreans side as the Human King and Prince appeared. Fenns' eyes focused in on the Prince as he tilted his head slightly, one of his feather ears flattening downwards and the other prickling up, almost like a confused puppy.\nWhen his eyes caught the Human Princes, he looked away quickly and tried to make it look like he hadn't been looking at him.", "username": "SporkoBug", "char_name": "King Argrean T'or." }, { "text": "King Richard himself showed little fear as he approached the Fae King, though he still felt the power the he exerted, especially as Argrean spoke, and he got the idea that this was perhaps not the right person to make an enemy of. Which, in fairness, was the whole point of this meeting. He straightened out his back, standing as tall as he could - although in comparison to Argrean, that of course wasn't very tall at all. \n\n\"It's a pleasure to meet you as well,\" the Human King replied, bowing his head, although that was really all the pleasantries Richard was willing to give. Unlike the Fae King, he didn't change much of his demeanour, keeping a neutral expression. He was here strictly for business, not to make friends, and in Richard's mind, at least, showing such friendly emotions only showed weakness. \"I presume you've read and understand the terms of our agreement?\"\n\nOff to the side, Anthony seemed quite a bit more fazed by Argrean, trying his best not to look at him. He didn't know a whole lot about the Fae king, though he also wasn't getting the best of feelings from his presence. He instead decided to continue focusing on the Fae Princem really not doing a brilliant job at not staring, especially as when they caught eyes and the prince looked away, Anthony didn't.", "username": "lotusthevoid", "char_name": "Richard Prendale" }, { "text": "Argrean could sense the small amount of fear that the King gave off before he simply smiled and gave a nod.\n\"I did.\" He said calmly, almost unsettlingly, \"And I assume you've read them as well?\" The Fae King tilted his head slightly, \"I agree with the terms you have laid out, and I hope you understand and agree the terms I have laid out.\" Argrean having a glance towards Fenn for a moment, \"Especially the part of having the Fae Prince in your kingdom?\"\n\nFenn froze at that point, his ears pricking up before drooping them backwards as he glared towards his father.\n\"You're pushing me onto them?!\" He suddenly spoke up, causing his father to flinch before turning to face his son.\n\"Hush!\" Argrean hissed in their language, \"Do not fuck this up. This is for the both of us!\"\nFenns' feathers prickled angrily, his tail flaring out at the tip before he shook himself before crossing his arms.\n\nThe Fae Prince completely forgot about Anthony for a moment, the anger for his fathers words before he shook himself and relaxed his arms. He glanced towards the Human Prince again and gave a weak smile.", "username": "SporkoBug", "char_name": "King Argrean T'or." } ]

[ { "text": "Fenn's ears flattened slightly at his fathers words, before he looked toward the Advisor, who flashed him a small smile.\n\"You're doing great.\" The Advisor said softly, speaking their native language. They ignored Argreans' glare as they kept watch of Fenn.\nFenn didn't want to be here; he didn't want to be in this carriage, with his father, going to meet the human royalty. He wished he was travelling with his mother, at least she was less likely to cuss him out if he broke anything.\n\nThe Carriage came to a halt, Fenn tensed up as his father started to move. King Argrean slowly slipped out of the carriage, his feet landing on the soft grass below him.\n\"Come.\" Argrean rumbled to both the Advisor and Fenn, as he walked towards the stone table that stood between the two kingdoms.\nThe Stone Table had stood through countless wars, trifles, peace treaties and the likes. The ground was a mix of ruined brick and overgrown grass; this stone table used to sit within a large castle; long before either Kingdom dared to stand.\nArgrean knew the history, as did Fenn, but unlike his Heir, Argrean didn't care for the history of this place. He stridden slowly over to the Stone table and looked over the wonky stone table.\n\nFenn and the Advisor followed after their King slowly, The Advisor keeping up with the larger fae as much as they could; while Fenn stayed a bit behind.\n\"Oh.\" Fenn said as he saw a couple of crumbled pillars and the vague outlines of broken rooms that once stood tall and proud, but now held only the agony of how they fell. \"I bet you have a vast history.\" He whispered to the ruins before he straightened up as Argrean gave a growl towards his son.\n\nFenn darted over to his side and straightened up, looking to his father for a moment before looking down again. He shook his head slightly before he looked towards where he expected the Human Royalty to come through. His feathered ears pricked up, trying to keep listening to whatever sound was around them.\n\nHe didn't want to do this, and his mother knew this too. But his father was very adamant on 1) getting him out of the castle, and 2) sparking this 'peace treaty' to gain more 'allies' for whenever he started a war over someone else. Fenn had more important stuff to worry about, black market trading was spreading almost like wildfire through his Kingdom, with ties and links to the Human Kingdom as well; plus the poachers that had started to trap and take a few of the 'less important'(In his fathers eyes) animals within the gardens.", "username": "SporkoBug", "char_name": "Fenn Orian T'or." }, { "text": "\"I swear if you make a fool of yourself-\" \n\nAnthony sighed heavily. \"Yes, father, I get it. I'll be on my best behaviour, whatever you want.\" Over the years, he'd found it was easier to just go along with his father's wishes, no matter how much he personally disagreed with them. And it wasn't often that he agreed with his father. \"We've had this conversation a million times, I know what I'm doing.\" It wasn't a surprise that his father would have little faith in him, as Anthony had been clear that he wasn't happy with this arrangement, and… well, he'd never been brilliant around people in the first place, although it wasn't as if the same couldn't be said about his father, albeit for different reasons. \n\nBut thankfully, that did shut King Richard up, and their journey returned to relative peace, moving through the vast fields of their kingdom, up towards the neutral meeting point. Once they arrived, Anthony still stayed in the carriage for a few moments longer, sort of wanting to delay this as long as possible, though soon enough Richard was moaning at him to get out, and he supposed there was no delaying the inevitable. He got out, though still stayed a good few paces behind as the king moved over to the centre table, ready to start the negotiations. \n\nHe, of course, wouldn't be involved too much in the actual negotiations himself - even if he wanted to be, he doubted that he'd get single word in with his father around. So instead, he stayed back, standing with his arms folded over his chest and trying to not stare too hard at the Fae Prince, though it wasn't as though he could help it, really not interested at all in whatever politics were going on and at least wanted to get a feel for the person he'd likely be spending a significant amount of time around in the future. \n\nThe prince… didn't look too bad, Anthony thought. And by the looks of it, he seemed just as unhappy to be there as Anthony was, which was probably a good sign. If he was lucky, they could just get this over with and then agree that it was all just for business and move on. Anthony could focus on his studies, the Fae Prince could… do whatever Fae prince's do, there would be no war in either of their kingdoms and everything could be right back to normal. \n\nHe shifted on the spot slightly, gaze falling down to the floor as he realised that he wasn't doing as well in the no staring department as he had thought. His father's voice faded into background noise as discussions began, Anthony instead trying to think about anything else other than the situation at hand. Still, he found himself glancing up at the Fae Prince every ten seconds or so, as much as he tried not to.", "username": "lotusthevoid", "char_name": "Anthony Prendale" }, { "text": "As soon as the Human Royalty arrived, Argrean seemed to suddenly change his entire personality.\nInstead of his stern and angry look, he was much happier; a soft smile on his face and his eyes hid the malice hidden in his eyes. He easily towered over any and all humans around him; something that Argrean reveled in, he enjoyed being the much larger creature. It instilled fear in most others around him, and that's all that mattered to him.\n\nIf his Prey was afraid, they were more than happy to give up things if it means for them to get safe. Which he was knowledgeable on twisting things his way, of course it was always for him and never for his family.\n\"Good afternoon.\" Argrean started as he saw the Human King approach, not even caring to attempt to perceive the Human Prince. His voice was booming, and seemed to shake the ground as he spoke so loudly, \"It's a pleasure to finally meet you.\"\n\nFenn, on the other hand, had walked off from his father, looking at more of the ruins before he flinched at his fathers voice. He headed back over to Argreans side as the Human King and Prince appeared. Fenns' eyes focused in on the Prince as he tilted his head slightly, one of his feather ears flattening downwards and the other prickling up, almost like a confused puppy.\nWhen his eyes caught the Human Princes, he looked away quickly and tried to make it look like he hadn't been looking at him.", "username": "SporkoBug", "char_name": "King Argrean T'or." }, { "text": "King Richard himself showed little fear as he approached the Fae King, though he still felt the power the he exerted, especially as Argrean spoke, and he got the idea that this was perhaps not the right person to make an enemy of. Which, in fairness, was the whole point of this meeting. He straightened out his back, standing as tall as he could - although in comparison to Argrean, that of course wasn't very tall at all. \n\n\"It's a pleasure to meet you as well,\" the Human King replied, bowing his head, although that was really all the pleasantries Richard was willing to give. Unlike the Fae King, he didn't change much of his demeanour, keeping a neutral expression. He was here strictly for business, not to make friends, and in Richard's mind, at least, showing such friendly emotions only showed weakness. \"I presume you've read and understand the terms of our agreement?\"\n\nOff to the side, Anthony seemed quite a bit more fazed by Argrean, trying his best not to look at him. He didn't know a whole lot about the Fae king, though he also wasn't getting the best of feelings from his presence. He instead decided to continue focusing on the Fae Princem really not doing a brilliant job at not staring, especially as when they caught eyes and the prince looked away, Anthony didn't.", "username": "lotusthevoid", "char_name": "Richard Prendale" }, { "text": "Argrean could sense the small amount of fear that the King gave off before he simply smiled and gave a nod.\n\"I did.\" He said calmly, almost unsettlingly, \"And I assume you've read them as well?\" The Fae King tilted his head slightly, \"I agree with the terms you have laid out, and I hope you understand and agree the terms I have laid out.\" Argrean having a glance towards Fenn for a moment, \"Especially the part of having the Fae Prince in your kingdom?\"\n\nFenn froze at that point, his ears pricking up before drooping them backwards as he glared towards his father.\n\"You're pushing me onto them?!\" He suddenly spoke up, causing his father to flinch before turning to face his son.\n\"Hush!\" Argrean hissed in their language, \"Do not fuck this up. This is for the both of us!\"\nFenns' feathers prickled angrily, his tail flaring out at the tip before he shook himself before crossing his arms.\n\nThe Fae Prince completely forgot about Anthony for a moment, the anger for his fathers words before he shook himself and relaxed his arms. He glanced towards the Human Prince again and gave a weak smile.", "username": "SporkoBug", "char_name": "King Argrean T'or." }, { "text": "Richard looked over at the Fae Prince for the first time due to his little... outburst, dropping his neutral expression for a split second as a frown formed on his face. He certainly wouldn't let his own son speak to him like that, though it did seem like the Fae King had it mostly under control, as after a brief word the Fae Prince did settle down. He turned back to Argrean, holding back a sigh. \n\n\"Of course,\" he replied. \"Likewise, I agree to everything. Arrangements have already been made to allow for the Fae Prince's stay in my kingdom.\" He looked back at the Prince again, for just a moment. \"May have to teach him some proper manners, but no worries, we'll get him in shape in no time.\" \n\nAnthony, on the other hand, seemed... a little more concerned, regarding the Fae Prince's outburst, compared to his father's clear annoyance at least. Of course, Anthony had known that the plan was for the Fae Prince to join them, staying in their kingdom, and he assumed that the Fae Prince knew as well - how curious, that he seemingly didn't. Still, when the Prince gave him a small smile, Anthony found himself returning it, almost trying to silently communicate that he was sorry about this whole situation, as it was becoming clearer and clearer that he was not happy with this arrangement, much like Anthony himself.", "username": "lotusthevoid", "char_name": "Anthony Prendale" } ]

[ { "text": "As soon as the Human Royalty arrived, Argrean seemed to suddenly change his entire personality.\nInstead of his stern and angry look, he was much happier; a soft smile on his face and his eyes hid the malice hidden in his eyes. He easily towered over any and all humans around him; something that Argrean reveled in, he enjoyed being the much larger creature. It instilled fear in most others around him, and that's all that mattered to him.\n\nIf his Prey was afraid, they were more than happy to give up things if it means for them to get safe. Which he was knowledgeable on twisting things his way, of course it was always for him and never for his family.\n\"Good afternoon.\" Argrean started as he saw the Human King approach, not even caring to attempt to perceive the Human Prince. His voice was booming, and seemed to shake the ground as he spoke so loudly, \"It's a pleasure to finally meet you.\"\n\nFenn, on the other hand, had walked off from his father, looking at more of the ruins before he flinched at his fathers voice. He headed back over to Argreans side as the Human King and Prince appeared. Fenns' eyes focused in on the Prince as he tilted his head slightly, one of his feather ears flattening downwards and the other prickling up, almost like a confused puppy.\nWhen his eyes caught the Human Princes, he looked away quickly and tried to make it look like he hadn't been looking at him.", "username": "SporkoBug", "char_name": "King Argrean T'or." }, { "text": "King Richard himself showed little fear as he approached the Fae King, though he still felt the power the he exerted, especially as Argrean spoke, and he got the idea that this was perhaps not the right person to make an enemy of. Which, in fairness, was the whole point of this meeting. He straightened out his back, standing as tall as he could - although in comparison to Argrean, that of course wasn't very tall at all. \n\n\"It's a pleasure to meet you as well,\" the Human King replied, bowing his head, although that was really all the pleasantries Richard was willing to give. Unlike the Fae King, he didn't change much of his demeanour, keeping a neutral expression. He was here strictly for business, not to make friends, and in Richard's mind, at least, showing such friendly emotions only showed weakness. \"I presume you've read and understand the terms of our agreement?\"\n\nOff to the side, Anthony seemed quite a bit more fazed by Argrean, trying his best not to look at him. He didn't know a whole lot about the Fae king, though he also wasn't getting the best of feelings from his presence. He instead decided to continue focusing on the Fae Princem really not doing a brilliant job at not staring, especially as when they caught eyes and the prince looked away, Anthony didn't.", "username": "lotusthevoid", "char_name": "Richard Prendale" }, { "text": "Argrean could sense the small amount of fear that the King gave off before he simply smiled and gave a nod.\n\"I did.\" He said calmly, almost unsettlingly, \"And I assume you've read them as well?\" The Fae King tilted his head slightly, \"I agree with the terms you have laid out, and I hope you understand and agree the terms I have laid out.\" Argrean having a glance towards Fenn for a moment, \"Especially the part of having the Fae Prince in your kingdom?\"\n\nFenn froze at that point, his ears pricking up before drooping them backwards as he glared towards his father.\n\"You're pushing me onto them?!\" He suddenly spoke up, causing his father to flinch before turning to face his son.\n\"Hush!\" Argrean hissed in their language, \"Do not fuck this up. This is for the both of us!\"\nFenns' feathers prickled angrily, his tail flaring out at the tip before he shook himself before crossing his arms.\n\nThe Fae Prince completely forgot about Anthony for a moment, the anger for his fathers words before he shook himself and relaxed his arms. He glanced towards the Human Prince again and gave a weak smile.", "username": "SporkoBug", "char_name": "King Argrean T'or." }, { "text": "Richard looked over at the Fae Prince for the first time due to his little... outburst, dropping his neutral expression for a split second as a frown formed on his face. He certainly wouldn't let his own son speak to him like that, though it did seem like the Fae King had it mostly under control, as after a brief word the Fae Prince did settle down. He turned back to Argrean, holding back a sigh. \n\n\"Of course,\" he replied. \"Likewise, I agree to everything. Arrangements have already been made to allow for the Fae Prince's stay in my kingdom.\" He looked back at the Prince again, for just a moment. \"May have to teach him some proper manners, but no worries, we'll get him in shape in no time.\" \n\nAnthony, on the other hand, seemed... a little more concerned, regarding the Fae Prince's outburst, compared to his father's clear annoyance at least. Of course, Anthony had known that the plan was for the Fae Prince to join them, staying in their kingdom, and he assumed that the Fae Prince knew as well - how curious, that he seemingly didn't. Still, when the Prince gave him a small smile, Anthony found himself returning it, almost trying to silently communicate that he was sorry about this whole situation, as it was becoming clearer and clearer that he was not happy with this arrangement, much like Anthony himself.", "username": "lotusthevoid", "char_name": "Anthony Prendale" }, { "text": "Argrean turned back to the Human King and gave a soft smile before holding back the urge to laugh at the idea of teaching Fenn manners. Oh how he wanted to tell the Human King 'Good Luck' on even trying to 'fix' his son.\n\"I'm glad we've come to an agreement.\" He said with a small nod, ignoring his son once again for the time being. \"Of course I will hold up my end of the deal as well with allowing your kind into our forests to hunt and build.\"\n\"Although they will have to be careful with all the wild magic.\" Fenn interrupted again, this time in a softer, less angry tone. \"I'm sure you've noticed the workers who have gone into the forest before have come back either sick or... different.\" Fenn ignored the glare his father was giving him.\n\n\"Thank you for that, my son.\" Argrean spoke with gritted teeth. Fenn glanced to his father with a small shrug.\n\"You seemed like you weren't going to mention it.\" Fenn added, almost giving a cheeky smile before he turned back to the Human King slowly. \"Apologies for speaking out of line, but as the Prince of the Wild; and since my mother is not able to join us just yet,\" He could feel Argreans' glare on him, a shame that the man had no powers otherwise Fenn would be in danger. \"But there are wild beasts within our forest that are prohibited to harm or hunt. Once we are back at your castle, I will be happy to show you which ones to leave alone.\"\n\nFenn glanced back to Anthony as he smiled to him, Fenns' ears flattened slightly before giving a smile back. He had a feeling his father wasn't going to say much on anything that could harm the humans from the opposite kingdom, but Fenn was going to make sure the Humans would know about what to look out for.", "username": "SporkoBug", "char_name": "Fenn Orian T'or." }, { "text": "Richard turned back to Argrean, nodding as well and about to reply, though he paused as Fenn spoke again, and didn't do too well to hide his annoyance. Yeah, definitely would have to teach him some manners, and also at some point he'd have to make it clear that he cared little for those sorts of affairs, especially as a deal had already been struck. But right now, he just wanted to get negotiations over with, and if that meant humouring the Fae Prince for now, as to avoid yet another outburst, then so be it. \n\n\"Of course, I'll- keep that in mind,\" he said. \"Perhaps we can discuss that further at a later date, although I do believe right now there are more important things to be focusing on. Just... remind me of that later.\" He sighed, turning back to the Fae King again. \"I believe we're done with everything here, then?\" \n\nAnthony was finding it increasingly harder not to butt into the conversation, sensing that his father really wasn't listening to what the Prince had to say, and understanding himself that it was actually rather important, but again, he wasn't really one for these sorts of things. He made a mental note to talk to the Prince himself about it later, and maybe he could try to mention something to his mother, who was more likely to actually try to do something. At the very least, he wanted the Prince to know that he at least cared for what he had to say, and he tried to show that by sending him a sympathetic look, as though to apologise on behalf of his father.", "username": "lotusthevoid", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Fenn gave a short nod at King Richards response to him, although he knew that the King didn't really care. None of the other royals that have have council with the Fae of his Kingdom, never really cared.\nFenn looked away from the Kings before he glanced back to Anthony and noticed his sympathetic look. He gave a weak smile to the other prince as he listened to the Kings again.\n\nArgrean turned back to Richard as he settled his anger towards his son, He feigned a smile as the Human King spoke.\n\"Yes, I do believe we are done with everything here, so to speak.\" Argrean said with a cross of his arms. \"Unless you were wanting the women to meet here instead of at your castle? I would like to see where you rule from, but I don't want to push myself in anywhere.\"\nThat was a lie. Argrean wanted to know every single secret of the Human Kingdom, in order to topple it in case they ended up against him.\n\nFenn glanced to his father as he mentioned the Queens simply as 'women', he felt a bubble of anger crackle through his feathers as he wanted to stand up for his mother, biting his tongue because he knew that Argrean would slam into him if he dared interrupt once more.", "username": "SporkoBug", "char_name": "King Argrean T'or." }, { "text": "\"Oh, no, no, of course you and your wife are welcome in our Kingdom at any time,\" Richard replied, trying to sound at least somewhat welcoming. \"Come along to the castle whenever, I'm sure we have plenty of room for you as well, if you wish to stay at all.\" Of course, if Argrean was to come to the castle, Richard would have to keep... close eyes on him, just in case he ended up wandering off somewhere he shouldn't be, but he couldn't see any harm in allowing the Fae into his Kingdom. That was the whole point of this, afterall - peace between the two Kingdoms, as much as Richard was... rather hesitant to fully believe in that. Or even particularly want it. \n\nAnthony glanced at his father, frowning slightly as that... didn't really seem like him at all, Anthony knew that Richard wasn't one for letting just anyone in the castle, and, in all honesty, Anthony wasn't sure if he wanted the Fae King to be wandering around his home. But it wasn't really his place to argue, was it?", "username": "lotusthevoid", "char_name": "Richard Prendale" } ]

[ { "text": "\"I swear if you make a fool of yourself-\" \n\nAnthony sighed heavily. \"Yes, father, I get it. I'll be on my best behaviour, whatever you want.\" Over the years, he'd found it was easier to just go along with his father's wishes, no matter how much he personally disagreed with them. And it wasn't often that he agreed with his father. \"We've had this conversation a million times, I know what I'm doing.\" It wasn't a surprise that his father would have little faith in him, as Anthony had been clear that he wasn't happy with this arrangement, and… well, he'd never been brilliant around people in the first place, although it wasn't as if the same couldn't be said about his father, albeit for different reasons. \n\nBut thankfully, that did shut King Richard up, and their journey returned to relative peace, moving through the vast fields of their kingdom, up towards the neutral meeting point. Once they arrived, Anthony still stayed in the carriage for a few moments longer, sort of wanting to delay this as long as possible, though soon enough Richard was moaning at him to get out, and he supposed there was no delaying the inevitable. He got out, though still stayed a good few paces behind as the king moved over to the centre table, ready to start the negotiations. \n\nHe, of course, wouldn't be involved too much in the actual negotiations himself - even if he wanted to be, he doubted that he'd get single word in with his father around. So instead, he stayed back, standing with his arms folded over his chest and trying to not stare too hard at the Fae Prince, though it wasn't as though he could help it, really not interested at all in whatever politics were going on and at least wanted to get a feel for the person he'd likely be spending a significant amount of time around in the future. \n\nThe prince… didn't look too bad, Anthony thought. And by the looks of it, he seemed just as unhappy to be there as Anthony was, which was probably a good sign. If he was lucky, they could just get this over with and then agree that it was all just for business and move on. Anthony could focus on his studies, the Fae Prince could… do whatever Fae prince's do, there would be no war in either of their kingdoms and everything could be right back to normal. \n\nHe shifted on the spot slightly, gaze falling down to the floor as he realised that he wasn't doing as well in the no staring department as he had thought. His father's voice faded into background noise as discussions began, Anthony instead trying to think about anything else other than the situation at hand. Still, he found himself glancing up at the Fae Prince every ten seconds or so, as much as he tried not to.", "username": "lotusthevoid", "char_name": "Anthony Prendale" }, { "text": "As soon as the Human Royalty arrived, Argrean seemed to suddenly change his entire personality.\nInstead of his stern and angry look, he was much happier; a soft smile on his face and his eyes hid the malice hidden in his eyes. He easily towered over any and all humans around him; something that Argrean reveled in, he enjoyed being the much larger creature. It instilled fear in most others around him, and that's all that mattered to him.\n\nIf his Prey was afraid, they were more than happy to give up things if it means for them to get safe. Which he was knowledgeable on twisting things his way, of course it was always for him and never for his family.\n\"Good afternoon.\" Argrean started as he saw the Human King approach, not even caring to attempt to perceive the Human Prince. His voice was booming, and seemed to shake the ground as he spoke so loudly, \"It's a pleasure to finally meet you.\"\n\nFenn, on the other hand, had walked off from his father, looking at more of the ruins before he flinched at his fathers voice. He headed back over to Argreans side as the Human King and Prince appeared. Fenns' eyes focused in on the Prince as he tilted his head slightly, one of his feather ears flattening downwards and the other prickling up, almost like a confused puppy.\nWhen his eyes caught the Human Princes, he looked away quickly and tried to make it look like he hadn't been looking at him.", "username": "SporkoBug", "char_name": "King Argrean T'or." }, { "text": "King Richard himself showed little fear as he approached the Fae King, though he still felt the power the he exerted, especially as Argrean spoke, and he got the idea that this was perhaps not the right person to make an enemy of. Which, in fairness, was the whole point of this meeting. He straightened out his back, standing as tall as he could - although in comparison to Argrean, that of course wasn't very tall at all. \n\n\"It's a pleasure to meet you as well,\" the Human King replied, bowing his head, although that was really all the pleasantries Richard was willing to give. Unlike the Fae King, he didn't change much of his demeanour, keeping a neutral expression. He was here strictly for business, not to make friends, and in Richard's mind, at least, showing such friendly emotions only showed weakness. \"I presume you've read and understand the terms of our agreement?\"\n\nOff to the side, Anthony seemed quite a bit more fazed by Argrean, trying his best not to look at him. He didn't know a whole lot about the Fae king, though he also wasn't getting the best of feelings from his presence. He instead decided to continue focusing on the Fae Princem really not doing a brilliant job at not staring, especially as when they caught eyes and the prince looked away, Anthony didn't.", "username": "lotusthevoid", "char_name": "Richard Prendale" }, { "text": "Argrean could sense the small amount of fear that the King gave off before he simply smiled and gave a nod.\n\"I did.\" He said calmly, almost unsettlingly, \"And I assume you've read them as well?\" The Fae King tilted his head slightly, \"I agree with the terms you have laid out, and I hope you understand and agree the terms I have laid out.\" Argrean having a glance towards Fenn for a moment, \"Especially the part of having the Fae Prince in your kingdom?\"\n\nFenn froze at that point, his ears pricking up before drooping them backwards as he glared towards his father.\n\"You're pushing me onto them?!\" He suddenly spoke up, causing his father to flinch before turning to face his son.\n\"Hush!\" Argrean hissed in their language, \"Do not fuck this up. This is for the both of us!\"\nFenns' feathers prickled angrily, his tail flaring out at the tip before he shook himself before crossing his arms.\n\nThe Fae Prince completely forgot about Anthony for a moment, the anger for his fathers words before he shook himself and relaxed his arms. He glanced towards the Human Prince again and gave a weak smile.", "username": "SporkoBug", "char_name": "King Argrean T'or." }, { "text": "Richard looked over at the Fae Prince for the first time due to his little... outburst, dropping his neutral expression for a split second as a frown formed on his face. He certainly wouldn't let his own son speak to him like that, though it did seem like the Fae King had it mostly under control, as after a brief word the Fae Prince did settle down. He turned back to Argrean, holding back a sigh. \n\n\"Of course,\" he replied. \"Likewise, I agree to everything. Arrangements have already been made to allow for the Fae Prince's stay in my kingdom.\" He looked back at the Prince again, for just a moment. \"May have to teach him some proper manners, but no worries, we'll get him in shape in no time.\" \n\nAnthony, on the other hand, seemed... a little more concerned, regarding the Fae Prince's outburst, compared to his father's clear annoyance at least. Of course, Anthony had known that the plan was for the Fae Prince to join them, staying in their kingdom, and he assumed that the Fae Prince knew as well - how curious, that he seemingly didn't. Still, when the Prince gave him a small smile, Anthony found himself returning it, almost trying to silently communicate that he was sorry about this whole situation, as it was becoming clearer and clearer that he was not happy with this arrangement, much like Anthony himself.", "username": "lotusthevoid", "char_name": "Anthony Prendale" }, { "text": "Argrean turned back to the Human King and gave a soft smile before holding back the urge to laugh at the idea of teaching Fenn manners. Oh how he wanted to tell the Human King 'Good Luck' on even trying to 'fix' his son.\n\"I'm glad we've come to an agreement.\" He said with a small nod, ignoring his son once again for the time being. \"Of course I will hold up my end of the deal as well with allowing your kind into our forests to hunt and build.\"\n\"Although they will have to be careful with all the wild magic.\" Fenn interrupted again, this time in a softer, less angry tone. \"I'm sure you've noticed the workers who have gone into the forest before have come back either sick or... different.\" Fenn ignored the glare his father was giving him.\n\n\"Thank you for that, my son.\" Argrean spoke with gritted teeth. Fenn glanced to his father with a small shrug.\n\"You seemed like you weren't going to mention it.\" Fenn added, almost giving a cheeky smile before he turned back to the Human King slowly. \"Apologies for speaking out of line, but as the Prince of the Wild; and since my mother is not able to join us just yet,\" He could feel Argreans' glare on him, a shame that the man had no powers otherwise Fenn would be in danger. \"But there are wild beasts within our forest that are prohibited to harm or hunt. Once we are back at your castle, I will be happy to show you which ones to leave alone.\"\n\nFenn glanced back to Anthony as he smiled to him, Fenns' ears flattened slightly before giving a smile back. He had a feeling his father wasn't going to say much on anything that could harm the humans from the opposite kingdom, but Fenn was going to make sure the Humans would know about what to look out for.", "username": "SporkoBug", "char_name": "Fenn Orian T'or." }, { "text": "Richard turned back to Argrean, nodding as well and about to reply, though he paused as Fenn spoke again, and didn't do too well to hide his annoyance. Yeah, definitely would have to teach him some manners, and also at some point he'd have to make it clear that he cared little for those sorts of affairs, especially as a deal had already been struck. But right now, he just wanted to get negotiations over with, and if that meant humouring the Fae Prince for now, as to avoid yet another outburst, then so be it. \n\n\"Of course, I'll- keep that in mind,\" he said. \"Perhaps we can discuss that further at a later date, although I do believe right now there are more important things to be focusing on. Just... remind me of that later.\" He sighed, turning back to the Fae King again. \"I believe we're done with everything here, then?\" \n\nAnthony was finding it increasingly harder not to butt into the conversation, sensing that his father really wasn't listening to what the Prince had to say, and understanding himself that it was actually rather important, but again, he wasn't really one for these sorts of things. He made a mental note to talk to the Prince himself about it later, and maybe he could try to mention something to his mother, who was more likely to actually try to do something. At the very least, he wanted the Prince to know that he at least cared for what he had to say, and he tried to show that by sending him a sympathetic look, as though to apologise on behalf of his father.", "username": "lotusthevoid", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Fenn gave a short nod at King Richards response to him, although he knew that the King didn't really care. None of the other royals that have have council with the Fae of his Kingdom, never really cared.\nFenn looked away from the Kings before he glanced back to Anthony and noticed his sympathetic look. He gave a weak smile to the other prince as he listened to the Kings again.\n\nArgrean turned back to Richard as he settled his anger towards his son, He feigned a smile as the Human King spoke.\n\"Yes, I do believe we are done with everything here, so to speak.\" Argrean said with a cross of his arms. \"Unless you were wanting the women to meet here instead of at your castle? I would like to see where you rule from, but I don't want to push myself in anywhere.\"\nThat was a lie. Argrean wanted to know every single secret of the Human Kingdom, in order to topple it in case they ended up against him.\n\nFenn glanced to his father as he mentioned the Queens simply as 'women', he felt a bubble of anger crackle through his feathers as he wanted to stand up for his mother, biting his tongue because he knew that Argrean would slam into him if he dared interrupt once more.", "username": "SporkoBug", "char_name": "King Argrean T'or." } ]

[ { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nAs the crowd of students began to disperse, Reginald quietly continued along towards the path that led back to the main building. There were more than a few glances and hushed whispers thrown around as he passed by, but given his lack of presence at social gatherings, rumors surrounding him were to be expected. None of them were particularly truthful, of course—things like how he had gone insane, or been terribly injured because of an incident and refused to show his face around...\n\nHonestly speaking, the young man felt as if he should have expected such exaggerations to begin with. Spending more time training with swords and spears or poring over tomes and papers instead of trying to play politics could only have led to this sort of behavior to begin with. Though Reginald had some mind to simply ignore matters, there was a part of him that was saying that leaving rumors unchecked could return to bite back in the future.\n\nThose thoughts were quickly shelved, though, when the duke's son heard a sudden (and somewhat fervent) cry out for a 'miss'. Though he knew not the voice of the one from whom the words sprung from, the young man had instinctually turned to the source... Only to see one of the few people he would really rather not have seen in the first place.\n\nAnne Marielle. The heroine of this story.\n\nAt this, Reginald's pace slowed to a halt, and the black-haired student paused and stared for a moment as he tried to recall if an event like this had ever occurred in the game—and quickly came to the conclusion that it had not. Given that he needed to get a grasp on what sort of person the heroine actually was, though, seeing whatever actual event flags were raised was of the utmost importance... Well, so long as they weren't \"his\".\n\nWith that logic in mind, though, it didn't seem too out-of-place to intervene and remove the oddity that was clearly trying to pull the heroine's attention towards her—doubly so if that oddity seemed to be a maid who, despite having been brought here by someone or another, seemed to not have any clue what sort of scene she was causing by blindly calling out to someone who, by most standards, was a seemingly random student.\n\nAnd so, Reginald swiftly crossed over and, without missing a beat, grabbed the offending maid by the collar and pulled her onto her feet without any hint of a struggle.\n\n\"I would recommend that you consider the role of servants within the bounds of this school. Most nobility would not take kindly to being haphazardly called out to by a maid of unknown standing,\" he said, a slight frown on his face as he let her go. \"Unless you would like your master to lose face, I would remind you to remember your place.\"\n\nIt was by no means a 'pleasant' thing to say, especially with all of the eyes already on him, but at least in doing so he could prevent someone with a far haughtier nature than his own from intervening and possibly causing even more of a stir.\n\n@Crusader Lord", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\n\"Eep!\" All pretences of maintaining an elegant, noble facade were driven out of Elastasia with the collision, the meek squeak being followed up by a dejected pout at being literally overlooked in such a manner. Of course she was small, even smaller than her last go around at life, but that didn't excuse missing her entirely; it was a sunny day, surely all her hair caught the light at least a little bit...\n\nFor all her magical ability, she was fairly sure that she hadn't yet developed the ability to summon people with the force of her thoughts alone. Yet, here was the one of the obvious deviations from the game in the flesh--considerably more self-interested, for one, and with a rather curious interest in surrounding herself with pretty girls in social situations, even though one might expect a noble of her station to seek out promising heirs at this stage. Albeit, the world of Cross Heart Academy hadn't been so fleshed out as to cover every character's private life in detail, and that may just have been Elastasia's own inclinations colouring her perceptions, but it seemed another odd point to the list.\n\n\"I am quite well, Lady Haldblum. Aside from out most estimable headmaster's speeches, I trust that the academy has been to your liking thus far?\" she replied, looking up at the brunette. Oh, that was another change; she seemed to e starting to grow it out. That was a shame, although longer hair could certainly frame that figure nicely. \"Have you seen Terys, perchance? I was looking for him after the ceremony...\"", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Was that a maid, calling to her? But why? She didn't know any maids? Her family only had one, and this definitely wasn't her so-\n\nAnne paused, staring in mute shock at the sight of the boy who had suddenly approached and hauled the maid to her feet.\n\nThere was no way she'd fail to recognize him. That was one of the capture targets, Reginald von Afah.\n\nIn other words, one of the people she wanted to interact with the least. There was no way she was going to approach the maid at all when he was around. It didn't matter what he was doing or saying, all that mattered is escaping from this situation as quickly as possible.\n\nTurning on her heel and doing her best to vanish into the crowd, Anne was almost immediately encountered with the sight of another familiar but far less worrisome face.\n\nNoctis Algretto was a boy, but he didn't have any flags. He was just a friend. She already knew him, in fact, and that made the fact he had just collapsed was an excellent excuse to get out of the courtyard and to somewhere less exposed as quickly as possible. Not to mention the fact that he'd just collapsed, someone had to help him!\n\n\"Ah, I... I should g-get you to the nurse's office!\"\n\nEscape as quickly as possible, make sure Noctis was okay. That was the plan in Anne's mind.\n\n@Crusader Lord@PKMNB0Y", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" } ]

[ { "text": "Serrica smiled, looking Elastasia in the eyes. \"Lady Aquilanne, there's an untapped market of young ladies come in stock just recently and, pardon my words, you could more easily fit in with that lot than your own.\" It would be interesting to see the high ranking noble and third year getting along with first years as if they were her age. \"Perhaps you'll find some girl you're quite taken with in the newer students. They say love blossoms at the Academy.\" Of course, Serrica was referencing the Heroine and Elastasia's relationship in the original story.\n\n\"And if you do, never forget your friend who suggested to look around~\" With that, Serrica smiled and turned around. \"I'll let that brother of yours know you're looking for him if I see him. Until next time, Lady Aquilanne.\"\n\nThis time, Serrica truly did walk away confidently. If she had any more immediate plans, she didnt let on. In truth, she was curious if she could at least spot the Heroine and make note of her personality. She had no personal servant to snoop for her on campus at the moment. Perhaps she would need to send a letter back home and request someone skilled.", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "Oh, good, someone had come to help her. She wasn't used to the body of a teenaged girl, and hauling off the unconscious boy had been far more difficult then she'd thought. But with some assistance, she'd be able to get him to the Nurse's office without hurting hi-\n\nOh.\n\nThe moment her eyes fell upon her assistant, Anne realized precisely who it was she was looking at. There was no mistaking him. No denying it. Of all the people who had come to her aid, it had to be one of them. Not just one of them, but this one.\n\nIn the end, she supposed it made sense. Helping someone in need would totally attract the attention of somebody like him.\n\nBut that didn't make it better. That didn't help in the least.\n\nIf glimpsing von Afah wasn't bad enough, she'd just run headlong into the Crown Prince himself.\n\nShe could practically feel sweat dripping from her forehead her lips shut firmly as she vibrated in place slightly.\n\nWhat did she do? How did she respond? She couldn't trip any flags, she couldn't! She didn't want to start heading down anyone any routes at all! What did she say?!\n\n\"HAAAH!\"\n\n... Probably not that.\n\nClearing her throat and trying to stop her head from swimming so much(not to mention screaming suddenly in the middle of the courtyard was embarrassing), Anne tried to compose herself.\n\nAct normal.\n\nAct natural.\n\nTreat it as a passing meeting and move on.\n\nThat's all she had to do.\n\n\"L-let's... hurry to the nurse's office, then...!\"\n\n@MagusDream", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\n\"Euuuuuuggh...\" Elastasia groaned, pouting. It wasn't like any of the girls coming into the school were really growing that noticeably; there was no way she'd fit into the first years on height alone... which was a pretty dismal assessment of her own size, all things considered, but there was nothing she'd ever be able to do about that. Except levitate, but that sort of showy thing for conversation was very impolite unless circumstances actually demanded it for some reason.\n\nReally, what was with Serrica's parting message? The rumours hadn't gotten out of hand yet, nobody was too interested in paying attention to where the bookworm was looking when she remembered to show up to social events (and that was the door more often than it was the ladies in attendance) and she'd not gotten blatant in her interests to the point of scandal either. Did the brunette know something? Hopefully not, she already had enough to think about avoiding any pretty first-year girls; Elastasia wasn't going to go seek them out.\n\nWandering around the courtyard, however, brought her to someone else she was familiar with. They were probably cousins of some degree, which would help with recognising her brother, but more importantly he was pretty tall. \n\n\"Hey, Reggie, have you seen my brother?\" the short girl asked, popping up behind him as he looked to exit the courtyard, and falling into place even as he headed towards the markets proper. \"I think he might have gone looking for me.\"\n\nAh, Reginald. Such a problem in so many routes of the game; as nice as she was now, it had crossed Elastasia's mind more than once to try and arrange a few accidents if the heroine ignored him. More than the other capture targets, even, as at least this didn't mean contemplating regicide. Though, trying to avert some of the biggest conflicts by violence really was a matter of last resort... she didn't want to do something like that, and it wasn't really her forte. Maybe if she could find some of the other second-half characters...", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." } ]

[ { "text": "\"Noctis is my friend,\" began Anne, almost immediately. Not only because of the fact she was genuinely concerned with the state of the young man(she did actually know him, and he had suddenly fainted), but also because this was an excellent way to escape spending any more time with the Prince then absolutely necessary. She didn't need any elaborate excuse, she didn't even need to do anything particularly special.\n\nAll she had to do was what she already wanted to do, which was make sure that a friend of hers was okay.\n\nIt was a relief. A true relief that it was this easy to escape a flag.\n\n\"So, I need to make sure he's okay,\" she insisted, nodding her head as she did, looking the unconscious boy over. What had happened to him? She didn't remember anything like this happening in the game. Of course, now that this was all real, things didn't necessarily need to go exactly as they did in Cross Heart Academy. But at the same time, it only stood to reason that knowledge of the game's story could inform her of what could happen.\n\nShe didn't remember Noctis being sick, or nervous. And when she had spoken with him prior, she didn't remember him behaving like he felt at all unwell in any way. Neither her knowledge of the world as it was now nor her knowledge of the game explained the boy's sudden collapse.\n\nWhich made it all the more concerning.\n\n@MagusDream", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Mella\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n\"Potions, hm...quite lucrative indeed.\" A fairly easy and common way of getting money, really. It certainly wouldn't be too difficult if rules followed the same way alchemy happened in the game. Still...she lacked any actual alchemical skill herself, and didn't fancy learning truth be told. It'd be a lot of work, trial and error...haaa, she didn't mind hard work but she really didn't want more work. Still, maybe she could sponsor someone -\n\n\"Ah.\" Cervantes hit the nail right on the head. \"How rude. I would like to inform you lord Reginald and the Von Afah family reward their maids with quite adequate pay.\" She'd respond. Well, she certainly liked getting paid more, but there was no need to start saying that the Von Afah family went around paying their maids barely enough to live on. \"Still...mhm, you're not incorrect. I find myself needing quite a lot of money for certain personal reasons I am not at liberty to divulge.\" Mella's expression remained neutral and unreadable as she'd bow lightly. \"Even if I were to invest in an inventor, that requires some form of capital to start with...haaa...\" her unreadable expression shifted just slightly to one of mild annoyance. \"Everything always comes back to money, doesn't it? Needing more to even get more...maybe I should just commit embezzlement or tax evasion and move Von Afah's funds to some island out of the country...\"\n\nHer voice trailed off for a few moments before she'd cough, shaking her head.\n\n\"...apologies, I should finish the shopping before lord Reginald starts wondering where I've gone.\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\nWith his business smile still on his face, Cervantes tilted his head forward. \"My apologies for that remark,\" Though both of them knew that what he said was true. If a maid's income was all it took to get into the realm of business, then every servant would be dumping their cash into investment. Nobles were pigs, and the commoners were chickens. One fed with riches while the other couldn't fly off to greater heights. \n\nIf Cervantes heard anything Mella said, he made no effort to show it. \"If that is the case, I wish you a good day, miss.\" With their conversation seemingly over, Cervantes was about to move and then stopped. \"My shop is located nearest to one of the entrances. If there is anything you would like to inquire about, then you can head to my shop.\" With that, he finally turned back and began walking back to his shop. Perhaps he would charge that maid next time for advice.\n\nHe didn't get to meet the heroine, so that meant this reality was a little realistic. While a redundant thought, it still rang true. Not everything was pre-determined, though this was only a slight bit of evidence for that case. \"Though, what should I do...\" Cervantes muttered to himself. It still didn't change the fact that his future was uncertain.\n\nPerhaps it was time for some exploration. Cervantes needed to restock items for his shop, and he needed someone to protect him if the need arose. If he remembered correctly, there was a bulletin board somewhere in the town square. That billboard was a quest-giver to the heroine if she wanted to gain experience. It often involved her helping the people on the school grounds with their errands or dilemmas. He'd just use the billboard to enlist some poor student to follow him around while he collected items.\n\n\"Though what should I give as a reward,\" Cervantes muttered to himself.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\nOh good, he'd slowed down. Excellent, she'd been having to practically jog to keep up and that was undignified and ridiculous. Stupid long-legged giants in a rush, they really didn't appreciate how much of an advantage those legs were in turning a brisk pace into an active workout for everyone else...\n\nMaybe the best accident would be one that took advantage of that? Some sort of magical pit trap; it could be claimed that he was just in too much of a hurry to notice the hole in the ground or something before he fell in, how unfortunate that it happened to be full of deadly venomous snakes. But then she'd need to find a way to acquire snakes on-demand, otherwise it would just be Reginald standing around in the bottom of a pit until someone came along with a ladder.\n\nThe fact that he had replied took her a few seconds to catch up on as she followed along, thinking. \"Um... it's possible, but that doesn't really narrow it down, because I don't think he'd be at all familiar with anywhere I could be in the academy, and there's so many possible places that it would take days to search them...\"\n\nIt was a big place, there were plenty of out-of-the-way corners to sit and read, after all.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." } ]

[ { "text": "Elastasia\n\n\"Oh, I think I see him! Come on,\" Elastasia said, seeing said flash of white hair... and promptly grabbing Reginald's hand without giving him a say in the matter. She could apologise later, but right now, the girl needed someone tall and intimidating to help make a path through the crowd rather than being walked into by everyone too busy talking to notice her shortness. Sometimes, all the white hair was a dead giveaway, but...\n\n\"If you'd just stayed put, I would have found your right away,\" she admonished, helping the younger boy to his feet, \"I may miss a lot of things, but I'm still your sister, and I was going to show you around.\"\n\nOf all the people he had managed to run into, it was quite interesting that Terys had found the tutorial shopkeeper--someone that she was intimately familiar with, needing to make sure that she'd not strayed onto some already-completed route by accident (or even cataloguing how easy it was to wind up on some of them through unexpected means). The other had been similarly a background NPC back when this was a game, identifiable as the maid of the man she had just tugged through the crowd...\n\nNot that she was actually just a maid, Elastasia averting her eyes as if Mella would add mind-reading to her list of talents. Which probably looked like avoiding her for another reason, but then again she was quite pretty (and having a thing for taller women also didn't help, even if that amounted to 'most people').\n\n\"Of course, I'm sorry for doubting you, Elly,\" Terys managed, now standing at his full height... still shorter than the heroine, but nowhere near that short. He turned, giving an overly-deep bow to the maid and the shopkeeper given the rank differences, \"I'm terribly sorry for running into you; I wasn't looking where I was going at all!\"", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Serrica had examined the surroundings a small bit. Watching the students co-mingle after the speech. It was fairly lively now, with everyone looking forward to the new school year. As she studied all these students, she noticed a small bunch of them being rather rowdy and one of that group smack into some girl she hadn't recognized. A commoner girl perhaps. Well, that didn't matter all too much. What did matter was the girl falling down and scraping her hands as she caught her fall. It was only slightly bloodied but a cute girl didn't deserve such a thing.\n\nSerrica walked her way over with purpose and came to stand in front of the girl. \"Let's get you up. Your palms look a small bit bloodied. Let us get you to the nurse station so they can get you healed up, alright?\" The girl merely nodded. Perhaps because a stranger was helping her. Perhaps it was because she knew Serrica was a noble. Regardless, the noble lady helped her up and guided her to the nurse's station. It was a short enough trip though there was a slightly annoying sight.\n\n\"Hello, Your Highness. A pleasure to greet you.\" A certain prince was walking down the hallway. Well, she didn't plan on talking to him much, instead, she kept walking with the girl, who was struggling to get out the words to greet the prince as the Duke's daughter pulled her along. Soon enough, they noticed a guy walk into a room which, just so happened, to be where they needed to go. They sauntered up to the door and Serrica pushed it open. \"I have a student here that needs her hands healed.\"\n\nWell, there were already a number of people in there already. The nurse and her assistant, an unconscious person and a rather cute girl. \"Oh my, are we interrupting?\" She had to ask, looking between everyone, though her eyes stayed on the girl. Did they deceive her? Was that the Heroine? \"Rather cute, aren't you.\" She absent-mindedly stated, looking Anne in the eyes now with curiosity.", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "\"A-ah, er, he fainted, suddenly...\"\n\nOf course. Of course this was a situation where one of the game's love interests walked right in immediately after the other walked out. Why wouldn't her?\n\nThrough her frustration, Anne couldn't help but note to herself that there really wasn't any reason why he wouldn't. This was, after all, where he volunteered. It stood to reason that he'd walk in at some point. But regardless of that, it was still extremely inconvenient for her! This placed her in far too dangerous of a situation, accidentally triggering a flag of some kind would be way too easy! She already had the Crown Prince wanting to talk to her again, which was a difficult request to turn down in a society like this. The last thing she needed was to immediately trigger another flag...\n\nWhich is why she almost audibly sighed in relief when a clear route of escape came. Now that there were people to care for her friend, she didn't have to stick around. And this was Serrica, wasn't she? It was hard not to recognize her given she was usually the heroine's friend in most routes.\n\n\"S-since you're here with the nurse, I feel comfortable leaving hi-eh? Cute? Eh?\"\n\nWait, what?\n\n@Pyromania99", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Noctis Alegretto\nLocation: Starveil Academy - Nurse's Office\nInteractions: Anne (@VitaVitaAR), Serrica (@Pyromania99)\n\n\n---\n\n\nHe twitched his eyes as his consciousness finally returned to him. As he opened his eyes, he saw the roof, reminiscent of a nursery. He didn't look at the sides but was slowly regaining his place.\n\n(D-Did I... fall unconscious?) He thought.\n\nAs he got up and sat on the bed (still not looking at his sides, mind you.), he looked at his hands and moved them, thinking he might have possibly escaped back to wherever he wanted to be, not the actual academy.\n\n(Wait... if I'm in a nursery right now... could it be that it was a dream after all? Was I falling unconscious the key for me to wake up?) He thought.\n\nNoctis' Theme: Berry Berry Cue! (Counter:Side)\n\nAnd then he finally looked at his sides. And the ones standing there weren't his mother, his brother, or any doctors. It was a nurse... Anne Marielle, the heroine... and Serrica Francesca Haldblum, one of the important characters in the story. What this all meant? That he never left Starveil Academy, and was now surrounded by three of the game's biggest characters... as if being one himself wasn't enough.\n\n\"A-Ah... hahaha! I-I'm so sorry for the blunder back at the entrance, I was... just in so much shock for actually being in the a-academy and... t-to start studying that I fell blank... hehe, you know... it happens...\" He said.\n\nThis was his best attempt to be... well, himself. Or who he was right now. After such a slip-up like falling unconscious and probably creating an event that never, ever happened in-game, he had to buckle up and try his very best to not commit these sorts of slip-ups again, for as long as he can to actually survive his new life.\n\n\"I-In any case, I'm... o-once again, I'm sorry for the trouble. This isn't how I wanted the year to start, I swear.\" He said.", "username": "MagusDream", "char_name": "Noctis Alegretto" } ]

[ { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\nHuh, that was a little rude but Cervantes didn't mind the slight. Seeing as Terys's sister was now here, Cervantes retreated his hand took a few steps from the group of nobles and Mella. He was starting to dislike the fact there were a group of notable characters starting to gather around. As quickly was he came back, Cervantes started to follow Reginald's lead of leaving the area before something happened.\n\nSomething happened.\n\n\"What a situation,\" Cervantes said no one other than to himself. Now he needed to take in mind that students could potentially sabotage his entire business. Another worry on his evergrowing list of concerns. Though he needed to tackle the first one on. Dealing with the animal fiasco that was occuring right in front of him. During his time in this world, he had actually become friends with a few shopkeepers. Jessica, Azel, Darren, and co were pleasant company to be with.\n\nNow they were running around like headless chickens trying to capture the released animals. \"I guess I'll have to work harder.\" Sticking his hand into his bag, he fished for an item. While he had full faith in all the character's abilities to solve the situation by themselves, Cervantes was sure that he had made contact with a few of his 'friends.' Mainly Jessica, who was chasing down a strange avian creature, who glared at him before returning back to catching animal.\n\nDrawing out a capture net from his bag. It was one of the items he planned to sell today, but it would have to be put to use. Cervantes tested the weight of net before getting into a 'stance.' \"Don't worry, I'm coming guys!\" With that, Cervantes dashed off to help. Seeing a relatively small creature fly by, Cervantes slammed his net down to capture it in the net.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" }, { "text": "As she thought on the situation, Serrica was quite sure that nothing like this happened in game. A closer look at the now conscious boy's face revealed him to be that helper NPC right? How strange. \"Well, regardless of what's happening, Nurse, would you be so kind as to assist this girl's scrapes on her palm? It was an unfortunate situation where some quite rude boys knocked her down.\" She patted the girl's shoulder and pulled in somewhat close to her ear, \"And if you need assistance with anything, feel free to ask for me, Serrica Francesca Haldblum.\" \n\nFinishing her sentence, she pulled away and turned her attention to Anne and Noctis. The boy had just mentioned something about not wanting to start the year like this. Well, that much was understandable. \"It's understandable, boy. Not many can boast of being stuck in an infirmary immediately after the start of year speech. Truly, we should all be glad to not have been afflicted in such a way from it.\" She teased, poking some small bit of fun at him. \"I'm sure none would fault you for needed to rest longer if needs be.\"\n\n\"With that said, girl there, were you on your way out?\" Serrica asked, though she had not given the girl time to truly reply. \"I cannot say I recognize you with these eyes of mine but I can feel you are quite talented.\" It was at least true. Serrica's eyes had never seen the girl, though it could be said otherwise for her time as Serika. She was almost certainly sure this girl was the protagonist of that game. \"Are you a commoner? No, a lower ranked noble that integrated rather poorly into high society.\" If this girl was the protagonist as she had thought, she was capable of legitimately anything she put her mind to. That was a boon to any investor. \"Tell me, would you like to come work for the daughter of a Duke? I can pay you better than even that unpleasant von Afah brat.\" Serrica mentioned, taking Anne's hands in her own.\n\n\"I would even offer to put you up as the queen of high society but, well, it would be difficult to train you to out-do myself. If you would come and work for me.\" Serrica said in a way that it made it difficult for Anne and Noctis to tell if it was confidence or arrogance. Anne made Serrica crave bringing the girl in under her wing... And then she turned to Noctis. He was to be a powerful mage too, wasn't he? Well, perhaps she would watch his progress and see how he would go. If she tried snatching him up too soon, he might divert from his path too much. \"Can you sense the raw potential this girl has, boy?\" She asked calling him boy once again.", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\n\"N-No, nothing's the matter!\" Elastasia squeaked, grateful for the distraction of... hmm, a whole bunch of furry creatures being released at once? Her memory of the game wasn't completely perfect, but she was sure this wasn't part of the usual course of events that had ever been covered... although, there were occasionally references to strange things happening off screen to establish the tone of the academy portion, so maybe this had happened, albeit never in detail.\n\nThe question was, what could she contribute? She'd just get in the way trying to catch them by hand, and magically snagging one at a time would be... well, difficult, and inefficient, and it wouldn't even help much as someone would still need to grab them.\n\nStill, she had an idea! Sliding one hand into a well-hidden pocket, the white-haired noble pulled out a relatively simple wand--a basic focus, and not the best she had access, but definitely the best she felt comfortable carrying around for schoolwork... along with not being specialised for any particular task.\n\nIt was more than adequate for the task at hand, concentric circles of a deep blue appearing in the air ahead as she pointed, spinning counter to one another. Just a few seconds later, and two shimmering barriers appeared both behind the stampede... and directly ahead of them, ahead of those who had gone to help capture the creatures. Not the most solid of barriers, any serious attempt to break them would shatter the things like glass, but the pearlescent blue should hopefully deter any creatures from escaping further down the street. Especially as the two barriers steadily pushed closer and closer to the centre of the road, narrowing the space further... and pushing anyone who didn't notice insistently along.\n\nTerys appeared to have joined the attempt with nothing but his hands, helpful as he ever was. All it seemed that he'd caught was a dire hamster.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "The moment of utter confusion was briefly derailed when Noctis awakened. In spite of the situation, Anne couldn't deny her sense of relief that the young man who was her friend, regardless of her previous life, looked like he was going to be okay. Still, he hadn't fainted in the game, and nothing had happened to him that could have caused it as far as she could tell. So had something else happened that she didn't know about? Everyone did have lives of their own outside of the game's screentime, after all, so did that have something to do with it?\n\n\"Er, are you sure you're okay, Noctis?\" she asked, hesitatingly, after a moment, \"Suddenly fainting out of no-where isn't really... normal...\"\n\nAnd that wasn't the only thing that wasn't normal.\n\nAnne definitely didn't remember Serrica acting like this, or making any of these offers.\n\n\"W-work for? I-eh? Eeeeeeh?\"\n\nIt was a lot to take in all at once. There definitely wasn't an event like this in the game, no matter what you did! What the hell?\n\nIt wasn't enough that she got that close and whispered in her ear, it was everything else too.\n\n\"E-er, I d-don't really know what you're talking about, um...\" Anne trailed off with weak, nervous bit of laughter, scratching the back of her head.\n\nAt this point it was all she could really do.\n\n@Pyromania99@PKMNB0Y", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" } ]

[ { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\n\"Ah, ha!\" Cervantes to said to no one other than to himself. The net fell upon the enemy and was slammed back to the ground. The creature tried to budge against its restraints, but Cervantes tried his hardest to keep it down. All he needed to do now was bring the creature back to a shopkeeper and cage it up.\n\n\"That was easy.\" He didn't break a sweat, yet, though the critter sure was strong. It took all he had to keep the animal down in his net. Though Cervantes was curious to what he had even caught. Looking down at it made him surprised. It was a wyvern, well to be more precise a wyvern whelp. Creatures with a similar appearance to dragons but more common and less strong than their cousins.\n\nSaid wyvern whelp was now trying break out the net by gnawing it. \"Not today, I'm afraid!\" Cervantes as he shifted the net around. The net entangled the wyvern, but that didn't stop the little thing from being ferocious. It was letting out strange cries as it tried to get out of its trapping.\n\n\"Jessica! Where are the cages!\" Cervantes yelled to his shopkeeper friend.\n\nShe seemed currently preoccupied trying to throw some sort of dust at a boar that was trying to maul her. The boar took a sniff out the dust before promptly going slack on its side. When she was finished, Jessica yelled out, \"Somewhere in there!\" With a gesture she nodded towards the run down store. Then she went back to trying to get more of the creatures.\n\nWas it legal to use unknown substances on animals? Cervantes didn't know and didn't seem to want to as he had a wyvern to pin in. \"Welp, in you go!\" Cervantes said as he dragged the wyvern. Hopefully there was an intact cage for this feisty critter.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" }, { "text": "Mella\n@PKMNB0Y@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nQuite the rambunctious critters, weren't they? Unfortunately for them, they could not escape a talented maids quick hands! She may not have had special powers or magic like Elastasia, but she was no less capable! As the critters were funneled towards them, Mella honed in on the more exotic looking ones and went specifically for those. A lizard like creature that vaguely reminded her of an axolotl was easily dealt with after snatching it from the ground before it could slip through Reginalds feet while he...oh, was that some sort of...holy bird or something?\n\nHer eyes lingered on Reginalds prize for a few moments before she'd tear her eyes away.\n\nShe had and wanted nothing to do with such things. They'd only just get her in trouble. It was a good thing, then, something else else needed her intervention.\n\n\"Humph,\" As the kitten leapt towards Elastasia, it would instead be finding itself face planting right into Mella's bosom as she put herself between the kitten and the mage. \"Its rather impolite to leap at a lady's face.\" She'd scold the kitten, using a free arm to pin it against her body in case it tried struggling.", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\nWhen the kitten--why had a kitten known to go for her? had made that jump--Elastasia reflexively froze up, presenting a harmless and ineffectual target... one that would have been able to do nothing to maintain their little corralling effort. Fortunately for her, the totally-just-a-maid came to her rescue, and the barrier maintained its integrity. Barely; the little jumping trick did cause the entire thing to shimmer ominously before recovering its strength.\n\nHow odd that he'd caught a holy bird, though. Was that even a good thing? It might do... something, when panicked, and it wasn't exactly the holiest of all individuals that had just made a grab for it. Maybe they'd be lucky and it would make a beeline for someone more suitable, even if nobody with the exact magical affinity was in the area.\n\nOf course, her brother now had his hands full, as well as his face. It looked rather like an ordinary puppy. A very large, very affectionate, very slobbery puppy.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Serrica had waited for Noctis to say something but he was rather quiet. \"Well, fine, the boy seems shell-shocked. If you feel better, do follow. Otherwise, girl, I'm going to borrow you for a small bit so the patient can rest.\" With that, Serrica kept hold of Anne's hand and walked out the door with her, leading her to somewhere that wasn't the infirmary. They got out of the building for some fresh air before Serrica stopped and released Anne. She took a breath before she opened her mouth again.\n\n\"Alright then. Now that we can get out from that sterile smelling air, do you not want to work for the quite rich Serrica Francesca Haldblum? I can pay you a potent salary... Hmm...\" She went silent for some seconds as she contemplated something. \"I suppose I have yet to properly introduce myself...\" The noble girl cleared her throat before speaking once more. \"I am the eldest daughter of the Haldblum Duchy, Serrica Francesca Haldblum. May I ask your name and house? Or, lack thereof. Take no offence, but if you are of a noble house I've yet to see you attend to high society functions.\"", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "\"Wait wha-\"\n\nOn one hand it did allow her to escape from one of the romantic interests. On the other, this wasn't anything like anything that had happened in the game. Anne certainly hadn't expected Serrica to go dragging her off like this out of the blue. In fact, none of this behavior seemed like the Serrica she knew from the game at all. Just what was going on? Of course it wasn't that Serrica wasn't wealthy and exuberant but...\n\nMaybe she was just imagining it? Maybe it was just because of how things had already shifted?\n\nAnne wasn't certain, and she didn't really know how to handle a girl just dragging her off in the first place.\n\n\"Er... er... Marielle,\" she managed, when Serrica asked her name. It was more then she'd expected to be dealing with from her already, so it took a moment for her to even begin to articulate herself, \"A-Anne Marielle, er, I guess we just didn't... run into each other...?\"\n\nShe was from a minor house, in any case, so the chances of that were exceptionally high.", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" } ]

[ { "text": "Elastasia\n\n\"Er, Reggie, you might want to let that one go...\" Elastasia offered hesitantly. Of course, if the Heroine had been here, this very early opportunity to get the bird would have had it decide that the holy magic-aligned girl was its ideal partner despite the general disorganisation and chaos going on, but here? Well, maybe a maid would be a good alternative. Or it would be happy to find its way home or to freedom or to wherever it might actually find a suitable partner.\n\nShe highly doubted it was going to enjoy being held by a young man whose major skills lay in chopping things to pieces. \"It might, ah... blow your hands off?\"\n\nWell, hopefully only bruise them. But holding onto it would likely hurt, if it wasn't all that happy with the current situation, and result in not holding the bird anyway.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Mella\n@PKMNB0Y@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nIt seemed though, unless she wanted harm to befall her current employer, it would be best to intervene in some manner. Now, she could do as Elastasia did and simply politely inform him that holding onto a holy hand grenade bird was a bad idea, but on the other hand, that wouldn't be quite as entertaining and there was a chance he would neither hear nor heed those words. So she needed to make him drop it.\n\n\"Lord Reginald.\" She'd simply say in order to get his attention. \"Hold this for me, yes?\" And then promptly grabbed the Axolotl like creature she had in her grasp, and threw it right at Reginald. A totally flawless plan that would certainly get him to drop the bird before anything bad happened. The animal flew through the air with a dopey smile as though it was enjoying the freedom of flying through the air.\n\nWith her other hand, she'd press the kitten a bit harder against her chest, didn't want it getting free and squirming about either.", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "\"Anne Marielle? Hmm... Well, can't say I'm familiar with your house, truth be told. Well, that much can change Lady Anne.\" Serrica said, smiling a small bit. \"You should come join my tea parties and other such affairs. I can assure you that it can only help your family out to be acquainted with the Duchy. Well, our Duchy. Not the other not as important one.\" Serrica mentioned with some small disdain in her voice.\n\nThe daughter of the duke seemed to clear her thoughts rather quickly before shaking her head and turning toward Anne again, \"Well, hiring you aside, you are a new student this year, correct?\" She asked but didn't give time for a response. \"Of course you are. Well, if you need help with anything let me know. I'd be willing to help since I think of it as an investment in human potential.\" The merchant added, not hiding her reasons at all. There was no need to hide it, after all. She had let her intentions be known clear as day. \"Regardless of all that however, let me say that it is a pleasure to meet you.\" She said, offering her hand for a handshake.", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "For several moments, Anne was completely silent. She didn't quite know how to respond to Serrica's offer. Certainly, she was an ally character in the game, but at the same time she didn't remember anything quite happening like this. It didn't seem the same.\n\n\"Er... thank you,\" she said, bowing her head as she reached out to accept the handshake. No matter what else was going on, it was quite a generous offer. Even if it didn't feel anything like the way Serrica felt in the game. Maybe it was just the difference between a video game and reality? That could be the case, but some things had seemed exactly the same as the game while others had diverged.\n\nCertainly, part of this had to just be from different actions taking place causing things to change in different ways. But that couldn't be the only explanation for everything, could it?\n\nIt felt like everything was becoming even more complicated by the second.", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" } ]

[ { "text": "Elastasia\n\n\"Oh dear, the holy bird seems to like you...\" Elastasia stated, watching the bird's choice of perch curiously. Was this information actually significant to any of the world's normal inhabitants? It could be mere happenstance that Mella was more appealing than any of the others around here--being marginally holier than a bunch of merchants and nobles might not be considered much of an achievement--but at the same time, it was a very definite preference...\n\nOr maybe that was merely confirmation bias speaking. She knew why it was so attracted, therefore, to her, it was obvious. If she started acting on all the game knowledge to any real end, though, she'd get a reputation for uncanny prescience that would give out in such a short span of time, that would be quite annoying. And she really needed to start with something big before attention came to her, like making sure Reginald didn't go off and cause problems.\n\nMaybe if he was encouraged to collect rare animals, they wouldn't need to depend on the Heroine's whims? That derpy-looking creature would be a good start.\n\nAnd maybe one of the shopkeepers would get that dog off her brother. He wouldn't have anywhere to keep such a pet, no matter how friendly it was.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Mella\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n\"I'll send you an invoice for saving your arm later.\" Mella confidently stated with her usual neutral expression. Now the only thing was to get away before the bird did anything like give any sign that she knew exactly what was going on or that the bird somehow decided to stay with her.\n\nShe felt a set of bird feet perch on her head.\n\n\"Shoo, bird.\" She'd say, making an attempt at waving the bird off. She had no desire to get caught up with any holy creature unless said holy creature was worth the entirety of the country in its net worth that she could sell or profit from. More importantly though, was the little kitten that had accepted its fate, it seemed. She'd relax her grip on it just slightly, adjusting so she could hold it a little better and more comfortably with it resting on her shoulder instead of being firmly pressed against her. \"More importantly...for helping you catch these runaway animals, I believe fair compensation is in order, sir?\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "\"...\"\n\nAh.\n\nAh.\n\nShe wasn't ready to deal with this. There was no way she was prepared to deal with this situation.\n\nAnne had prepared herself as quickly as possible to deal with meeting a variety of characters, but this was almost on par with meeting one of the potential capture targets.\n\nThe villainess.\n\nLilian Meridan.\n\nHow did she respond to this situation?! What did she do!? She wasn't planning on trying to pursue the crown prince(hell no in fact) but that didn't mean there wasn't the potential for disaster brewing.\n\nDid she just introduce herself? It already seemed like Serrica was provoking her. Wasn't that a really bad idea?! She didn't need to be wrapped up in a scenario like this when she was still trying to figure something out?\n\nFrazzled was the best description for the expression on Anne's face.\n\n\"N-nice to meet you,\" she managed, curtsying and trying not to acknowledge the obvious provocation occurring beside her, \"I-I'm Anne. Her, Anne Marielle! ... Daughter, er, daughter of Lord Marielle... er...\"\n\nThe anxiety had made her stumble over herself.\n\nThis was a mess.\n\n@PKMNB0Y", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" } ]

[ { "text": "Elastasia\n\n\"Maybe you should keep the, uh...\" what had that thing been? She wasn't exactly an expert in the native fauna of this world, but it had looked pretty cheerful. It did bring a name to mind, but Elastasia really wasn't sure it was the right one. The crossover between her previous life's native Japanese and the language of this world could be a little hit and miss, without the benefit that a game had of being able to translate everything. \"Wooper? Yeah, you should keep that happy thing, Reggie. You could do with something friendly around.\"\n\nTerys' thanks were rather excessive and featured much bowing--although the boy had seemed to be largely enjoying the hefty creature's attention, who knows how long it would've been before he was free to do something else with that doing its best to cover every inch of him in friendly slobber. \"Um... sister, do you mean the salamander?\"\n\nWas that what it was? Oh poo. \"I thought those were more lizard like and... fiery?\"\n\n\"When they're older, but...\"", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "\"Oh! You wound me Lady Meridan! Such harsh snappings at my person wound my spirit.\" Serrica said, hardly serious about the matter. The rich noble didn't mind having one person that tried to put her down. And of all people, Lady Meridan would likely be the best out of anyone. Well, her and von Afah. \n\n\"And treat this place as a hunting ground? I think you will find that a place of learning is in fact the peak setting to find those with innate or hidden talents that one needs to draw out.\" Serrica mentioned, looking at Anne in particular. \"And, if you must know what I was doing here, it's something I'm sure you would do in the same situation. Some unruly students knocked a girl over so I escorted her here and then met Lady Marielle here.\" None of it was false at the least.\"\n\nWith a smirk, Serrica looked towards Lady Meridan once more. \"And, lest I forget, you should hurry up and get together with that Prince of yours. If you sadly aren't interested in me, that is.\" The woman teased. \"I believe that would be in the best interests of everyone involved, wouldn't you agree with me, Lady Marielle?\" The student had to ask the other, wondering if the Heroine found any interest in the prince.", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "Mella\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nCurses.\n\nCould she learn curses? She'd curse this bird.\n\nOr maybe she should learn some divine magic so it laid golden eggs.\n\nThis was turning out to be rather annoying.\n\n\"I would much rather sell this thing.\" Mella replied with a sigh, admitting defeat at the hands of this avian. \"Its a rare specimen lord Reginald...though I haven't a clue as to why it seems so attached to me.\" She'd turn her eyes up towards the bird in question. \"Perhaps it'd taste good roasted? Perhaps fried. I think it looks similar enough to a duck to be quite delicious of prepared correctly and I would not have to purchase food for the evening if we did.\"\n\nMella walked over towards Reginald and Elastasia, bowing politely.\n\n\"I shall remember to bill you for extra curricular work.\" She nodded towards Reginald. \"My lord, if there is nothing else then I must continue my shopping and prepare a meal for the evening.\" A glance back up at the bird. \"Unless we truly shall be finding out what this one tastes like roasted in garlic.\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "This was spiraling further and further into potential disaster the longer it occurred. Serrica's behavior was only seeming to aggravate Lilian, who in turn was doing her best to incite Serrica. \n\nAnd Anne had found herself caught in the middle of a potentially dangerously escalating situation. She wanted to try and stay out of these sorts of things, the idea of anything that could trip any sort of flag was terrifying at this point. This seemed like it was brewing to catapult them into a a chain of tempting flags left and right!\n\nWhat did she say?! Aaah, she didn't want to express any interest in the Prince at all! She didn't want to go down that route! She didn't want to make Lilian think she was going down that route!\n\nDeep breaths.\n\nShe had to take deep breaths, clear her head, and calm herself.\n\nAnd give a natural response.\n\nPerhaps bowing was a bit over the top.\n\n\"I-I-I wish you g-g-good luck!\"\n\nAnd practically yelling that almost certainly didn't yelp.\n\nBut Anne couldn't stop the anxiety from getting to her.\n\n@Pyromania99", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" } ]

[ { "text": "Mella\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nMella remained quiet. On one hand, making a fuss would probably only draw more attention. That and she really didn't have much of a say about what sir Reginald ultimately ever ended up doing. As it stood there wasn't really a way to so easily turn down the bird. She'd just have to...discreetly get rid of it at some point, then. She wondered if she put it in a box and shipped it across the seas would it be done with?\n\n\"There will be no need for that, Sir Afah.\" She'd ultimately respond with a mild frown. \"I am quite fine with having this...thing accompany if you wish to keep it. Though since it is a gift I reserve the right to do whatever with it.\" She'd affirm, loosening the grip of the kitten in her arms as she'd move it so she was cradling it like a baby, paws up towards her and its head resting in the crook of her elbow. \"I suppose though, my hands are rather full...miss Elastasia, was it? If you don't mind me making a small request to handle this kitten so we can go finish our shopping...unless you'd wish to accompany me as well?\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "Why was the crown prince here now!? That was the only thing that could have made the entire situation worse! First Serrica acting strangely, then Lilian showing up, and now him!?\n\nIf every day of school was going to be like this, she was going to end up dying in her new life too! The stress was too much!\n\nShe couldn't exactly not respond when she was talking to literal royalty, though, so after a few moments of stumbling over herself both mentally and physically Anne managed to take a deep breath to try and steady herself.\n\n\"A-Anne. Anne Merielle,\" she said, bowing her head once more, hands clasped in front of her, \"A-and yes, he's doing fine now, thank you for asking...\"\n\nWhat did she say, now? What did she do? This was a nightmare situation. One wrong move could easily have Lilian misinterpret things. One wrong move could raise relationship flags she didn't want to trip.\n\nIt was like being surrounded by death flags. Sure, none of these would lead to death directly. At least she hoped so. But getting caught up too much in any of them was practically equivalent to launching yourself headfirst into a bad end for her.\n\nShe had to avoid it.\n\nBut she also had to try and think it through and find a route out of this situation that didn't end in some kind of pain.\n\nCould she just walk away? Find some excuse she had to leave?!\n\nAnne's mind was racing at this point, trying to latch on to any possible explanation she could for a sudden departure. Anything, anything...!\n\n@Pyromania99", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\nGo shopping with them? Well, she'd rather prefer to go catch up with her brother and then settle down to read or the like, but neither of those would really be possible if carrying a kitten that had already shown a worrisome ability to target her face. The chances were that if she tried to do anything with that around, it would unerringly choose to take offence at being ignored, and then ruin the book or the like...\n\nAlso, the maid was her type, and what was wrong with taking an opportunity to hang around a pretty lady? Even if she was a rather troublesome one in some regards.\n\n\"I'll come with you,\" the white-haired girl announced, looking over at her brother, \"Maybe you should go get a change of clothes, Terys, and we can meet again later?\"\n\nThe boy had, after all, gotten pinned by that dog... and slobbered all over. It couldn't hurt to go get a change of clothes, and despite the pouting he did seem to agree to the idea. \n\nWhich just left her, Reggie, and Reggie's maid.\n\nPlus the remaining animals.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Lillian looked embarassed and Anne was absolutely flustered. Well... Perhaps it was due to her interference, but was the Heroine this flusterable in the game? Serrica pondered that for some seconds as Anne continued to try and stammer out an answer to the Prince's question which she barely did. Shaking her head a small bit in exasperation, Serrica thought on what to do from here. She could just walk away since the Prince wasn't very interested in her. Nor Lillian for that matter.\n\n\"Hmmm...?\" Serrica questioned herself, pondering that thought to herself for a few short second. She looked to Lillian before giving the girl a sly smile. She had formulated a plan of some sort though she wondered if she was going to anger a certain Miss Meridan in the process.\n\nThe Duke's Daughter stepped between Anne and Christopher, crossing her arms. \"Forgive me for stepping between the two of you as such, Your Highness the Crown Prince.\" Serrica spoke in her typical fakely polite tone when addressing the Crown Prince. \"But I believe my friend, Anne, has a hard time speaking to you on account of the difference in your stations.\" This much seemed to be true from her point of view. \"She's like a scared yet adorable little squirrel trying to speak to a ravenous hound.\" A rather poor allusion. \"That aside, I find your lack of proper introduction to me understandable but I must say I'm rather disappointed in your lack of feeling in greeting your own childhood friend.\"\n\nSerrica pointed her fan toward Lillian before speaking again. \"You have such an beautiful childhood friend yet here she is, a side introduction.\" Of course, Serrica was ignoring the fact that the conversation had gone on for not long at all and he had truly yet to say much more than ask Anne how her friend was. \"If I were to be in your shoes, I would cherish such a relationship with a proper introduction. Rather, if you don't, would you mind if I were to sweep her off her feet?\"", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" } ]

[ { "text": "While most of Anne's mind was in a panic, attempting to analyze everything the Prince had said in order to isolate and defend against even the slightest chance of a flag, it wasn't as if she entirely failed to realize the situation.\n\nEven if she hadn't played the game before, Lilian's feelings for the Prince were entirely obvious. Her treatment in the Prince's route was one of the reasons it hadn't been her favorite, for that matter. Certainly, she wasn't very nice, but it felt rather harsh for someone who wasn't particularly a genuinely bad person.\n\nAnne took a deep breath.\n\n\"U-um, maybe you could catch up?\" she suggested, awkwardly, \"S-since it's... er...\"\n\nShe trailed off after a few moments. What did she even say here? Playing matchmaker wasn't her strongsuit at all! Doing it in real life was vastly different from doing it in SRPGs!\n\n\"Er... and... we can... go let you do that!\"\n\nAs odd as Serrica was acting, it was at least a potential out from a dangerous situation!\n\n@Pyromania99", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "The shopkeeper paused for a moment as he considered the maid's question.\n\n\"Well, I suppose that the first course of action would be to purchase a cage of sorts for it to live in... But you might not need one, given how comfortable it send to be on your head,\" he remarked, a slight smirk crossing his face for a moment. \"Jokes aside, I've been feeding that one seeds and fruits. It seems to like most anything in that vein—but not bugs. As for the actual care...\"\n\nBefore he could ramble further on about the subject, though, Elastasia chimed in with a question of her own about the cat in her hands—a question he was more than willing to oblige.\n\n\"Ah, of course. That's an Aomi—a cat we had imported from the far east, and a rare one at that. They're fairly well known for their use of magic in hunting in the wild in the region they come from, though finding one is an adventure in and of itself. As for why it jumped at you... I've heard tales of them being called 'magic eaters', but to be honest, your guess would be as good as mine. If they're hard to find, though, maybe they're juat smart enough to not get caught to begin with?\"\n\nAt this, the cat seemed to turn it's head back towards Elastasia before letting out a half-yawn, half-meow. It didn't seem to mind being held up for diaplay as it was, at least, but being as calm as it was despite the situation... That much certainly set it apart from it's peers, at the very least. \n\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\"Dense? Rude? That's rather insulting, you know,\" Christopher responded in turn, his brow furrowed as he shook his head. \"If that much is 'rude', I fear what 'polite' should be in your eyes.\"\n\nAt that, though, the prince simply sighed and shook his head.\n\n\"As for catching up... I am sure Miss Meridan has better things to do than speak with me, and forcing her to speak with me when she does not seem to wish to seems rather ill-intentioned at best.\"\n\nIf the others wished to leave now, though, Christopher seemed to have no intention of stopping them. It already seemed like Lilian was slowly inching away, trying her hardest to not up and die of what embarrassment she was already being overwhelmed by.\n\n@VitaVitaAR", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\nA cat from the far east? Well, that was something nostalgic. But if it could be used to find magic users somehow, then that would make her ability to sequester herself somewhere out of the way and read all the easier... if the heroine got interested in magic, then outside of class, there was a chance that they might run into one another. And she would like to avoid any heartbreak from such an obviously-unobtainable figure getting close to her if the girl turned out to be her type after all.\n\nThis left the noble staring into space for an awkwardly long time, until the shopkeeper coughed and drew her attention back.\n\n\"Oh, I'm so sorry! Yes, I'd quite like to purchase this kitten, and anything that's needed to look after it...\" Well, she didn't have much in the way of money on her, but she could just sign something to handle that. Really, the cost of a single animal was insignificant.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "\"Yes, I do believe you to be rather dense your Highness. You can't see what treasures you have at hand before you try encroaching on other treasures that have yet to be collected. Consider me insulting all you want, however, if calling you dense marks me as such.\" Serrica said before sighing. \"Just think about my words a small bit. With that, I really must show this young Miss somewhere. Please do conversate with Lady Meridan at convenience.\" With that, she grabbed Anne by the hand and led her off.\n\nAfter they made some distance from the Prince and Lady Meridan, Serrica took Anne near a place where student activity were a bit higher. If the Prince happened upon them this time, well, it would be easy enough to sic some of the younger girls upon him. With a small breath with the coast being clear, Serrica turned to Anne and released her hand. \"So, Lady Marielle, you can take an easy breath now. Though, you seem much too nervous. Is there an issue you're having with the school?\" She had to ask, looking the girl straight in the eyes. \"Well, we've all but started some short time ago so I'm sure that's not it.\" The Duke's daughter mentioned, stroking her chin in curiosity.", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "Mella\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n\"Fruits and seeds...I see.\" Simple enough request. She'll just take it out of Lord Reginald's dinner requests since this was his fault she was now saddled with quite a troublesome creature. As for actual care? Well, it'd probably be fine. She would buy a cage for it, she couldn't very well let it sit on her head all the time, especially when working. \"Well, if you happen to have a cage - the most luxurious and expensive one you have on you I'm sure lord Reginald will be more than happy to pay top dollar for it. I can't very well work with this thing sitting on my head all day.\" Mella responded, flashing Reginald a look that clearly indicated that it was his fault.\n\n\"I suppose I will also have to add those to the shopping expenses when we finish our shopping. Which I very much would prefer to get back to then dallying about with an avian making a nest on my head.\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "\"A-ah?!\"\n\nAnd then she was being dragged off again, with little in the way of warning, stumbling over her feet. Deep down, this was probably a good thing. Being face to face with both the Prince and the Villainess was in no way good for her health right now. But at the same time, she kept being faced with so many questions.\n\nIt was relentlessly beating down on her, and she'd barely had any time to think. Putting aside how any of this had even happened in the first place, the fact that Serrica was acting so different...\n\nIt couldn't just be explained with the fact this was reality now, could it? It wasn't quite right for what Anne remembered of her character. Was something else going on here? But what?\n\n\"E-er, I'm fine, it's just that a lot has happened, eh-heheh...\"\n\nAnne took a deep breath, hand scratching the back of her head.\n\n\"It's been a pretty full day, I mean!\"", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" } ]

[ { "text": "Noctis Alegretto\nChapter: 1\nDay:1\nLocation: Starveil Academy: Courtyard\n\n\n---\n\n\nBGM: Who's There? (Persona 4)\n\n(This is not real, this is not real, this is not real, this is not real, this is not real, this is not real, this is not real, this is not real, this is not real...)\n\nThat's how much his head was spiraling at the time. After all, how come all of this could be true? It had to be a dream. He didn't want to even think about the possibility of this actually happening. No, it must be some dream. There was just no way that he was somehow standing there, in the middle of an event, from a game he had played before, experiencing it as if it was his life from now on. It had to be a joke... a bad one, at the top of that.\n\n(It's all a dream, it's all a dream, it's all a dream, it's all a dream, it's all a dream, it's all a dream, it's all a dream, it's all a dream, it's all a dream...)\n\nHe was sweating bullets. No, that would be an understatement. It was like a waterfall, dropping itself through his head as he kept repeating himself through his mind over and over again. He wasn't even paying attention to the speech. He didn't even need to. He already knew the script and the words given by the principal. And that didn't matter. Nothing mattered. He just wanted all of it to end.\n\n(I'm not in Starveil Academy, I'm not in Starveil Academy, I'm not in Starveil Academy,I'm not in Starveil Academy, I'm not in Starveil Academy, I'm not in Starveil Academy, I'm not in Starveil Academy...)\n\nThe speech ended. The students started to disperse around. But he stood there, frozen. He didn't follow them. Like a statue, he just stared at the ground, trying to ignore everything. He closed his eyes and shut himself from the outer world.\n\n(Please... let this end. Let this end, let this end, let this end, let this end, let this end, let this end, let this end, let this end, let this end...!!)\n\nHe only saw the darkness. He only heard the silence. He tried to fall back to slumber. Right there, right now. He thought about a chance. A chance that he was in a hospital bed. But where was the closest hospital to his home? Right, it was that famous one. Sírio-Libanês? Was that the one? It didn't matter. All he wanted was to wake up. To see his mother and his brother... not his father. He didn't want to see his father ever again.\n\n\"... is... ct... oct...?\" A voice rang out, muffled.\n\nHe didn't respond. He ignored it as much as he could. It was just the voice of a dream trying to call him so he should let it fade away. But it kept ringing, ringing, and ringing... like a cellphone. But he had to be strong.\n\n\"Noctis Alegretto!!\" A scream rang out.\n\n*BGM fades*\n\nHe opened his eyes as a hand was on his shoulder. It wasn't the name. It was the touch. And when he looked there was someone looking at him. It was a teacher... an NPC unnamed teacher.\n\n\"The speech is over. You can head out now.\" He said.\n\n\"Ah... ah...\" \"Noctis\" responded.\n\nHis mind went blank. His body gave up. He just fell. Did the drop hurt? Was he bleeding? What did it matter? His hopes were broken. What he didn't want to be, actually was. He was there. He heard everything. He was no longer himself. He was now in Starveil Academy, as a student. And he ended up being THAT certain student. It was like an overload of information for him to process. All that he could mutter, before falling unconscious was...\n\n\"This... is real...\"", "username": "MagusDream", "char_name": "Noctis Alegretto" }, { "text": "Lydianna Schaffen\n\nOh dear. The young mistress was off in the crowd somewhere, she just knew it! Not that this Serrica was anyone who would shirk from such a thing...much less apologize for it. A far call from the Serrica of the game proper to be sure, and far more financially savvy in what felt like a meta sense to boot, but she'd become accustomed to it all over the years here since her own arrival. Or, well, awakening? It was hard to pin down a word for it all. Even so, she was happy to serve and tag along here for the chance to fulfil her own aspirations. \n\nMagic! Real Magic! This was an academy for the elite, but if she could glean and learn anything it would be superb. She'd also have to try a couple things she remembered about it from the game to boot. Whatever came, she would indulge her new life and live it to the fullest and best that she could! Yet how the eventual letter from Lord Haldblum would change anything, if it did at all, would certainly be something to see in the future. But until that time, she would at least take advantage of her current position in things if nothing else. \n\n...However, this also mean attending to her cousin-mistress, or whoever she was this time around, as best she could as well. And to that end she was calling out whilst searching for her amidst the throng, nearly on her tiptoes as she tried to peer up to find that trademark head of orange hair. \n\n\"Mistress Serrica? Mistress Serrica?\"\n\nShe was shoved aside enough times as it was along the way, of course, but she was used to the treatment by other nobility. Well, those who hadn't had her cooking at least. That much had gained her a sort of rather good reputation as a maid thus far, at least with guests of her mistress and mistress' parents in the past. Something to be proud of perhaps, but-\n\nSLAM\n\nShe never saw who it was, but someone else sent her bowling back onto the ground by running into her. Lydianna fell flat on her back and side, wincing in pain as she made contact with the ground. But none paid any mind, it seemed, to her position, and as she did her best to at least get up onto her hands and knees she felt a slight warmth come to her eyes and flush into her face. It was humiliating...stupid crowds. Then her eyes would look up, landing on a familiar-looking someone walking in her general direction. \n\n...Oh.\n\nHer legs would bend to the sides as she sat up a bit more on her knees and tried to wave at said someone, before likewise starting to call out to them.\n\n\"M-Miss! Miss!\"\n\nShe called out to the girl, one with uniquely peculiar violet eyes, short-cut hair, and seemingly in possession of a general beauty to her as if by design. Well, technically it was by design. Game design. Wasn't hard to recognize her as the girl who was supposed to be the heroine of the entire tale, after all, even if Lydianna herself was just trying to do her job right now.\n\nBut right now all she was seeking was a little bit of help for the moment, if possible...", "username": "Crusader Lord", "char_name": "Lydianna Schaffen" } ]

[ { "text": "Was that a maid, calling to her? But why? She didn't know any maids? Her family only had one, and this definitely wasn't her so-\n\nAnne paused, staring in mute shock at the sight of the boy who had suddenly approached and hauled the maid to her feet.\n\nThere was no way she'd fail to recognize him. That was one of the capture targets, Reginald von Afah.\n\nIn other words, one of the people she wanted to interact with the least. There was no way she was going to approach the maid at all when he was around. It didn't matter what he was doing or saying, all that mattered is escaping from this situation as quickly as possible.\n\nTurning on her heel and doing her best to vanish into the crowd, Anne was almost immediately encountered with the sight of another familiar but far less worrisome face.\n\nNoctis Algretto was a boy, but he didn't have any flags. He was just a friend. She already knew him, in fact, and that made the fact he had just collapsed was an excellent excuse to get out of the courtyard and to somewhere less exposed as quickly as possible. Not to mention the fact that he'd just collapsed, someone had to help him!\n\n\"Ah, I... I should g-get you to the nurse's office!\"\n\nEscape as quickly as possible, make sure Noctis was okay. That was the plan in Anne's mind.\n\n@Crusader Lord@PKMNB0Y", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nOnce confronted by Reginald about her actions, the maid's face seemed to pale and her body seemed to shrink down in fear. The hasty apology that followed from her was followed by a simple wave from Reginald, though, as if to disregard the situation entirely. It was better to chastise lightly than to let someone lose their job (or possily more) over something like this.\n\nBut the matter regarding the maid was of less importance to him than the heroine in this case, and once he had seen the maid hastily flee the area, the duke's son turned around to see the heroine having run off somewhere else. Though he'd have liked to gauge what her personality was \"actually\" like, the possibility of her trying to raise some flags with him was not zero... Which itself would have been more annoying to manage than he would have liked.\n\nNo matter, then; he'd have the next few years to see what she would attempt to do. For the moment, it seemed more prudent to leave the courtyard and... Well, find Mella, if anything. Given how he had sent her off earlier to scout the markets to make sure she had groceries for the two of them (as he was less inclined to eat at the cafeteria to begin with) and how she hadn't actually returned yet, the young man reasoned that she was likely still there, and so promptly started to leave the area once more to seek her out.\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nDespite having had a teacher right beside him as he passed out, it did not seem as if anyone had immediately moved to help Noctis. Whether or not it was because of the chaos of the courtyard as the students left (or chose to linger) or something else mattered little, though, as it seemed at least one student was willing to extend their hand to aid the young man.\n\nAnne's hasty arrival coupled with an attempt to help drag Noctis off the ground was a bit less successful at first, mostly in part due to her lacking the strength to do so. It was only after a bit of struggling, though, that the young woman would hear someone else's voice from nearby.\n\n\"Oh, is he all right? Here, let me help; we should bring him to the nurse's office as soon as possible.\"\n\nAlmost as if all of the effort she had put in was meaningless, the owner of the voice lifted Noctis' unconscious body up and slung the young man's arm over his shoulder.\n\n\"Ah... That's a bit heavier than expected. Would you mind helping me out here, miss?\"\n\nThe young man who had moved to help, of course, would have given Anne even more reason to panic. His golden blonde hair and aura of regality marked him as none other than one Christopher Alvonshire—in other words, the First Prince.\n\n@MagusDream", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "\"Yes, all has been well so far at the academy, though... I do dread the speech next year. He has a way of dragging it on and on.\" Serrica gave a small sigh as the older girl asked if she had seen a certain brother. \"That cute little brother of yours? Nope. If I hadn't noticed you, there's not much chance I noticed him.\" Serrica mentioned as she looked around the area, seeing if she could get her eyes locked on any hair matching Elastasia's. \"A shame, I could not set my eyes on him for you.\" The taller noble said, her own eyes meeting Elastasia's. \"Perhaps if I find him, I shall tell him you were looking.\"\n\nSerrica started to turn away so she could head off elsewhere before she stopped and quickly turned back towards the shorter girl. \"Oh! And Lady Aquilanne, I plan on holding a tea party sometime soon to celebrate the start of this academic year. The time and date will be scheduled shortly and I will send you a written invitation. Should you find any other influent-- I mean, any other fine ladies of the academy who seem like they could use conne-Friends... Let me know and I will invite them as well.\" \n\nSerrica seemed proud of herself for planning this event, \"You will join me, right?\" Elastasia was the character that seemed to have a thing for girls, or at least the main character, in the original game. Hopefully, it meant that she'd have an eye for girls to invite to such a connection making event.\n\nDaze", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\nWell, at least that was one other person now on the lookout for her brother. That greatly simplified matters, although maybe Elastasia could do something else to help find him in this crowd a little bit faster... if nothing else, a little bit of magic ought to give her a better vantage point to see from, right?\n\nBefore she could do that, there was the little matter of Serrica's tea party to address. It wasn't the sort of thing that Elastasia wanted to attend. All-female or not, it would still just be a party of rich girls, and nobility vying for attention. But... maybe she should keep things moving in the direction of the main story? She hadn't met yet, but if Anne showed up in a magic class before this party, it should be possible to make the beginnings of an invitation and ensure she started to acquire powerful allies before the route splits.\n\nBut she didn't want to go...\n\n\"Oh, I don't know if I could meet many people you haven't,\" she said, resting her hand on her chin, \"The Academy already draws from our typical social circles quite heavily. Your year would be the one most likely to have unfamiliar girls of lower rank.\"", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Mella\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nDefinitely good information, as helpful as she'd imagine such a character to be. She did however, catch herself staring just a little at simply how...different still, he'd be from the in game version. Rather than a faceless NPC, it seemed as though he was still just as real as she was, or even Reginald was. Then perhaps he could potentially help with something else, too? She doubted it since by the second act of the game he was gone, but you miss every opportunity you don't take.\n\n\"I see, thank you. The information is helpful.\" She'd reply. \"But...perhaps if you'd be willing to help with a more personal request,\" She'd lower her voice slightly. \"I'm looking for...investment opportunities.\" She'd pull a coin from somewhere within her dress, holding it between two of her fingers. \"Not for my Lord, mind you. But for myself. I apologize if this is an odd request for a maid, but I simply find myself needing a large sum of money.\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" } ]

[ { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\nWith his business smile still on his face, Cervantes tilted his head forward. \"My apologies for that remark,\" Though both of them knew that what he said was true. If a maid's income was all it took to get into the realm of business, then every servant would be dumping their cash into investment. Nobles were pigs, and the commoners were chickens. One fed with riches while the other couldn't fly off to greater heights. \n\nIf Cervantes heard anything Mella said, he made no effort to show it. \"If that is the case, I wish you a good day, miss.\" With their conversation seemingly over, Cervantes was about to move and then stopped. \"My shop is located nearest to one of the entrances. If there is anything you would like to inquire about, then you can head to my shop.\" With that, he finally turned back and began walking back to his shop. Perhaps he would charge that maid next time for advice.\n\nHe didn't get to meet the heroine, so that meant this reality was a little realistic. While a redundant thought, it still rang true. Not everything was pre-determined, though this was only a slight bit of evidence for that case. \"Though, what should I do...\" Cervantes muttered to himself. It still didn't change the fact that his future was uncertain.\n\nPerhaps it was time for some exploration. Cervantes needed to restock items for his shop, and he needed someone to protect him if the need arose. If he remembered correctly, there was a bulletin board somewhere in the town square. That billboard was a quest-giver to the heroine if she wanted to gain experience. It often involved her helping the people on the school grounds with their errands or dilemmas. He'd just use the billboard to enlist some poor student to follow him around while he collected items.\n\n\"Though what should I give as a reward,\" Cervantes muttered to himself.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\nOh good, he'd slowed down. Excellent, she'd been having to practically jog to keep up and that was undignified and ridiculous. Stupid long-legged giants in a rush, they really didn't appreciate how much of an advantage those legs were in turning a brisk pace into an active workout for everyone else...\n\nMaybe the best accident would be one that took advantage of that? Some sort of magical pit trap; it could be claimed that he was just in too much of a hurry to notice the hole in the ground or something before he fell in, how unfortunate that it happened to be full of deadly venomous snakes. But then she'd need to find a way to acquire snakes on-demand, otherwise it would just be Reginald standing around in the bottom of a pit until someone came along with a ladder.\n\nThe fact that he had replied took her a few seconds to catch up on as she followed along, thinking. \"Um... it's possible, but that doesn't really narrow it down, because I don't think he'd be at all familiar with anywhere I could be in the academy, and there's so many possible places that it would take days to search them...\"\n\nIt was a big place, there were plenty of out-of-the-way corners to sit and read, after all.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nThough he seemed somewhat lost in thought as he proceeded forward, the concerns that Elastasia had were not necessarily ones that Reginald shared... Or, at the very least, not for the same reasons. Regardless of when he was meant to meet the heroine, the fact that he was a capture target to begin with couldn't be ignored...\n\nAnd, as he wished to do for most of the people of concern, Reginald wished to keep tabs on as many of those as possible. The fact that he was also fundamentally tied to one of the best generalist magic units in Cross Heart Academy—in other words, the girl following behind him—only meant that trying to maintain a decent relationship during his time here was of a rather high import.\n\nNot that he shouldn't have already been worrying about such a thing; keeping up airs was rather important despite the \"equal\" footing the school tried to place on them in terms of status.\n\n\"Well, if you are to search, I suppose starting here is as good a place as any,\" he said, the streets abuzz with chatter as the pair walked into the markets proper. \"Though... Hm. That might prove difficult, given the crowds.\"\n\nWith the flow of students constantly shifting about them, it would indeed be rather difficult for anyone to spot anything, regardless of their height—but through the smallest of gaps, a fleeting glimpse of some rather distinctly familiar white hair could be seen before it disappeared back into the sea of people.\n\nDaze\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nWith all of the people moving throughout the marketplace, it was but a given that people would end up bumping into one another on occasion. The streets were not so crowded as to outright hinder movement, but with all of the new students eager to explore the academy's town-within-a-city, it was difficult to not expect at least a little pushing and shoving here and there.\n\nWhat would likely not have been expected to Mella, though, was a full-on collision with a certain overeager white-haired boy. Nary had a moment gone by since Cervantes had said his farewells did the maid find herself run into at full force by the new student. The boy had fared no better, of course; rather than landing on top of her, the momentum he had built up dodging through the crowd had left him unable to properly maintain his balance once he had failed—which, in this case, had led to him rather comically tripping over himself before tumbling onto the ground.\n\n\"...Ow...\" he groaned, slowly pushing himself off the cobblestone below with a few more cuts and bruises than he had moments ago.\n\n@AThousandCurses\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nChristopher looked at Anne with mild surprise at her near-instantaneous declaration to stay behind before smiling and nodding.\n\n\"Your friend is very lucky to have someone so concerned about them at their side. I would certainly like to stay and make sure he is well...\" the prince began to say before shaking his head, \"but I do have other things I need to attend to. We should speak again in the future, though; in the meantime, I hope your time at the academy serves you well.\"\n\nAnd with that, the prince promptly left the room—only for a brief knock on the door and the nurse's motion to open it reveal someone else of import. With a somewhat gloomy atmosphere about him, a young man with dark purple hair walked into the room, a crate of bandages in hand.\n\n\"Master, I've brought the bandages you requested,\" stated one Johan Kyrman, his gaze slowly panning across the room before landing upon both Anne and the unconscious Noctis. \"...I see we already have a patient, though.\"\n\n\"Oh, thank you, Johan! You can put the bandages over there,\" the nurse said, gesturing off to an open area to the side. Though his gaze lingered upon the pair for a moment, the young man simply followed his \"master's\" orders before promptly walking over to the unconscious Noctis and checking the student's temperature and vitals.\n\n\"...Hm. No sign of any irregularities...\" he muttered to himself before turning towards the nurse for a moment, then towards Anne. \"What happened to him?\"\n\nNeedless to say, the nurse's sigh rather than any attempt to stop him would have made it clear that the young man at their side was more than a little \"eccentric\".\n\n@MagusDream", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Mella\n@PKMNB0Y\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n\"Thank you for the help, sir. I shall come inquire again if there is anything I need for the foreseeable tenure of lord Reginalds enrollment in the academy.\" With potential money opportunities possibly gained, she needed to now just come up with a good plan to start saving. Sponsoring someone would certainly be a good idea and could reap great benefits...but that still left the issue of gathering enough capital to do so in the first place.\n\nPerhaps she should approach lord Reginald with an idea of her own...?\n\nHm...if she could get his ear on some inventions from the modern day perhaps she could turn quite a profit indeed...though that meant trying to get him to agree to give her a share of the profits and not take it for himself. So caught up in her thoughts, she was completely surprised as she'd feel someone just run into her.\n\n\"Oh dear-\" She'd exclaim, stumbling backwards and landing a bit awkwardly on her arm, sustaining a few minor scrapes for her troubles herself as she'd sit up, rubbing her arm a bit where she landed on it. \"Haaa, you really should watch where you're going.\" Mella grumbled as she'd get to her feet. \"Are you alright, young sir?\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" } ]

[ { "text": "\"A-ah, er, he fainted, suddenly...\"\n\nOf course. Of course this was a situation where one of the game's love interests walked right in immediately after the other walked out. Why wouldn't her?\n\nThrough her frustration, Anne couldn't help but note to herself that there really wasn't any reason why he wouldn't. This was, after all, where he volunteered. It stood to reason that he'd walk in at some point. But regardless of that, it was still extremely inconvenient for her! This placed her in far too dangerous of a situation, accidentally triggering a flag of some kind would be way too easy! She already had the Crown Prince wanting to talk to her again, which was a difficult request to turn down in a society like this. The last thing she needed was to immediately trigger another flag...\n\nWhich is why she almost audibly sighed in relief when a clear route of escape came. Now that there were people to care for her friend, she didn't have to stick around. And this was Serrica, wasn't she? It was hard not to recognize her given she was usually the heroine's friend in most routes.\n\n\"S-since you're here with the nurse, I feel comfortable leaving hi-eh? Cute? Eh?\"\n\nWait, what?\n\n@Pyromania99", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Noctis Alegretto\nLocation: Starveil Academy - Nurse's Office\nInteractions: Anne (@VitaVitaAR), Serrica (@Pyromania99)\n\n\n---\n\n\nHe twitched his eyes as his consciousness finally returned to him. As he opened his eyes, he saw the roof, reminiscent of a nursery. He didn't look at the sides but was slowly regaining his place.\n\n(D-Did I... fall unconscious?) He thought.\n\nAs he got up and sat on the bed (still not looking at his sides, mind you.), he looked at his hands and moved them, thinking he might have possibly escaped back to wherever he wanted to be, not the actual academy.\n\n(Wait... if I'm in a nursery right now... could it be that it was a dream after all? Was I falling unconscious the key for me to wake up?) He thought.\n\nNoctis' Theme: Berry Berry Cue! (Counter:Side)\n\nAnd then he finally looked at his sides. And the ones standing there weren't his mother, his brother, or any doctors. It was a nurse... Anne Marielle, the heroine... and Serrica Francesca Haldblum, one of the important characters in the story. What this all meant? That he never left Starveil Academy, and was now surrounded by three of the game's biggest characters... as if being one himself wasn't enough.\n\n\"A-Ah... hahaha! I-I'm so sorry for the blunder back at the entrance, I was... just in so much shock for actually being in the a-academy and... t-to start studying that I fell blank... hehe, you know... it happens...\" He said.\n\nThis was his best attempt to be... well, himself. Or who he was right now. After such a slip-up like falling unconscious and probably creating an event that never, ever happened in-game, he had to buckle up and try his very best to not commit these sorts of slip-ups again, for as long as he can to actually survive his new life.\n\n\"I-In any case, I'm... o-once again, I'm sorry for the trouble. This isn't how I wanted the year to start, I swear.\" He said.", "username": "MagusDream", "char_name": "Noctis Alegretto" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nGiven that he was more searching for his maid than Elastasia's brother, Reginald was caught completely off guard when the white-haired girl opted to start pulling him down the street. Though taken aback by the sudden pull, the black-haired student quickly regained his composure and followed his companion's lead without too much hassle.\n\nIt was convenient, then, that finding Terys would also incidentally lead him to Mella. There was a brief moment of contemplation as his eyes glanced at the scene in front of him before a sigh finally escaped his lips.\n\n\"I suppose this works just as well,\" he remarked, nodding towards the smaller boy as he gave his apologies in turn. The humility, at least, was a nice change of pace from some of the more indignant nobles that would frequent social gatherings. \"If that is all, then—\"\n\nThough the black-haired student was apt to take his leave, the sound of some chaos nearby quickly pulled his attention. There were a few more mischeivous students running off in another direction, for what little that was worth, but the real commotion seemed to be coming from where they were running from—that is, to say, the group of shopkeepers and students trying their hardest to catch a few creatures that were scrambling about.\n\n\"...Well. That's... Something,\" Reginald said, frowning as he took a step forward. \"I suppose it's only right to try and help resolve the situation.\"\n\nNot that they really had much of a choice, though—not with a few of the beasts making their way towards them. Whether or not this was event that had occurred in the original work was less relevant now, though, given the absence of the heroine... Though maybe something like this always happened, regardless of what she had chosen to do?\n\nDaze@Rune_Alchemist@AThousandCurses\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\"Suddenly... Fainted? Interesting.\"\n\nThere was a pause as Johan considered Anne's words before he drew back and squinted at the unconscious Noctis.\n\n\"Well, he seems to be in perfect health otherwise. No signs of heatstroke or the like...\"\n\nIt wasn't long after that, though, before the activity within the nurse's office promptly tripled. Another student—this one, with somewhat more tangible injuries—was brought in, which swiftly drew the nurse's attention towards her instead. Following her, of course, was a noble lady of rather noble make, and following that came the revival of the young man whose consciousness had escaped him. Rather than try and make a fuss about things, though, Johan simply stared quietly at the one who had just awoken.\n\n\"...Well, I'm not quite sure that'd be a reason to pass out, but for the moment, I'll not pry further,\" Johan stated before standing up and dusting himself off. \"Though I suppose you should be wary of sleep deprivation regardless; learning is rather difficult without proper sleep... Not that I'm one to talk.\"\n\nRather than linger ere long, though, the nurse's assistant simply made his way back over to what he had been carrying earlier and began to sort what he had out. The other students, he reasoned, could do well enough among themselves; so long as they didn't treat this place like their personal hangout, then he could care less.\n\n@Pyromania99@MagusDream", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Mella\n@PKMNB0Y@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nWait, this was...oh, she recognized this klutz now. One of the capture targets, wasn't he? Mella frowned, just slightly, as she'd consider the implication of this. Was the heroine near? She'd place her hands in front of her, folding them together as she'd behave a bit more maid like both in front of Lord Reginald and...oh dear, was that Elastasia? An interesting development. Terys and Elastasia. What were they doing here? She didn't remember an event like this in the game...\n\n\"Its quite alright. I've suffered worse. Lord Reginald works me so hard for so little pay.\" Mella replied with a mildly dry tone making it a bit difficult to tell if she was joking or not as she'd glance towards Elastasia. \"...is something the matter young miss? I assure you I am fine, though if you'd like to check for injuries I wouldn't mind.\"\n\nA few shouts caught her attention. Chaos in the streets. Some students running from what looked like some sort of petshop? A few creatures were running rampant, and towards them while also running towards them. She couldn't remember an event like this either. Had there been? Irrelevant. Mella's money gears were already turning, and if nothing else Reginald could likely already see little dollar signs in the maids eyes as she was already considering some way to make money from this.\n\n\"I agree with Lord Reginald. T'would be quite a shame to see these little creatures running about and getting hurt.\" She said, while looking for the most exotic and rarest creature she could find.", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" } ]

[ { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\n\"Ah, ha!\" Cervantes to said to no one other than to himself. The net fell upon the enemy and was slammed back to the ground. The creature tried to budge against its restraints, but Cervantes tried his hardest to keep it down. All he needed to do now was bring the creature back to a shopkeeper and cage it up.\n\n\"That was easy.\" He didn't break a sweat, yet, though the critter sure was strong. It took all he had to keep the animal down in his net. Though Cervantes was curious to what he had even caught. Looking down at it made him surprised. It was a wyvern, well to be more precise a wyvern whelp. Creatures with a similar appearance to dragons but more common and less strong than their cousins.\n\nSaid wyvern whelp was now trying break out the net by gnawing it. \"Not today, I'm afraid!\" Cervantes as he shifted the net around. The net entangled the wyvern, but that didn't stop the little thing from being ferocious. It was letting out strange cries as it tried to get out of its trapping.\n\n\"Jessica! Where are the cages!\" Cervantes yelled to his shopkeeper friend.\n\nShe seemed currently preoccupied trying to throw some sort of dust at a boar that was trying to maul her. The boar took a sniff out the dust before promptly going slack on its side. When she was finished, Jessica yelled out, \"Somewhere in there!\" With a gesture she nodded towards the run down store. Then she went back to trying to get more of the creatures.\n\nWas it legal to use unknown substances on animals? Cervantes didn't know and didn't seem to want to as he had a wyvern to pin in. \"Welp, in you go!\" Cervantes said as he dragged the wyvern. Hopefully there was an intact cage for this feisty critter.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" }, { "text": "Mella\n@PKMNB0Y@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nQuite the rambunctious critters, weren't they? Unfortunately for them, they could not escape a talented maids quick hands! She may not have had special powers or magic like Elastasia, but she was no less capable! As the critters were funneled towards them, Mella honed in on the more exotic looking ones and went specifically for those. A lizard like creature that vaguely reminded her of an axolotl was easily dealt with after snatching it from the ground before it could slip through Reginalds feet while he...oh, was that some sort of...holy bird or something?\n\nHer eyes lingered on Reginalds prize for a few moments before she'd tear her eyes away.\n\nShe had and wanted nothing to do with such things. They'd only just get her in trouble. It was a good thing, then, something else else needed her intervention.\n\n\"Humph,\" As the kitten leapt towards Elastasia, it would instead be finding itself face planting right into Mella's bosom as she put herself between the kitten and the mage. \"Its rather impolite to leap at a lady's face.\" She'd scold the kitten, using a free arm to pin it against her body in case it tried struggling.", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\nWhen the kitten--why had a kitten known to go for her? had made that jump--Elastasia reflexively froze up, presenting a harmless and ineffectual target... one that would have been able to do nothing to maintain their little corralling effort. Fortunately for her, the totally-just-a-maid came to her rescue, and the barrier maintained its integrity. Barely; the little jumping trick did cause the entire thing to shimmer ominously before recovering its strength.\n\nHow odd that he'd caught a holy bird, though. Was that even a good thing? It might do... something, when panicked, and it wasn't exactly the holiest of all individuals that had just made a grab for it. Maybe they'd be lucky and it would make a beeline for someone more suitable, even if nobody with the exact magical affinity was in the area.\n\nOf course, her brother now had his hands full, as well as his face. It looked rather like an ordinary puppy. A very large, very affectionate, very slobbery puppy.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Serrica had waited for Noctis to say something but he was rather quiet. \"Well, fine, the boy seems shell-shocked. If you feel better, do follow. Otherwise, girl, I'm going to borrow you for a small bit so the patient can rest.\" With that, Serrica kept hold of Anne's hand and walked out the door with her, leading her to somewhere that wasn't the infirmary. They got out of the building for some fresh air before Serrica stopped and released Anne. She took a breath before she opened her mouth again.\n\n\"Alright then. Now that we can get out from that sterile smelling air, do you not want to work for the quite rich Serrica Francesca Haldblum? I can pay you a potent salary... Hmm...\" She went silent for some seconds as she contemplated something. \"I suppose I have yet to properly introduce myself...\" The noble girl cleared her throat before speaking once more. \"I am the eldest daughter of the Haldblum Duchy, Serrica Francesca Haldblum. May I ask your name and house? Or, lack thereof. Take no offence, but if you are of a noble house I've yet to see you attend to high society functions.\"", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "\"Wait wha-\"\n\nOn one hand it did allow her to escape from one of the romantic interests. On the other, this wasn't anything like anything that had happened in the game. Anne certainly hadn't expected Serrica to go dragging her off like this out of the blue. In fact, none of this behavior seemed like the Serrica she knew from the game at all. Just what was going on? Of course it wasn't that Serrica wasn't wealthy and exuberant but...\n\nMaybe she was just imagining it? Maybe it was just because of how things had already shifted?\n\nAnne wasn't certain, and she didn't really know how to handle a girl just dragging her off in the first place.\n\n\"Er... er... Marielle,\" she managed, when Serrica asked her name. It was more then she'd expected to be dealing with from her already, so it took a moment for her to even begin to articulate herself, \"A-Anne Marielle, er, I guess we just didn't... run into each other...?\"\n\nShe was from a minor house, in any case, so the chances of that were exceptionally high.", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nWith the barrier comparatively unperturbed by the kitten's valiant efforts, the rest of the animals soon found themselves crashing into the magical wall... Or one another. To Reginald, who was watching the whole affair unfold in front of him, the mental image of a nasty pileup quickly came to mind—and a somewhat restrained grimace crossed his face as he turned away from the carnage.\n\n\"I certainly don't envy any of them...\" he remarked to himself as the bird in his hands continued to wriggle and squirm about. Though he could not necessarily see the growing energy it was exuding now, he could certainly feel it now. To that, though, the young man simply chose to maintain his hold on the creature. 'Twas not his place to question why a magical creature was being held here, of course, but as far as he could tell, there was not much amiss about it beyond a slight glow.\n\nThe two more magically-inclined girls in his company would likely be able to tell what was going on to some degree, though, given how the bird seemed to be absorbing energy from the disoriented and injured creatures lying about as the shopekeepers began to gather them back up. By now, the identity of the avian was a bit more obvious to those who had run through this event in the game—the heroine's \"companion\" on the routes more relevant to the church, traveling around and growing alongside her.\n\nUnfortunate, though, that such growth usually required the presence of the injured and pained... Such as those lying around the street right now. Doubly so, of course, when one considered that the bird could hit a critical mass of energy before it reached a new stage in it's growth, as seemed to be fast approaching, and in so doing could cause anything from a shockwave of mana to a pulse of healing energy affecting those who it was nearby to anything in between.\n\nAll the while, though, the kitten that had now been caught in Melia's arms was flailing about, trying it's hardest to push itself free from her grasp. Notably enough, though, it seemed to deliberately not be trying to scratch or bite at her body despite being caught in a rather unbecoming situation... Though for what reason it chose not to do so remained to be seen.\n\nBy this point, though, the shopkeepers had begun to capitalize on the efforts of everyone actively aiding in their efforts to stop the stampede, and more than a few had already begun to bring the creatures splayed out on the streets back to their cages... For better or worse. The wyvern in Cervantes' grasp, for example, continued to struggle away at the net that had wrapped around it's body—or, to be more accurate, the net that it had incidentally wrapped itself up in. But the slight red glow beginning to form from within it's mouth was not exactly a herald of good things to come for anyone left unaware...\n\n@Rune_Alchemist@Raineh Daze", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" } ]

[ { "text": "Mella\n@PKMNB0Y@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nIt seemed though, unless she wanted harm to befall her current employer, it would be best to intervene in some manner. Now, she could do as Elastasia did and simply politely inform him that holding onto a holy hand grenade bird was a bad idea, but on the other hand, that wouldn't be quite as entertaining and there was a chance he would neither hear nor heed those words. So she needed to make him drop it.\n\n\"Lord Reginald.\" She'd simply say in order to get his attention. \"Hold this for me, yes?\" And then promptly grabbed the Axolotl like creature she had in her grasp, and threw it right at Reginald. A totally flawless plan that would certainly get him to drop the bird before anything bad happened. The animal flew through the air with a dopey smile as though it was enjoying the freedom of flying through the air.\n\nWith her other hand, she'd press the kitten a bit harder against her chest, didn't want it getting free and squirming about either.", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "\"Anne Marielle? Hmm... Well, can't say I'm familiar with your house, truth be told. Well, that much can change Lady Anne.\" Serrica said, smiling a small bit. \"You should come join my tea parties and other such affairs. I can assure you that it can only help your family out to be acquainted with the Duchy. Well, our Duchy. Not the other not as important one.\" Serrica mentioned with some small disdain in her voice.\n\nThe daughter of the duke seemed to clear her thoughts rather quickly before shaking her head and turning toward Anne again, \"Well, hiring you aside, you are a new student this year, correct?\" She asked but didn't give time for a response. \"Of course you are. Well, if you need help with anything let me know. I'd be willing to help since I think of it as an investment in human potential.\" The merchant added, not hiding her reasons at all. There was no need to hide it, after all. She had let her intentions be known clear as day. \"Regardless of all that however, let me say that it is a pleasure to meet you.\" She said, offering her hand for a handshake.", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "For several moments, Anne was completely silent. She didn't quite know how to respond to Serrica's offer. Certainly, she was an ally character in the game, but at the same time she didn't remember anything quite happening like this. It didn't seem the same.\n\n\"Er... thank you,\" she said, bowing her head as she reached out to accept the handshake. No matter what else was going on, it was quite a generous offer. Even if it didn't feel anything like the way Serrica felt in the game. Maybe it was just the difference between a video game and reality? That could be the case, but some things had seemed exactly the same as the game while others had diverged.\n\nCertainly, part of this had to just be from different actions taking place causing things to change in different ways. But that couldn't be the only explanation for everything, could it?\n\nIt felt like everything was becoming even more complicated by the second.", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nStill oblivious to the danger within his hands—at least, for the moment—Reginald simply gave Elastasia a look of mild confusion as she warned him about the avian struggling within his grasp.\n\n\"Blow my hands off?\" he asked, glancing down for a moment before shaking his head. \"I can see it glowing a bit, sure, but it's not as if—\"\n\nBut before he could finish his rejection therein, the momentary lapse in attention as he turned towards the maid calling his name followed by the flight of a rather flightless creature towards his face left the young man a victim to his instincts—and in so doing let go of the bird in order to catch the axolotl-like creature hurtling towards his face. It was as much for his sake as it was for the animal's, of course, but the bird that he had taken the pains to catch was now flapping it's wings as it tumbled momentarily through the air.\n\nBut that was for no more than that fleeting moment, though, as the creature swiftly swerved upwards with a flap of it's wings as it dodged the ground. The glow by now had become palpable enough for even Reginald to be aware that it was indeed likely more magical than he had first believed it to be, and the sudden burst of light thereafter after it flew into the center of the would-be helpers caused him to instinctively shield his eyes.\n\nThe light itself seemed to do no damage—quite the opposite, really, as a few of the more disoriented animals at their feet began to regain their bearings—but the bird that was the source of all this seemed to simply fly towards Mella before promptly perching itself in her head. It seemed to be staring daggers at Reginald now, of course, but it at least seemed to not be trying to escape again... For whatever reason that could be.\n\n\"...Well, that's a rather rude bird,\" he remarked, checking on the creature in his hands to see if it had been affected by the bird's magic before promptly handing it off to a nearby shopkeeper. \"But I suppose that if it means to stick around, that's one less problem to worry about.\"\n\nThe kitten, though, seemed far less pleased with the current state of affairs. It was a bit more limp, now, pressed between the maid's hand and chest as ait was, but there was only so much it could attempt to do given the restrictions it seemed to impose upon itself. Surely, a scratch or bite would likely cause her to drop it... But the beast seemed to simply give up and accept it's fate.\n\n\"For what reason would you let loose a bunch of creatures into the area like this, though...?\" Reginald mused to himself as he brushed off some of the dirt on his clothes before turning towards one of the less occupied shopkeepers. \"Could I hear more about the details of this situation, by any chance?\"\n\nThe person in question—a somewhat lanky man in his late thirties—responded with a weak smile and a shrug.\n\n\"I'm sorry, sir; all I can recall were some young men sprinting away before the chaos broke out. I think one of them might've been holding onto something, but...\"\n\n\"A robbery, maybe?\" Reginald responded, arms now folded across his chest in mild concern. \"What sort of idiots would attempt a robbery in broad daylight...?\"\n\nDaze@Rune_Alchemist\n\n\n---\n\n\nThe rather ham-fisted method Cervantes had chosen to get the wyvern out of his hair (or, well, net) drew a bit of an irritated glance from one of the shopkeepers nearest the event, and who, despite seeing everyhing unfold as it did, not not seem particularly pleased with how the wyvern had been lobbed into it's cage.\n\n\"Though I do appreciate the help,\" he began to say as he brought a large hamster-like creature towards it's cage, \"I'd prefer if you didn't damage the merchandise in the process.\"\n\nThere was a pause and a sigh as he stared at the rows of cages—most of which had their doors wide open—before shaking his head.\n\n\"Thousands of coins' worth of merchandise, all for a... Prank? I don't even know at this point...\"\n\nThe exhaustion and mental fatigue were rather evident from his body language alone, but there was only so much the poor man could even attempt to do at this point beyond try to salvage what he could from the mess that had just transpired.\n\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\"I certainly did not expect to see you here of all places, Lady Haldblum. Were the events outside too few and far between to entertain you?\"\n\nAs the conversation between Serrica and Anne found itself coming to a close, a rather dignified-looking young woman with long golden hair walked straight towards the pair. It was a face that Serrica would have grown to known well by this point, and one that would, in a sense, strike fear of a different sort into Anne's heart.\n\nIt was hard, after all, to ignore the main 'love rival' of the crown prince's route—Lilian Meridan, the prince's straight-laced and sharp-tongued childhood friend.\n\nIt almost seemed as if there were sparks flying out of Lilian's eyes as she stared straight into Serrica's eyes before turning towards Anne.\n\n\"...My apologies. I should not be so crass so as to not introduce myself first,\" Lilian said, taking a step back before giving a light curtsy towards the unfamiliar young woman in front of her. \"Lilian Meridan, the daughter of His Royal Highness' chief advisor Byron Meridan. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance.\"\n\nOnce she had spoken her piece, though, Lilian simply turned back towards Serrica with a look of mild contempt.\n\n\"I suppose that matching your refined tastes would have been a rather daunting task to begin with regardless,\" she remarked with a shake of her head. \"How unfortunate.\"\n\nThe thinly-veiled venom Lilian's words was almost palpable as she continued staring Serrica dead-on, her gaze unflinching as she continued staring the woman opposite her down.\n\n\"To be quite honest, I'm quite surprised to even see you here in the first place. I would have thought you would have better things to do with your time than stroll down the hallways making small talk with the new students.\"\n\n@VitaVitaAR", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" } ]

[ { "text": "Elastasia\n\n\"Oh dear, the holy bird seems to like you...\" Elastasia stated, watching the bird's choice of perch curiously. Was this information actually significant to any of the world's normal inhabitants? It could be mere happenstance that Mella was more appealing than any of the others around here--being marginally holier than a bunch of merchants and nobles might not be considered much of an achievement--but at the same time, it was a very definite preference...\n\nOr maybe that was merely confirmation bias speaking. She knew why it was so attracted, therefore, to her, it was obvious. If she started acting on all the game knowledge to any real end, though, she'd get a reputation for uncanny prescience that would give out in such a short span of time, that would be quite annoying. And she really needed to start with something big before attention came to her, like making sure Reginald didn't go off and cause problems.\n\nMaybe if he was encouraged to collect rare animals, they wouldn't need to depend on the Heroine's whims? That derpy-looking creature would be a good start.\n\nAnd maybe one of the shopkeepers would get that dog off her brother. He wouldn't have anywhere to keep such a pet, no matter how friendly it was.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Mella\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n\"I'll send you an invoice for saving your arm later.\" Mella confidently stated with her usual neutral expression. Now the only thing was to get away before the bird did anything like give any sign that she knew exactly what was going on or that the bird somehow decided to stay with her.\n\nShe felt a set of bird feet perch on her head.\n\n\"Shoo, bird.\" She'd say, making an attempt at waving the bird off. She had no desire to get caught up with any holy creature unless said holy creature was worth the entirety of the country in its net worth that she could sell or profit from. More importantly though, was the little kitten that had accepted its fate, it seemed. She'd relax her grip on it just slightly, adjusting so she could hold it a little better and more comfortably with it resting on her shoulder instead of being firmly pressed against her. \"More importantly...for helping you catch these runaway animals, I believe fair compensation is in order, sir?\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "\"...\"\n\nAh.\n\nAh.\n\nShe wasn't ready to deal with this. There was no way she was prepared to deal with this situation.\n\nAnne had prepared herself as quickly as possible to deal with meeting a variety of characters, but this was almost on par with meeting one of the potential capture targets.\n\nThe villainess.\n\nLilian Meridan.\n\nHow did she respond to this situation?! What did she do!? She wasn't planning on trying to pursue the crown prince(hell no in fact) but that didn't mean there wasn't the potential for disaster brewing.\n\nDid she just introduce herself? It already seemed like Serrica was provoking her. Wasn't that a really bad idea?! She didn't need to be wrapped up in a scenario like this when she was still trying to figure something out?\n\nFrazzled was the best description for the expression on Anne's face.\n\n\"N-nice to meet you,\" she managed, curtsying and trying not to acknowledge the obvious provocation occurring beside her, \"I-I'm Anne. Her, Anne Marielle! ... Daughter, er, daughter of Lord Marielle... er...\"\n\nThe anxiety had made her stumble over herself.\n\nThis was a mess.\n\n@PKMNB0Y", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nCurious though he was about whatever had sparked this incident in the first place, Reginald reminded himself that, at the end of the day, there were other matters to worry about over investigating the circumstances that had kept everyone here to begin with. With that being said, though, it wasn't as if he could tell as if these events were predetermined or not to begin with. He had little memory of any events like this while proceeding through the game, but at this point, chasing after a dangling thread on his first day here in hopes that it would lead to other issues seemed a bit...\n\nFrivolous? Yes, frivolous was the word. He needed information first and foremost, not instinctual hunches.\n\n\"...Well, there were surely other witnesses. Hopefully those with more authority will find the ones responsible,\" he said, shrugging his shoulders as he glanced towards his maid. Being the person she usually was, of course, his servant requested recompense—one that he was less willing to give due to the bird that seemed to be gravitating towards her, granted, but what she had done otherwise at least warranted some minor bonus.\n\n\"If you wish to bill me, I will, of course, review the costs,\" he remarked back, watching as Mella attempted to get the bird off of her head. A small smirk crossed his face as he watched the bird flit about, dodging the maid's hands as it flew into the air for a moment... Before promptly returning to sit atop her head.\n\n\"Would you prefer I purchased that bird for you? Or, rather, maybe I should do so regardless...\" he joked before taking a step to the side as a few more shopkeepers—and, now, some more willing volunteers—began to carry the rattled animals back to whence they came.\n\nWalking back towards Elastasia and Terys, though, the black-haired student noted that the latter was still wrestling with a rather large puppy, which seemed to have taken to him as much as the bird had to his maid. Whether or not he wanted to be pinned to the ground and licked over and over was not necessarily his jurisdiction, of course, but given that it seemed to have been going on for long enough for the boy to try (and fail) to push him off...\n\nWell, it only seemed right to step in and assist.\n\nWith a sigh, Reginald leaned over and wrapped both of his arms around the dog before prying it away from Terys, the beast notably heavier than it seemed to be at first glance.\n\n\"I am... Surprised they could keep this thing to begin with,\" he said, some strain evident on his face as the dog shook about in his arms. \"Rather friendly, it seems—for better or worse.\"\n\nDaze@Rune_Alchemist\n\n---\n\n\nThe older man stared at Cervantes for a moment before shaking his head and sighing.\n\n\"Jacob Verdan. As for recovering what was lost, well...\"\n\nThere was a moment as he trailed off before glancing at the people bringing the animals back over to the shop.\n\n\"...I suppose that can wait until after I've taken inventory. There are a fair number of creatures I need to make sure are all right... Assuming that they've been captured,\" he remarked, shoulders slumped as he moved to take a snakelike creature off of a young man's hands. \"If there is anything missing, though... Well, depending on what it is, I might have to take you up on your offer.\"\n\nBy now, more of those animals were starting to be brought back in, whether in makeshift containers or in the hands of someone... Or, in some cases, hanging off of a limb with their mouths firmly latched on. It was a comical sight, to be sure, but the sheer quantity of the animals in question made this a far less entertaining matter for the man who had to worry about them to begin with.\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nLilian seemed to physically recoil as Serrica stepped forward and said her piece, though she made an honest attempt at trying to mask her displeasure with the noblewoman's words and actions in the process. The young woman seemed to be suppressing the urge to simply respond to the provocations of the greedy woman in front of her, but it was difficult for her to not try and create space between herself and Serrica as the latter moved closer to her.\n\n\"My feeling towards Chr-the Crown Prince have nothing to do with this matter. Regardless, I would sooner bite my own tongue off than deal with you alone for a night,\" the young woman responded, a frown on her face as she let out a brief sigh before turning towards the stammering young lady caught up in this mess. There was a pause, of course, as she listened to the nervous attempt at an introduction before sighing.\n\n\"No need to feel so alarmed, Miss Marielle,\" Lilian said, a businesslike smile crossing her face as if her prior reaction towards Serrica did not exist moments prior. \"Though our stations may differ, we are all students here. Though...\"\n\nThere was a pause as the blonde-haired girl threw a passing glance towards Serrica before continuing.\n\n\"...I worry some people here may treat this school as a hunting ground of sorts rather than a place of learning. In any case, I suppose I should ask what you were doing here, given that there isn't exactly much to do within the building at the moment—especially not at this time of day.\"\n\n@VitaVitaAR", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" } ]

[ { "text": "Starveil AcademySchool Courtyard\nWith nary a cloud in the sky, the grounds of Starveil Academy were abuzz with activity. The arrival of spring always brought with it a plethora of new students from both near and far, all clamoring for the prestige of attending. Such was the fame of this storied old school, nestled comfortably in the middle of the nation of Haldia; after all, a school for the elite had to be the best of the best. Be they upcoming talents sponsored by their patrons or students carrying the hopes and dreams of their predecessors, the students arriving here today would very well pave the path towards the future.\n\nThe first thing everyone had been directed to do, of course, was to head towards the courtyard for the entrance ceremony. Were the weather less favorable, it likely would have been the grand auditorium that such a ceremony was held within; with the spring flowers in full bloom, however, it seemed much more apt to herald the arrival of a new generation of students surrounded by them.\n\nSeated as they were at the front near the podium that had been set up by the faculty, the newer students could be seen awash in a variety of emotions—anxiety, hope, excitement, and many more—as the headmaster, an older man with what could only be described as salt-and-pepper hair trimmed to perfection, took to the stage. There was a pause as a magical insignia formed underneath him, barely visible to the naked eye, but as he spoke, the reason for it became clear. Voice amplification magic, after all, would allow him to speak to everyone without exerting himself.\n\n\"Ahem. To the new students of Starveil Academy: I formally welcome you to our hallowed grounds for the years to come. As you all know, my name is William Augustine Hadforth III, and I am the headmaster of our esteemed academy. For generations...\"\n\nAnd thus the speech began. The relaxing atmosphere coupled with the somewhat long-winded speech continued on and on, and more than a few of the older students in the back were close to dozing off... Had they chosen to attend in the first place. But eventually, the older man's speech came to an end, and the students present given free rein to do as they wished before classes began. To socialize, return to their newfound dorms for the coming years, or whatever else they had in mind... So long as it was within reason, of course.\n\nReginald von Afah\n\"I suppose that took long enough,\" muttered one young man as he stood up from his seat. His long black hair, usually left somewhat untidy, had been pulled back into a ponytail for the ceremony. As the son of a duke, he had to at least attempt to put up appearances for days like these.\n\nThankfully, his maid had him more than covered for formal situations like these.\n\nSubtly rolling his shoulders as he stretched his limbs, Reginald von Afah took a moment to scan over his surroundings—though, to be more specific, he was on the lookout for anyone \"of note\". As this was the first day at Starveil Academy, the 'heroine' was bound to appear, as were the rest of the cast that he could remember. There were vaguely familiar faces abound, but for the most part they seemed to mostly blend together. The \"standouts\" were likely swept up in the wave of students moving to and fro, even despite their standout appearances...\n\nBut soon enough, the young man chose to simply worry about trying to find those who were relevant to his interests at a later time. For the moment, Reginald would simply begin to leave the courtyard, crowded with clusters of students new and old as it was. While there was nothing to be \"immediately\" settled, getting caught up in some of the 'opening' events of the first day did not seem particularly enticing to him in the least.\n\nHopefully that same maid hadn't gotten herself wrapped up in anything in the interim...", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\nToday was the entrance ceremony. The time and day the heroine would finally arrive at the school and begin her journey. An epic tale that entranced many who played Cross Heart Academy. Too bad, before he died, Cervantes wasn't too invested in the story. After his first few playthroughs, Cervantes ended up skipping the cutscenes unless they were mandatory. \n\nThough, unlike the heroine, Cervantes couldn't attend the speech. It was because he was here as a merchant rather than the majority of people who were students. Apparently, before transmigrating into this body, Cervantes decided to set up shop after getting permission from the school. \n\n\"Hey, Cervantes!\" The merchant's eyes darted towards the voices that called him from a stall. To be precise, it was one of the shop NPCs, 'Joe Smith. Cervantes smiled and waved back at the man before continuing his walk. Despite spending some time inside this 'game,' it felt weird. Everything was life-like in comparison to playing it on a screen. The many background character had a life that a console couldn't replicate.\n\nWaving at another shopkeeper, Cervantes stopped nearby a fountain. The pristine and clear water reflected an unfamiliar face. Taking a bronze coin out of the pouch, Cervantes tossed it into the fountain. \"Please give me good fortune,\" Cervantes muttered to himself. He needed it. When he first woke up as the nameless shopkeeper, Cervantes couldn't tell if this was a weird dream. He still needed to get over the fact that he was inside the game.\n\nNow that the game was his reality, was he supposed to treat it as a game or as his new reality? Such a conundrum greatly confused Cervantes. \n\n\"Though, that'll have to wait,\" Cervantes muttered. Depending on how things went in the future, he'd react accordingly. The first on his agenda was to deal with his first task—the Heroine. After the entrance ceremony speech, the heroine, Anne Marielle, would explore the school. It didn't matter in what order she visited, but she would show up at the shopping area of the school.\n\nFrom there, the shopkeeper, Cervantes, would lead the heroine around and show the shops. There was a 100% chance of the meeting happening in the game because it was a tutorial, but if this were slightly realistic, there wouldn't be a need to meet each other. The heroine could explore by herself without his help. \n\n\"Though what if I do meet the heroine?\" If that were the case, then the odds of this being a simulated game would increase by a margin. Not to mention what if the heroine was controlled by a player? Would the heroine speak as some sort of vessel for the player? So many questions, but answers. Regardless, Cervantes resolved to talk to the heroine if the case arose.\n\nHis life was at stake, after all.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" } ]

[ { "text": "Elastasia\n\n\"Eep!\" All pretences of maintaining an elegant, noble facade were driven out of Elastasia with the collision, the meek squeak being followed up by a dejected pout at being literally overlooked in such a manner. Of course she was small, even smaller than her last go around at life, but that didn't excuse missing her entirely; it was a sunny day, surely all her hair caught the light at least a little bit...\n\nFor all her magical ability, she was fairly sure that she hadn't yet developed the ability to summon people with the force of her thoughts alone. Yet, here was the one of the obvious deviations from the game in the flesh--considerably more self-interested, for one, and with a rather curious interest in surrounding herself with pretty girls in social situations, even though one might expect a noble of her station to seek out promising heirs at this stage. Albeit, the world of Cross Heart Academy hadn't been so fleshed out as to cover every character's private life in detail, and that may just have been Elastasia's own inclinations colouring her perceptions, but it seemed another odd point to the list.\n\n\"I am quite well, Lady Haldblum. Aside from out most estimable headmaster's speeches, I trust that the academy has been to your liking thus far?\" she replied, looking up at the brunette. Oh, that was another change; she seemed to e starting to grow it out. That was a shame, although longer hair could certainly frame that figure nicely. \"Have you seen Terys, perchance? I was looking for him after the ceremony...\"", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Was that a maid, calling to her? But why? She didn't know any maids? Her family only had one, and this definitely wasn't her so-\n\nAnne paused, staring in mute shock at the sight of the boy who had suddenly approached and hauled the maid to her feet.\n\nThere was no way she'd fail to recognize him. That was one of the capture targets, Reginald von Afah.\n\nIn other words, one of the people she wanted to interact with the least. There was no way she was going to approach the maid at all when he was around. It didn't matter what he was doing or saying, all that mattered is escaping from this situation as quickly as possible.\n\nTurning on her heel and doing her best to vanish into the crowd, Anne was almost immediately encountered with the sight of another familiar but far less worrisome face.\n\nNoctis Algretto was a boy, but he didn't have any flags. He was just a friend. She already knew him, in fact, and that made the fact he had just collapsed was an excellent excuse to get out of the courtyard and to somewhere less exposed as quickly as possible. Not to mention the fact that he'd just collapsed, someone had to help him!\n\n\"Ah, I... I should g-get you to the nurse's office!\"\n\nEscape as quickly as possible, make sure Noctis was okay. That was the plan in Anne's mind.\n\n@Crusader Lord@PKMNB0Y", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nOnce confronted by Reginald about her actions, the maid's face seemed to pale and her body seemed to shrink down in fear. The hasty apology that followed from her was followed by a simple wave from Reginald, though, as if to disregard the situation entirely. It was better to chastise lightly than to let someone lose their job (or possily more) over something like this.\n\nBut the matter regarding the maid was of less importance to him than the heroine in this case, and once he had seen the maid hastily flee the area, the duke's son turned around to see the heroine having run off somewhere else. Though he'd have liked to gauge what her personality was \"actually\" like, the possibility of her trying to raise some flags with him was not zero... Which itself would have been more annoying to manage than he would have liked.\n\nNo matter, then; he'd have the next few years to see what she would attempt to do. For the moment, it seemed more prudent to leave the courtyard and... Well, find Mella, if anything. Given how he had sent her off earlier to scout the markets to make sure she had groceries for the two of them (as he was less inclined to eat at the cafeteria to begin with) and how she hadn't actually returned yet, the young man reasoned that she was likely still there, and so promptly started to leave the area once more to seek her out.\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nDespite having had a teacher right beside him as he passed out, it did not seem as if anyone had immediately moved to help Noctis. Whether or not it was because of the chaos of the courtyard as the students left (or chose to linger) or something else mattered little, though, as it seemed at least one student was willing to extend their hand to aid the young man.\n\nAnne's hasty arrival coupled with an attempt to help drag Noctis off the ground was a bit less successful at first, mostly in part due to her lacking the strength to do so. It was only after a bit of struggling, though, that the young woman would hear someone else's voice from nearby.\n\n\"Oh, is he all right? Here, let me help; we should bring him to the nurse's office as soon as possible.\"\n\nAlmost as if all of the effort she had put in was meaningless, the owner of the voice lifted Noctis' unconscious body up and slung the young man's arm over his shoulder.\n\n\"Ah... That's a bit heavier than expected. Would you mind helping me out here, miss?\"\n\nThe young man who had moved to help, of course, would have given Anne even more reason to panic. His golden blonde hair and aura of regality marked him as none other than one Christopher Alvonshire—in other words, the First Prince.\n\n@MagusDream", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "\"Yes, all has been well so far at the academy, though... I do dread the speech next year. He has a way of dragging it on and on.\" Serrica gave a small sigh as the older girl asked if she had seen a certain brother. \"That cute little brother of yours? Nope. If I hadn't noticed you, there's not much chance I noticed him.\" Serrica mentioned as she looked around the area, seeing if she could get her eyes locked on any hair matching Elastasia's. \"A shame, I could not set my eyes on him for you.\" The taller noble said, her own eyes meeting Elastasia's. \"Perhaps if I find him, I shall tell him you were looking.\"\n\nSerrica started to turn away so she could head off elsewhere before she stopped and quickly turned back towards the shorter girl. \"Oh! And Lady Aquilanne, I plan on holding a tea party sometime soon to celebrate the start of this academic year. The time and date will be scheduled shortly and I will send you a written invitation. Should you find any other influent-- I mean, any other fine ladies of the academy who seem like they could use conne-Friends... Let me know and I will invite them as well.\" \n\nSerrica seemed proud of herself for planning this event, \"You will join me, right?\" Elastasia was the character that seemed to have a thing for girls, or at least the main character, in the original game. Hopefully, it meant that she'd have an eye for girls to invite to such a connection making event.\n\nDaze", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" } ]

[ { "text": "Mella\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nDefinitely good information, as helpful as she'd imagine such a character to be. She did however, catch herself staring just a little at simply how...different still, he'd be from the in game version. Rather than a faceless NPC, it seemed as though he was still just as real as she was, or even Reginald was. Then perhaps he could potentially help with something else, too? She doubted it since by the second act of the game he was gone, but you miss every opportunity you don't take.\n\n\"I see, thank you. The information is helpful.\" She'd reply. \"But...perhaps if you'd be willing to help with a more personal request,\" She'd lower her voice slightly. \"I'm looking for...investment opportunities.\" She'd pull a coin from somewhere within her dress, holding it between two of her fingers. \"Not for my Lord, mind you. But for myself. I apologize if this is an odd request for a maid, but I simply find myself needing a large sum of money.\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\nWait, what did the maid just ask him? Investment opportunities? Did that even exist in a maid's vocabulary? Regardless, Cervantes was pleasantly surprised by the maid's question. \"Investment opportunities, well...\" Cervantes trailed off in thought. Why would a maid, especially Reginald's maid, want to find investment opportunities? This didn't happen in-game, no matter how many times he played it. Perhaps this was some information he missed or skipped through while playing the game. \n\nStill, the tutorial NPC, Cervantes, helped the heroine in whatever she asked. Things like where to find magic, what would the next event be, how to get away with murder, and places where a dragon egg might be...\n\nWait, how to get away with murder!?\n\nA chill went down his spine as he smiled at the maid. \"If you wanted my personal opinion, I'd say the potion business. They're very profitable and a necessity for adventurers. I heard that they sometimes make potions to help with illnesses as well.\" That was according to Cervantes's experience and some truth of the old world. Most hospitals were owned by wealthy CEOs, though Cervantes didn't know if the same applied to this world. It probably did, but he would need to do more research. \"Though that wouldn't work...\" Cervantes muttered to himself.\n\n\"If you wanted a more concrete answer, I'd need more information,\" Cervantes said to the maid. \"Like how profitable they are, how easy is it to create a company in that business? Could you substitute that business with a different one?\" That was better than asking for an overview of multiple industries. \"I think you should start off with the question, 'which business do you want to invest in?' That way, I can tell whether or not it's a good investment.\" If the maid could narrow down the possibilities for him, that'd be great.\n\n\"Though there seems to be a problem with your question.\" A deflated look appeared on his face. \"I mean no offense, but as a maid, your income would be low, no?\" The maid in front of him could be a former noble that decided to serve another noble, but Cervantes felt like that wasn't the case. \"It'd be hard to otherwise invest if you don't have enough money to compete with other merchants.\" After all, the more money invested, the more money is gained back.\n\n\"Though, I guess if you really wanted to invest, you'd be better off trying to find an inventor. Though those are often diamond in the rough.\" In a realistic sense, Cervantes was right. Inventors took a long time to create life-changing inventions, like the light bulb, for example, and they might be frauds if they fail. As a player, Cervantes had done it multiple times. In the investment part, he had the heroine invest in several businesses he knew that had a high rate of profitability. However, Cervantes felt guilty for that one artist in whom he often invested. In every playthrough, that artist would always follow Van Gogh's path. That artist could only find success in death...\n\nA somber look briefly appeared on Cervantes's face as he was lost in thought. \"Is there anything else I can help you with?\"", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" }, { "text": "Serrica smiled, looking Elastasia in the eyes. \"Lady Aquilanne, there's an untapped market of young ladies come in stock just recently and, pardon my words, you could more easily fit in with that lot than your own.\" It would be interesting to see the high ranking noble and third year getting along with first years as if they were her age. \"Perhaps you'll find some girl you're quite taken with in the newer students. They say love blossoms at the Academy.\" Of course, Serrica was referencing the Heroine and Elastasia's relationship in the original story.\n\n\"And if you do, never forget your friend who suggested to look around~\" With that, Serrica smiled and turned around. \"I'll let that brother of yours know you're looking for him if I see him. Until next time, Lady Aquilanne.\"\n\nThis time, Serrica truly did walk away confidently. If she had any more immediate plans, she didnt let on. In truth, she was curious if she could at least spot the Heroine and make note of her personality. She had no personal servant to snoop for her on campus at the moment. Perhaps she would need to send a letter back home and request someone skilled.", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "Oh, good, someone had come to help her. She wasn't used to the body of a teenaged girl, and hauling off the unconscious boy had been far more difficult then she'd thought. But with some assistance, she'd be able to get him to the Nurse's office without hurting hi-\n\nOh.\n\nThe moment her eyes fell upon her assistant, Anne realized precisely who it was she was looking at. There was no mistaking him. No denying it. Of all the people who had come to her aid, it had to be one of them. Not just one of them, but this one.\n\nIn the end, she supposed it made sense. Helping someone in need would totally attract the attention of somebody like him.\n\nBut that didn't make it better. That didn't help in the least.\n\nIf glimpsing von Afah wasn't bad enough, she'd just run headlong into the Crown Prince himself.\n\nShe could practically feel sweat dripping from her forehead her lips shut firmly as she vibrated in place slightly.\n\nWhat did she do? How did she respond? She couldn't trip any flags, she couldn't! She didn't want to start heading down anyone any routes at all! What did she say?!\n\n\"HAAAH!\"\n\n... Probably not that.\n\nClearing her throat and trying to stop her head from swimming so much(not to mention screaming suddenly in the middle of the courtyard was embarrassing), Anne tried to compose herself.\n\nAct normal.\n\nAct natural.\n\nTreat it as a passing meeting and move on.\n\nThat's all she had to do.\n\n\"L-let's... hurry to the nurse's office, then...!\"\n\n@MagusDream", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" } ]

[ { "text": "\"Noctis is my friend,\" began Anne, almost immediately. Not only because of the fact she was genuinely concerned with the state of the young man(she did actually know him, and he had suddenly fainted), but also because this was an excellent way to escape spending any more time with the Prince then absolutely necessary. She didn't need any elaborate excuse, she didn't even need to do anything particularly special.\n\nAll she had to do was what she already wanted to do, which was make sure that a friend of hers was okay.\n\nIt was a relief. A true relief that it was this easy to escape a flag.\n\n\"So, I need to make sure he's okay,\" she insisted, nodding her head as she did, looking the unconscious boy over. What had happened to him? She didn't remember anything like this happening in the game. Of course, now that this was all real, things didn't necessarily need to go exactly as they did in Cross Heart Academy. But at the same time, it only stood to reason that knowledge of the game's story could inform her of what could happen.\n\nShe didn't remember Noctis being sick, or nervous. And when she had spoken with him prior, she didn't remember him behaving like he felt at all unwell in any way. Neither her knowledge of the world as it was now nor her knowledge of the game explained the boy's sudden collapse.\n\nWhich made it all the more concerning.\n\n@MagusDream", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Mella\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n\"Potions, hm...quite lucrative indeed.\" A fairly easy and common way of getting money, really. It certainly wouldn't be too difficult if rules followed the same way alchemy happened in the game. Still...she lacked any actual alchemical skill herself, and didn't fancy learning truth be told. It'd be a lot of work, trial and error...haaa, she didn't mind hard work but she really didn't want more work. Still, maybe she could sponsor someone -\n\n\"Ah.\" Cervantes hit the nail right on the head. \"How rude. I would like to inform you lord Reginald and the Von Afah family reward their maids with quite adequate pay.\" She'd respond. Well, she certainly liked getting paid more, but there was no need to start saying that the Von Afah family went around paying their maids barely enough to live on. \"Still...mhm, you're not incorrect. I find myself needing quite a lot of money for certain personal reasons I am not at liberty to divulge.\" Mella's expression remained neutral and unreadable as she'd bow lightly. \"Even if I were to invest in an inventor, that requires some form of capital to start with...haaa...\" her unreadable expression shifted just slightly to one of mild annoyance. \"Everything always comes back to money, doesn't it? Needing more to even get more...maybe I should just commit embezzlement or tax evasion and move Von Afah's funds to some island out of the country...\"\n\nHer voice trailed off for a few moments before she'd cough, shaking her head.\n\n\"...apologies, I should finish the shopping before lord Reginald starts wondering where I've gone.\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\nWith his business smile still on his face, Cervantes tilted his head forward. \"My apologies for that remark,\" Though both of them knew that what he said was true. If a maid's income was all it took to get into the realm of business, then every servant would be dumping their cash into investment. Nobles were pigs, and the commoners were chickens. One fed with riches while the other couldn't fly off to greater heights. \n\nIf Cervantes heard anything Mella said, he made no effort to show it. \"If that is the case, I wish you a good day, miss.\" With their conversation seemingly over, Cervantes was about to move and then stopped. \"My shop is located nearest to one of the entrances. If there is anything you would like to inquire about, then you can head to my shop.\" With that, he finally turned back and began walking back to his shop. Perhaps he would charge that maid next time for advice.\n\nHe didn't get to meet the heroine, so that meant this reality was a little realistic. While a redundant thought, it still rang true. Not everything was pre-determined, though this was only a slight bit of evidence for that case. \"Though, what should I do...\" Cervantes muttered to himself. It still didn't change the fact that his future was uncertain.\n\nPerhaps it was time for some exploration. Cervantes needed to restock items for his shop, and he needed someone to protect him if the need arose. If he remembered correctly, there was a bulletin board somewhere in the town square. That billboard was a quest-giver to the heroine if she wanted to gain experience. It often involved her helping the people on the school grounds with their errands or dilemmas. He'd just use the billboard to enlist some poor student to follow him around while he collected items.\n\n\"Though what should I give as a reward,\" Cervantes muttered to himself.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" } ]

[ { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nThough he seemed somewhat lost in thought as he proceeded forward, the concerns that Elastasia had were not necessarily ones that Reginald shared... Or, at the very least, not for the same reasons. Regardless of when he was meant to meet the heroine, the fact that he was a capture target to begin with couldn't be ignored...\n\nAnd, as he wished to do for most of the people of concern, Reginald wished to keep tabs on as many of those as possible. The fact that he was also fundamentally tied to one of the best generalist magic units in Cross Heart Academy—in other words, the girl following behind him—only meant that trying to maintain a decent relationship during his time here was of a rather high import.\n\nNot that he shouldn't have already been worrying about such a thing; keeping up airs was rather important despite the \"equal\" footing the school tried to place on them in terms of status.\n\n\"Well, if you are to search, I suppose starting here is as good a place as any,\" he said, the streets abuzz with chatter as the pair walked into the markets proper. \"Though... Hm. That might prove difficult, given the crowds.\"\n\nWith the flow of students constantly shifting about them, it would indeed be rather difficult for anyone to spot anything, regardless of their height—but through the smallest of gaps, a fleeting glimpse of some rather distinctly familiar white hair could be seen before it disappeared back into the sea of people.\n\nDaze\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nWith all of the people moving throughout the marketplace, it was but a given that people would end up bumping into one another on occasion. The streets were not so crowded as to outright hinder movement, but with all of the new students eager to explore the academy's town-within-a-city, it was difficult to not expect at least a little pushing and shoving here and there.\n\nWhat would likely not have been expected to Mella, though, was a full-on collision with a certain overeager white-haired boy. Nary had a moment gone by since Cervantes had said his farewells did the maid find herself run into at full force by the new student. The boy had fared no better, of course; rather than landing on top of her, the momentum he had built up dodging through the crowd had left him unable to properly maintain his balance once he had failed—which, in this case, had led to him rather comically tripping over himself before tumbling onto the ground.\n\n\"...Ow...\" he groaned, slowly pushing himself off the cobblestone below with a few more cuts and bruises than he had moments ago.\n\n@AThousandCurses\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nChristopher looked at Anne with mild surprise at her near-instantaneous declaration to stay behind before smiling and nodding.\n\n\"Your friend is very lucky to have someone so concerned about them at their side. I would certainly like to stay and make sure he is well...\" the prince began to say before shaking his head, \"but I do have other things I need to attend to. We should speak again in the future, though; in the meantime, I hope your time at the academy serves you well.\"\n\nAnd with that, the prince promptly left the room—only for a brief knock on the door and the nurse's motion to open it reveal someone else of import. With a somewhat gloomy atmosphere about him, a young man with dark purple hair walked into the room, a crate of bandages in hand.\n\n\"Master, I've brought the bandages you requested,\" stated one Johan Kyrman, his gaze slowly panning across the room before landing upon both Anne and the unconscious Noctis. \"...I see we already have a patient, though.\"\n\n\"Oh, thank you, Johan! You can put the bandages over there,\" the nurse said, gesturing off to an open area to the side. Though his gaze lingered upon the pair for a moment, the young man simply followed his \"master's\" orders before promptly walking over to the unconscious Noctis and checking the student's temperature and vitals.\n\n\"...Hm. No sign of any irregularities...\" he muttered to himself before turning towards the nurse for a moment, then towards Anne. \"What happened to him?\"\n\nNeedless to say, the nurse's sigh rather than any attempt to stop him would have made it clear that the young man at their side was more than a little \"eccentric\".\n\n@MagusDream", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Mella\n@PKMNB0Y\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n\"Thank you for the help, sir. I shall come inquire again if there is anything I need for the foreseeable tenure of lord Reginalds enrollment in the academy.\" With potential money opportunities possibly gained, she needed to now just come up with a good plan to start saving. Sponsoring someone would certainly be a good idea and could reap great benefits...but that still left the issue of gathering enough capital to do so in the first place.\n\nPerhaps she should approach lord Reginald with an idea of her own...?\n\nHm...if she could get his ear on some inventions from the modern day perhaps she could turn quite a profit indeed...though that meant trying to get him to agree to give her a share of the profits and not take it for himself. So caught up in her thoughts, she was completely surprised as she'd feel someone just run into her.\n\n\"Oh dear-\" She'd exclaim, stumbling backwards and landing a bit awkwardly on her arm, sustaining a few minor scrapes for her troubles herself as she'd sit up, rubbing her arm a bit where she landed on it. \"Haaa, you really should watch where you're going.\" Mella grumbled as she'd get to her feet. \"Are you alright, young sir?\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\nAs Cervantes bid the maid farewell, he heard the sound of crashing from behind him. It couldn't have been more than a few seconds when they decided to part ways. What could have happened in that short period? With his curiosity getting the better of him and no sense of urgency, Cervantes turned back around to see the maid and an unfamiliar student laying on the ground. It didn't exactly take a genius to tell what had happened.\n\n\"Are you two alright?\" Cervantes said as he walked over. He lent a hand to the maid first, though he couldn't decide whether that was the right move. If this was a snobby noble, Cervantes would never hear the end of it. There were a lot of noble characters that hindered the heroine's progress because of their royal background and sticks up their asses. While Cervantes hadn't paid much attention to the side characters, he did read enough manga to get a general idea of certain stereotypes. \n\nIf Mella accepted his hand, he'd pull her up and then walk over to the student. On closer inspection, this kid was a lot more familiar than unfamiliar now that he had a closer look. White hair, small structure, looked like if someone blew wind at him, he'd collapse. Yep, Cervantes recognized him. It was one of the male leads, Terys, who Cervantes quite frankly did not care about. As far as he could remember, Terys was practically there for shotacons. His older sister, Elastasia, was much more helpful in combat scenarios. Having a superb magic stat and being a guaranteed recruit on Tery's route, Elastasia was a better unit overall.\n\nWhile Cervantes did not remember much about Terys, he'd like to assume that Terys had a temperate personality. Based on first impressions, Terys would often chase after his sister to stop whatever she was doing. If he was like that, then Cervantes hoped to assume that he didn't do anything particularly wrong.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" } ]

[ { "text": "Mella\n@PKMNB0Y@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nWait, this was...oh, she recognized this klutz now. One of the capture targets, wasn't he? Mella frowned, just slightly, as she'd consider the implication of this. Was the heroine near? She'd place her hands in front of her, folding them together as she'd behave a bit more maid like both in front of Lord Reginald and...oh dear, was that Elastasia? An interesting development. Terys and Elastasia. What were they doing here? She didn't remember an event like this in the game...\n\n\"Its quite alright. I've suffered worse. Lord Reginald works me so hard for so little pay.\" Mella replied with a mildly dry tone making it a bit difficult to tell if she was joking or not as she'd glance towards Elastasia. \"...is something the matter young miss? I assure you I am fine, though if you'd like to check for injuries I wouldn't mind.\"\n\nA few shouts caught her attention. Chaos in the streets. Some students running from what looked like some sort of petshop? A few creatures were running rampant, and towards them while also running towards them. She couldn't remember an event like this either. Had there been? Irrelevant. Mella's money gears were already turning, and if nothing else Reginald could likely already see little dollar signs in the maids eyes as she was already considering some way to make money from this.\n\n\"I agree with Lord Reginald. T'would be quite a shame to see these little creatures running about and getting hurt.\" She said, while looking for the most exotic and rarest creature she could find.", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\nHuh, that was a little rude but Cervantes didn't mind the slight. Seeing as Terys's sister was now here, Cervantes retreated his hand took a few steps from the group of nobles and Mella. He was starting to dislike the fact there were a group of notable characters starting to gather around. As quickly was he came back, Cervantes started to follow Reginald's lead of leaving the area before something happened.\n\nSomething happened.\n\n\"What a situation,\" Cervantes said no one other than to himself. Now he needed to take in mind that students could potentially sabotage his entire business. Another worry on his evergrowing list of concerns. Though he needed to tackle the first one on. Dealing with the animal fiasco that was occuring right in front of him. During his time in this world, he had actually become friends with a few shopkeepers. Jessica, Azel, Darren, and co were pleasant company to be with.\n\nNow they were running around like headless chickens trying to capture the released animals. \"I guess I'll have to work harder.\" Sticking his hand into his bag, he fished for an item. While he had full faith in all the character's abilities to solve the situation by themselves, Cervantes was sure that he had made contact with a few of his 'friends.' Mainly Jessica, who was chasing down a strange avian creature, who glared at him before returning back to catching animal.\n\nDrawing out a capture net from his bag. It was one of the items he planned to sell today, but it would have to be put to use. Cervantes tested the weight of net before getting into a 'stance.' \"Don't worry, I'm coming guys!\" With that, Cervantes dashed off to help. Seeing a relatively small creature fly by, Cervantes slammed his net down to capture it in the net.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" }, { "text": "As she thought on the situation, Serrica was quite sure that nothing like this happened in game. A closer look at the now conscious boy's face revealed him to be that helper NPC right? How strange. \"Well, regardless of what's happening, Nurse, would you be so kind as to assist this girl's scrapes on her palm? It was an unfortunate situation where some quite rude boys knocked her down.\" She patted the girl's shoulder and pulled in somewhat close to her ear, \"And if you need assistance with anything, feel free to ask for me, Serrica Francesca Haldblum.\" \n\nFinishing her sentence, she pulled away and turned her attention to Anne and Noctis. The boy had just mentioned something about not wanting to start the year like this. Well, that much was understandable. \"It's understandable, boy. Not many can boast of being stuck in an infirmary immediately after the start of year speech. Truly, we should all be glad to not have been afflicted in such a way from it.\" She teased, poking some small bit of fun at him. \"I'm sure none would fault you for needed to rest longer if needs be.\"\n\n\"With that said, girl there, were you on your way out?\" Serrica asked, though she had not given the girl time to truly reply. \"I cannot say I recognize you with these eyes of mine but I can feel you are quite talented.\" It was at least true. Serrica's eyes had never seen the girl, though it could be said otherwise for her time as Serika. She was almost certainly sure this girl was the protagonist of that game. \"Are you a commoner? No, a lower ranked noble that integrated rather poorly into high society.\" If this girl was the protagonist as she had thought, she was capable of legitimately anything she put her mind to. That was a boon to any investor. \"Tell me, would you like to come work for the daughter of a Duke? I can pay you better than even that unpleasant von Afah brat.\" Serrica mentioned, taking Anne's hands in her own.\n\n\"I would even offer to put you up as the queen of high society but, well, it would be difficult to train you to out-do myself. If you would come and work for me.\" Serrica said in a way that it made it difficult for Anne and Noctis to tell if it was confidence or arrogance. Anne made Serrica crave bringing the girl in under her wing... And then she turned to Noctis. He was to be a powerful mage too, wasn't he? Well, perhaps she would watch his progress and see how he would go. If she tried snatching him up too soon, he might divert from his path too much. \"Can you sense the raw potential this girl has, boy?\" She asked calling him boy once again.", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" } ]

[ { "text": "Elastasia\n\nWhen the kitten--why had a kitten known to go for her? had made that jump--Elastasia reflexively froze up, presenting a harmless and ineffectual target... one that would have been able to do nothing to maintain their little corralling effort. Fortunately for her, the totally-just-a-maid came to her rescue, and the barrier maintained its integrity. Barely; the little jumping trick did cause the entire thing to shimmer ominously before recovering its strength.\n\nHow odd that he'd caught a holy bird, though. Was that even a good thing? It might do... something, when panicked, and it wasn't exactly the holiest of all individuals that had just made a grab for it. Maybe they'd be lucky and it would make a beeline for someone more suitable, even if nobody with the exact magical affinity was in the area.\n\nOf course, her brother now had his hands full, as well as his face. It looked rather like an ordinary puppy. A very large, very affectionate, very slobbery puppy.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Serrica had waited for Noctis to say something but he was rather quiet. \"Well, fine, the boy seems shell-shocked. If you feel better, do follow. Otherwise, girl, I'm going to borrow you for a small bit so the patient can rest.\" With that, Serrica kept hold of Anne's hand and walked out the door with her, leading her to somewhere that wasn't the infirmary. They got out of the building for some fresh air before Serrica stopped and released Anne. She took a breath before she opened her mouth again.\n\n\"Alright then. Now that we can get out from that sterile smelling air, do you not want to work for the quite rich Serrica Francesca Haldblum? I can pay you a potent salary... Hmm...\" She went silent for some seconds as she contemplated something. \"I suppose I have yet to properly introduce myself...\" The noble girl cleared her throat before speaking once more. \"I am the eldest daughter of the Haldblum Duchy, Serrica Francesca Haldblum. May I ask your name and house? Or, lack thereof. Take no offence, but if you are of a noble house I've yet to see you attend to high society functions.\"", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "\"Wait wha-\"\n\nOn one hand it did allow her to escape from one of the romantic interests. On the other, this wasn't anything like anything that had happened in the game. Anne certainly hadn't expected Serrica to go dragging her off like this out of the blue. In fact, none of this behavior seemed like the Serrica she knew from the game at all. Just what was going on? Of course it wasn't that Serrica wasn't wealthy and exuberant but...\n\nMaybe she was just imagining it? Maybe it was just because of how things had already shifted?\n\nAnne wasn't certain, and she didn't really know how to handle a girl just dragging her off in the first place.\n\n\"Er... er... Marielle,\" she managed, when Serrica asked her name. It was more then she'd expected to be dealing with from her already, so it took a moment for her to even begin to articulate herself, \"A-Anne Marielle, er, I guess we just didn't... run into each other...?\"\n\nShe was from a minor house, in any case, so the chances of that were exceptionally high.", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nWith the barrier comparatively unperturbed by the kitten's valiant efforts, the rest of the animals soon found themselves crashing into the magical wall... Or one another. To Reginald, who was watching the whole affair unfold in front of him, the mental image of a nasty pileup quickly came to mind—and a somewhat restrained grimace crossed his face as he turned away from the carnage.\n\n\"I certainly don't envy any of them...\" he remarked to himself as the bird in his hands continued to wriggle and squirm about. Though he could not necessarily see the growing energy it was exuding now, he could certainly feel it now. To that, though, the young man simply chose to maintain his hold on the creature. 'Twas not his place to question why a magical creature was being held here, of course, but as far as he could tell, there was not much amiss about it beyond a slight glow.\n\nThe two more magically-inclined girls in his company would likely be able to tell what was going on to some degree, though, given how the bird seemed to be absorbing energy from the disoriented and injured creatures lying about as the shopekeepers began to gather them back up. By now, the identity of the avian was a bit more obvious to those who had run through this event in the game—the heroine's \"companion\" on the routes more relevant to the church, traveling around and growing alongside her.\n\nUnfortunate, though, that such growth usually required the presence of the injured and pained... Such as those lying around the street right now. Doubly so, of course, when one considered that the bird could hit a critical mass of energy before it reached a new stage in it's growth, as seemed to be fast approaching, and in so doing could cause anything from a shockwave of mana to a pulse of healing energy affecting those who it was nearby to anything in between.\n\nAll the while, though, the kitten that had now been caught in Melia's arms was flailing about, trying it's hardest to push itself free from her grasp. Notably enough, though, it seemed to deliberately not be trying to scratch or bite at her body despite being caught in a rather unbecoming situation... Though for what reason it chose not to do so remained to be seen.\n\nBy this point, though, the shopkeepers had begun to capitalize on the efforts of everyone actively aiding in their efforts to stop the stampede, and more than a few had already begun to bring the creatures splayed out on the streets back to their cages... For better or worse. The wyvern in Cervantes' grasp, for example, continued to struggle away at the net that had wrapped around it's body—or, to be more accurate, the net that it had incidentally wrapped itself up in. But the slight red glow beginning to form from within it's mouth was not exactly a herald of good things to come for anyone left unaware...\n\n@Rune_Alchemist@Raineh Daze", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\n\"Phew, almost done.\" What a day. Cervantes grimaced as he dragged the straggling wyvern to a cage. It felt a little surreal to be in this situation. Mystical animals break out and he had to catch one of them; what was this an anime? Though he supposed it wasn't too wrong. After all, this was an otome game. Scenarios like these shouldn't be too surprising to see in an otome, but experiencing first hand was an entirely different matter.\n\nOpening the cage, he looked down at the lizard. \"Well, little guy, it's time to get into cage so-\" Cervantes stopped when the whelp something glowing in its mouth. Did it eat a flashlight or something? First, he was sure that flashlights didn't exist in this world. Second, he was pretty sure that light was coming out of its mouth. It reminded him of a dragon about to breath fire. \"Wait, breath fire?\"\n\nFire?\n\nIn an instant, Cervantes was immediately alarmed of what was going to happen. Why could wyverns breath fire, or whatever it was doing? He thought only dragons could that. Wyverns were like the lame cousins of dragons and insignifcant to them. \"Ah... Ah... Ah...\" Cervantes panicked. What was he going to do? He had to do something, but he didn't want to hurt the wyvern either. Cervantes dug into his pockets and threw 'it' at the wyvern.\n\n\"Pocket sand!\"\n\nImmediately the sand slapped the wyvern straight in the face. It blinked before wrinkling it nose. With a sneeze that sounded like a gun firing, it shot out fire. Fire that easily burned his net. \"Haaaaaa!\" Cervantes yelped at the sudden brightness. Out of sheer instinct, Cervantes threw the net, along with the help, into the cage. \"Nope, nope, nope, nope, not today. Not dealing with this, today.\" Without hesitation he closed the cage and locked it.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" } ]

[ { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\nThat pricked his conscious. \"You're not the only one suffering you know,\" Cervantes said as he scratched the back of his head. \"I was planning to sell that capture net at my shop, but now look at it.\" All burnt up and being used a chew toy by the flying lizard. Pinching the bridge of his nose, he sighed. Cervantes could already tell what tomorrow's gossip would be. News Headline, \"Wild creatures run rampant in Plaza!?\" What a mess.\n\nThough, this may give him an opportunity. \"Well, I am feeling generous today.\" With a smile, he walked up towards the shopkeeper. \"If I may introduce myself, I am Cervantes Quixote. I am a merchant of many wares,\" Cervantes paused in dramatics before saying it aloud. \"And connections. I can ask some of my 'friends' to help you with finding your merchandise if you'd like. That and I'll help with your shop. Of course, we'll have to write up a contract, but I want to hear your thoughts first.\"\n\nAside from the fact that he technically had no 'connections,' he had one resource that could potentially help a hapless old man.\n\nThe Heroine.\n\nIf would be able to convince the heroine on this endeavor, then he'd hit a jackpot. Though, of course, he'd have to offer something in return to the heroine to convince her. The world revolved in exchanges of course. Whether it be money, favors, or gods, something had to be given away in return. Cervantes would be have to flexible, since he didn't exactly know what the female lead could possibly want.\n\nThough perhaps, he could get that maid into this as well. She did say she wanted to get into a business. Why not have this man teach her the ropes or something? Either way, after this he needed to find people fast.\n\n\"What is your name, mister?\"", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" }, { "text": "Serrica merely smiled somewhat entertained as Lilian spoke harshly to her. There was always something entertaining about her interactions with the girl. Few people truly troubled her and Lilian Meridan was no exception to that. \"Nice to see you as well, Lady Meridan. Looking as beautiful as ever.\" She mentioned as the girl just stared her down. Perhaps she would feel unsettled with the daughter of His Majesty's chief advisor staring her down... But a merchant couldn't let such trifles bother them.\n\nShe went silent mostly as Lilian introduced herself to Anne. It didn't bother her a bit. So long as she didn't plan on trying to snatch her new recruit from under her like a bitch. Which is not what it seemed like. Rather, she seemed rather focused on her for some reason. She always seemed wary. \n\nPerhaps it was because she was not exactly polite to the royalty? Well, she didn't have to nor did she particularly want to. He was fairly boring as far as it went but, realistically, she didn't really focus on that sort of thing in her few playthroughs.\n\nAs soon as introduction was over... It was back to being stared at. Serrica couldn't remember being particularly mean to Lilian or anything of the sort. In fact, she had started trying to be.... Somewhat nice. She has consistently invited her to tea parties. Or, tried. A good ally is the daughter of the king's advisor after all. Now, however... \n\n\"Well, I had come this far out originally to assist a girl that had been pushed aside and scraped her knee. There I met this cute little miss.\" Serrica mentioned, defending herself in a small way. \"And I always have time to make small talk with the new students, Lady Meridan. It's always wonderful to meet the new faces we'll be seeing until we graduate.\" She added before staring Lilian back in the eye. \"My, you know, Lady Meridan, you stare at me like that much longer and I'll wonder if you have a thing for me. I thought you had a thing for the Crown Prince.\" Serrica teased, taking a step closer. \n\n\"Well, you may find that my refined taste includes people with beautiful golden locks if you're curious.\" The Duke's daughter took one more step forward towards Lilian. She was curious if she hit the hammer on the nail, though she somewhat doubted she did. Likely, she was just always irritated with the way Serrica treated the Crown Prince.", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" } ]

[ { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nCurious though he was about whatever had sparked this incident in the first place, Reginald reminded himself that, at the end of the day, there were other matters to worry about over investigating the circumstances that had kept everyone here to begin with. With that being said, though, it wasn't as if he could tell as if these events were predetermined or not to begin with. He had little memory of any events like this while proceeding through the game, but at this point, chasing after a dangling thread on his first day here in hopes that it would lead to other issues seemed a bit...\n\nFrivolous? Yes, frivolous was the word. He needed information first and foremost, not instinctual hunches.\n\n\"...Well, there were surely other witnesses. Hopefully those with more authority will find the ones responsible,\" he said, shrugging his shoulders as he glanced towards his maid. Being the person she usually was, of course, his servant requested recompense—one that he was less willing to give due to the bird that seemed to be gravitating towards her, granted, but what she had done otherwise at least warranted some minor bonus.\n\n\"If you wish to bill me, I will, of course, review the costs,\" he remarked back, watching as Mella attempted to get the bird off of her head. A small smirk crossed his face as he watched the bird flit about, dodging the maid's hands as it flew into the air for a moment... Before promptly returning to sit atop her head.\n\n\"Would you prefer I purchased that bird for you? Or, rather, maybe I should do so regardless...\" he joked before taking a step to the side as a few more shopkeepers—and, now, some more willing volunteers—began to carry the rattled animals back to whence they came.\n\nWalking back towards Elastasia and Terys, though, the black-haired student noted that the latter was still wrestling with a rather large puppy, which seemed to have taken to him as much as the bird had to his maid. Whether or not he wanted to be pinned to the ground and licked over and over was not necessarily his jurisdiction, of course, but given that it seemed to have been going on for long enough for the boy to try (and fail) to push him off...\n\nWell, it only seemed right to step in and assist.\n\nWith a sigh, Reginald leaned over and wrapped both of his arms around the dog before prying it away from Terys, the beast notably heavier than it seemed to be at first glance.\n\n\"I am... Surprised they could keep this thing to begin with,\" he said, some strain evident on his face as the dog shook about in his arms. \"Rather friendly, it seems—for better or worse.\"\n\nDaze@Rune_Alchemist\n\n---\n\n\nThe older man stared at Cervantes for a moment before shaking his head and sighing.\n\n\"Jacob Verdan. As for recovering what was lost, well...\"\n\nThere was a moment as he trailed off before glancing at the people bringing the animals back over to the shop.\n\n\"...I suppose that can wait until after I've taken inventory. There are a fair number of creatures I need to make sure are all right... Assuming that they've been captured,\" he remarked, shoulders slumped as he moved to take a snakelike creature off of a young man's hands. \"If there is anything missing, though... Well, depending on what it is, I might have to take you up on your offer.\"\n\nBy now, more of those animals were starting to be brought back in, whether in makeshift containers or in the hands of someone... Or, in some cases, hanging off of a limb with their mouths firmly latched on. It was a comical sight, to be sure, but the sheer quantity of the animals in question made this a far less entertaining matter for the man who had to worry about them to begin with.\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nLilian seemed to physically recoil as Serrica stepped forward and said her piece, though she made an honest attempt at trying to mask her displeasure with the noblewoman's words and actions in the process. The young woman seemed to be suppressing the urge to simply respond to the provocations of the greedy woman in front of her, but it was difficult for her to not try and create space between herself and Serrica as the latter moved closer to her.\n\n\"My feeling towards Chr-the Crown Prince have nothing to do with this matter. Regardless, I would sooner bite my own tongue off than deal with you alone for a night,\" the young woman responded, a frown on her face as she let out a brief sigh before turning towards the stammering young lady caught up in this mess. There was a pause, of course, as she listened to the nervous attempt at an introduction before sighing.\n\n\"No need to feel so alarmed, Miss Marielle,\" Lilian said, a businesslike smile crossing her face as if her prior reaction towards Serrica did not exist moments prior. \"Though our stations may differ, we are all students here. Though...\"\n\nThere was a pause as the blonde-haired girl threw a passing glance towards Serrica before continuing.\n\n\"...I worry some people here may treat this school as a hunting ground of sorts rather than a place of learning. In any case, I suppose I should ask what you were doing here, given that there isn't exactly much to do within the building at the moment—especially not at this time of day.\"\n\n@VitaVitaAR", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\n\"Very well, Mr. Verdan. If you do require assistance, here's my business card.\" Cervantes said as he drew out a card from his jacket and placed it on the counter. It seemed formal to print out a variety of cards for his business. That and the school's market was big enough by itself; it would sometimes be hard to pinpoint the exact location of Cervantes's shop. \"Take care, Mr. Verdan. I pray that your business booms in the next few days.\" With that, Cervantes left the shop. Mr. Verdan needed all the help he could get after all.\n\nCervantes closed the door, not that it mattered since the shop was partially destroyed, and began to walk down the street. \"Whew, what a day.\" Wiping his brow of sweat, Cervantes tried to calculate his next move. It might take a little while for Jacob Verdan to open his shop again. From taking account of the missing animals, the cost of repairs, and the amount of time that it required to do them, it would take a week or two for Jacob Verdan to open his shop again. \"What a shame. I was looking to buy a creature for myself.\"\n\nThe merchant wasn't a fan of pets, but he didn't dislike them either. The responsibility of taking care of another organism felt too heavy for him to bare in the other world, so Cervantes avoided adopting one. Now, the circumstances were different. Cervantes needed protection. The market clearly wasn't safe from what Cervantes had seen earlier, not to mention the unknowable fate of his future. If he were to overcome it, he'd need to be as prepared as possible.\n\n'Though was Jacob Verdan in the game?' Cervantes thought to himself. He had a lot of game knowledge when it came to Cross Heart Academy. Jacob Verdan must have played some sort of crucial role in the game, considering he was the pet vendor. If Cervantes remembered correctly, there was also a route that played similarly to Pokemon. He had watched a few speedruns before but didn't retain much since the content was rather lackluster in the merchant's eyes. A frown graced Cervante's face, but he pressed on. Jacob Verdan was most likely an important NPC regardless, in comparison to Cervantes, who went nameless in the game.\n\nHis eyes darted to a few familiar figures. Reginald, the maid, and a few others. They seemed to be doing their own thing, and Cervantes had his own thing to do. Heading straight to his shop, Cervantes wanted to write up that help request for the bulletin board. The market was probably going to be slow during the day, thanks to the market, which meant that Cervantes didn't have much to do.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" } ]

[ { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nAn odd expression crossed Reginald's face upon hearing Elastasia's remark—one that could probably have been described as a mix of surprise, confusion, and vague recognition of the word that she spoke. A salamander was a salamander, after all—and confusing it's name for something like \"Wooper\" was so uncannily odd that it couldn't have been an honest mistake. Not unless there was another creature with a similar name, at least.\n\nTo this, the black-haired student seemed to stand in silence for a few moments, his brow furrowed as he tried to figure out if there were any other animals that could possibly have a similar enough physiology and name to result in such an honest mistake. But when none came to mind, Reginald's mind instead drifted back to his 'old' native language—Japanese—and a certain multimedia franchise that had become popular the world over.\n\nThere was a theoretical now, a 'what-if' beginning to take root in the back of his mind—that maybe the mistake was one borne from a Freudian slip from someone who had found themselves in similar circumstances to his own. It was hard to make any definitive claims at the moment, though the idea did cross his mind to ask, if not subtly, what Elastasia had meant by that...\n\nBut ultimately, it seemed wiser to wait and see if there were any other hints he could attempt to glean before trying to ask proper. Of course, the time he had spent thinking about those matters had just as well been spent half-staring at the upperclassman in question, for better or worse—and, somewhat unfortunately, only barely acknowledging Terys' words of thanks with a slight nod.\n\nMella's talk of cooking the bird that had taken to her was ultimately what pulled his attention back to more \"present\" matter, and her apparent dislike of the avian was... Honestly quite amusing to him, in a bit of a twisted way. It wasn't like the bird was doing any explicit harm, at least, and despite her less-than-subtle threats it seemed satisfied perched upon her head.\n\n\"Mmm... I think that if it's rare and seems to be taken with you, it might do some good to actually research what breed it is. I doubt it'd return to whatever shopkeeper it came from at this point, and honestly it might be less trouble paying for the creature than attempting to wrangle it away from you...\"\n\nAnd given how confident both Elastasia and his maid had been about how it was able to injure him, maybe that would be for the best.\n\nBy this point, another shopkeeper—one of a far sturdier make—finally came around and took the large canine off of his hands, though certainly more literally than figuratively as the gruff man hefted the massive dog under his arm and walked off.\n\n\"Well, matters of cleaning up this chaos aside, I've nothing better to do at the moment. Given how I intend to at least look into that new friend of course, the least I could do is follow along until you are finished—or we could simply make our way there now, given how you seem to have a different creature entirely in your grasp.\"\n\nDaze@Rune_Alchemist\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\"I am aware that you claimed to help another student earlier, and I do not deny that fact. What I am asking, quite honestly, is why the young woman at your side is with you. Though I suppose that she seems to be a bit more rattled by my presence than I would like...\"\n\nThere was a pause as a bit of a shadow crossed Lilian's face after she spoke her piece to Serrica, and the words \"reputation\" and \"bad\" could scarcely be heard by Anne as the blonde girl whispered to herself barely loud enough for another to hear—before the topic of the Prince came up once more.\n\nTo this (far more forward) declaration, however, Lilian's face seemed to color itself ever so slightly red, and her fleeting moment of pause seemed to be replaced in an instant by indignation and embarrassment. That seemed to only be further exacerbated by Anne's response, loud as it was—the young woman's face seemed to dye itself a deep shade of red now—so much so that denying her feelings would have been all but impossible now.\n\n\"E-enough about the Crown Prince!\" she exclaimed, a slight tremor in her voice. \"I'm—\"\n\n\"...Hm? I thought I heard a shout over here...\"\n\nAnd, almost as if on cue, the Crown Prince turned a nearby corner and walked towards the three girls, a light smile on his face.\n\n\"Miss Haldblum. Miss Meridan. I hope the day finds you well,\" Christopher said as he turned towards the two before the latter promptly turned away and covered her face in embarrassment. Seeing Lilian acting as she was, though, Christopher's gaze inevitably tuned back towards Anne, whose presence here seemed to be a bit more surprising to him.\n\n\"...Hm? I didn't expect to see you so soon again, Miss... I apologize, but I never actually got your name—nor you mine, I believe—when we last met. Christopher Alvonshire, the first son of King Asher Alvonshire. I presume your friend is well, then, if you are exploring the school grounds now?\"\n\n@VitaVitaAR", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Mella\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nMella remained quiet. On one hand, making a fuss would probably only draw more attention. That and she really didn't have much of a say about what sir Reginald ultimately ever ended up doing. As it stood there wasn't really a way to so easily turn down the bird. She'd just have to...discreetly get rid of it at some point, then. She wondered if she put it in a box and shipped it across the seas would it be done with?\n\n\"There will be no need for that, Sir Afah.\" She'd ultimately respond with a mild frown. \"I am quite fine with having this...thing accompany if you wish to keep it. Though since it is a gift I reserve the right to do whatever with it.\" She'd affirm, loosening the grip of the kitten in her arms as she'd move it so she was cradling it like a baby, paws up towards her and its head resting in the crook of her elbow. \"I suppose though, my hands are rather full...miss Elastasia, was it? If you don't mind me making a small request to handle this kitten so we can go finish our shopping...unless you'd wish to accompany me as well?\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "Why was the crown prince here now!? That was the only thing that could have made the entire situation worse! First Serrica acting strangely, then Lilian showing up, and now him!?\n\nIf every day of school was going to be like this, she was going to end up dying in her new life too! The stress was too much!\n\nShe couldn't exactly not respond when she was talking to literal royalty, though, so after a few moments of stumbling over herself both mentally and physically Anne managed to take a deep breath to try and steady herself.\n\n\"A-Anne. Anne Merielle,\" she said, bowing her head once more, hands clasped in front of her, \"A-and yes, he's doing fine now, thank you for asking...\"\n\nWhat did she say, now? What did she do? This was a nightmare situation. One wrong move could easily have Lilian misinterpret things. One wrong move could raise relationship flags she didn't want to trip.\n\nIt was like being surrounded by death flags. Sure, none of these would lead to death directly. At least she hoped so. But getting caught up too much in any of them was practically equivalent to launching yourself headfirst into a bad end for her.\n\nShe had to avoid it.\n\nBut she also had to try and think it through and find a route out of this situation that didn't end in some kind of pain.\n\nCould she just walk away? Find some excuse she had to leave?!\n\nAnne's mind was racing at this point, trying to latch on to any possible explanation she could for a sudden departure. Anything, anything...!\n\n@Pyromania99", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" } ]

[ { "text": "Mella\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nShe was slightly hoping the shopkeep would refuse and take the bird away.\n\nLife could never be so easy, could it?\n\nThe maid remained quiet, though, keeping the kitten comfortably laying in her arms and the bird perched on her head, doing her best to simply ignore it. Well, at least the cat was...somewhat cute, she supposed. She'd pat its head, giving it a few ear scritches and pets while she'd wait for lord Afah to complete his business. She still needed to do the shopping. Was it still possible to get back and do all the cooking before evening?\n\nHm.\n\nMore importantly, though...\n\n\"...How does one take care of this bird?\" Mella queried the shopkeeper. \"As It is likely my responsibility I have never seen it before, and as such would much appreciate any insight into peculiarities, sir Shopkeeper.\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "\"Um... could you tell me about this kitten?\" Elastasia asked, lifting up the offending creature so it was visible. It at least seemed slightly more pliable now, \"Is it just a cat...? It seemed to know to go for me when I was keeping a barrier up to hem in the other escapees.\"\n\nIt could make an interesting familiar, she supposed. Not that it was the sort of magic that she'd ever shown interest in, but having another pair of eyes to look out for people that might want to interrupt her reading and drag her off to some party... although, it wasn't something that would really harm her social standing in a non-intrusive way. A magical prodigy doing something so blatantly associated with mages? Eh, it was nothing. Everyone liked having pets, noblemen took to breeding horses...\n\nOr it could just be a cat. That was also possible. A cute cat, but a cat nonetheless.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Even Serrica was feeling bad for Lillian at this point. Not that she hated the girl, but there was not much to say about another high ranking noble if she couldn't get her feelings across. \"She's preoccupied wi-- No.\" Serrica started to state what she figured was obvious before deciding that wasn't the course of action. \"Nevermind that, I suppose. You're quite dense, Prince Christopher.\" The student mentioned before briefly shaking her head and sighing a small bit. \"It is thanks to that, however, that I doubt you carry the reputation of a ravenous hound, fret you not.\" Serrica mentioned with a small shrug. \"Perhaps an unintentionally rude or dull one but that aside it does not matter to me. You're still the Crown Prince to me.\"\n\nAfter saying that much, she turned to Anne. \"Ahh, yes. Lady Marielle. I believe that you wanted guidance to a certain place on campus, did you not? Would you still like me to guide you there? I'm still not past trying to recruit you into my group, but I shall ease up until your graduation if you wish.\"", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "While most of Anne's mind was in a panic, attempting to analyze everything the Prince had said in order to isolate and defend against even the slightest chance of a flag, it wasn't as if she entirely failed to realize the situation.\n\nEven if she hadn't played the game before, Lilian's feelings for the Prince were entirely obvious. Her treatment in the Prince's route was one of the reasons it hadn't been her favorite, for that matter. Certainly, she wasn't very nice, but it felt rather harsh for someone who wasn't particularly a genuinely bad person.\n\nAnne took a deep breath.\n\n\"U-um, maybe you could catch up?\" she suggested, awkwardly, \"S-since it's... er...\"\n\nShe trailed off after a few moments. What did she even say here? Playing matchmaker wasn't her strongsuit at all! Doing it in real life was vastly different from doing it in SRPGs!\n\n\"Er... and... we can... go let you do that!\"\n\nAs odd as Serrica was acting, it was at least a potential out from a dangerous situation!\n\n@Pyromania99", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "The shopkeeper paused for a moment as he considered the maid's question.\n\n\"Well, I suppose that the first course of action would be to purchase a cage of sorts for it to live in... But you might not need one, given how comfortable it send to be on your head,\" he remarked, a slight smirk crossing his face for a moment. \"Jokes aside, I've been feeding that one seeds and fruits. It seems to like most anything in that vein—but not bugs. As for the actual care...\"\n\nBefore he could ramble further on about the subject, though, Elastasia chimed in with a question of her own about the cat in her hands—a question he was more than willing to oblige.\n\n\"Ah, of course. That's an Aomi—a cat we had imported from the far east, and a rare one at that. They're fairly well known for their use of magic in hunting in the wild in the region they come from, though finding one is an adventure in and of itself. As for why it jumped at you... I've heard tales of them being called 'magic eaters', but to be honest, your guess would be as good as mine. If they're hard to find, though, maybe they're juat smart enough to not get caught to begin with?\"\n\nAt this, the cat seemed to turn it's head back towards Elastasia before letting out a half-yawn, half-meow. It didn't seem to mind being held up for diaplay as it was, at least, but being as calm as it was despite the situation... That much certainly set it apart from it's peers, at the very least. \n\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\"Dense? Rude? That's rather insulting, you know,\" Christopher responded in turn, his brow furrowed as he shook his head. \"If that much is 'rude', I fear what 'polite' should be in your eyes.\"\n\nAt that, though, the prince simply sighed and shook his head.\n\n\"As for catching up... I am sure Miss Meridan has better things to do than speak with me, and forcing her to speak with me when she does not seem to wish to seems rather ill-intentioned at best.\"\n\nIf the others wished to leave now, though, Christopher seemed to have no intention of stopping them. It already seemed like Lilian was slowly inching away, trying her hardest to not up and die of what embarrassment she was already being overwhelmed by.\n\n@VitaVitaAR", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" } ]

[ { "text": "The shopkeeper paused for a moment as he considered the maid's question.\n\n\"Well, I suppose that the first course of action would be to purchase a cage of sorts for it to live in... But you might not need one, given how comfortable it send to be on your head,\" he remarked, a slight smirk crossing his face for a moment. \"Jokes aside, I've been feeding that one seeds and fruits. It seems to like most anything in that vein—but not bugs. As for the actual care...\"\n\nBefore he could ramble further on about the subject, though, Elastasia chimed in with a question of her own about the cat in her hands—a question he was more than willing to oblige.\n\n\"Ah, of course. That's an Aomi—a cat we had imported from the far east, and a rare one at that. They're fairly well known for their use of magic in hunting in the wild in the region they come from, though finding one is an adventure in and of itself. As for why it jumped at you... I've heard tales of them being called 'magic eaters', but to be honest, your guess would be as good as mine. If they're hard to find, though, maybe they're juat smart enough to not get caught to begin with?\"\n\nAt this, the cat seemed to turn it's head back towards Elastasia before letting out a half-yawn, half-meow. It didn't seem to mind being held up for diaplay as it was, at least, but being as calm as it was despite the situation... That much certainly set it apart from it's peers, at the very least. \n\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\"Dense? Rude? That's rather insulting, you know,\" Christopher responded in turn, his brow furrowed as he shook his head. \"If that much is 'rude', I fear what 'polite' should be in your eyes.\"\n\nAt that, though, the prince simply sighed and shook his head.\n\n\"As for catching up... I am sure Miss Meridan has better things to do than speak with me, and forcing her to speak with me when she does not seem to wish to seems rather ill-intentioned at best.\"\n\nIf the others wished to leave now, though, Christopher seemed to have no intention of stopping them. It already seemed like Lilian was slowly inching away, trying her hardest to not up and die of what embarrassment she was already being overwhelmed by.\n\n@VitaVitaAR", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\nA cat from the far east? Well, that was something nostalgic. But if it could be used to find magic users somehow, then that would make her ability to sequester herself somewhere out of the way and read all the easier... if the heroine got interested in magic, then outside of class, there was a chance that they might run into one another. And she would like to avoid any heartbreak from such an obviously-unobtainable figure getting close to her if the girl turned out to be her type after all.\n\nThis left the noble staring into space for an awkwardly long time, until the shopkeeper coughed and drew her attention back.\n\n\"Oh, I'm so sorry! Yes, I'd quite like to purchase this kitten, and anything that's needed to look after it...\" Well, she didn't have much in the way of money on her, but she could just sign something to handle that. Really, the cost of a single animal was insignificant.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "\"Yes, I do believe you to be rather dense your Highness. You can't see what treasures you have at hand before you try encroaching on other treasures that have yet to be collected. Consider me insulting all you want, however, if calling you dense marks me as such.\" Serrica said before sighing. \"Just think about my words a small bit. With that, I really must show this young Miss somewhere. Please do conversate with Lady Meridan at convenience.\" With that, she grabbed Anne by the hand and led her off.\n\nAfter they made some distance from the Prince and Lady Meridan, Serrica took Anne near a place where student activity were a bit higher. If the Prince happened upon them this time, well, it would be easy enough to sic some of the younger girls upon him. With a small breath with the coast being clear, Serrica turned to Anne and released her hand. \"So, Lady Marielle, you can take an easy breath now. Though, you seem much too nervous. Is there an issue you're having with the school?\" She had to ask, looking the girl straight in the eyes. \"Well, we've all but started some short time ago so I'm sure that's not it.\" The Duke's daughter mentioned, stroking her chin in curiosity.", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "Mella\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n\"Fruits and seeds...I see.\" Simple enough request. She'll just take it out of Lord Reginald's dinner requests since this was his fault she was now saddled with quite a troublesome creature. As for actual care? Well, it'd probably be fine. She would buy a cage for it, she couldn't very well let it sit on her head all the time, especially when working. \"Well, if you happen to have a cage - the most luxurious and expensive one you have on you I'm sure lord Reginald will be more than happy to pay top dollar for it. I can't very well work with this thing sitting on my head all day.\" Mella responded, flashing Reginald a look that clearly indicated that it was his fault.\n\n\"I suppose I will also have to add those to the shopping expenses when we finish our shopping. Which I very much would prefer to get back to then dallying about with an avian making a nest on my head.\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "\"A-ah?!\"\n\nAnd then she was being dragged off again, with little in the way of warning, stumbling over her feet. Deep down, this was probably a good thing. Being face to face with both the Prince and the Villainess was in no way good for her health right now. But at the same time, she kept being faced with so many questions.\n\nIt was relentlessly beating down on her, and she'd barely had any time to think. Putting aside how any of this had even happened in the first place, the fact that Serrica was acting so different...\n\nIt couldn't just be explained with the fact this was reality now, could it? It wasn't quite right for what Anne remembered of her character. Was something else going on here? But what?\n\n\"E-er, I'm fine, it's just that a lot has happened, eh-heheh...\"\n\nAnne took a deep breath, hand scratching the back of her head.\n\n\"It's been a pretty full day, I mean!\"", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nOnce Elastasia had affirmed that she was interested in purchasing the kitten from him, the shopkeeper smiled and nodded his head. Two sales like this on probably what was one of the most unfortunate days of his career at least made up for some of his losses, and there was no reason to look a gift horse in the mouth.\n\n\"Of course!\" he said, returning her declaration with a smile—and to the maid's requests with a nod in turn. \"A cage, collar, food, and instructions, as well as the animals themselves...\"\n\n\"I would rather a more unassuming birdcage, if possible. Comfortable enough for the bird, but nothing too grandiose,\" Reginald added, eyeing Mella for a moment before handing off a few more coins. \"Further payment, then, for the cage and some birdseed.\"\n\nWith those coins in hand, the older man bowed and headed to the back of the shop. A short wait later, though, and he returned; this time, with an assistant carrying whatever goods he could not. After having his assistant hand a bag of birdseed and a cage (which looked to be in fine condition despite the chaos) over to the maid, the shopkeeper beckoned the group over to a nearby table. Upon that, he laid out a few documents and a pen.\n\n\"These are for the madam over here,\" he began, gesturing towards Elastasia. \"A rare specimen like the Aomi requires that we must confirm your purchase with a contract. Of course, we could also form a magic contract between you and your new pet, if you wish...\"\n\nWith that, Reginald turned towards Mella and, after opening the cage, attempted to get the bird to enter.\n\nNeedless to say, it rejected his attempts to do so by flitting around before once again landing atop his maid's head.\n\n\"...Well. I suppose that this is your problem now,\" he remarked, staring at the bird. \"How should we go about this problem, then...?\"\n\nDaze@Rune_Alchemist", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" } ]

[ { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\nToday was the entrance ceremony. The time and day the heroine would finally arrive at the school and begin her journey. An epic tale that entranced many who played Cross Heart Academy. Too bad, before he died, Cervantes wasn't too invested in the story. After his first few playthroughs, Cervantes ended up skipping the cutscenes unless they were mandatory. \n\nThough, unlike the heroine, Cervantes couldn't attend the speech. It was because he was here as a merchant rather than the majority of people who were students. Apparently, before transmigrating into this body, Cervantes decided to set up shop after getting permission from the school. \n\n\"Hey, Cervantes!\" The merchant's eyes darted towards the voices that called him from a stall. To be precise, it was one of the shop NPCs, 'Joe Smith. Cervantes smiled and waved back at the man before continuing his walk. Despite spending some time inside this 'game,' it felt weird. Everything was life-like in comparison to playing it on a screen. The many background character had a life that a console couldn't replicate.\n\nWaving at another shopkeeper, Cervantes stopped nearby a fountain. The pristine and clear water reflected an unfamiliar face. Taking a bronze coin out of the pouch, Cervantes tossed it into the fountain. \"Please give me good fortune,\" Cervantes muttered to himself. He needed it. When he first woke up as the nameless shopkeeper, Cervantes couldn't tell if this was a weird dream. He still needed to get over the fact that he was inside the game.\n\nNow that the game was his reality, was he supposed to treat it as a game or as his new reality? Such a conundrum greatly confused Cervantes. \n\n\"Though, that'll have to wait,\" Cervantes muttered. Depending on how things went in the future, he'd react accordingly. The first on his agenda was to deal with his first task—the Heroine. After the entrance ceremony speech, the heroine, Anne Marielle, would explore the school. It didn't matter in what order she visited, but she would show up at the shopping area of the school.\n\nFrom there, the shopkeeper, Cervantes, would lead the heroine around and show the shops. There was a 100% chance of the meeting happening in the game because it was a tutorial, but if this were slightly realistic, there wouldn't be a need to meet each other. The heroine could explore by herself without his help. \n\n\"Though what if I do meet the heroine?\" If that were the case, then the odds of this being a simulated game would increase by a margin. Not to mention what if the heroine was controlled by a player? Would the heroine speak as some sort of vessel for the player? So many questions, but answers. Regardless, Cervantes resolved to talk to the heroine if the case arose.\n\nHis life was at stake, after all.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\nRibbon... check. Stockings and shoes... check. Hair neatly brushed (and even years after gaining a second lifetime's worth of memories, the ease with which magic simplified dealing with that still gave her a warm feeling), and not all done at the last second because she'd gotten too wrapped up in a book to remember. For once, Elastasia had managed to prepare for and show up to an event without prompting! Okay, it was also a huge event everyone at the academy was going to, which made it hard to miss, but she could still have ignored all that and missed the ceremony.\n\nBut then she would miss seeing Terys on his first day, relegating the younger boy to trying to seek her out somewhere amidst the school. For all his diligence, he didn't know the way around just yet. Besides, she missed the years where they'd see each other daily (even if the her that missed them wasn't the same as the her of now), it'd be a great opportunity to say hello.\n\nActually listening to the speech, Elastasia wished that she had chosen to skip after all. Not only was it boring and denied her the chance to read, being situated at the back with all the other third-year students meant that she couldn't see anything. Bored face after bored face in every direction, a speech regurgitated by rote to the point she was sure some of the better orators here could copy it verbatim...\n\nIt wasn't a fun experience, all in all.\n\nNor was fighting against the current of people leaving the courtyard, the occasional too-tall boy walking into her and having to make a hasty apology. Really, it was bad enough that by the time she actually got to the first years, the area was half emptied already, and trying to find her also-short brother amidst this sea of giants.\n\nSo, she relocated to just outside the entrance instead. Maybe Terys would have better luck finding her.\n\nHmm... already, there were a few familiar faces, bringing to mind how significant the upcoming year would be. That green-haired mop was undoubtedly the tutorial merchant, liable to run into the heroine soon more often than not. Whether he'd be quite as helpful in reality as in the game was debatable; a few of the individuals she'd met seemed quite distinct from their written personalities--Serrica always stood out as being rather different, for whatever reason.\n\nAnd there was no way to tell what actual personality Anne would come into the world with. Bland? Exciting? Her looks were Elastasia's type, as generic as they were, but she hoped to avoid any hopeless confessions in her actual life.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." } ]

[ { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\n\"Hmmm? Oh, hello!\" Snapping out of his thoughts, Cervantes turned to address the new voice that spoke up. Finding a small, petite girl in front of him, Cervantes felt he recognized her from somewhere. \"How can I help you?\" Putting on his smile, not too forced and not too insincere. \n\nUpon listening to the girl, Cervantes discovered that she was the maid of House von Afah. Now he knew why she looked so familiar. When Cervantes played the game, he often pursued Reginald. It wasn't because he liked his character; it was more like Reginald was an excellent character. Often ranking on S- Tier, Reginald proved helpful in battle scenarios. However, he was S- because of the chance of him turning on the heroine.\n\nWhy was that? While Reginald wasn't the type to betray his friends, Anne was a wild card. She could choose to ally with or betray anyone. And it was unfortunate that sacrificing Reginald was a key speedrunning strat. Thanks to his high physical bases, if one were to add a few stat boosters, he would be able to solo most bosses. Unfortunately, doing this would earn his ire and make him turn on the heroine.\n\nThough enough of that, why was that to the maid relevant to him? That was because every time he restarted the game and went to get Reginald, there was a mandatory cutscene where he would have to watch Reginald and the heroine meet each other. That maid was always there with Reginald. If Cervantes remembered correctly, the maid only spoke a line or two before disappearing. That was the only reason why Cervantes recognized the maid's face.\n\n\"Quality cooking ingredients? Let's see.\" Turning his head, he pointed out a direction. \"If you head over there, you'll see many shops selling cooking ingredients. Though if you're looking for top quality, Sasha's sells good vegetables and fruits, there's a man named Markos that's good at cutting up and selling quality meat, and Kelloc's sells general items such as flour, oils, and seasonings.\" When Mella thought he was finished, Cervantes opened his mouth for round two. \"If you want to buy fish, you should go ask Markos. I heard he was friends with a fisherman. I also heard that there was a greenhouse on the school grounds. You can try buying from there or even grow your vegetables.\"\n\n\"If you have trouble finding what you need, you should head into town. Sometimes I'll sell my wares there, and you can talk to me if you need help searching for a shop.\" With that, Cervantes finally seemed to stop. \"Is there anything else you need miss?\"", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nAs the crowd of students began to disperse, Reginald quietly continued along towards the path that led back to the main building. There were more than a few glances and hushed whispers thrown around as he passed by, but given his lack of presence at social gatherings, rumors surrounding him were to be expected. None of them were particularly truthful, of course—things like how he had gone insane, or been terribly injured because of an incident and refused to show his face around...\n\nHonestly speaking, the young man felt as if he should have expected such exaggerations to begin with. Spending more time training with swords and spears or poring over tomes and papers instead of trying to play politics could only have led to this sort of behavior to begin with. Though Reginald had some mind to simply ignore matters, there was a part of him that was saying that leaving rumors unchecked could return to bite back in the future.\n\nThose thoughts were quickly shelved, though, when the duke's son heard a sudden (and somewhat fervent) cry out for a 'miss'. Though he knew not the voice of the one from whom the words sprung from, the young man had instinctually turned to the source... Only to see one of the few people he would really rather not have seen in the first place.\n\nAnne Marielle. The heroine of this story.\n\nAt this, Reginald's pace slowed to a halt, and the black-haired student paused and stared for a moment as he tried to recall if an event like this had ever occurred in the game—and quickly came to the conclusion that it had not. Given that he needed to get a grasp on what sort of person the heroine actually was, though, seeing whatever actual event flags were raised was of the utmost importance... Well, so long as they weren't \"his\".\n\nWith that logic in mind, though, it didn't seem too out-of-place to intervene and remove the oddity that was clearly trying to pull the heroine's attention towards her—doubly so if that oddity seemed to be a maid who, despite having been brought here by someone or another, seemed to not have any clue what sort of scene she was causing by blindly calling out to someone who, by most standards, was a seemingly random student.\n\nAnd so, Reginald swiftly crossed over and, without missing a beat, grabbed the offending maid by the collar and pulled her onto her feet without any hint of a struggle.\n\n\"I would recommend that you consider the role of servants within the bounds of this school. Most nobility would not take kindly to being haphazardly called out to by a maid of unknown standing,\" he said, a slight frown on his face as he let her go. \"Unless you would like your master to lose face, I would remind you to remember your place.\"\n\nIt was by no means a 'pleasant' thing to say, especially with all of the eyes already on him, but at least in doing so he could prevent someone with a far haughtier nature than his own from intervening and possibly causing even more of a stir.\n\n@Crusader Lord", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\n\"Eep!\" All pretences of maintaining an elegant, noble facade were driven out of Elastasia with the collision, the meek squeak being followed up by a dejected pout at being literally overlooked in such a manner. Of course she was small, even smaller than her last go around at life, but that didn't excuse missing her entirely; it was a sunny day, surely all her hair caught the light at least a little bit...\n\nFor all her magical ability, she was fairly sure that she hadn't yet developed the ability to summon people with the force of her thoughts alone. Yet, here was the one of the obvious deviations from the game in the flesh--considerably more self-interested, for one, and with a rather curious interest in surrounding herself with pretty girls in social situations, even though one might expect a noble of her station to seek out promising heirs at this stage. Albeit, the world of Cross Heart Academy hadn't been so fleshed out as to cover every character's private life in detail, and that may just have been Elastasia's own inclinations colouring her perceptions, but it seemed another odd point to the list.\n\n\"I am quite well, Lady Haldblum. Aside from out most estimable headmaster's speeches, I trust that the academy has been to your liking thus far?\" she replied, looking up at the brunette. Oh, that was another change; she seemed to e starting to grow it out. That was a shame, although longer hair could certainly frame that figure nicely. \"Have you seen Terys, perchance? I was looking for him after the ceremony...\"", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." } ]

[ { "text": "Serrica smiled, looking Elastasia in the eyes. \"Lady Aquilanne, there's an untapped market of young ladies come in stock just recently and, pardon my words, you could more easily fit in with that lot than your own.\" It would be interesting to see the high ranking noble and third year getting along with first years as if they were her age. \"Perhaps you'll find some girl you're quite taken with in the newer students. They say love blossoms at the Academy.\" Of course, Serrica was referencing the Heroine and Elastasia's relationship in the original story.\n\n\"And if you do, never forget your friend who suggested to look around~\" With that, Serrica smiled and turned around. \"I'll let that brother of yours know you're looking for him if I see him. Until next time, Lady Aquilanne.\"\n\nThis time, Serrica truly did walk away confidently. If she had any more immediate plans, she didnt let on. In truth, she was curious if she could at least spot the Heroine and make note of her personality. She had no personal servant to snoop for her on campus at the moment. Perhaps she would need to send a letter back home and request someone skilled.", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "Oh, good, someone had come to help her. She wasn't used to the body of a teenaged girl, and hauling off the unconscious boy had been far more difficult then she'd thought. But with some assistance, she'd be able to get him to the Nurse's office without hurting hi-\n\nOh.\n\nThe moment her eyes fell upon her assistant, Anne realized precisely who it was she was looking at. There was no mistaking him. No denying it. Of all the people who had come to her aid, it had to be one of them. Not just one of them, but this one.\n\nIn the end, she supposed it made sense. Helping someone in need would totally attract the attention of somebody like him.\n\nBut that didn't make it better. That didn't help in the least.\n\nIf glimpsing von Afah wasn't bad enough, she'd just run headlong into the Crown Prince himself.\n\nShe could practically feel sweat dripping from her forehead her lips shut firmly as she vibrated in place slightly.\n\nWhat did she do? How did she respond? She couldn't trip any flags, she couldn't! She didn't want to start heading down anyone any routes at all! What did she say?!\n\n\"HAAAH!\"\n\n... Probably not that.\n\nClearing her throat and trying to stop her head from swimming so much(not to mention screaming suddenly in the middle of the courtyard was embarrassing), Anne tried to compose herself.\n\nAct normal.\n\nAct natural.\n\nTreat it as a passing meeting and move on.\n\nThat's all she had to do.\n\n\"L-let's... hurry to the nurse's office, then...!\"\n\n@MagusDream", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\n\"Euuuuuuggh...\" Elastasia groaned, pouting. It wasn't like any of the girls coming into the school were really growing that noticeably; there was no way she'd fit into the first years on height alone... which was a pretty dismal assessment of her own size, all things considered, but there was nothing she'd ever be able to do about that. Except levitate, but that sort of showy thing for conversation was very impolite unless circumstances actually demanded it for some reason.\n\nReally, what was with Serrica's parting message? The rumours hadn't gotten out of hand yet, nobody was too interested in paying attention to where the bookworm was looking when she remembered to show up to social events (and that was the door more often than it was the ladies in attendance) and she'd not gotten blatant in her interests to the point of scandal either. Did the brunette know something? Hopefully not, she already had enough to think about avoiding any pretty first-year girls; Elastasia wasn't going to go seek them out.\n\nWandering around the courtyard, however, brought her to someone else she was familiar with. They were probably cousins of some degree, which would help with recognising her brother, but more importantly he was pretty tall. \n\n\"Hey, Reggie, have you seen my brother?\" the short girl asked, popping up behind him as he looked to exit the courtyard, and falling into place even as he headed towards the markets proper. \"I think he might have gone looking for me.\"\n\nAh, Reginald. Such a problem in so many routes of the game; as nice as she was now, it had crossed Elastasia's mind more than once to try and arrange a few accidents if the heroine ignored him. More than the other capture targets, even, as at least this didn't mean contemplating regicide. Though, trying to avert some of the biggest conflicts by violence really was a matter of last resort... she didn't want to do something like that, and it wasn't really her forte. Maybe if she could find some of the other second-half characters...", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nThough he had on some level expected that his reputation and status would draw the attention of others, one of the few things that Reginald did not expect was being accosted by a girl who was notably shorter than he was—moreso than most of the other students attending the academy, at least. Of course, that combination of height and hair in particular made it rather straightforward to discern who it was that was calling out to him—doubly so when he had heard a nickname being called rather than any sort of title.\n\n\"Lady Elastasia,\" he said, half as a response to her call and half as a reminder to himself as to her identity. \"I apologize, but I do not think I have...\"\n\nIt was at this point that Reginald slowly trailed off, the young man slowing his stride for a moment as he searched his recent memories. The brother in question was rather short as far as people went, and though he had for the most part brushed over most of the new students in his earlier scan, there did seem to be something or someone moving through the sea of students in a bit of a rush earlier.\n\n\"...No, I misspoke. It is quite possible that he was among the first to leave once the opening address had concluded,\" Reginald corrected himself (though never actually stopping as he continued towards the marketplace). \"I saw a few students being pushed aside earlier by someone too short to see properly, so it is quite possible that he might have been in a rush to find you as well. Is it possible that he had presumed you would be elsewhere instead?\"\n\nDaze\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nThe sudden scream that had escaped from Anne's mouth had indeed managed to catch the Crown Prince off guard, but (in classic ikemen fashion) the young man simply smiled and nodded after the young woman agreed to his suggestion. Soon enough, the two students were carrying the unconscious Noctis off the courtyard and into the main school building. Large and grand though it was, the Prince seemed to have no trouble finding his way through (and even going so far as to help give a mini-tour on the way to the nurse's office).\n\nCompared to how it was laid out within the game, Starveil Academy was far larger in person—sort of a given, of course, seeing as how it had to accommodate so many more students than were usually shown on screen—which meant that the walk over was far longer than a simple menu navigation would have taken. If that fact—and the fact that she was so close to Christopher—had shaken Anne, though, the Prince seemed to not take notice.\n\nOr maybe he had and was simply not showing those feelings as much. Who could tell?\n\nBut soon enough, the group had arrived at the nurse's office; a quick knock at the door soon opened, and out came an older woman wearing a white coat.\n\n\"Is there a... Oh.\"\n\nIt didn't take long at all before the nurse's gaze fell upon the unconscious Noctis, and without any sort of fanfare she ushered the three in before laying the patient in question onto one of the nearby beds.\n\n\"Was there any sort of injury?\" she asked, to which Christopher simply shook his head no.\n\n\"Not as far as I'm aware, no,\" the prince replied, shaking his head before turning briefly towards Anne for confirmation. \"It is quite possible that his nerves got to him, but I'm not sure that'd be enough for him to lose consciousness...\"\n\n\"You'd be surprised,\" the nurse replied, a smile on her face as she turned towards the young man lying down on the bed. \"My assistant Johan was also a bit squeamish when he first started helping me out. It was so bad that the sight of blood would've made his soul leave his body!\"\n\nThe nurse let out a small laugh here before shaking her head.\n\n\"Of course, I can handle things from here—unless you're worried about this young man, of course?\"\n\n@MagusDream", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" } ]

[ { "text": "Mella\n@PKMNB0Y\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n\"Thank you for the help, sir. I shall come inquire again if there is anything I need for the foreseeable tenure of lord Reginalds enrollment in the academy.\" With potential money opportunities possibly gained, she needed to now just come up with a good plan to start saving. Sponsoring someone would certainly be a good idea and could reap great benefits...but that still left the issue of gathering enough capital to do so in the first place.\n\nPerhaps she should approach lord Reginald with an idea of her own...?\n\nHm...if she could get his ear on some inventions from the modern day perhaps she could turn quite a profit indeed...though that meant trying to get him to agree to give her a share of the profits and not take it for himself. So caught up in her thoughts, she was completely surprised as she'd feel someone just run into her.\n\n\"Oh dear-\" She'd exclaim, stumbling backwards and landing a bit awkwardly on her arm, sustaining a few minor scrapes for her troubles herself as she'd sit up, rubbing her arm a bit where she landed on it. \"Haaa, you really should watch where you're going.\" Mella grumbled as she'd get to her feet. \"Are you alright, young sir?\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\nAs Cervantes bid the maid farewell, he heard the sound of crashing from behind him. It couldn't have been more than a few seconds when they decided to part ways. What could have happened in that short period? With his curiosity getting the better of him and no sense of urgency, Cervantes turned back around to see the maid and an unfamiliar student laying on the ground. It didn't exactly take a genius to tell what had happened.\n\n\"Are you two alright?\" Cervantes said as he walked over. He lent a hand to the maid first, though he couldn't decide whether that was the right move. If this was a snobby noble, Cervantes would never hear the end of it. There were a lot of noble characters that hindered the heroine's progress because of their royal background and sticks up their asses. While Cervantes hadn't paid much attention to the side characters, he did read enough manga to get a general idea of certain stereotypes. \n\nIf Mella accepted his hand, he'd pull her up and then walk over to the student. On closer inspection, this kid was a lot more familiar than unfamiliar now that he had a closer look. White hair, small structure, looked like if someone blew wind at him, he'd collapse. Yep, Cervantes recognized him. It was one of the male leads, Terys, who Cervantes quite frankly did not care about. As far as he could remember, Terys was practically there for shotacons. His older sister, Elastasia, was much more helpful in combat scenarios. Having a superb magic stat and being a guaranteed recruit on Tery's route, Elastasia was a better unit overall.\n\nWhile Cervantes did not remember much about Terys, he'd like to assume that Terys had a temperate personality. Based on first impressions, Terys would often chase after his sister to stop whatever she was doing. If he was like that, then Cervantes hoped to assume that he didn't do anything particularly wrong.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\n\"Oh, I think I see him! Come on,\" Elastasia said, seeing said flash of white hair... and promptly grabbing Reginald's hand without giving him a say in the matter. She could apologise later, but right now, the girl needed someone tall and intimidating to help make a path through the crowd rather than being walked into by everyone too busy talking to notice her shortness. Sometimes, all the white hair was a dead giveaway, but...\n\n\"If you'd just stayed put, I would have found your right away,\" she admonished, helping the younger boy to his feet, \"I may miss a lot of things, but I'm still your sister, and I was going to show you around.\"\n\nOf all the people he had managed to run into, it was quite interesting that Terys had found the tutorial shopkeeper--someone that she was intimately familiar with, needing to make sure that she'd not strayed onto some already-completed route by accident (or even cataloguing how easy it was to wind up on some of them through unexpected means). The other had been similarly a background NPC back when this was a game, identifiable as the maid of the man she had just tugged through the crowd...\n\nNot that she was actually just a maid, Elastasia averting her eyes as if Mella would add mind-reading to her list of talents. Which probably looked like avoiding her for another reason, but then again she was quite pretty (and having a thing for taller women also didn't help, even if that amounted to 'most people').\n\n\"Of course, I'm sorry for doubting you, Elly,\" Terys managed, now standing at his full height... still shorter than the heroine, but nowhere near that short. He turned, giving an overly-deep bow to the maid and the shopkeeper given the rank differences, \"I'm terribly sorry for running into you; I wasn't looking where I was going at all!\"", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Serrica had examined the surroundings a small bit. Watching the students co-mingle after the speech. It was fairly lively now, with everyone looking forward to the new school year. As she studied all these students, she noticed a small bunch of them being rather rowdy and one of that group smack into some girl she hadn't recognized. A commoner girl perhaps. Well, that didn't matter all too much. What did matter was the girl falling down and scraping her hands as she caught her fall. It was only slightly bloodied but a cute girl didn't deserve such a thing.\n\nSerrica walked her way over with purpose and came to stand in front of the girl. \"Let's get you up. Your palms look a small bit bloodied. Let us get you to the nurse station so they can get you healed up, alright?\" The girl merely nodded. Perhaps because a stranger was helping her. Perhaps it was because she knew Serrica was a noble. Regardless, the noble lady helped her up and guided her to the nurse's station. It was a short enough trip though there was a slightly annoying sight.\n\n\"Hello, Your Highness. A pleasure to greet you.\" A certain prince was walking down the hallway. Well, she didn't plan on talking to him much, instead, she kept walking with the girl, who was struggling to get out the words to greet the prince as the Duke's daughter pulled her along. Soon enough, they noticed a guy walk into a room which, just so happened, to be where they needed to go. They sauntered up to the door and Serrica pushed it open. \"I have a student here that needs her hands healed.\"\n\nWell, there were already a number of people in there already. The nurse and her assistant, an unconscious person and a rather cute girl. \"Oh my, are we interrupting?\" She had to ask, looking between everyone, though her eyes stayed on the girl. Did they deceive her? Was that the Heroine? \"Rather cute, aren't you.\" She absent-mindedly stated, looking Anne in the eyes now with curiosity.", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" } ]

[ { "text": "The moment of utter confusion was briefly derailed when Noctis awakened. In spite of the situation, Anne couldn't deny her sense of relief that the young man who was her friend, regardless of her previous life, looked like he was going to be okay. Still, he hadn't fainted in the game, and nothing had happened to him that could have caused it as far as she could tell. So had something else happened that she didn't know about? Everyone did have lives of their own outside of the game's screentime, after all, so did that have something to do with it?\n\n\"Er, are you sure you're okay, Noctis?\" she asked, hesitatingly, after a moment, \"Suddenly fainting out of no-where isn't really... normal...\"\n\nAnd that wasn't the only thing that wasn't normal.\n\nAnne definitely didn't remember Serrica acting like this, or making any of these offers.\n\n\"W-work for? I-eh? Eeeeeeh?\"\n\nIt was a lot to take in all at once. There definitely wasn't an event like this in the game, no matter what you did! What the hell?\n\nIt wasn't enough that she got that close and whispered in her ear, it was everything else too.\n\n\"E-er, I d-don't really know what you're talking about, um...\" Anne trailed off with weak, nervous bit of laughter, scratching the back of her head.\n\nAt this point it was all she could really do.\n\n@Pyromania99@PKMNB0Y", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nReginald paid his maid a slightly curious sidelong glance as she commented on the oncoming chaos before deliberately acting as if he hadn't seen the glint in her eye. Over the past few years the young man had grown somewhat accustomed to his maid's odd lust for money, and so as long as she didn't attempt to actively undermine his family's finances Reginald himself had no reason to intervene.\n\nOf course, the others nearby had also chosen to jump into action, each moving to help stem the chaos in their own way. The shopkeeper had whipped out a net from his bag—one of a surprisingly sturdy make, if the way he swung it around was any indication—while Elastasia had begun to funnel all of the creatures into the road and towards them.\n\nThat would certainly help his plans along, if anything. Though he had no weapons upon him, injuring the animals likely wouldn't have done him any favors with the shopkeepers attempting to rein the situation in anyways.\n\nWhat was to be done instead, then, but simply work to try and catch the animals just barely too far out of reach for the others to capture? After a deep breath, the black-haired student sprung towards one of the barriers the mage had erected before leaping towards it. There was a brief pause as Reginald shifted his body around in mid-air before turning to use the very same barrier as a springboard to push himself even further into the skies. A pure-white bird that was just barely about to pass just overhead was soon caught within his hands as he descended to the ground.\n\n\"...Hm. I suppose that I should've considered what to do if my hands were full...\" he mused to himself as the bird—which would be somewhat notable to both Melia and Elastasia given the holy aura it seemed to faintly exude—continued to struggle away.\n\nWith that said, the menagerie bearing down on everyone was not exactly without any other noteworthy creatures. There were a variety of smaller magical creatures trying to shove their way through despite the narrowing corridor, but a few seemed intelligent enough to attempt to double back...\n\nOr, as in the case of a smaller kittenlike creature, leaping straight at Elastasia's face in what seemed to be an attempt to break the spell blocking it's path of escape.\n\n@AThousandCurses@Raineh Daze", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\n\"Ah, ha!\" Cervantes to said to no one other than to himself. The net fell upon the enemy and was slammed back to the ground. The creature tried to budge against its restraints, but Cervantes tried his hardest to keep it down. All he needed to do now was bring the creature back to a shopkeeper and cage it up.\n\n\"That was easy.\" He didn't break a sweat, yet, though the critter sure was strong. It took all he had to keep the animal down in his net. Though Cervantes was curious to what he had even caught. Looking down at it made him surprised. It was a wyvern, well to be more precise a wyvern whelp. Creatures with a similar appearance to dragons but more common and less strong than their cousins.\n\nSaid wyvern whelp was now trying break out the net by gnawing it. \"Not today, I'm afraid!\" Cervantes as he shifted the net around. The net entangled the wyvern, but that didn't stop the little thing from being ferocious. It was letting out strange cries as it tried to get out of its trapping.\n\n\"Jessica! Where are the cages!\" Cervantes yelled to his shopkeeper friend.\n\nShe seemed currently preoccupied trying to throw some sort of dust at a boar that was trying to maul her. The boar took a sniff out the dust before promptly going slack on its side. When she was finished, Jessica yelled out, \"Somewhere in there!\" With a gesture she nodded towards the run down store. Then she went back to trying to get more of the creatures.\n\nWas it legal to use unknown substances on animals? Cervantes didn't know and didn't seem to want to as he had a wyvern to pin in. \"Welp, in you go!\" Cervantes said as he dragged the wyvern. Hopefully there was an intact cage for this feisty critter.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" }, { "text": "Mella\n@PKMNB0Y@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nQuite the rambunctious critters, weren't they? Unfortunately for them, they could not escape a talented maids quick hands! She may not have had special powers or magic like Elastasia, but she was no less capable! As the critters were funneled towards them, Mella honed in on the more exotic looking ones and went specifically for those. A lizard like creature that vaguely reminded her of an axolotl was easily dealt with after snatching it from the ground before it could slip through Reginalds feet while he...oh, was that some sort of...holy bird or something?\n\nHer eyes lingered on Reginalds prize for a few moments before she'd tear her eyes away.\n\nShe had and wanted nothing to do with such things. They'd only just get her in trouble. It was a good thing, then, something else else needed her intervention.\n\n\"Humph,\" As the kitten leapt towards Elastasia, it would instead be finding itself face planting right into Mella's bosom as she put herself between the kitten and the mage. \"Its rather impolite to leap at a lady's face.\" She'd scold the kitten, using a free arm to pin it against her body in case it tried struggling.", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\nWhen the kitten--why had a kitten known to go for her? had made that jump--Elastasia reflexively froze up, presenting a harmless and ineffectual target... one that would have been able to do nothing to maintain their little corralling effort. Fortunately for her, the totally-just-a-maid came to her rescue, and the barrier maintained its integrity. Barely; the little jumping trick did cause the entire thing to shimmer ominously before recovering its strength.\n\nHow odd that he'd caught a holy bird, though. Was that even a good thing? It might do... something, when panicked, and it wasn't exactly the holiest of all individuals that had just made a grab for it. Maybe they'd be lucky and it would make a beeline for someone more suitable, even if nobody with the exact magical affinity was in the area.\n\nOf course, her brother now had his hands full, as well as his face. It looked rather like an ordinary puppy. A very large, very affectionate, very slobbery puppy.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Serrica had waited for Noctis to say something but he was rather quiet. \"Well, fine, the boy seems shell-shocked. If you feel better, do follow. Otherwise, girl, I'm going to borrow you for a small bit so the patient can rest.\" With that, Serrica kept hold of Anne's hand and walked out the door with her, leading her to somewhere that wasn't the infirmary. They got out of the building for some fresh air before Serrica stopped and released Anne. She took a breath before she opened her mouth again.\n\n\"Alright then. Now that we can get out from that sterile smelling air, do you not want to work for the quite rich Serrica Francesca Haldblum? I can pay you a potent salary... Hmm...\" She went silent for some seconds as she contemplated something. \"I suppose I have yet to properly introduce myself...\" The noble girl cleared her throat before speaking once more. \"I am the eldest daughter of the Haldblum Duchy, Serrica Francesca Haldblum. May I ask your name and house? Or, lack thereof. Take no offence, but if you are of a noble house I've yet to see you attend to high society functions.\"", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" } ]

[ { "text": "Serrica had waited for Noctis to say something but he was rather quiet. \"Well, fine, the boy seems shell-shocked. If you feel better, do follow. Otherwise, girl, I'm going to borrow you for a small bit so the patient can rest.\" With that, Serrica kept hold of Anne's hand and walked out the door with her, leading her to somewhere that wasn't the infirmary. They got out of the building for some fresh air before Serrica stopped and released Anne. She took a breath before she opened her mouth again.\n\n\"Alright then. Now that we can get out from that sterile smelling air, do you not want to work for the quite rich Serrica Francesca Haldblum? I can pay you a potent salary... Hmm...\" She went silent for some seconds as she contemplated something. \"I suppose I have yet to properly introduce myself...\" The noble girl cleared her throat before speaking once more. \"I am the eldest daughter of the Haldblum Duchy, Serrica Francesca Haldblum. May I ask your name and house? Or, lack thereof. Take no offence, but if you are of a noble house I've yet to see you attend to high society functions.\"", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "\"Wait wha-\"\n\nOn one hand it did allow her to escape from one of the romantic interests. On the other, this wasn't anything like anything that had happened in the game. Anne certainly hadn't expected Serrica to go dragging her off like this out of the blue. In fact, none of this behavior seemed like the Serrica she knew from the game at all. Just what was going on? Of course it wasn't that Serrica wasn't wealthy and exuberant but...\n\nMaybe she was just imagining it? Maybe it was just because of how things had already shifted?\n\nAnne wasn't certain, and she didn't really know how to handle a girl just dragging her off in the first place.\n\n\"Er... er... Marielle,\" she managed, when Serrica asked her name. It was more then she'd expected to be dealing with from her already, so it took a moment for her to even begin to articulate herself, \"A-Anne Marielle, er, I guess we just didn't... run into each other...?\"\n\nShe was from a minor house, in any case, so the chances of that were exceptionally high.", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nWith the barrier comparatively unperturbed by the kitten's valiant efforts, the rest of the animals soon found themselves crashing into the magical wall... Or one another. To Reginald, who was watching the whole affair unfold in front of him, the mental image of a nasty pileup quickly came to mind—and a somewhat restrained grimace crossed his face as he turned away from the carnage.\n\n\"I certainly don't envy any of them...\" he remarked to himself as the bird in his hands continued to wriggle and squirm about. Though he could not necessarily see the growing energy it was exuding now, he could certainly feel it now. To that, though, the young man simply chose to maintain his hold on the creature. 'Twas not his place to question why a magical creature was being held here, of course, but as far as he could tell, there was not much amiss about it beyond a slight glow.\n\nThe two more magically-inclined girls in his company would likely be able to tell what was going on to some degree, though, given how the bird seemed to be absorbing energy from the disoriented and injured creatures lying about as the shopekeepers began to gather them back up. By now, the identity of the avian was a bit more obvious to those who had run through this event in the game—the heroine's \"companion\" on the routes more relevant to the church, traveling around and growing alongside her.\n\nUnfortunate, though, that such growth usually required the presence of the injured and pained... Such as those lying around the street right now. Doubly so, of course, when one considered that the bird could hit a critical mass of energy before it reached a new stage in it's growth, as seemed to be fast approaching, and in so doing could cause anything from a shockwave of mana to a pulse of healing energy affecting those who it was nearby to anything in between.\n\nAll the while, though, the kitten that had now been caught in Melia's arms was flailing about, trying it's hardest to push itself free from her grasp. Notably enough, though, it seemed to deliberately not be trying to scratch or bite at her body despite being caught in a rather unbecoming situation... Though for what reason it chose not to do so remained to be seen.\n\nBy this point, though, the shopkeepers had begun to capitalize on the efforts of everyone actively aiding in their efforts to stop the stampede, and more than a few had already begun to bring the creatures splayed out on the streets back to their cages... For better or worse. The wyvern in Cervantes' grasp, for example, continued to struggle away at the net that had wrapped around it's body—or, to be more accurate, the net that it had incidentally wrapped itself up in. But the slight red glow beginning to form from within it's mouth was not exactly a herald of good things to come for anyone left unaware...\n\n@Rune_Alchemist@Raineh Daze", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\n\"Phew, almost done.\" What a day. Cervantes grimaced as he dragged the straggling wyvern to a cage. It felt a little surreal to be in this situation. Mystical animals break out and he had to catch one of them; what was this an anime? Though he supposed it wasn't too wrong. After all, this was an otome game. Scenarios like these shouldn't be too surprising to see in an otome, but experiencing first hand was an entirely different matter.\n\nOpening the cage, he looked down at the lizard. \"Well, little guy, it's time to get into cage so-\" Cervantes stopped when the whelp something glowing in its mouth. Did it eat a flashlight or something? First, he was sure that flashlights didn't exist in this world. Second, he was pretty sure that light was coming out of its mouth. It reminded him of a dragon about to breath fire. \"Wait, breath fire?\"\n\nFire?\n\nIn an instant, Cervantes was immediately alarmed of what was going to happen. Why could wyverns breath fire, or whatever it was doing? He thought only dragons could that. Wyverns were like the lame cousins of dragons and insignifcant to them. \"Ah... Ah... Ah...\" Cervantes panicked. What was he going to do? He had to do something, but he didn't want to hurt the wyvern either. Cervantes dug into his pockets and threw 'it' at the wyvern.\n\n\"Pocket sand!\"\n\nImmediately the sand slapped the wyvern straight in the face. It blinked before wrinkling it nose. With a sneeze that sounded like a gun firing, it shot out fire. Fire that easily burned his net. \"Haaaaaa!\" Cervantes yelped at the sudden brightness. Out of sheer instinct, Cervantes threw the net, along with the help, into the cage. \"Nope, nope, nope, nope, not today. Not dealing with this, today.\" Without hesitation he closed the cage and locked it.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\n\"Er, Reggie, you might want to let that one go...\" Elastasia offered hesitantly. Of course, if the Heroine had been here, this very early opportunity to get the bird would have had it decide that the holy magic-aligned girl was its ideal partner despite the general disorganisation and chaos going on, but here? Well, maybe a maid would be a good alternative. Or it would be happy to find its way home or to freedom or to wherever it might actually find a suitable partner.\n\nShe highly doubted it was going to enjoy being held by a young man whose major skills lay in chopping things to pieces. \"It might, ah... blow your hands off?\"\n\nWell, hopefully only bruise them. But holding onto it would likely hurt, if it wasn't all that happy with the current situation, and result in not holding the bird anyway.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Mella\n@PKMNB0Y@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nIt seemed though, unless she wanted harm to befall her current employer, it would be best to intervene in some manner. Now, she could do as Elastasia did and simply politely inform him that holding onto a holy hand grenade bird was a bad idea, but on the other hand, that wouldn't be quite as entertaining and there was a chance he would neither hear nor heed those words. So she needed to make him drop it.\n\n\"Lord Reginald.\" She'd simply say in order to get his attention. \"Hold this for me, yes?\" And then promptly grabbed the Axolotl like creature she had in her grasp, and threw it right at Reginald. A totally flawless plan that would certainly get him to drop the bird before anything bad happened. The animal flew through the air with a dopey smile as though it was enjoying the freedom of flying through the air.\n\nWith her other hand, she'd press the kitten a bit harder against her chest, didn't want it getting free and squirming about either.", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "\"Anne Marielle? Hmm... Well, can't say I'm familiar with your house, truth be told. Well, that much can change Lady Anne.\" Serrica said, smiling a small bit. \"You should come join my tea parties and other such affairs. I can assure you that it can only help your family out to be acquainted with the Duchy. Well, our Duchy. Not the other not as important one.\" Serrica mentioned with some small disdain in her voice.\n\nThe daughter of the duke seemed to clear her thoughts rather quickly before shaking her head and turning toward Anne again, \"Well, hiring you aside, you are a new student this year, correct?\" She asked but didn't give time for a response. \"Of course you are. Well, if you need help with anything let me know. I'd be willing to help since I think of it as an investment in human potential.\" The merchant added, not hiding her reasons at all. There was no need to hide it, after all. She had let her intentions be known clear as day. \"Regardless of all that however, let me say that it is a pleasure to meet you.\" She said, offering her hand for a handshake.", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" } ]

[ { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\nThat pricked his conscious. \"You're not the only one suffering you know,\" Cervantes said as he scratched the back of his head. \"I was planning to sell that capture net at my shop, but now look at it.\" All burnt up and being used a chew toy by the flying lizard. Pinching the bridge of his nose, he sighed. Cervantes could already tell what tomorrow's gossip would be. News Headline, \"Wild creatures run rampant in Plaza!?\" What a mess.\n\nThough, this may give him an opportunity. \"Well, I am feeling generous today.\" With a smile, he walked up towards the shopkeeper. \"If I may introduce myself, I am Cervantes Quixote. I am a merchant of many wares,\" Cervantes paused in dramatics before saying it aloud. \"And connections. I can ask some of my 'friends' to help you with finding your merchandise if you'd like. That and I'll help with your shop. Of course, we'll have to write up a contract, but I want to hear your thoughts first.\"\n\nAside from the fact that he technically had no 'connections,' he had one resource that could potentially help a hapless old man.\n\nThe Heroine.\n\nIf would be able to convince the heroine on this endeavor, then he'd hit a jackpot. Though, of course, he'd have to offer something in return to the heroine to convince her. The world revolved in exchanges of course. Whether it be money, favors, or gods, something had to be given away in return. Cervantes would be have to flexible, since he didn't exactly know what the female lead could possibly want.\n\nThough perhaps, he could get that maid into this as well. She did say she wanted to get into a business. Why not have this man teach her the ropes or something? Either way, after this he needed to find people fast.\n\n\"What is your name, mister?\"", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" }, { "text": "Serrica merely smiled somewhat entertained as Lilian spoke harshly to her. There was always something entertaining about her interactions with the girl. Few people truly troubled her and Lilian Meridan was no exception to that. \"Nice to see you as well, Lady Meridan. Looking as beautiful as ever.\" She mentioned as the girl just stared her down. Perhaps she would feel unsettled with the daughter of His Majesty's chief advisor staring her down... But a merchant couldn't let such trifles bother them.\n\nShe went silent mostly as Lilian introduced herself to Anne. It didn't bother her a bit. So long as she didn't plan on trying to snatch her new recruit from under her like a bitch. Which is not what it seemed like. Rather, she seemed rather focused on her for some reason. She always seemed wary. \n\nPerhaps it was because she was not exactly polite to the royalty? Well, she didn't have to nor did she particularly want to. He was fairly boring as far as it went but, realistically, she didn't really focus on that sort of thing in her few playthroughs.\n\nAs soon as introduction was over... It was back to being stared at. Serrica couldn't remember being particularly mean to Lilian or anything of the sort. In fact, she had started trying to be.... Somewhat nice. She has consistently invited her to tea parties. Or, tried. A good ally is the daughter of the king's advisor after all. Now, however... \n\n\"Well, I had come this far out originally to assist a girl that had been pushed aside and scraped her knee. There I met this cute little miss.\" Serrica mentioned, defending herself in a small way. \"And I always have time to make small talk with the new students, Lady Meridan. It's always wonderful to meet the new faces we'll be seeing until we graduate.\" She added before staring Lilian back in the eye. \"My, you know, Lady Meridan, you stare at me like that much longer and I'll wonder if you have a thing for me. I thought you had a thing for the Crown Prince.\" Serrica teased, taking a step closer. \n\n\"Well, you may find that my refined taste includes people with beautiful golden locks if you're curious.\" The Duke's daughter took one more step forward towards Lilian. She was curious if she hit the hammer on the nail, though she somewhat doubted she did. Likely, she was just always irritated with the way Serrica treated the Crown Prince.", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\n\"Oh dear, the holy bird seems to like you...\" Elastasia stated, watching the bird's choice of perch curiously. Was this information actually significant to any of the world's normal inhabitants? It could be mere happenstance that Mella was more appealing than any of the others around here--being marginally holier than a bunch of merchants and nobles might not be considered much of an achievement--but at the same time, it was a very definite preference...\n\nOr maybe that was merely confirmation bias speaking. She knew why it was so attracted, therefore, to her, it was obvious. If she started acting on all the game knowledge to any real end, though, she'd get a reputation for uncanny prescience that would give out in such a short span of time, that would be quite annoying. And she really needed to start with something big before attention came to her, like making sure Reginald didn't go off and cause problems.\n\nMaybe if he was encouraged to collect rare animals, they wouldn't need to depend on the Heroine's whims? That derpy-looking creature would be a good start.\n\nAnd maybe one of the shopkeepers would get that dog off her brother. He wouldn't have anywhere to keep such a pet, no matter how friendly it was.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Mella\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n\"I'll send you an invoice for saving your arm later.\" Mella confidently stated with her usual neutral expression. Now the only thing was to get away before the bird did anything like give any sign that she knew exactly what was going on or that the bird somehow decided to stay with her.\n\nShe felt a set of bird feet perch on her head.\n\n\"Shoo, bird.\" She'd say, making an attempt at waving the bird off. She had no desire to get caught up with any holy creature unless said holy creature was worth the entirety of the country in its net worth that she could sell or profit from. More importantly though, was the little kitten that had accepted its fate, it seemed. She'd relax her grip on it just slightly, adjusting so she could hold it a little better and more comfortably with it resting on her shoulder instead of being firmly pressed against her. \"More importantly...for helping you catch these runaway animals, I believe fair compensation is in order, sir?\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" } ]

[ { "text": "Mella\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nCurses.\n\nCould she learn curses? She'd curse this bird.\n\nOr maybe she should learn some divine magic so it laid golden eggs.\n\nThis was turning out to be rather annoying.\n\n\"I would much rather sell this thing.\" Mella replied with a sigh, admitting defeat at the hands of this avian. \"Its a rare specimen lord Reginald...though I haven't a clue as to why it seems so attached to me.\" She'd turn her eyes up towards the bird in question. \"Perhaps it'd taste good roasted? Perhaps fried. I think it looks similar enough to a duck to be quite delicious of prepared correctly and I would not have to purchase food for the evening if we did.\"\n\nMella walked over towards Reginald and Elastasia, bowing politely.\n\n\"I shall remember to bill you for extra curricular work.\" She nodded towards Reginald. \"My lord, if there is nothing else then I must continue my shopping and prepare a meal for the evening.\" A glance back up at the bird. \"Unless we truly shall be finding out what this one tastes like roasted in garlic.\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "This was spiraling further and further into potential disaster the longer it occurred. Serrica's behavior was only seeming to aggravate Lilian, who in turn was doing her best to incite Serrica. \n\nAnd Anne had found herself caught in the middle of a potentially dangerously escalating situation. She wanted to try and stay out of these sorts of things, the idea of anything that could trip any sort of flag was terrifying at this point. This seemed like it was brewing to catapult them into a a chain of tempting flags left and right!\n\nWhat did she say?! Aaah, she didn't want to express any interest in the Prince at all! She didn't want to go down that route! She didn't want to make Lilian think she was going down that route!\n\nDeep breaths.\n\nShe had to take deep breaths, clear her head, and calm herself.\n\nAnd give a natural response.\n\nPerhaps bowing was a bit over the top.\n\n\"I-I-I wish you g-g-good luck!\"\n\nAnd practically yelling that almost certainly didn't yelp.\n\nBut Anne couldn't stop the anxiety from getting to her.\n\n@Pyromania99", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nAn odd expression crossed Reginald's face upon hearing Elastasia's remark—one that could probably have been described as a mix of surprise, confusion, and vague recognition of the word that she spoke. A salamander was a salamander, after all—and confusing it's name for something like \"Wooper\" was so uncannily odd that it couldn't have been an honest mistake. Not unless there was another creature with a similar name, at least.\n\nTo this, the black-haired student seemed to stand in silence for a few moments, his brow furrowed as he tried to figure out if there were any other animals that could possibly have a similar enough physiology and name to result in such an honest mistake. But when none came to mind, Reginald's mind instead drifted back to his 'old' native language—Japanese—and a certain multimedia franchise that had become popular the world over.\n\nThere was a theoretical now, a 'what-if' beginning to take root in the back of his mind—that maybe the mistake was one borne from a Freudian slip from someone who had found themselves in similar circumstances to his own. It was hard to make any definitive claims at the moment, though the idea did cross his mind to ask, if not subtly, what Elastasia had meant by that...\n\nBut ultimately, it seemed wiser to wait and see if there were any other hints he could attempt to glean before trying to ask proper. Of course, the time he had spent thinking about those matters had just as well been spent half-staring at the upperclassman in question, for better or worse—and, somewhat unfortunately, only barely acknowledging Terys' words of thanks with a slight nod.\n\nMella's talk of cooking the bird that had taken to her was ultimately what pulled his attention back to more \"present\" matter, and her apparent dislike of the avian was... Honestly quite amusing to him, in a bit of a twisted way. It wasn't like the bird was doing any explicit harm, at least, and despite her less-than-subtle threats it seemed satisfied perched upon her head.\n\n\"Mmm... I think that if it's rare and seems to be taken with you, it might do some good to actually research what breed it is. I doubt it'd return to whatever shopkeeper it came from at this point, and honestly it might be less trouble paying for the creature than attempting to wrangle it away from you...\"\n\nAnd given how confident both Elastasia and his maid had been about how it was able to injure him, maybe that would be for the best.\n\nBy this point, another shopkeeper—one of a far sturdier make—finally came around and took the large canine off of his hands, though certainly more literally than figuratively as the gruff man hefted the massive dog under his arm and walked off.\n\n\"Well, matters of cleaning up this chaos aside, I've nothing better to do at the moment. Given how I intend to at least look into that new friend of course, the least I could do is follow along until you are finished—or we could simply make our way there now, given how you seem to have a different creature entirely in your grasp.\"\n\nDaze@Rune_Alchemist\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\"I am aware that you claimed to help another student earlier, and I do not deny that fact. What I am asking, quite honestly, is why the young woman at your side is with you. Though I suppose that she seems to be a bit more rattled by my presence than I would like...\"\n\nThere was a pause as a bit of a shadow crossed Lilian's face after she spoke her piece to Serrica, and the words \"reputation\" and \"bad\" could scarcely be heard by Anne as the blonde girl whispered to herself barely loud enough for another to hear—before the topic of the Prince came up once more.\n\nTo this (far more forward) declaration, however, Lilian's face seemed to color itself ever so slightly red, and her fleeting moment of pause seemed to be replaced in an instant by indignation and embarrassment. That seemed to only be further exacerbated by Anne's response, loud as it was—the young woman's face seemed to dye itself a deep shade of red now—so much so that denying her feelings would have been all but impossible now.\n\n\"E-enough about the Crown Prince!\" she exclaimed, a slight tremor in her voice. \"I'm—\"\n\n\"...Hm? I thought I heard a shout over here...\"\n\nAnd, almost as if on cue, the Crown Prince turned a nearby corner and walked towards the three girls, a light smile on his face.\n\n\"Miss Haldblum. Miss Meridan. I hope the day finds you well,\" Christopher said as he turned towards the two before the latter promptly turned away and covered her face in embarrassment. Seeing Lilian acting as she was, though, Christopher's gaze inevitably tuned back towards Anne, whose presence here seemed to be a bit more surprising to him.\n\n\"...Hm? I didn't expect to see you so soon again, Miss... I apologize, but I never actually got your name—nor you mine, I believe—when we last met. Christopher Alvonshire, the first son of King Asher Alvonshire. I presume your friend is well, then, if you are exploring the school grounds now?\"\n\n@VitaVitaAR", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Mella\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nMella remained quiet. On one hand, making a fuss would probably only draw more attention. That and she really didn't have much of a say about what sir Reginald ultimately ever ended up doing. As it stood there wasn't really a way to so easily turn down the bird. She'd just have to...discreetly get rid of it at some point, then. She wondered if she put it in a box and shipped it across the seas would it be done with?\n\n\"There will be no need for that, Sir Afah.\" She'd ultimately respond with a mild frown. \"I am quite fine with having this...thing accompany if you wish to keep it. Though since it is a gift I reserve the right to do whatever with it.\" She'd affirm, loosening the grip of the kitten in her arms as she'd move it so she was cradling it like a baby, paws up towards her and its head resting in the crook of her elbow. \"I suppose though, my hands are rather full...miss Elastasia, was it? If you don't mind me making a small request to handle this kitten so we can go finish our shopping...unless you'd wish to accompany me as well?\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" } ]

[ { "text": "Mella\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nShe was slightly hoping the shopkeep would refuse and take the bird away.\n\nLife could never be so easy, could it?\n\nThe maid remained quiet, though, keeping the kitten comfortably laying in her arms and the bird perched on her head, doing her best to simply ignore it. Well, at least the cat was...somewhat cute, she supposed. She'd pat its head, giving it a few ear scritches and pets while she'd wait for lord Afah to complete his business. She still needed to do the shopping. Was it still possible to get back and do all the cooking before evening?\n\nHm.\n\nMore importantly, though...\n\n\"...How does one take care of this bird?\" Mella queried the shopkeeper. \"As It is likely my responsibility I have never seen it before, and as such would much appreciate any insight into peculiarities, sir Shopkeeper.\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "\"Um... could you tell me about this kitten?\" Elastasia asked, lifting up the offending creature so it was visible. It at least seemed slightly more pliable now, \"Is it just a cat...? It seemed to know to go for me when I was keeping a barrier up to hem in the other escapees.\"\n\nIt could make an interesting familiar, she supposed. Not that it was the sort of magic that she'd ever shown interest in, but having another pair of eyes to look out for people that might want to interrupt her reading and drag her off to some party... although, it wasn't something that would really harm her social standing in a non-intrusive way. A magical prodigy doing something so blatantly associated with mages? Eh, it was nothing. Everyone liked having pets, noblemen took to breeding horses...\n\nOr it could just be a cat. That was also possible. A cute cat, but a cat nonetheless.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Even Serrica was feeling bad for Lillian at this point. Not that she hated the girl, but there was not much to say about another high ranking noble if she couldn't get her feelings across. \"She's preoccupied wi-- No.\" Serrica started to state what she figured was obvious before deciding that wasn't the course of action. \"Nevermind that, I suppose. You're quite dense, Prince Christopher.\" The student mentioned before briefly shaking her head and sighing a small bit. \"It is thanks to that, however, that I doubt you carry the reputation of a ravenous hound, fret you not.\" Serrica mentioned with a small shrug. \"Perhaps an unintentionally rude or dull one but that aside it does not matter to me. You're still the Crown Prince to me.\"\n\nAfter saying that much, she turned to Anne. \"Ahh, yes. Lady Marielle. I believe that you wanted guidance to a certain place on campus, did you not? Would you still like me to guide you there? I'm still not past trying to recruit you into my group, but I shall ease up until your graduation if you wish.\"", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "While most of Anne's mind was in a panic, attempting to analyze everything the Prince had said in order to isolate and defend against even the slightest chance of a flag, it wasn't as if she entirely failed to realize the situation.\n\nEven if she hadn't played the game before, Lilian's feelings for the Prince were entirely obvious. Her treatment in the Prince's route was one of the reasons it hadn't been her favorite, for that matter. Certainly, she wasn't very nice, but it felt rather harsh for someone who wasn't particularly a genuinely bad person.\n\nAnne took a deep breath.\n\n\"U-um, maybe you could catch up?\" she suggested, awkwardly, \"S-since it's... er...\"\n\nShe trailed off after a few moments. What did she even say here? Playing matchmaker wasn't her strongsuit at all! Doing it in real life was vastly different from doing it in SRPGs!\n\n\"Er... and... we can... go let you do that!\"\n\nAs odd as Serrica was acting, it was at least a potential out from a dangerous situation!\n\n@Pyromania99", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "The shopkeeper paused for a moment as he considered the maid's question.\n\n\"Well, I suppose that the first course of action would be to purchase a cage of sorts for it to live in... But you might not need one, given how comfortable it send to be on your head,\" he remarked, a slight smirk crossing his face for a moment. \"Jokes aside, I've been feeding that one seeds and fruits. It seems to like most anything in that vein—but not bugs. As for the actual care...\"\n\nBefore he could ramble further on about the subject, though, Elastasia chimed in with a question of her own about the cat in her hands—a question he was more than willing to oblige.\n\n\"Ah, of course. That's an Aomi—a cat we had imported from the far east, and a rare one at that. They're fairly well known for their use of magic in hunting in the wild in the region they come from, though finding one is an adventure in and of itself. As for why it jumped at you... I've heard tales of them being called 'magic eaters', but to be honest, your guess would be as good as mine. If they're hard to find, though, maybe they're juat smart enough to not get caught to begin with?\"\n\nAt this, the cat seemed to turn it's head back towards Elastasia before letting out a half-yawn, half-meow. It didn't seem to mind being held up for diaplay as it was, at least, but being as calm as it was despite the situation... That much certainly set it apart from it's peers, at the very least. \n\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\"Dense? Rude? That's rather insulting, you know,\" Christopher responded in turn, his brow furrowed as he shook his head. \"If that much is 'rude', I fear what 'polite' should be in your eyes.\"\n\nAt that, though, the prince simply sighed and shook his head.\n\n\"As for catching up... I am sure Miss Meridan has better things to do than speak with me, and forcing her to speak with me when she does not seem to wish to seems rather ill-intentioned at best.\"\n\nIf the others wished to leave now, though, Christopher seemed to have no intention of stopping them. It already seemed like Lilian was slowly inching away, trying her hardest to not up and die of what embarrassment she was already being overwhelmed by.\n\n@VitaVitaAR", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\nA cat from the far east? Well, that was something nostalgic. But if it could be used to find magic users somehow, then that would make her ability to sequester herself somewhere out of the way and read all the easier... if the heroine got interested in magic, then outside of class, there was a chance that they might run into one another. And she would like to avoid any heartbreak from such an obviously-unobtainable figure getting close to her if the girl turned out to be her type after all.\n\nThis left the noble staring into space for an awkwardly long time, until the shopkeeper coughed and drew her attention back.\n\n\"Oh, I'm so sorry! Yes, I'd quite like to purchase this kitten, and anything that's needed to look after it...\" Well, she didn't have much in the way of money on her, but she could just sign something to handle that. Really, the cost of a single animal was insignificant.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "\"Yes, I do believe you to be rather dense your Highness. You can't see what treasures you have at hand before you try encroaching on other treasures that have yet to be collected. Consider me insulting all you want, however, if calling you dense marks me as such.\" Serrica said before sighing. \"Just think about my words a small bit. With that, I really must show this young Miss somewhere. Please do conversate with Lady Meridan at convenience.\" With that, she grabbed Anne by the hand and led her off.\n\nAfter they made some distance from the Prince and Lady Meridan, Serrica took Anne near a place where student activity were a bit higher. If the Prince happened upon them this time, well, it would be easy enough to sic some of the younger girls upon him. With a small breath with the coast being clear, Serrica turned to Anne and released her hand. \"So, Lady Marielle, you can take an easy breath now. Though, you seem much too nervous. Is there an issue you're having with the school?\" She had to ask, looking the girl straight in the eyes. \"Well, we've all but started some short time ago so I'm sure that's not it.\" The Duke's daughter mentioned, stroking her chin in curiosity.", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "Mella\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n\"Fruits and seeds...I see.\" Simple enough request. She'll just take it out of Lord Reginald's dinner requests since this was his fault she was now saddled with quite a troublesome creature. As for actual care? Well, it'd probably be fine. She would buy a cage for it, she couldn't very well let it sit on her head all the time, especially when working. \"Well, if you happen to have a cage - the most luxurious and expensive one you have on you I'm sure lord Reginald will be more than happy to pay top dollar for it. I can't very well work with this thing sitting on my head all day.\" Mella responded, flashing Reginald a look that clearly indicated that it was his fault.\n\n\"I suppose I will also have to add those to the shopping expenses when we finish our shopping. Which I very much would prefer to get back to then dallying about with an avian making a nest on my head.\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" } ]

[ { "text": "Elastasia\n\nRibbon... check. Stockings and shoes... check. Hair neatly brushed (and even years after gaining a second lifetime's worth of memories, the ease with which magic simplified dealing with that still gave her a warm feeling), and not all done at the last second because she'd gotten too wrapped up in a book to remember. For once, Elastasia had managed to prepare for and show up to an event without prompting! Okay, it was also a huge event everyone at the academy was going to, which made it hard to miss, but she could still have ignored all that and missed the ceremony.\n\nBut then she would miss seeing Terys on his first day, relegating the younger boy to trying to seek her out somewhere amidst the school. For all his diligence, he didn't know the way around just yet. Besides, she missed the years where they'd see each other daily (even if the her that missed them wasn't the same as the her of now), it'd be a great opportunity to say hello.\n\nActually listening to the speech, Elastasia wished that she had chosen to skip after all. Not only was it boring and denied her the chance to read, being situated at the back with all the other third-year students meant that she couldn't see anything. Bored face after bored face in every direction, a speech regurgitated by rote to the point she was sure some of the better orators here could copy it verbatim...\n\nIt wasn't a fun experience, all in all.\n\nNor was fighting against the current of people leaving the courtyard, the occasional too-tall boy walking into her and having to make a hasty apology. Really, it was bad enough that by the time she actually got to the first years, the area was half emptied already, and trying to find her also-short brother amidst this sea of giants.\n\nSo, she relocated to just outside the entrance instead. Maybe Terys would have better luck finding her.\n\nHmm... already, there were a few familiar faces, bringing to mind how significant the upcoming year would be. That green-haired mop was undoubtedly the tutorial merchant, liable to run into the heroine soon more often than not. Whether he'd be quite as helpful in reality as in the game was debatable; a few of the individuals she'd met seemed quite distinct from their written personalities--Serrica always stood out as being rather different, for whatever reason.\n\nAnd there was no way to tell what actual personality Anne would come into the world with. Bland? Exciting? Her looks were Elastasia's type, as generic as they were, but she hoped to avoid any hopeless confessions in her actual life.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "This was really happening, wasn't it?\n\nThis was actually real.\n\nAt first, when she suddenly remembered everything, she hoped it was some sort of strange dream. Then, when it became clear it wasn't, she hoped that it was some kind of bizarre coincidence and she hadn't actually been reincarnated as the protagonist of an otome game after having previously been a very much male university student. Maybe it was just a coincidentally similar world.\n\nThose hopes were dashed when she entered the school. When she saw the people here. When she set foot in the courtyard.\n\nThe entrance ceremony was exactly as she remembered it from the intro to the game.\n\nMatsuoka Ryouji, or rather Anne Marielle as she had been known for the past sixteen years in this world, now found herself standing in the aftermath of the intro to Starveil Academy.\n\nIn the world of the otome game Cross Heart Academy.\n\nAs its protagonist.\n\nWhat this meant was hardly lost on her, as she anxiously eyed the crowds around her.\n\nPerhaps being the 'generically cute every girl' would work to her advantage. Nevermind the fact that being a girl in the first place was a tremendously awkward experience(in away she was thankful for those sixteen years she spent without remembering her old life, because that meant that she'd not had an even rougher adjustment period). In the real world, she wouldn't be that noticeable. And this was real now, not an otome game where every guy was destined to notice her.\n\nSurely it would work out differently, right? Even if that entrance ceremony had been identical.\n\nAnne wasn't the type of person who had played this game for guys to fawn over her. If anything, back when she was Matsuoka Ryouji, it was only natural he was much more into some of the female characters. The protagonist herself was cute, albeit deliberately generically so. And there was that one teacher too.\n\nThere was no way she wanted to end up marrying some guy.\n\nShe wasn't going to pursue any route. This was absolute in her mind. This was a zero route game. She'd think about the other stuff when she had the chance, but the most immediate problem was ensuring none of them would approach her.\n\nIt couldn't be hard, right?\n\nAnne sighed inwardly, relieved at her own hopefully-true assumption. That's right. In real life, as long as she made a good, solid rejection, guys like that would let it go, right?\n\nOf course she'd have to be careful, in this world where status mattered so much, but all the protagonist's romance options were at least decent guys, right?\n\nThey practically had an ocean of other girls to choose from, too.\n\nRight?\n\nSomehow her optimism was crumbling by the second.\n\nWell, maybe if she made her way out of the courtyard as quickly as possible, to avoid even the slightest chance of a flag raising...", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" } ]

[ { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nOnce confronted by Reginald about her actions, the maid's face seemed to pale and her body seemed to shrink down in fear. The hasty apology that followed from her was followed by a simple wave from Reginald, though, as if to disregard the situation entirely. It was better to chastise lightly than to let someone lose their job (or possily more) over something like this.\n\nBut the matter regarding the maid was of less importance to him than the heroine in this case, and once he had seen the maid hastily flee the area, the duke's son turned around to see the heroine having run off somewhere else. Though he'd have liked to gauge what her personality was \"actually\" like, the possibility of her trying to raise some flags with him was not zero... Which itself would have been more annoying to manage than he would have liked.\n\nNo matter, then; he'd have the next few years to see what she would attempt to do. For the moment, it seemed more prudent to leave the courtyard and... Well, find Mella, if anything. Given how he had sent her off earlier to scout the markets to make sure she had groceries for the two of them (as he was less inclined to eat at the cafeteria to begin with) and how she hadn't actually returned yet, the young man reasoned that she was likely still there, and so promptly started to leave the area once more to seek her out.\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nDespite having had a teacher right beside him as he passed out, it did not seem as if anyone had immediately moved to help Noctis. Whether or not it was because of the chaos of the courtyard as the students left (or chose to linger) or something else mattered little, though, as it seemed at least one student was willing to extend their hand to aid the young man.\n\nAnne's hasty arrival coupled with an attempt to help drag Noctis off the ground was a bit less successful at first, mostly in part due to her lacking the strength to do so. It was only after a bit of struggling, though, that the young woman would hear someone else's voice from nearby.\n\n\"Oh, is he all right? Here, let me help; we should bring him to the nurse's office as soon as possible.\"\n\nAlmost as if all of the effort she had put in was meaningless, the owner of the voice lifted Noctis' unconscious body up and slung the young man's arm over his shoulder.\n\n\"Ah... That's a bit heavier than expected. Would you mind helping me out here, miss?\"\n\nThe young man who had moved to help, of course, would have given Anne even more reason to panic. His golden blonde hair and aura of regality marked him as none other than one Christopher Alvonshire—in other words, the First Prince.\n\n@MagusDream", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "\"Yes, all has been well so far at the academy, though... I do dread the speech next year. He has a way of dragging it on and on.\" Serrica gave a small sigh as the older girl asked if she had seen a certain brother. \"That cute little brother of yours? Nope. If I hadn't noticed you, there's not much chance I noticed him.\" Serrica mentioned as she looked around the area, seeing if she could get her eyes locked on any hair matching Elastasia's. \"A shame, I could not set my eyes on him for you.\" The taller noble said, her own eyes meeting Elastasia's. \"Perhaps if I find him, I shall tell him you were looking.\"\n\nSerrica started to turn away so she could head off elsewhere before she stopped and quickly turned back towards the shorter girl. \"Oh! And Lady Aquilanne, I plan on holding a tea party sometime soon to celebrate the start of this academic year. The time and date will be scheduled shortly and I will send you a written invitation. Should you find any other influent-- I mean, any other fine ladies of the academy who seem like they could use conne-Friends... Let me know and I will invite them as well.\" \n\nSerrica seemed proud of herself for planning this event, \"You will join me, right?\" Elastasia was the character that seemed to have a thing for girls, or at least the main character, in the original game. Hopefully, it meant that she'd have an eye for girls to invite to such a connection making event.\n\nDaze", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\nWell, at least that was one other person now on the lookout for her brother. That greatly simplified matters, although maybe Elastasia could do something else to help find him in this crowd a little bit faster... if nothing else, a little bit of magic ought to give her a better vantage point to see from, right?\n\nBefore she could do that, there was the little matter of Serrica's tea party to address. It wasn't the sort of thing that Elastasia wanted to attend. All-female or not, it would still just be a party of rich girls, and nobility vying for attention. But... maybe she should keep things moving in the direction of the main story? She hadn't met yet, but if Anne showed up in a magic class before this party, it should be possible to make the beginnings of an invitation and ensure she started to acquire powerful allies before the route splits.\n\nBut she didn't want to go...\n\n\"Oh, I don't know if I could meet many people you haven't,\" she said, resting her hand on her chin, \"The Academy already draws from our typical social circles quite heavily. Your year would be the one most likely to have unfamiliar girls of lower rank.\"", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Mella\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nDefinitely good information, as helpful as she'd imagine such a character to be. She did however, catch herself staring just a little at simply how...different still, he'd be from the in game version. Rather than a faceless NPC, it seemed as though he was still just as real as she was, or even Reginald was. Then perhaps he could potentially help with something else, too? She doubted it since by the second act of the game he was gone, but you miss every opportunity you don't take.\n\n\"I see, thank you. The information is helpful.\" She'd reply. \"But...perhaps if you'd be willing to help with a more personal request,\" She'd lower her voice slightly. \"I'm looking for...investment opportunities.\" She'd pull a coin from somewhere within her dress, holding it between two of her fingers. \"Not for my Lord, mind you. But for myself. I apologize if this is an odd request for a maid, but I simply find myself needing a large sum of money.\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\nWait, what did the maid just ask him? Investment opportunities? Did that even exist in a maid's vocabulary? Regardless, Cervantes was pleasantly surprised by the maid's question. \"Investment opportunities, well...\" Cervantes trailed off in thought. Why would a maid, especially Reginald's maid, want to find investment opportunities? This didn't happen in-game, no matter how many times he played it. Perhaps this was some information he missed or skipped through while playing the game. \n\nStill, the tutorial NPC, Cervantes, helped the heroine in whatever she asked. Things like where to find magic, what would the next event be, how to get away with murder, and places where a dragon egg might be...\n\nWait, how to get away with murder!?\n\nA chill went down his spine as he smiled at the maid. \"If you wanted my personal opinion, I'd say the potion business. They're very profitable and a necessity for adventurers. I heard that they sometimes make potions to help with illnesses as well.\" That was according to Cervantes's experience and some truth of the old world. Most hospitals were owned by wealthy CEOs, though Cervantes didn't know if the same applied to this world. It probably did, but he would need to do more research. \"Though that wouldn't work...\" Cervantes muttered to himself.\n\n\"If you wanted a more concrete answer, I'd need more information,\" Cervantes said to the maid. \"Like how profitable they are, how easy is it to create a company in that business? Could you substitute that business with a different one?\" That was better than asking for an overview of multiple industries. \"I think you should start off with the question, 'which business do you want to invest in?' That way, I can tell whether or not it's a good investment.\" If the maid could narrow down the possibilities for him, that'd be great.\n\n\"Though there seems to be a problem with your question.\" A deflated look appeared on his face. \"I mean no offense, but as a maid, your income would be low, no?\" The maid in front of him could be a former noble that decided to serve another noble, but Cervantes felt like that wasn't the case. \"It'd be hard to otherwise invest if you don't have enough money to compete with other merchants.\" After all, the more money invested, the more money is gained back.\n\n\"Though, I guess if you really wanted to invest, you'd be better off trying to find an inventor. Though those are often diamond in the rough.\" In a realistic sense, Cervantes was right. Inventors took a long time to create life-changing inventions, like the light bulb, for example, and they might be frauds if they fail. As a player, Cervantes had done it multiple times. In the investment part, he had the heroine invest in several businesses he knew that had a high rate of profitability. However, Cervantes felt guilty for that one artist in whom he often invested. In every playthrough, that artist would always follow Van Gogh's path. That artist could only find success in death...\n\nA somber look briefly appeared on Cervantes's face as he was lost in thought. \"Is there anything else I can help you with?\"", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" } ]

[ { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nThough he seemed somewhat lost in thought as he proceeded forward, the concerns that Elastasia had were not necessarily ones that Reginald shared... Or, at the very least, not for the same reasons. Regardless of when he was meant to meet the heroine, the fact that he was a capture target to begin with couldn't be ignored...\n\nAnd, as he wished to do for most of the people of concern, Reginald wished to keep tabs on as many of those as possible. The fact that he was also fundamentally tied to one of the best generalist magic units in Cross Heart Academy—in other words, the girl following behind him—only meant that trying to maintain a decent relationship during his time here was of a rather high import.\n\nNot that he shouldn't have already been worrying about such a thing; keeping up airs was rather important despite the \"equal\" footing the school tried to place on them in terms of status.\n\n\"Well, if you are to search, I suppose starting here is as good a place as any,\" he said, the streets abuzz with chatter as the pair walked into the markets proper. \"Though... Hm. That might prove difficult, given the crowds.\"\n\nWith the flow of students constantly shifting about them, it would indeed be rather difficult for anyone to spot anything, regardless of their height—but through the smallest of gaps, a fleeting glimpse of some rather distinctly familiar white hair could be seen before it disappeared back into the sea of people.\n\nDaze\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nWith all of the people moving throughout the marketplace, it was but a given that people would end up bumping into one another on occasion. The streets were not so crowded as to outright hinder movement, but with all of the new students eager to explore the academy's town-within-a-city, it was difficult to not expect at least a little pushing and shoving here and there.\n\nWhat would likely not have been expected to Mella, though, was a full-on collision with a certain overeager white-haired boy. Nary had a moment gone by since Cervantes had said his farewells did the maid find herself run into at full force by the new student. The boy had fared no better, of course; rather than landing on top of her, the momentum he had built up dodging through the crowd had left him unable to properly maintain his balance once he had failed—which, in this case, had led to him rather comically tripping over himself before tumbling onto the ground.\n\n\"...Ow...\" he groaned, slowly pushing himself off the cobblestone below with a few more cuts and bruises than he had moments ago.\n\n@AThousandCurses\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nChristopher looked at Anne with mild surprise at her near-instantaneous declaration to stay behind before smiling and nodding.\n\n\"Your friend is very lucky to have someone so concerned about them at their side. I would certainly like to stay and make sure he is well...\" the prince began to say before shaking his head, \"but I do have other things I need to attend to. We should speak again in the future, though; in the meantime, I hope your time at the academy serves you well.\"\n\nAnd with that, the prince promptly left the room—only for a brief knock on the door and the nurse's motion to open it reveal someone else of import. With a somewhat gloomy atmosphere about him, a young man with dark purple hair walked into the room, a crate of bandages in hand.\n\n\"Master, I've brought the bandages you requested,\" stated one Johan Kyrman, his gaze slowly panning across the room before landing upon both Anne and the unconscious Noctis. \"...I see we already have a patient, though.\"\n\n\"Oh, thank you, Johan! You can put the bandages over there,\" the nurse said, gesturing off to an open area to the side. Though his gaze lingered upon the pair for a moment, the young man simply followed his \"master's\" orders before promptly walking over to the unconscious Noctis and checking the student's temperature and vitals.\n\n\"...Hm. No sign of any irregularities...\" he muttered to himself before turning towards the nurse for a moment, then towards Anne. \"What happened to him?\"\n\nNeedless to say, the nurse's sigh rather than any attempt to stop him would have made it clear that the young man at their side was more than a little \"eccentric\".\n\n@MagusDream", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Mella\n@PKMNB0Y\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n\"Thank you for the help, sir. I shall come inquire again if there is anything I need for the foreseeable tenure of lord Reginalds enrollment in the academy.\" With potential money opportunities possibly gained, she needed to now just come up with a good plan to start saving. Sponsoring someone would certainly be a good idea and could reap great benefits...but that still left the issue of gathering enough capital to do so in the first place.\n\nPerhaps she should approach lord Reginald with an idea of her own...?\n\nHm...if she could get his ear on some inventions from the modern day perhaps she could turn quite a profit indeed...though that meant trying to get him to agree to give her a share of the profits and not take it for himself. So caught up in her thoughts, she was completely surprised as she'd feel someone just run into her.\n\n\"Oh dear-\" She'd exclaim, stumbling backwards and landing a bit awkwardly on her arm, sustaining a few minor scrapes for her troubles herself as she'd sit up, rubbing her arm a bit where she landed on it. \"Haaa, you really should watch where you're going.\" Mella grumbled as she'd get to her feet. \"Are you alright, young sir?\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\nAs Cervantes bid the maid farewell, he heard the sound of crashing from behind him. It couldn't have been more than a few seconds when they decided to part ways. What could have happened in that short period? With his curiosity getting the better of him and no sense of urgency, Cervantes turned back around to see the maid and an unfamiliar student laying on the ground. It didn't exactly take a genius to tell what had happened.\n\n\"Are you two alright?\" Cervantes said as he walked over. He lent a hand to the maid first, though he couldn't decide whether that was the right move. If this was a snobby noble, Cervantes would never hear the end of it. There were a lot of noble characters that hindered the heroine's progress because of their royal background and sticks up their asses. While Cervantes hadn't paid much attention to the side characters, he did read enough manga to get a general idea of certain stereotypes. \n\nIf Mella accepted his hand, he'd pull her up and then walk over to the student. On closer inspection, this kid was a lot more familiar than unfamiliar now that he had a closer look. White hair, small structure, looked like if someone blew wind at him, he'd collapse. Yep, Cervantes recognized him. It was one of the male leads, Terys, who Cervantes quite frankly did not care about. As far as he could remember, Terys was practically there for shotacons. His older sister, Elastasia, was much more helpful in combat scenarios. Having a superb magic stat and being a guaranteed recruit on Tery's route, Elastasia was a better unit overall.\n\nWhile Cervantes did not remember much about Terys, he'd like to assume that Terys had a temperate personality. Based on first impressions, Terys would often chase after his sister to stop whatever she was doing. If he was like that, then Cervantes hoped to assume that he didn't do anything particularly wrong.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\n\"Oh, I think I see him! Come on,\" Elastasia said, seeing said flash of white hair... and promptly grabbing Reginald's hand without giving him a say in the matter. She could apologise later, but right now, the girl needed someone tall and intimidating to help make a path through the crowd rather than being walked into by everyone too busy talking to notice her shortness. Sometimes, all the white hair was a dead giveaway, but...\n\n\"If you'd just stayed put, I would have found your right away,\" she admonished, helping the younger boy to his feet, \"I may miss a lot of things, but I'm still your sister, and I was going to show you around.\"\n\nOf all the people he had managed to run into, it was quite interesting that Terys had found the tutorial shopkeeper--someone that she was intimately familiar with, needing to make sure that she'd not strayed onto some already-completed route by accident (or even cataloguing how easy it was to wind up on some of them through unexpected means). The other had been similarly a background NPC back when this was a game, identifiable as the maid of the man she had just tugged through the crowd...\n\nNot that she was actually just a maid, Elastasia averting her eyes as if Mella would add mind-reading to her list of talents. Which probably looked like avoiding her for another reason, but then again she was quite pretty (and having a thing for taller women also didn't help, even if that amounted to 'most people').\n\n\"Of course, I'm sorry for doubting you, Elly,\" Terys managed, now standing at his full height... still shorter than the heroine, but nowhere near that short. He turned, giving an overly-deep bow to the maid and the shopkeeper given the rank differences, \"I'm terribly sorry for running into you; I wasn't looking where I was going at all!\"", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." } ]

[ { "text": "Noctis Alegretto\nLocation: Starveil Academy - Nurse's Office\nInteractions: Anne (@VitaVitaAR), Serrica (@Pyromania99)\n\n\n---\n\n\nHe twitched his eyes as his consciousness finally returned to him. As he opened his eyes, he saw the roof, reminiscent of a nursery. He didn't look at the sides but was slowly regaining his place.\n\n(D-Did I... fall unconscious?) He thought.\n\nAs he got up and sat on the bed (still not looking at his sides, mind you.), he looked at his hands and moved them, thinking he might have possibly escaped back to wherever he wanted to be, not the actual academy.\n\n(Wait... if I'm in a nursery right now... could it be that it was a dream after all? Was I falling unconscious the key for me to wake up?) He thought.\n\nNoctis' Theme: Berry Berry Cue! (Counter:Side)\n\nAnd then he finally looked at his sides. And the ones standing there weren't his mother, his brother, or any doctors. It was a nurse... Anne Marielle, the heroine... and Serrica Francesca Haldblum, one of the important characters in the story. What this all meant? That he never left Starveil Academy, and was now surrounded by three of the game's biggest characters... as if being one himself wasn't enough.\n\n\"A-Ah... hahaha! I-I'm so sorry for the blunder back at the entrance, I was... just in so much shock for actually being in the a-academy and... t-to start studying that I fell blank... hehe, you know... it happens...\" He said.\n\nThis was his best attempt to be... well, himself. Or who he was right now. After such a slip-up like falling unconscious and probably creating an event that never, ever happened in-game, he had to buckle up and try his very best to not commit these sorts of slip-ups again, for as long as he can to actually survive his new life.\n\n\"I-In any case, I'm... o-once again, I'm sorry for the trouble. This isn't how I wanted the year to start, I swear.\" He said.", "username": "MagusDream", "char_name": "Noctis Alegretto" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nGiven that he was more searching for his maid than Elastasia's brother, Reginald was caught completely off guard when the white-haired girl opted to start pulling him down the street. Though taken aback by the sudden pull, the black-haired student quickly regained his composure and followed his companion's lead without too much hassle.\n\nIt was convenient, then, that finding Terys would also incidentally lead him to Mella. There was a brief moment of contemplation as his eyes glanced at the scene in front of him before a sigh finally escaped his lips.\n\n\"I suppose this works just as well,\" he remarked, nodding towards the smaller boy as he gave his apologies in turn. The humility, at least, was a nice change of pace from some of the more indignant nobles that would frequent social gatherings. \"If that is all, then—\"\n\nThough the black-haired student was apt to take his leave, the sound of some chaos nearby quickly pulled his attention. There were a few more mischeivous students running off in another direction, for what little that was worth, but the real commotion seemed to be coming from where they were running from—that is, to say, the group of shopkeepers and students trying their hardest to catch a few creatures that were scrambling about.\n\n\"...Well. That's... Something,\" Reginald said, frowning as he took a step forward. \"I suppose it's only right to try and help resolve the situation.\"\n\nNot that they really had much of a choice, though—not with a few of the beasts making their way towards them. Whether or not this was event that had occurred in the original work was less relevant now, though, given the absence of the heroine... Though maybe something like this always happened, regardless of what she had chosen to do?\n\nDaze@Rune_Alchemist@AThousandCurses\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\"Suddenly... Fainted? Interesting.\"\n\nThere was a pause as Johan considered Anne's words before he drew back and squinted at the unconscious Noctis.\n\n\"Well, he seems to be in perfect health otherwise. No signs of heatstroke or the like...\"\n\nIt wasn't long after that, though, before the activity within the nurse's office promptly tripled. Another student—this one, with somewhat more tangible injuries—was brought in, which swiftly drew the nurse's attention towards her instead. Following her, of course, was a noble lady of rather noble make, and following that came the revival of the young man whose consciousness had escaped him. Rather than try and make a fuss about things, though, Johan simply stared quietly at the one who had just awoken.\n\n\"...Well, I'm not quite sure that'd be a reason to pass out, but for the moment, I'll not pry further,\" Johan stated before standing up and dusting himself off. \"Though I suppose you should be wary of sleep deprivation regardless; learning is rather difficult without proper sleep... Not that I'm one to talk.\"\n\nRather than linger ere long, though, the nurse's assistant simply made his way back over to what he had been carrying earlier and began to sort what he had out. The other students, he reasoned, could do well enough among themselves; so long as they didn't treat this place like their personal hangout, then he could care less.\n\n@Pyromania99@MagusDream", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Mella\n@PKMNB0Y@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nWait, this was...oh, she recognized this klutz now. One of the capture targets, wasn't he? Mella frowned, just slightly, as she'd consider the implication of this. Was the heroine near? She'd place her hands in front of her, folding them together as she'd behave a bit more maid like both in front of Lord Reginald and...oh dear, was that Elastasia? An interesting development. Terys and Elastasia. What were they doing here? She didn't remember an event like this in the game...\n\n\"Its quite alright. I've suffered worse. Lord Reginald works me so hard for so little pay.\" Mella replied with a mildly dry tone making it a bit difficult to tell if she was joking or not as she'd glance towards Elastasia. \"...is something the matter young miss? I assure you I am fine, though if you'd like to check for injuries I wouldn't mind.\"\n\nA few shouts caught her attention. Chaos in the streets. Some students running from what looked like some sort of petshop? A few creatures were running rampant, and towards them while also running towards them. She couldn't remember an event like this either. Had there been? Irrelevant. Mella's money gears were already turning, and if nothing else Reginald could likely already see little dollar signs in the maids eyes as she was already considering some way to make money from this.\n\n\"I agree with Lord Reginald. T'would be quite a shame to see these little creatures running about and getting hurt.\" She said, while looking for the most exotic and rarest creature she could find.", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\nHuh, that was a little rude but Cervantes didn't mind the slight. Seeing as Terys's sister was now here, Cervantes retreated his hand took a few steps from the group of nobles and Mella. He was starting to dislike the fact there were a group of notable characters starting to gather around. As quickly was he came back, Cervantes started to follow Reginald's lead of leaving the area before something happened.\n\nSomething happened.\n\n\"What a situation,\" Cervantes said no one other than to himself. Now he needed to take in mind that students could potentially sabotage his entire business. Another worry on his evergrowing list of concerns. Though he needed to tackle the first one on. Dealing with the animal fiasco that was occuring right in front of him. During his time in this world, he had actually become friends with a few shopkeepers. Jessica, Azel, Darren, and co were pleasant company to be with.\n\nNow they were running around like headless chickens trying to capture the released animals. \"I guess I'll have to work harder.\" Sticking his hand into his bag, he fished for an item. While he had full faith in all the character's abilities to solve the situation by themselves, Cervantes was sure that he had made contact with a few of his 'friends.' Mainly Jessica, who was chasing down a strange avian creature, who glared at him before returning back to catching animal.\n\nDrawing out a capture net from his bag. It was one of the items he planned to sell today, but it would have to be put to use. Cervantes tested the weight of net before getting into a 'stance.' \"Don't worry, I'm coming guys!\" With that, Cervantes dashed off to help. Seeing a relatively small creature fly by, Cervantes slammed his net down to capture it in the net.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" } ]

[ { "text": "Elastasia\n\nWhen the kitten--why had a kitten known to go for her? had made that jump--Elastasia reflexively froze up, presenting a harmless and ineffectual target... one that would have been able to do nothing to maintain their little corralling effort. Fortunately for her, the totally-just-a-maid came to her rescue, and the barrier maintained its integrity. Barely; the little jumping trick did cause the entire thing to shimmer ominously before recovering its strength.\n\nHow odd that he'd caught a holy bird, though. Was that even a good thing? It might do... something, when panicked, and it wasn't exactly the holiest of all individuals that had just made a grab for it. Maybe they'd be lucky and it would make a beeline for someone more suitable, even if nobody with the exact magical affinity was in the area.\n\nOf course, her brother now had his hands full, as well as his face. It looked rather like an ordinary puppy. A very large, very affectionate, very slobbery puppy.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Serrica had waited for Noctis to say something but he was rather quiet. \"Well, fine, the boy seems shell-shocked. If you feel better, do follow. Otherwise, girl, I'm going to borrow you for a small bit so the patient can rest.\" With that, Serrica kept hold of Anne's hand and walked out the door with her, leading her to somewhere that wasn't the infirmary. They got out of the building for some fresh air before Serrica stopped and released Anne. She took a breath before she opened her mouth again.\n\n\"Alright then. Now that we can get out from that sterile smelling air, do you not want to work for the quite rich Serrica Francesca Haldblum? I can pay you a potent salary... Hmm...\" She went silent for some seconds as she contemplated something. \"I suppose I have yet to properly introduce myself...\" The noble girl cleared her throat before speaking once more. \"I am the eldest daughter of the Haldblum Duchy, Serrica Francesca Haldblum. May I ask your name and house? Or, lack thereof. Take no offence, but if you are of a noble house I've yet to see you attend to high society functions.\"", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "\"Wait wha-\"\n\nOn one hand it did allow her to escape from one of the romantic interests. On the other, this wasn't anything like anything that had happened in the game. Anne certainly hadn't expected Serrica to go dragging her off like this out of the blue. In fact, none of this behavior seemed like the Serrica she knew from the game at all. Just what was going on? Of course it wasn't that Serrica wasn't wealthy and exuberant but...\n\nMaybe she was just imagining it? Maybe it was just because of how things had already shifted?\n\nAnne wasn't certain, and she didn't really know how to handle a girl just dragging her off in the first place.\n\n\"Er... er... Marielle,\" she managed, when Serrica asked her name. It was more then she'd expected to be dealing with from her already, so it took a moment for her to even begin to articulate herself, \"A-Anne Marielle, er, I guess we just didn't... run into each other...?\"\n\nShe was from a minor house, in any case, so the chances of that were exceptionally high.", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nWith the barrier comparatively unperturbed by the kitten's valiant efforts, the rest of the animals soon found themselves crashing into the magical wall... Or one another. To Reginald, who was watching the whole affair unfold in front of him, the mental image of a nasty pileup quickly came to mind—and a somewhat restrained grimace crossed his face as he turned away from the carnage.\n\n\"I certainly don't envy any of them...\" he remarked to himself as the bird in his hands continued to wriggle and squirm about. Though he could not necessarily see the growing energy it was exuding now, he could certainly feel it now. To that, though, the young man simply chose to maintain his hold on the creature. 'Twas not his place to question why a magical creature was being held here, of course, but as far as he could tell, there was not much amiss about it beyond a slight glow.\n\nThe two more magically-inclined girls in his company would likely be able to tell what was going on to some degree, though, given how the bird seemed to be absorbing energy from the disoriented and injured creatures lying about as the shopekeepers began to gather them back up. By now, the identity of the avian was a bit more obvious to those who had run through this event in the game—the heroine's \"companion\" on the routes more relevant to the church, traveling around and growing alongside her.\n\nUnfortunate, though, that such growth usually required the presence of the injured and pained... Such as those lying around the street right now. Doubly so, of course, when one considered that the bird could hit a critical mass of energy before it reached a new stage in it's growth, as seemed to be fast approaching, and in so doing could cause anything from a shockwave of mana to a pulse of healing energy affecting those who it was nearby to anything in between.\n\nAll the while, though, the kitten that had now been caught in Melia's arms was flailing about, trying it's hardest to push itself free from her grasp. Notably enough, though, it seemed to deliberately not be trying to scratch or bite at her body despite being caught in a rather unbecoming situation... Though for what reason it chose not to do so remained to be seen.\n\nBy this point, though, the shopkeepers had begun to capitalize on the efforts of everyone actively aiding in their efforts to stop the stampede, and more than a few had already begun to bring the creatures splayed out on the streets back to their cages... For better or worse. The wyvern in Cervantes' grasp, for example, continued to struggle away at the net that had wrapped around it's body—or, to be more accurate, the net that it had incidentally wrapped itself up in. But the slight red glow beginning to form from within it's mouth was not exactly a herald of good things to come for anyone left unaware...\n\n@Rune_Alchemist@Raineh Daze", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\n\"Phew, almost done.\" What a day. Cervantes grimaced as he dragged the straggling wyvern to a cage. It felt a little surreal to be in this situation. Mystical animals break out and he had to catch one of them; what was this an anime? Though he supposed it wasn't too wrong. After all, this was an otome game. Scenarios like these shouldn't be too surprising to see in an otome, but experiencing first hand was an entirely different matter.\n\nOpening the cage, he looked down at the lizard. \"Well, little guy, it's time to get into cage so-\" Cervantes stopped when the whelp something glowing in its mouth. Did it eat a flashlight or something? First, he was sure that flashlights didn't exist in this world. Second, he was pretty sure that light was coming out of its mouth. It reminded him of a dragon about to breath fire. \"Wait, breath fire?\"\n\nFire?\n\nIn an instant, Cervantes was immediately alarmed of what was going to happen. Why could wyverns breath fire, or whatever it was doing? He thought only dragons could that. Wyverns were like the lame cousins of dragons and insignifcant to them. \"Ah... Ah... Ah...\" Cervantes panicked. What was he going to do? He had to do something, but he didn't want to hurt the wyvern either. Cervantes dug into his pockets and threw 'it' at the wyvern.\n\n\"Pocket sand!\"\n\nImmediately the sand slapped the wyvern straight in the face. It blinked before wrinkling it nose. With a sneeze that sounded like a gun firing, it shot out fire. Fire that easily burned his net. \"Haaaaaa!\" Cervantes yelped at the sudden brightness. Out of sheer instinct, Cervantes threw the net, along with the help, into the cage. \"Nope, nope, nope, nope, not today. Not dealing with this, today.\" Without hesitation he closed the cage and locked it.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\n\"Er, Reggie, you might want to let that one go...\" Elastasia offered hesitantly. Of course, if the Heroine had been here, this very early opportunity to get the bird would have had it decide that the holy magic-aligned girl was its ideal partner despite the general disorganisation and chaos going on, but here? Well, maybe a maid would be a good alternative. Or it would be happy to find its way home or to freedom or to wherever it might actually find a suitable partner.\n\nShe highly doubted it was going to enjoy being held by a young man whose major skills lay in chopping things to pieces. \"It might, ah... blow your hands off?\"\n\nWell, hopefully only bruise them. But holding onto it would likely hurt, if it wasn't all that happy with the current situation, and result in not holding the bird anyway.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Mella\n@PKMNB0Y@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nIt seemed though, unless she wanted harm to befall her current employer, it would be best to intervene in some manner. Now, she could do as Elastasia did and simply politely inform him that holding onto a holy hand grenade bird was a bad idea, but on the other hand, that wouldn't be quite as entertaining and there was a chance he would neither hear nor heed those words. So she needed to make him drop it.\n\n\"Lord Reginald.\" She'd simply say in order to get his attention. \"Hold this for me, yes?\" And then promptly grabbed the Axolotl like creature she had in her grasp, and threw it right at Reginald. A totally flawless plan that would certainly get him to drop the bird before anything bad happened. The animal flew through the air with a dopey smile as though it was enjoying the freedom of flying through the air.\n\nWith her other hand, she'd press the kitten a bit harder against her chest, didn't want it getting free and squirming about either.", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" } ]

[ { "text": "For several moments, Anne was completely silent. She didn't quite know how to respond to Serrica's offer. Certainly, she was an ally character in the game, but at the same time she didn't remember anything quite happening like this. It didn't seem the same.\n\n\"Er... thank you,\" she said, bowing her head as she reached out to accept the handshake. No matter what else was going on, it was quite a generous offer. Even if it didn't feel anything like the way Serrica felt in the game. Maybe it was just the difference between a video game and reality? That could be the case, but some things had seemed exactly the same as the game while others had diverged.\n\nCertainly, part of this had to just be from different actions taking place causing things to change in different ways. But that couldn't be the only explanation for everything, could it?\n\nIt felt like everything was becoming even more complicated by the second.", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nStill oblivious to the danger within his hands—at least, for the moment—Reginald simply gave Elastasia a look of mild confusion as she warned him about the avian struggling within his grasp.\n\n\"Blow my hands off?\" he asked, glancing down for a moment before shaking his head. \"I can see it glowing a bit, sure, but it's not as if—\"\n\nBut before he could finish his rejection therein, the momentary lapse in attention as he turned towards the maid calling his name followed by the flight of a rather flightless creature towards his face left the young man a victim to his instincts—and in so doing let go of the bird in order to catch the axolotl-like creature hurtling towards his face. It was as much for his sake as it was for the animal's, of course, but the bird that he had taken the pains to catch was now flapping it's wings as it tumbled momentarily through the air.\n\nBut that was for no more than that fleeting moment, though, as the creature swiftly swerved upwards with a flap of it's wings as it dodged the ground. The glow by now had become palpable enough for even Reginald to be aware that it was indeed likely more magical than he had first believed it to be, and the sudden burst of light thereafter after it flew into the center of the would-be helpers caused him to instinctively shield his eyes.\n\nThe light itself seemed to do no damage—quite the opposite, really, as a few of the more disoriented animals at their feet began to regain their bearings—but the bird that was the source of all this seemed to simply fly towards Mella before promptly perching itself in her head. It seemed to be staring daggers at Reginald now, of course, but it at least seemed to not be trying to escape again... For whatever reason that could be.\n\n\"...Well, that's a rather rude bird,\" he remarked, checking on the creature in his hands to see if it had been affected by the bird's magic before promptly handing it off to a nearby shopkeeper. \"But I suppose that if it means to stick around, that's one less problem to worry about.\"\n\nThe kitten, though, seemed far less pleased with the current state of affairs. It was a bit more limp, now, pressed between the maid's hand and chest as ait was, but there was only so much it could attempt to do given the restrictions it seemed to impose upon itself. Surely, a scratch or bite would likely cause her to drop it... But the beast seemed to simply give up and accept it's fate.\n\n\"For what reason would you let loose a bunch of creatures into the area like this, though...?\" Reginald mused to himself as he brushed off some of the dirt on his clothes before turning towards one of the less occupied shopkeepers. \"Could I hear more about the details of this situation, by any chance?\"\n\nThe person in question—a somewhat lanky man in his late thirties—responded with a weak smile and a shrug.\n\n\"I'm sorry, sir; all I can recall were some young men sprinting away before the chaos broke out. I think one of them might've been holding onto something, but...\"\n\n\"A robbery, maybe?\" Reginald responded, arms now folded across his chest in mild concern. \"What sort of idiots would attempt a robbery in broad daylight...?\"\n\nDaze@Rune_Alchemist\n\n\n---\n\n\nThe rather ham-fisted method Cervantes had chosen to get the wyvern out of his hair (or, well, net) drew a bit of an irritated glance from one of the shopkeepers nearest the event, and who, despite seeing everyhing unfold as it did, not not seem particularly pleased with how the wyvern had been lobbed into it's cage.\n\n\"Though I do appreciate the help,\" he began to say as he brought a large hamster-like creature towards it's cage, \"I'd prefer if you didn't damage the merchandise in the process.\"\n\nThere was a pause and a sigh as he stared at the rows of cages—most of which had their doors wide open—before shaking his head.\n\n\"Thousands of coins' worth of merchandise, all for a... Prank? I don't even know at this point...\"\n\nThe exhaustion and mental fatigue were rather evident from his body language alone, but there was only so much the poor man could even attempt to do at this point beyond try to salvage what he could from the mess that had just transpired.\n\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\"I certainly did not expect to see you here of all places, Lady Haldblum. Were the events outside too few and far between to entertain you?\"\n\nAs the conversation between Serrica and Anne found itself coming to a close, a rather dignified-looking young woman with long golden hair walked straight towards the pair. It was a face that Serrica would have grown to known well by this point, and one that would, in a sense, strike fear of a different sort into Anne's heart.\n\nIt was hard, after all, to ignore the main 'love rival' of the crown prince's route—Lilian Meridan, the prince's straight-laced and sharp-tongued childhood friend.\n\nIt almost seemed as if there were sparks flying out of Lilian's eyes as she stared straight into Serrica's eyes before turning towards Anne.\n\n\"...My apologies. I should not be so crass so as to not introduce myself first,\" Lilian said, taking a step back before giving a light curtsy towards the unfamiliar young woman in front of her. \"Lilian Meridan, the daughter of His Royal Highness' chief advisor Byron Meridan. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance.\"\n\nOnce she had spoken her piece, though, Lilian simply turned back towards Serrica with a look of mild contempt.\n\n\"I suppose that matching your refined tastes would have been a rather daunting task to begin with regardless,\" she remarked with a shake of her head. \"How unfortunate.\"\n\nThe thinly-veiled venom Lilian's words was almost palpable as she continued staring Serrica dead-on, her gaze unflinching as she continued staring the woman opposite her down.\n\n\"To be quite honest, I'm quite surprised to even see you here in the first place. I would have thought you would have better things to do with your time than stroll down the hallways making small talk with the new students.\"\n\n@VitaVitaAR", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\nThat pricked his conscious. \"You're not the only one suffering you know,\" Cervantes said as he scratched the back of his head. \"I was planning to sell that capture net at my shop, but now look at it.\" All burnt up and being used a chew toy by the flying lizard. Pinching the bridge of his nose, he sighed. Cervantes could already tell what tomorrow's gossip would be. News Headline, \"Wild creatures run rampant in Plaza!?\" What a mess.\n\nThough, this may give him an opportunity. \"Well, I am feeling generous today.\" With a smile, he walked up towards the shopkeeper. \"If I may introduce myself, I am Cervantes Quixote. I am a merchant of many wares,\" Cervantes paused in dramatics before saying it aloud. \"And connections. I can ask some of my 'friends' to help you with finding your merchandise if you'd like. That and I'll help with your shop. Of course, we'll have to write up a contract, but I want to hear your thoughts first.\"\n\nAside from the fact that he technically had no 'connections,' he had one resource that could potentially help a hapless old man.\n\nThe Heroine.\n\nIf would be able to convince the heroine on this endeavor, then he'd hit a jackpot. Though, of course, he'd have to offer something in return to the heroine to convince her. The world revolved in exchanges of course. Whether it be money, favors, or gods, something had to be given away in return. Cervantes would be have to flexible, since he didn't exactly know what the female lead could possibly want.\n\nThough perhaps, he could get that maid into this as well. She did say she wanted to get into a business. Why not have this man teach her the ropes or something? Either way, after this he needed to find people fast.\n\n\"What is your name, mister?\"", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" } ]

[ { "text": "\"...\"\n\nAh.\n\nAh.\n\nShe wasn't ready to deal with this. There was no way she was prepared to deal with this situation.\n\nAnne had prepared herself as quickly as possible to deal with meeting a variety of characters, but this was almost on par with meeting one of the potential capture targets.\n\nThe villainess.\n\nLilian Meridan.\n\nHow did she respond to this situation?! What did she do!? She wasn't planning on trying to pursue the crown prince(hell no in fact) but that didn't mean there wasn't the potential for disaster brewing.\n\nDid she just introduce herself? It already seemed like Serrica was provoking her. Wasn't that a really bad idea?! She didn't need to be wrapped up in a scenario like this when she was still trying to figure something out?\n\nFrazzled was the best description for the expression on Anne's face.\n\n\"N-nice to meet you,\" she managed, curtsying and trying not to acknowledge the obvious provocation occurring beside her, \"I-I'm Anne. Her, Anne Marielle! ... Daughter, er, daughter of Lord Marielle... er...\"\n\nThe anxiety had made her stumble over herself.\n\nThis was a mess.\n\n@PKMNB0Y", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nCurious though he was about whatever had sparked this incident in the first place, Reginald reminded himself that, at the end of the day, there were other matters to worry about over investigating the circumstances that had kept everyone here to begin with. With that being said, though, it wasn't as if he could tell as if these events were predetermined or not to begin with. He had little memory of any events like this while proceeding through the game, but at this point, chasing after a dangling thread on his first day here in hopes that it would lead to other issues seemed a bit...\n\nFrivolous? Yes, frivolous was the word. He needed information first and foremost, not instinctual hunches.\n\n\"...Well, there were surely other witnesses. Hopefully those with more authority will find the ones responsible,\" he said, shrugging his shoulders as he glanced towards his maid. Being the person she usually was, of course, his servant requested recompense—one that he was less willing to give due to the bird that seemed to be gravitating towards her, granted, but what she had done otherwise at least warranted some minor bonus.\n\n\"If you wish to bill me, I will, of course, review the costs,\" he remarked back, watching as Mella attempted to get the bird off of her head. A small smirk crossed his face as he watched the bird flit about, dodging the maid's hands as it flew into the air for a moment... Before promptly returning to sit atop her head.\n\n\"Would you prefer I purchased that bird for you? Or, rather, maybe I should do so regardless...\" he joked before taking a step to the side as a few more shopkeepers—and, now, some more willing volunteers—began to carry the rattled animals back to whence they came.\n\nWalking back towards Elastasia and Terys, though, the black-haired student noted that the latter was still wrestling with a rather large puppy, which seemed to have taken to him as much as the bird had to his maid. Whether or not he wanted to be pinned to the ground and licked over and over was not necessarily his jurisdiction, of course, but given that it seemed to have been going on for long enough for the boy to try (and fail) to push him off...\n\nWell, it only seemed right to step in and assist.\n\nWith a sigh, Reginald leaned over and wrapped both of his arms around the dog before prying it away from Terys, the beast notably heavier than it seemed to be at first glance.\n\n\"I am... Surprised they could keep this thing to begin with,\" he said, some strain evident on his face as the dog shook about in his arms. \"Rather friendly, it seems—for better or worse.\"\n\nDaze@Rune_Alchemist\n\n---\n\n\nThe older man stared at Cervantes for a moment before shaking his head and sighing.\n\n\"Jacob Verdan. As for recovering what was lost, well...\"\n\nThere was a moment as he trailed off before glancing at the people bringing the animals back over to the shop.\n\n\"...I suppose that can wait until after I've taken inventory. There are a fair number of creatures I need to make sure are all right... Assuming that they've been captured,\" he remarked, shoulders slumped as he moved to take a snakelike creature off of a young man's hands. \"If there is anything missing, though... Well, depending on what it is, I might have to take you up on your offer.\"\n\nBy now, more of those animals were starting to be brought back in, whether in makeshift containers or in the hands of someone... Or, in some cases, hanging off of a limb with their mouths firmly latched on. It was a comical sight, to be sure, but the sheer quantity of the animals in question made this a far less entertaining matter for the man who had to worry about them to begin with.\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nLilian seemed to physically recoil as Serrica stepped forward and said her piece, though she made an honest attempt at trying to mask her displeasure with the noblewoman's words and actions in the process. The young woman seemed to be suppressing the urge to simply respond to the provocations of the greedy woman in front of her, but it was difficult for her to not try and create space between herself and Serrica as the latter moved closer to her.\n\n\"My feeling towards Chr-the Crown Prince have nothing to do with this matter. Regardless, I would sooner bite my own tongue off than deal with you alone for a night,\" the young woman responded, a frown on her face as she let out a brief sigh before turning towards the stammering young lady caught up in this mess. There was a pause, of course, as she listened to the nervous attempt at an introduction before sighing.\n\n\"No need to feel so alarmed, Miss Marielle,\" Lilian said, a businesslike smile crossing her face as if her prior reaction towards Serrica did not exist moments prior. \"Though our stations may differ, we are all students here. Though...\"\n\nThere was a pause as the blonde-haired girl threw a passing glance towards Serrica before continuing.\n\n\"...I worry some people here may treat this school as a hunting ground of sorts rather than a place of learning. In any case, I suppose I should ask what you were doing here, given that there isn't exactly much to do within the building at the moment—especially not at this time of day.\"\n\n@VitaVitaAR", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\n\"Very well, Mr. Verdan. If you do require assistance, here's my business card.\" Cervantes said as he drew out a card from his jacket and placed it on the counter. It seemed formal to print out a variety of cards for his business. That and the school's market was big enough by itself; it would sometimes be hard to pinpoint the exact location of Cervantes's shop. \"Take care, Mr. Verdan. I pray that your business booms in the next few days.\" With that, Cervantes left the shop. Mr. Verdan needed all the help he could get after all.\n\nCervantes closed the door, not that it mattered since the shop was partially destroyed, and began to walk down the street. \"Whew, what a day.\" Wiping his brow of sweat, Cervantes tried to calculate his next move. It might take a little while for Jacob Verdan to open his shop again. From taking account of the missing animals, the cost of repairs, and the amount of time that it required to do them, it would take a week or two for Jacob Verdan to open his shop again. \"What a shame. I was looking to buy a creature for myself.\"\n\nThe merchant wasn't a fan of pets, but he didn't dislike them either. The responsibility of taking care of another organism felt too heavy for him to bare in the other world, so Cervantes avoided adopting one. Now, the circumstances were different. Cervantes needed protection. The market clearly wasn't safe from what Cervantes had seen earlier, not to mention the unknowable fate of his future. If he were to overcome it, he'd need to be as prepared as possible.\n\n'Though was Jacob Verdan in the game?' Cervantes thought to himself. He had a lot of game knowledge when it came to Cross Heart Academy. Jacob Verdan must have played some sort of crucial role in the game, considering he was the pet vendor. If Cervantes remembered correctly, there was also a route that played similarly to Pokemon. He had watched a few speedruns before but didn't retain much since the content was rather lackluster in the merchant's eyes. A frown graced Cervante's face, but he pressed on. Jacob Verdan was most likely an important NPC regardless, in comparison to Cervantes, who went nameless in the game.\n\nHis eyes darted to a few familiar figures. Reginald, the maid, and a few others. They seemed to be doing their own thing, and Cervantes had his own thing to do. Heading straight to his shop, Cervantes wanted to write up that help request for the bulletin board. The market was probably going to be slow during the day, thanks to the market, which meant that Cervantes didn't have much to do.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\n\"Maybe you should keep the, uh...\" what had that thing been? She wasn't exactly an expert in the native fauna of this world, but it had looked pretty cheerful. It did bring a name to mind, but Elastasia really wasn't sure it was the right one. The crossover between her previous life's native Japanese and the language of this world could be a little hit and miss, without the benefit that a game had of being able to translate everything. \"Wooper? Yeah, you should keep that happy thing, Reggie. You could do with something friendly around.\"\n\nTerys' thanks were rather excessive and featured much bowing--although the boy had seemed to be largely enjoying the hefty creature's attention, who knows how long it would've been before he was free to do something else with that doing its best to cover every inch of him in friendly slobber. \"Um... sister, do you mean the salamander?\"\n\nWas that what it was? Oh poo. \"I thought those were more lizard like and... fiery?\"\n\n\"When they're older, but...\"", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." } ]

[ { "text": "Elastasia\n\nGo shopping with them? Well, she'd rather prefer to go catch up with her brother and then settle down to read or the like, but neither of those would really be possible if carrying a kitten that had already shown a worrisome ability to target her face. The chances were that if she tried to do anything with that around, it would unerringly choose to take offence at being ignored, and then ruin the book or the like...\n\nAlso, the maid was her type, and what was wrong with taking an opportunity to hang around a pretty lady? Even if she was a rather troublesome one in some regards.\n\n\"I'll come with you,\" the white-haired girl announced, looking over at her brother, \"Maybe you should go get a change of clothes, Terys, and we can meet again later?\"\n\nThe boy had, after all, gotten pinned by that dog... and slobbered all over. It couldn't hurt to go get a change of clothes, and despite the pouting he did seem to agree to the idea. \n\nWhich just left her, Reggie, and Reggie's maid.\n\nPlus the remaining animals.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Lillian looked embarassed and Anne was absolutely flustered. Well... Perhaps it was due to her interference, but was the Heroine this flusterable in the game? Serrica pondered that for some seconds as Anne continued to try and stammer out an answer to the Prince's question which she barely did. Shaking her head a small bit in exasperation, Serrica thought on what to do from here. She could just walk away since the Prince wasn't very interested in her. Nor Lillian for that matter.\n\n\"Hmmm...?\" Serrica questioned herself, pondering that thought to herself for a few short second. She looked to Lillian before giving the girl a sly smile. She had formulated a plan of some sort though she wondered if she was going to anger a certain Miss Meridan in the process.\n\nThe Duke's Daughter stepped between Anne and Christopher, crossing her arms. \"Forgive me for stepping between the two of you as such, Your Highness the Crown Prince.\" Serrica spoke in her typical fakely polite tone when addressing the Crown Prince. \"But I believe my friend, Anne, has a hard time speaking to you on account of the difference in your stations.\" This much seemed to be true from her point of view. \"She's like a scared yet adorable little squirrel trying to speak to a ravenous hound.\" A rather poor allusion. \"That aside, I find your lack of proper introduction to me understandable but I must say I'm rather disappointed in your lack of feeling in greeting your own childhood friend.\"\n\nSerrica pointed her fan toward Lillian before speaking again. \"You have such an beautiful childhood friend yet here she is, a side introduction.\" Of course, Serrica was ignoring the fact that the conversation had gone on for not long at all and he had truly yet to say much more than ask Anne how her friend was. \"If I were to be in your shoes, I would cherish such a relationship with a proper introduction. Rather, if you don't, would you mind if I were to sweep her off her feet?\"", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nWith Mella's (begrudging) acceptance of his decision and Elastasia's continued presence, Reginald gave Terys a nod and a farewell before the latter left them behind. It didn't seem as if his focus slipping had caught anyone else's attention—likely for the best, in his eyes—and so he could simply play that off as if it had never occurred.\n\n\"Well, I suppose the first order of business is the animals, then,\" Reginald said, picking up a more chitinous, mantis-like creature and nodding to the others. The creature seemed to stir slightly in his arms, but no more than that for the moment.\n\nThe walk to the shop in question was fairly swift, and despite the shopkeepers hustling to and fro ferrying what beasts remained after their charge was stopped, there didn't seem to be any real change in the flow of people through the streets. The shop where everyone seemed to be funneling towards, however, had certainly seen better days. One of the door was left lying on the ground (though moved off to the side to prevent anyone from stepping on it as they helped move goods back in), and a few windows had been shattered by the creatures who could jump with enough force and weight to use that as an alternate means of escape.\n\nInside, an older man was directing people to and fro, his face somewhat haggard as he kept an eye on everyone as they returned each creature to it's place. When his gaze finally drifted over to the three standing by, however, the man swiftly made his way over and bowed.\n\n\"My apologies for making you wait. Sir Afah, Lady Aquilanne, I humbly thank you for your assistance in resolving what has just transpired,\" he said, head low as he continued. \"Unfortunately, I have no way of repaying such grace, and your presence besides, but...\"\n\n\"Do not concern yourself over compensation on my behalf; it was Lady Aquilanne who was mostly responsible for stopping the runaway creatures. I was simply an accessory in comparison. Rather, I had come to purchase one of those same runaways—that bird perched atop my maid's head—as well as return this creature to you.\"\n\nWith that, Reginald gestured slightly to the buglike creature in his arms with his head, to which the shopkeeper rose back up before nodding in turn.\n\n\"Of course! Your patronage is certainly appreciated!\" he exclaimed, subtly gesturing towards one of his assistants to take the beast in question off of Reginald's hands before turning to look at what bird it was that he was so interested in.\n\n\"...Twenty silver should suffice,\" he finally said, to which the black-haired boy promptly handed over the requested coinage and nodded. \"Once again, your patronage is very greatly appreciated.\"\n\nAt this point, with matters of money settled, the shopkeeper promptly turned towards Elastasia and bowed once more. \n\n\"Then, if there is anything I can do for you for your assistance, then please let me know.\"\n\nDaze@Rune_Alchemist\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\"Miss Merielle, then. It is a pleasure to be properly acquainted with you now, then,\" spoke the prince as he gave another light bow in return. Flustered though the girl seemed, Christopher seemed fairly nonplussed by her reaction, and it was only when Serrica stepped in to speak her piece that Christopher reacted in turn. \n\n\"Ah... Hm. I suppose that would make sense,\" he concluded, seeing the logic in Serrica's analogy, \"though I should certainly hope that I am no 'ravenous hound' in the eyes of my peers. Such a reputation is one I would prefer to avoid.\"\n\nBut when Serrica continued to speak as she did, Christopher's comparatively soft expression swiftly began to harden.\n\n\"...Is it not proper to introduce oneself in the company of guests?\" he responded with a frown. \"Miss Meridan has been a great friend to me for the longest of time, and the three of us are acquainted with one another by this point. To acknowledge a new face is only right, is it not?\"\n\nThere was a brief pause before Christopher sighed and shook his head before finally turning back towards the still-blushing Lilian.\n\n\"And besides, I am by no means blind. If she is currently occupied by other thoughts, then I do not intend to bring her into the spotlight. As for your intentions with her... Placing personal matters aside, I wish only the best for her, both as my confidant and as a dear friend. Take that as you will.\"\n\nLilian, of course, had by this point been reduced to a blushing mess at Christopher's indirect (and accidental) attack upon her psyche—not that he was addressing that at the moment, of course.\n\n@Pyromania99", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Mella\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nShe was slightly hoping the shopkeep would refuse and take the bird away.\n\nLife could never be so easy, could it?\n\nThe maid remained quiet, though, keeping the kitten comfortably laying in her arms and the bird perched on her head, doing her best to simply ignore it. Well, at least the cat was...somewhat cute, she supposed. She'd pat its head, giving it a few ear scritches and pets while she'd wait for lord Afah to complete his business. She still needed to do the shopping. Was it still possible to get back and do all the cooking before evening?\n\nHm.\n\nMore importantly, though...\n\n\"...How does one take care of this bird?\" Mella queried the shopkeeper. \"As It is likely my responsibility I have never seen it before, and as such would much appreciate any insight into peculiarities, sir Shopkeeper.\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "\"Um... could you tell me about this kitten?\" Elastasia asked, lifting up the offending creature so it was visible. It at least seemed slightly more pliable now, \"Is it just a cat...? It seemed to know to go for me when I was keeping a barrier up to hem in the other escapees.\"\n\nIt could make an interesting familiar, she supposed. Not that it was the sort of magic that she'd ever shown interest in, but having another pair of eyes to look out for people that might want to interrupt her reading and drag her off to some party... although, it wasn't something that would really harm her social standing in a non-intrusive way. A magical prodigy doing something so blatantly associated with mages? Eh, it was nothing. Everyone liked having pets, noblemen took to breeding horses...\n\nOr it could just be a cat. That was also possible. A cute cat, but a cat nonetheless.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." } ]

[ { "text": "Mella\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nShe was slightly hoping the shopkeep would refuse and take the bird away.\n\nLife could never be so easy, could it?\n\nThe maid remained quiet, though, keeping the kitten comfortably laying in her arms and the bird perched on her head, doing her best to simply ignore it. Well, at least the cat was...somewhat cute, she supposed. She'd pat its head, giving it a few ear scritches and pets while she'd wait for lord Afah to complete his business. She still needed to do the shopping. Was it still possible to get back and do all the cooking before evening?\n\nHm.\n\nMore importantly, though...\n\n\"...How does one take care of this bird?\" Mella queried the shopkeeper. \"As It is likely my responsibility I have never seen it before, and as such would much appreciate any insight into peculiarities, sir Shopkeeper.\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "\"Um... could you tell me about this kitten?\" Elastasia asked, lifting up the offending creature so it was visible. It at least seemed slightly more pliable now, \"Is it just a cat...? It seemed to know to go for me when I was keeping a barrier up to hem in the other escapees.\"\n\nIt could make an interesting familiar, she supposed. Not that it was the sort of magic that she'd ever shown interest in, but having another pair of eyes to look out for people that might want to interrupt her reading and drag her off to some party... although, it wasn't something that would really harm her social standing in a non-intrusive way. A magical prodigy doing something so blatantly associated with mages? Eh, it was nothing. Everyone liked having pets, noblemen took to breeding horses...\n\nOr it could just be a cat. That was also possible. A cute cat, but a cat nonetheless.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Even Serrica was feeling bad for Lillian at this point. Not that she hated the girl, but there was not much to say about another high ranking noble if she couldn't get her feelings across. \"She's preoccupied wi-- No.\" Serrica started to state what she figured was obvious before deciding that wasn't the course of action. \"Nevermind that, I suppose. You're quite dense, Prince Christopher.\" The student mentioned before briefly shaking her head and sighing a small bit. \"It is thanks to that, however, that I doubt you carry the reputation of a ravenous hound, fret you not.\" Serrica mentioned with a small shrug. \"Perhaps an unintentionally rude or dull one but that aside it does not matter to me. You're still the Crown Prince to me.\"\n\nAfter saying that much, she turned to Anne. \"Ahh, yes. Lady Marielle. I believe that you wanted guidance to a certain place on campus, did you not? Would you still like me to guide you there? I'm still not past trying to recruit you into my group, but I shall ease up until your graduation if you wish.\"", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "While most of Anne's mind was in a panic, attempting to analyze everything the Prince had said in order to isolate and defend against even the slightest chance of a flag, it wasn't as if she entirely failed to realize the situation.\n\nEven if she hadn't played the game before, Lilian's feelings for the Prince were entirely obvious. Her treatment in the Prince's route was one of the reasons it hadn't been her favorite, for that matter. Certainly, she wasn't very nice, but it felt rather harsh for someone who wasn't particularly a genuinely bad person.\n\nAnne took a deep breath.\n\n\"U-um, maybe you could catch up?\" she suggested, awkwardly, \"S-since it's... er...\"\n\nShe trailed off after a few moments. What did she even say here? Playing matchmaker wasn't her strongsuit at all! Doing it in real life was vastly different from doing it in SRPGs!\n\n\"Er... and... we can... go let you do that!\"\n\nAs odd as Serrica was acting, it was at least a potential out from a dangerous situation!\n\n@Pyromania99", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "The shopkeeper paused for a moment as he considered the maid's question.\n\n\"Well, I suppose that the first course of action would be to purchase a cage of sorts for it to live in... But you might not need one, given how comfortable it send to be on your head,\" he remarked, a slight smirk crossing his face for a moment. \"Jokes aside, I've been feeding that one seeds and fruits. It seems to like most anything in that vein—but not bugs. As for the actual care...\"\n\nBefore he could ramble further on about the subject, though, Elastasia chimed in with a question of her own about the cat in her hands—a question he was more than willing to oblige.\n\n\"Ah, of course. That's an Aomi—a cat we had imported from the far east, and a rare one at that. They're fairly well known for their use of magic in hunting in the wild in the region they come from, though finding one is an adventure in and of itself. As for why it jumped at you... I've heard tales of them being called 'magic eaters', but to be honest, your guess would be as good as mine. If they're hard to find, though, maybe they're juat smart enough to not get caught to begin with?\"\n\nAt this, the cat seemed to turn it's head back towards Elastasia before letting out a half-yawn, half-meow. It didn't seem to mind being held up for diaplay as it was, at least, but being as calm as it was despite the situation... That much certainly set it apart from it's peers, at the very least. \n\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\"Dense? Rude? That's rather insulting, you know,\" Christopher responded in turn, his brow furrowed as he shook his head. \"If that much is 'rude', I fear what 'polite' should be in your eyes.\"\n\nAt that, though, the prince simply sighed and shook his head.\n\n\"As for catching up... I am sure Miss Meridan has better things to do than speak with me, and forcing her to speak with me when she does not seem to wish to seems rather ill-intentioned at best.\"\n\nIf the others wished to leave now, though, Christopher seemed to have no intention of stopping them. It already seemed like Lilian was slowly inching away, trying her hardest to not up and die of what embarrassment she was already being overwhelmed by.\n\n@VitaVitaAR", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\nA cat from the far east? Well, that was something nostalgic. But if it could be used to find magic users somehow, then that would make her ability to sequester herself somewhere out of the way and read all the easier... if the heroine got interested in magic, then outside of class, there was a chance that they might run into one another. And she would like to avoid any heartbreak from such an obviously-unobtainable figure getting close to her if the girl turned out to be her type after all.\n\nThis left the noble staring into space for an awkwardly long time, until the shopkeeper coughed and drew her attention back.\n\n\"Oh, I'm so sorry! Yes, I'd quite like to purchase this kitten, and anything that's needed to look after it...\" Well, she didn't have much in the way of money on her, but she could just sign something to handle that. Really, the cost of a single animal was insignificant.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." } ]

[ { "text": "This was really happening, wasn't it?\n\nThis was actually real.\n\nAt first, when she suddenly remembered everything, she hoped it was some sort of strange dream. Then, when it became clear it wasn't, she hoped that it was some kind of bizarre coincidence and she hadn't actually been reincarnated as the protagonist of an otome game after having previously been a very much male university student. Maybe it was just a coincidentally similar world.\n\nThose hopes were dashed when she entered the school. When she saw the people here. When she set foot in the courtyard.\n\nThe entrance ceremony was exactly as she remembered it from the intro to the game.\n\nMatsuoka Ryouji, or rather Anne Marielle as she had been known for the past sixteen years in this world, now found herself standing in the aftermath of the intro to Starveil Academy.\n\nIn the world of the otome game Cross Heart Academy.\n\nAs its protagonist.\n\nWhat this meant was hardly lost on her, as she anxiously eyed the crowds around her.\n\nPerhaps being the 'generically cute every girl' would work to her advantage. Nevermind the fact that being a girl in the first place was a tremendously awkward experience(in away she was thankful for those sixteen years she spent without remembering her old life, because that meant that she'd not had an even rougher adjustment period). In the real world, she wouldn't be that noticeable. And this was real now, not an otome game where every guy was destined to notice her.\n\nSurely it would work out differently, right? Even if that entrance ceremony had been identical.\n\nAnne wasn't the type of person who had played this game for guys to fawn over her. If anything, back when she was Matsuoka Ryouji, it was only natural he was much more into some of the female characters. The protagonist herself was cute, albeit deliberately generically so. And there was that one teacher too.\n\nThere was no way she wanted to end up marrying some guy.\n\nShe wasn't going to pursue any route. This was absolute in her mind. This was a zero route game. She'd think about the other stuff when she had the chance, but the most immediate problem was ensuring none of them would approach her.\n\nIt couldn't be hard, right?\n\nAnne sighed inwardly, relieved at her own hopefully-true assumption. That's right. In real life, as long as she made a good, solid rejection, guys like that would let it go, right?\n\nOf course she'd have to be careful, in this world where status mattered so much, but all the protagonist's romance options were at least decent guys, right?\n\nThey practically had an ocean of other girls to choose from, too.\n\nRight?\n\nSomehow her optimism was crumbling by the second.\n\nWell, maybe if she made her way out of the courtyard as quickly as possible, to avoid even the slightest chance of a flag raising...", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "How sad it was that Serrica Francesca Haldblum had to sit through this boring as hell speech when she could be out and about, doing other things. Planning a new investment project or even speaking to other nobles to try and build more connections. Not that there was anyone that didn't want a connection with her ducal family of course, well, aside a certain ducal heir she could think of. Hah. Regardless, there was... ONE other reason that she was here today. This little opening ceremony heralded the introduction of the Heroine to the school. \n\nSerrica had to ponder that topic inwardly. As if she could mention much to anyone else. She wondered if there were any others in a situation much like hers. No other character seemed to have as much of a personality change as she had. The original Serrica was nice but, in the current one's mind, she was much too nice. She was taken advantage of in Serika's mind, though she had never played one of the routes that focused on the woman. In fact, she had played relatively few routes. An RPG route related to the Prince. Some tactical game from overhead and her favorite, a sim game focused around the market. \n\nHer focus came back to the world at hand as the speech had ended and she pulled her trusty fan out to cover a yawn. \"I was afraid such a speech would never end.\" She sighed, shaking her head a small bit. She had told Lydianna, her maid, to go enjoy herself for a bit. Just because she needed to sit through this audible torture didn't mean the poor maid needed to as well. Besides, she had plenty for the maid to do later. Serrica needed some nice sweet snacks and wonderful tea made.\n\nThe student waited a small amount of time for some of the people to clear the area so she could easily push her way past some of the other students that left an impression of her being a small bit rude. That was fine. Even if they thought it, they could not easily voice their opinions. Unless they were powerful enough, of course. Among them the Royal Family could say something, though if they could make her apologize or not was a coin flip in the best of times for them. Besides, most would consider it an honor to be shoved aside by such a beauty. \n\nThe thought made her laugh a small bit to herself before turning her attention to those around her. She was looking for some small number of important characters around the room. The Heroine herself who was somewhat... Plainly pretty. As far as she was aware, Serika never really had seen the Heroine in any extravagant hair color or design. No dark red hair or platinum blonde. She didn't land her eyes on the girl. Who else was there? The maid that was employed by Reginold von Afah? Not as far as she could see. Reginald... Well, why would she bother with that. The tutorial guy should be at his shop at this point. There was that student council president, Noctis. Well, for now he didn't matter all too much at the moment. He was fairly high spec as far as the RPG routes went but he offered not much as far as marketable skills mattered. \n\nShe followed the crowd a small bit and took a small step aside to get out of the flow. Perhaps she'd visit Cervantes the Merchant and offer to inve-- Serrica's thoughts were cut off as she walked into something or, rather, someone. There was no one eye level so the noble looked down to see one of the things on campus that tended to the cute side. \"Oh my, Lady Aquilanne! Pardon my offence of running into you. I had not noticed you as my attention was elsewhere.\" Lady Elastasia de Aquilanne was another secondary character in the game. She fulfilled a role similar to Serrica's and, if she had heard right, confessed to the Heroine in one of the routes. She was a powerful mage and someone of note that Serrica wanted to turn to her side in the future so it was best not to make an enemy out of her now. \"I'll assume you are well?\" She asked, looking over the short upperclassman.", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" } ]

[ { "text": "Elastasia\n\n\"Eep!\" All pretences of maintaining an elegant, noble facade were driven out of Elastasia with the collision, the meek squeak being followed up by a dejected pout at being literally overlooked in such a manner. Of course she was small, even smaller than her last go around at life, but that didn't excuse missing her entirely; it was a sunny day, surely all her hair caught the light at least a little bit...\n\nFor all her magical ability, she was fairly sure that she hadn't yet developed the ability to summon people with the force of her thoughts alone. Yet, here was the one of the obvious deviations from the game in the flesh--considerably more self-interested, for one, and with a rather curious interest in surrounding herself with pretty girls in social situations, even though one might expect a noble of her station to seek out promising heirs at this stage. Albeit, the world of Cross Heart Academy hadn't been so fleshed out as to cover every character's private life in detail, and that may just have been Elastasia's own inclinations colouring her perceptions, but it seemed another odd point to the list.\n\n\"I am quite well, Lady Haldblum. Aside from out most estimable headmaster's speeches, I trust that the academy has been to your liking thus far?\" she replied, looking up at the brunette. Oh, that was another change; she seemed to e starting to grow it out. That was a shame, although longer hair could certainly frame that figure nicely. \"Have you seen Terys, perchance? I was looking for him after the ceremony...\"", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Was that a maid, calling to her? But why? She didn't know any maids? Her family only had one, and this definitely wasn't her so-\n\nAnne paused, staring in mute shock at the sight of the boy who had suddenly approached and hauled the maid to her feet.\n\nThere was no way she'd fail to recognize him. That was one of the capture targets, Reginald von Afah.\n\nIn other words, one of the people she wanted to interact with the least. There was no way she was going to approach the maid at all when he was around. It didn't matter what he was doing or saying, all that mattered is escaping from this situation as quickly as possible.\n\nTurning on her heel and doing her best to vanish into the crowd, Anne was almost immediately encountered with the sight of another familiar but far less worrisome face.\n\nNoctis Algretto was a boy, but he didn't have any flags. He was just a friend. She already knew him, in fact, and that made the fact he had just collapsed was an excellent excuse to get out of the courtyard and to somewhere less exposed as quickly as possible. Not to mention the fact that he'd just collapsed, someone had to help him!\n\n\"Ah, I... I should g-get you to the nurse's office!\"\n\nEscape as quickly as possible, make sure Noctis was okay. That was the plan in Anne's mind.\n\n@Crusader Lord@PKMNB0Y", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nOnce confronted by Reginald about her actions, the maid's face seemed to pale and her body seemed to shrink down in fear. The hasty apology that followed from her was followed by a simple wave from Reginald, though, as if to disregard the situation entirely. It was better to chastise lightly than to let someone lose their job (or possily more) over something like this.\n\nBut the matter regarding the maid was of less importance to him than the heroine in this case, and once he had seen the maid hastily flee the area, the duke's son turned around to see the heroine having run off somewhere else. Though he'd have liked to gauge what her personality was \"actually\" like, the possibility of her trying to raise some flags with him was not zero... Which itself would have been more annoying to manage than he would have liked.\n\nNo matter, then; he'd have the next few years to see what she would attempt to do. For the moment, it seemed more prudent to leave the courtyard and... Well, find Mella, if anything. Given how he had sent her off earlier to scout the markets to make sure she had groceries for the two of them (as he was less inclined to eat at the cafeteria to begin with) and how she hadn't actually returned yet, the young man reasoned that she was likely still there, and so promptly started to leave the area once more to seek her out.\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nDespite having had a teacher right beside him as he passed out, it did not seem as if anyone had immediately moved to help Noctis. Whether or not it was because of the chaos of the courtyard as the students left (or chose to linger) or something else mattered little, though, as it seemed at least one student was willing to extend their hand to aid the young man.\n\nAnne's hasty arrival coupled with an attempt to help drag Noctis off the ground was a bit less successful at first, mostly in part due to her lacking the strength to do so. It was only after a bit of struggling, though, that the young woman would hear someone else's voice from nearby.\n\n\"Oh, is he all right? Here, let me help; we should bring him to the nurse's office as soon as possible.\"\n\nAlmost as if all of the effort she had put in was meaningless, the owner of the voice lifted Noctis' unconscious body up and slung the young man's arm over his shoulder.\n\n\"Ah... That's a bit heavier than expected. Would you mind helping me out here, miss?\"\n\nThe young man who had moved to help, of course, would have given Anne even more reason to panic. His golden blonde hair and aura of regality marked him as none other than one Christopher Alvonshire—in other words, the First Prince.\n\n@MagusDream", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "\"Yes, all has been well so far at the academy, though... I do dread the speech next year. He has a way of dragging it on and on.\" Serrica gave a small sigh as the older girl asked if she had seen a certain brother. \"That cute little brother of yours? Nope. If I hadn't noticed you, there's not much chance I noticed him.\" Serrica mentioned as she looked around the area, seeing if she could get her eyes locked on any hair matching Elastasia's. \"A shame, I could not set my eyes on him for you.\" The taller noble said, her own eyes meeting Elastasia's. \"Perhaps if I find him, I shall tell him you were looking.\"\n\nSerrica started to turn away so she could head off elsewhere before she stopped and quickly turned back towards the shorter girl. \"Oh! And Lady Aquilanne, I plan on holding a tea party sometime soon to celebrate the start of this academic year. The time and date will be scheduled shortly and I will send you a written invitation. Should you find any other influent-- I mean, any other fine ladies of the academy who seem like they could use conne-Friends... Let me know and I will invite them as well.\" \n\nSerrica seemed proud of herself for planning this event, \"You will join me, right?\" Elastasia was the character that seemed to have a thing for girls, or at least the main character, in the original game. Hopefully, it meant that she'd have an eye for girls to invite to such a connection making event.\n\nDaze", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\nWell, at least that was one other person now on the lookout for her brother. That greatly simplified matters, although maybe Elastasia could do something else to help find him in this crowd a little bit faster... if nothing else, a little bit of magic ought to give her a better vantage point to see from, right?\n\nBefore she could do that, there was the little matter of Serrica's tea party to address. It wasn't the sort of thing that Elastasia wanted to attend. All-female or not, it would still just be a party of rich girls, and nobility vying for attention. But... maybe she should keep things moving in the direction of the main story? She hadn't met yet, but if Anne showed up in a magic class before this party, it should be possible to make the beginnings of an invitation and ensure she started to acquire powerful allies before the route splits.\n\nBut she didn't want to go...\n\n\"Oh, I don't know if I could meet many people you haven't,\" she said, resting her hand on her chin, \"The Academy already draws from our typical social circles quite heavily. Your year would be the one most likely to have unfamiliar girls of lower rank.\"", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." } ]

[ { "text": "Mella\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n\"Potions, hm...quite lucrative indeed.\" A fairly easy and common way of getting money, really. It certainly wouldn't be too difficult if rules followed the same way alchemy happened in the game. Still...she lacked any actual alchemical skill herself, and didn't fancy learning truth be told. It'd be a lot of work, trial and error...haaa, she didn't mind hard work but she really didn't want more work. Still, maybe she could sponsor someone -\n\n\"Ah.\" Cervantes hit the nail right on the head. \"How rude. I would like to inform you lord Reginald and the Von Afah family reward their maids with quite adequate pay.\" She'd respond. Well, she certainly liked getting paid more, but there was no need to start saying that the Von Afah family went around paying their maids barely enough to live on. \"Still...mhm, you're not incorrect. I find myself needing quite a lot of money for certain personal reasons I am not at liberty to divulge.\" Mella's expression remained neutral and unreadable as she'd bow lightly. \"Even if I were to invest in an inventor, that requires some form of capital to start with...haaa...\" her unreadable expression shifted just slightly to one of mild annoyance. \"Everything always comes back to money, doesn't it? Needing more to even get more...maybe I should just commit embezzlement or tax evasion and move Von Afah's funds to some island out of the country...\"\n\nHer voice trailed off for a few moments before she'd cough, shaking her head.\n\n\"...apologies, I should finish the shopping before lord Reginald starts wondering where I've gone.\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\nWith his business smile still on his face, Cervantes tilted his head forward. \"My apologies for that remark,\" Though both of them knew that what he said was true. If a maid's income was all it took to get into the realm of business, then every servant would be dumping their cash into investment. Nobles were pigs, and the commoners were chickens. One fed with riches while the other couldn't fly off to greater heights. \n\nIf Cervantes heard anything Mella said, he made no effort to show it. \"If that is the case, I wish you a good day, miss.\" With their conversation seemingly over, Cervantes was about to move and then stopped. \"My shop is located nearest to one of the entrances. If there is anything you would like to inquire about, then you can head to my shop.\" With that, he finally turned back and began walking back to his shop. Perhaps he would charge that maid next time for advice.\n\nHe didn't get to meet the heroine, so that meant this reality was a little realistic. While a redundant thought, it still rang true. Not everything was pre-determined, though this was only a slight bit of evidence for that case. \"Though, what should I do...\" Cervantes muttered to himself. It still didn't change the fact that his future was uncertain.\n\nPerhaps it was time for some exploration. Cervantes needed to restock items for his shop, and he needed someone to protect him if the need arose. If he remembered correctly, there was a bulletin board somewhere in the town square. That billboard was a quest-giver to the heroine if she wanted to gain experience. It often involved her helping the people on the school grounds with their errands or dilemmas. He'd just use the billboard to enlist some poor student to follow him around while he collected items.\n\n\"Though what should I give as a reward,\" Cervantes muttered to himself.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\nOh good, he'd slowed down. Excellent, she'd been having to practically jog to keep up and that was undignified and ridiculous. Stupid long-legged giants in a rush, they really didn't appreciate how much of an advantage those legs were in turning a brisk pace into an active workout for everyone else...\n\nMaybe the best accident would be one that took advantage of that? Some sort of magical pit trap; it could be claimed that he was just in too much of a hurry to notice the hole in the ground or something before he fell in, how unfortunate that it happened to be full of deadly venomous snakes. But then she'd need to find a way to acquire snakes on-demand, otherwise it would just be Reginald standing around in the bottom of a pit until someone came along with a ladder.\n\nThe fact that he had replied took her a few seconds to catch up on as she followed along, thinking. \"Um... it's possible, but that doesn't really narrow it down, because I don't think he'd be at all familiar with anywhere I could be in the academy, and there's so many possible places that it would take days to search them...\"\n\nIt was a big place, there were plenty of out-of-the-way corners to sit and read, after all.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nThough he seemed somewhat lost in thought as he proceeded forward, the concerns that Elastasia had were not necessarily ones that Reginald shared... Or, at the very least, not for the same reasons. Regardless of when he was meant to meet the heroine, the fact that he was a capture target to begin with couldn't be ignored...\n\nAnd, as he wished to do for most of the people of concern, Reginald wished to keep tabs on as many of those as possible. The fact that he was also fundamentally tied to one of the best generalist magic units in Cross Heart Academy—in other words, the girl following behind him—only meant that trying to maintain a decent relationship during his time here was of a rather high import.\n\nNot that he shouldn't have already been worrying about such a thing; keeping up airs was rather important despite the \"equal\" footing the school tried to place on them in terms of status.\n\n\"Well, if you are to search, I suppose starting here is as good a place as any,\" he said, the streets abuzz with chatter as the pair walked into the markets proper. \"Though... Hm. That might prove difficult, given the crowds.\"\n\nWith the flow of students constantly shifting about them, it would indeed be rather difficult for anyone to spot anything, regardless of their height—but through the smallest of gaps, a fleeting glimpse of some rather distinctly familiar white hair could be seen before it disappeared back into the sea of people.\n\nDaze\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nWith all of the people moving throughout the marketplace, it was but a given that people would end up bumping into one another on occasion. The streets were not so crowded as to outright hinder movement, but with all of the new students eager to explore the academy's town-within-a-city, it was difficult to not expect at least a little pushing and shoving here and there.\n\nWhat would likely not have been expected to Mella, though, was a full-on collision with a certain overeager white-haired boy. Nary had a moment gone by since Cervantes had said his farewells did the maid find herself run into at full force by the new student. The boy had fared no better, of course; rather than landing on top of her, the momentum he had built up dodging through the crowd had left him unable to properly maintain his balance once he had failed—which, in this case, had led to him rather comically tripping over himself before tumbling onto the ground.\n\n\"...Ow...\" he groaned, slowly pushing himself off the cobblestone below with a few more cuts and bruises than he had moments ago.\n\n@AThousandCurses\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nChristopher looked at Anne with mild surprise at her near-instantaneous declaration to stay behind before smiling and nodding.\n\n\"Your friend is very lucky to have someone so concerned about them at their side. I would certainly like to stay and make sure he is well...\" the prince began to say before shaking his head, \"but I do have other things I need to attend to. We should speak again in the future, though; in the meantime, I hope your time at the academy serves you well.\"\n\nAnd with that, the prince promptly left the room—only for a brief knock on the door and the nurse's motion to open it reveal someone else of import. With a somewhat gloomy atmosphere about him, a young man with dark purple hair walked into the room, a crate of bandages in hand.\n\n\"Master, I've brought the bandages you requested,\" stated one Johan Kyrman, his gaze slowly panning across the room before landing upon both Anne and the unconscious Noctis. \"...I see we already have a patient, though.\"\n\n\"Oh, thank you, Johan! You can put the bandages over there,\" the nurse said, gesturing off to an open area to the side. Though his gaze lingered upon the pair for a moment, the young man simply followed his \"master's\" orders before promptly walking over to the unconscious Noctis and checking the student's temperature and vitals.\n\n\"...Hm. No sign of any irregularities...\" he muttered to himself before turning towards the nurse for a moment, then towards Anne. \"What happened to him?\"\n\nNeedless to say, the nurse's sigh rather than any attempt to stop him would have made it clear that the young man at their side was more than a little \"eccentric\".\n\n@MagusDream", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" } ]

[ { "text": "Serrica had examined the surroundings a small bit. Watching the students co-mingle after the speech. It was fairly lively now, with everyone looking forward to the new school year. As she studied all these students, she noticed a small bunch of them being rather rowdy and one of that group smack into some girl she hadn't recognized. A commoner girl perhaps. Well, that didn't matter all too much. What did matter was the girl falling down and scraping her hands as she caught her fall. It was only slightly bloodied but a cute girl didn't deserve such a thing.\n\nSerrica walked her way over with purpose and came to stand in front of the girl. \"Let's get you up. Your palms look a small bit bloodied. Let us get you to the nurse station so they can get you healed up, alright?\" The girl merely nodded. Perhaps because a stranger was helping her. Perhaps it was because she knew Serrica was a noble. Regardless, the noble lady helped her up and guided her to the nurse's station. It was a short enough trip though there was a slightly annoying sight.\n\n\"Hello, Your Highness. A pleasure to greet you.\" A certain prince was walking down the hallway. Well, she didn't plan on talking to him much, instead, she kept walking with the girl, who was struggling to get out the words to greet the prince as the Duke's daughter pulled her along. Soon enough, they noticed a guy walk into a room which, just so happened, to be where they needed to go. They sauntered up to the door and Serrica pushed it open. \"I have a student here that needs her hands healed.\"\n\nWell, there were already a number of people in there already. The nurse and her assistant, an unconscious person and a rather cute girl. \"Oh my, are we interrupting?\" She had to ask, looking between everyone, though her eyes stayed on the girl. Did they deceive her? Was that the Heroine? \"Rather cute, aren't you.\" She absent-mindedly stated, looking Anne in the eyes now with curiosity.", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "\"A-ah, er, he fainted, suddenly...\"\n\nOf course. Of course this was a situation where one of the game's love interests walked right in immediately after the other walked out. Why wouldn't her?\n\nThrough her frustration, Anne couldn't help but note to herself that there really wasn't any reason why he wouldn't. This was, after all, where he volunteered. It stood to reason that he'd walk in at some point. But regardless of that, it was still extremely inconvenient for her! This placed her in far too dangerous of a situation, accidentally triggering a flag of some kind would be way too easy! She already had the Crown Prince wanting to talk to her again, which was a difficult request to turn down in a society like this. The last thing she needed was to immediately trigger another flag...\n\nWhich is why she almost audibly sighed in relief when a clear route of escape came. Now that there were people to care for her friend, she didn't have to stick around. And this was Serrica, wasn't she? It was hard not to recognize her given she was usually the heroine's friend in most routes.\n\n\"S-since you're here with the nurse, I feel comfortable leaving hi-eh? Cute? Eh?\"\n\nWait, what?\n\n@Pyromania99", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Noctis Alegretto\nLocation: Starveil Academy - Nurse's Office\nInteractions: Anne (@VitaVitaAR), Serrica (@Pyromania99)\n\n\n---\n\n\nHe twitched his eyes as his consciousness finally returned to him. As he opened his eyes, he saw the roof, reminiscent of a nursery. He didn't look at the sides but was slowly regaining his place.\n\n(D-Did I... fall unconscious?) He thought.\n\nAs he got up and sat on the bed (still not looking at his sides, mind you.), he looked at his hands and moved them, thinking he might have possibly escaped back to wherever he wanted to be, not the actual academy.\n\n(Wait... if I'm in a nursery right now... could it be that it was a dream after all? Was I falling unconscious the key for me to wake up?) He thought.\n\nNoctis' Theme: Berry Berry Cue! (Counter:Side)\n\nAnd then he finally looked at his sides. And the ones standing there weren't his mother, his brother, or any doctors. It was a nurse... Anne Marielle, the heroine... and Serrica Francesca Haldblum, one of the important characters in the story. What this all meant? That he never left Starveil Academy, and was now surrounded by three of the game's biggest characters... as if being one himself wasn't enough.\n\n\"A-Ah... hahaha! I-I'm so sorry for the blunder back at the entrance, I was... just in so much shock for actually being in the a-academy and... t-to start studying that I fell blank... hehe, you know... it happens...\" He said.\n\nThis was his best attempt to be... well, himself. Or who he was right now. After such a slip-up like falling unconscious and probably creating an event that never, ever happened in-game, he had to buckle up and try his very best to not commit these sorts of slip-ups again, for as long as he can to actually survive his new life.\n\n\"I-In any case, I'm... o-once again, I'm sorry for the trouble. This isn't how I wanted the year to start, I swear.\" He said.", "username": "MagusDream", "char_name": "Noctis Alegretto" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nGiven that he was more searching for his maid than Elastasia's brother, Reginald was caught completely off guard when the white-haired girl opted to start pulling him down the street. Though taken aback by the sudden pull, the black-haired student quickly regained his composure and followed his companion's lead without too much hassle.\n\nIt was convenient, then, that finding Terys would also incidentally lead him to Mella. There was a brief moment of contemplation as his eyes glanced at the scene in front of him before a sigh finally escaped his lips.\n\n\"I suppose this works just as well,\" he remarked, nodding towards the smaller boy as he gave his apologies in turn. The humility, at least, was a nice change of pace from some of the more indignant nobles that would frequent social gatherings. \"If that is all, then—\"\n\nThough the black-haired student was apt to take his leave, the sound of some chaos nearby quickly pulled his attention. There were a few more mischeivous students running off in another direction, for what little that was worth, but the real commotion seemed to be coming from where they were running from—that is, to say, the group of shopkeepers and students trying their hardest to catch a few creatures that were scrambling about.\n\n\"...Well. That's... Something,\" Reginald said, frowning as he took a step forward. \"I suppose it's only right to try and help resolve the situation.\"\n\nNot that they really had much of a choice, though—not with a few of the beasts making their way towards them. Whether or not this was event that had occurred in the original work was less relevant now, though, given the absence of the heroine... Though maybe something like this always happened, regardless of what she had chosen to do?\n\nDaze@Rune_Alchemist@AThousandCurses\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\"Suddenly... Fainted? Interesting.\"\n\nThere was a pause as Johan considered Anne's words before he drew back and squinted at the unconscious Noctis.\n\n\"Well, he seems to be in perfect health otherwise. No signs of heatstroke or the like...\"\n\nIt wasn't long after that, though, before the activity within the nurse's office promptly tripled. Another student—this one, with somewhat more tangible injuries—was brought in, which swiftly drew the nurse's attention towards her instead. Following her, of course, was a noble lady of rather noble make, and following that came the revival of the young man whose consciousness had escaped him. Rather than try and make a fuss about things, though, Johan simply stared quietly at the one who had just awoken.\n\n\"...Well, I'm not quite sure that'd be a reason to pass out, but for the moment, I'll not pry further,\" Johan stated before standing up and dusting himself off. \"Though I suppose you should be wary of sleep deprivation regardless; learning is rather difficult without proper sleep... Not that I'm one to talk.\"\n\nRather than linger ere long, though, the nurse's assistant simply made his way back over to what he had been carrying earlier and began to sort what he had out. The other students, he reasoned, could do well enough among themselves; so long as they didn't treat this place like their personal hangout, then he could care less.\n\n@Pyromania99@MagusDream", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" } ]

[ { "text": "Elastasia\n\n\"N-No, nothing's the matter!\" Elastasia squeaked, grateful for the distraction of... hmm, a whole bunch of furry creatures being released at once? Her memory of the game wasn't completely perfect, but she was sure this wasn't part of the usual course of events that had ever been covered... although, there were occasionally references to strange things happening off screen to establish the tone of the academy portion, so maybe this had happened, albeit never in detail.\n\nThe question was, what could she contribute? She'd just get in the way trying to catch them by hand, and magically snagging one at a time would be... well, difficult, and inefficient, and it wouldn't even help much as someone would still need to grab them.\n\nStill, she had an idea! Sliding one hand into a well-hidden pocket, the white-haired noble pulled out a relatively simple wand--a basic focus, and not the best she had access, but definitely the best she felt comfortable carrying around for schoolwork... along with not being specialised for any particular task.\n\nIt was more than adequate for the task at hand, concentric circles of a deep blue appearing in the air ahead as she pointed, spinning counter to one another. Just a few seconds later, and two shimmering barriers appeared both behind the stampede... and directly ahead of them, ahead of those who had gone to help capture the creatures. Not the most solid of barriers, any serious attempt to break them would shatter the things like glass, but the pearlescent blue should hopefully deter any creatures from escaping further down the street. Especially as the two barriers steadily pushed closer and closer to the centre of the road, narrowing the space further... and pushing anyone who didn't notice insistently along.\n\nTerys appeared to have joined the attempt with nothing but his hands, helpful as he ever was. All it seemed that he'd caught was a dire hamster.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "The moment of utter confusion was briefly derailed when Noctis awakened. In spite of the situation, Anne couldn't deny her sense of relief that the young man who was her friend, regardless of her previous life, looked like he was going to be okay. Still, he hadn't fainted in the game, and nothing had happened to him that could have caused it as far as she could tell. So had something else happened that she didn't know about? Everyone did have lives of their own outside of the game's screentime, after all, so did that have something to do with it?\n\n\"Er, are you sure you're okay, Noctis?\" she asked, hesitatingly, after a moment, \"Suddenly fainting out of no-where isn't really... normal...\"\n\nAnd that wasn't the only thing that wasn't normal.\n\nAnne definitely didn't remember Serrica acting like this, or making any of these offers.\n\n\"W-work for? I-eh? Eeeeeeh?\"\n\nIt was a lot to take in all at once. There definitely wasn't an event like this in the game, no matter what you did! What the hell?\n\nIt wasn't enough that she got that close and whispered in her ear, it was everything else too.\n\n\"E-er, I d-don't really know what you're talking about, um...\" Anne trailed off with weak, nervous bit of laughter, scratching the back of her head.\n\nAt this point it was all she could really do.\n\n@Pyromania99@PKMNB0Y", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nReginald paid his maid a slightly curious sidelong glance as she commented on the oncoming chaos before deliberately acting as if he hadn't seen the glint in her eye. Over the past few years the young man had grown somewhat accustomed to his maid's odd lust for money, and so as long as she didn't attempt to actively undermine his family's finances Reginald himself had no reason to intervene.\n\nOf course, the others nearby had also chosen to jump into action, each moving to help stem the chaos in their own way. The shopkeeper had whipped out a net from his bag—one of a surprisingly sturdy make, if the way he swung it around was any indication—while Elastasia had begun to funnel all of the creatures into the road and towards them.\n\nThat would certainly help his plans along, if anything. Though he had no weapons upon him, injuring the animals likely wouldn't have done him any favors with the shopkeepers attempting to rein the situation in anyways.\n\nWhat was to be done instead, then, but simply work to try and catch the animals just barely too far out of reach for the others to capture? After a deep breath, the black-haired student sprung towards one of the barriers the mage had erected before leaping towards it. There was a brief pause as Reginald shifted his body around in mid-air before turning to use the very same barrier as a springboard to push himself even further into the skies. A pure-white bird that was just barely about to pass just overhead was soon caught within his hands as he descended to the ground.\n\n\"...Hm. I suppose that I should've considered what to do if my hands were full...\" he mused to himself as the bird—which would be somewhat notable to both Melia and Elastasia given the holy aura it seemed to faintly exude—continued to struggle away.\n\nWith that said, the menagerie bearing down on everyone was not exactly without any other noteworthy creatures. There were a variety of smaller magical creatures trying to shove their way through despite the narrowing corridor, but a few seemed intelligent enough to attempt to double back...\n\nOr, as in the case of a smaller kittenlike creature, leaping straight at Elastasia's face in what seemed to be an attempt to break the spell blocking it's path of escape.\n\n@AThousandCurses@Raineh Daze", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\n\"Ah, ha!\" Cervantes to said to no one other than to himself. The net fell upon the enemy and was slammed back to the ground. The creature tried to budge against its restraints, but Cervantes tried his hardest to keep it down. All he needed to do now was bring the creature back to a shopkeeper and cage it up.\n\n\"That was easy.\" He didn't break a sweat, yet, though the critter sure was strong. It took all he had to keep the animal down in his net. Though Cervantes was curious to what he had even caught. Looking down at it made him surprised. It was a wyvern, well to be more precise a wyvern whelp. Creatures with a similar appearance to dragons but more common and less strong than their cousins.\n\nSaid wyvern whelp was now trying break out the net by gnawing it. \"Not today, I'm afraid!\" Cervantes as he shifted the net around. The net entangled the wyvern, but that didn't stop the little thing from being ferocious. It was letting out strange cries as it tried to get out of its trapping.\n\n\"Jessica! Where are the cages!\" Cervantes yelled to his shopkeeper friend.\n\nShe seemed currently preoccupied trying to throw some sort of dust at a boar that was trying to maul her. The boar took a sniff out the dust before promptly going slack on its side. When she was finished, Jessica yelled out, \"Somewhere in there!\" With a gesture she nodded towards the run down store. Then she went back to trying to get more of the creatures.\n\nWas it legal to use unknown substances on animals? Cervantes didn't know and didn't seem to want to as he had a wyvern to pin in. \"Welp, in you go!\" Cervantes said as he dragged the wyvern. Hopefully there was an intact cage for this feisty critter.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" } ]

[ { "text": "Elastasia\n\nWhen the kitten--why had a kitten known to go for her? had made that jump--Elastasia reflexively froze up, presenting a harmless and ineffectual target... one that would have been able to do nothing to maintain their little corralling effort. Fortunately for her, the totally-just-a-maid came to her rescue, and the barrier maintained its integrity. Barely; the little jumping trick did cause the entire thing to shimmer ominously before recovering its strength.\n\nHow odd that he'd caught a holy bird, though. Was that even a good thing? It might do... something, when panicked, and it wasn't exactly the holiest of all individuals that had just made a grab for it. Maybe they'd be lucky and it would make a beeline for someone more suitable, even if nobody with the exact magical affinity was in the area.\n\nOf course, her brother now had his hands full, as well as his face. It looked rather like an ordinary puppy. A very large, very affectionate, very slobbery puppy.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Serrica had waited for Noctis to say something but he was rather quiet. \"Well, fine, the boy seems shell-shocked. If you feel better, do follow. Otherwise, girl, I'm going to borrow you for a small bit so the patient can rest.\" With that, Serrica kept hold of Anne's hand and walked out the door with her, leading her to somewhere that wasn't the infirmary. They got out of the building for some fresh air before Serrica stopped and released Anne. She took a breath before she opened her mouth again.\n\n\"Alright then. Now that we can get out from that sterile smelling air, do you not want to work for the quite rich Serrica Francesca Haldblum? I can pay you a potent salary... Hmm...\" She went silent for some seconds as she contemplated something. \"I suppose I have yet to properly introduce myself...\" The noble girl cleared her throat before speaking once more. \"I am the eldest daughter of the Haldblum Duchy, Serrica Francesca Haldblum. May I ask your name and house? Or, lack thereof. Take no offence, but if you are of a noble house I've yet to see you attend to high society functions.\"", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "\"Wait wha-\"\n\nOn one hand it did allow her to escape from one of the romantic interests. On the other, this wasn't anything like anything that had happened in the game. Anne certainly hadn't expected Serrica to go dragging her off like this out of the blue. In fact, none of this behavior seemed like the Serrica she knew from the game at all. Just what was going on? Of course it wasn't that Serrica wasn't wealthy and exuberant but...\n\nMaybe she was just imagining it? Maybe it was just because of how things had already shifted?\n\nAnne wasn't certain, and she didn't really know how to handle a girl just dragging her off in the first place.\n\n\"Er... er... Marielle,\" she managed, when Serrica asked her name. It was more then she'd expected to be dealing with from her already, so it took a moment for her to even begin to articulate herself, \"A-Anne Marielle, er, I guess we just didn't... run into each other...?\"\n\nShe was from a minor house, in any case, so the chances of that were exceptionally high.", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nWith the barrier comparatively unperturbed by the kitten's valiant efforts, the rest of the animals soon found themselves crashing into the magical wall... Or one another. To Reginald, who was watching the whole affair unfold in front of him, the mental image of a nasty pileup quickly came to mind—and a somewhat restrained grimace crossed his face as he turned away from the carnage.\n\n\"I certainly don't envy any of them...\" he remarked to himself as the bird in his hands continued to wriggle and squirm about. Though he could not necessarily see the growing energy it was exuding now, he could certainly feel it now. To that, though, the young man simply chose to maintain his hold on the creature. 'Twas not his place to question why a magical creature was being held here, of course, but as far as he could tell, there was not much amiss about it beyond a slight glow.\n\nThe two more magically-inclined girls in his company would likely be able to tell what was going on to some degree, though, given how the bird seemed to be absorbing energy from the disoriented and injured creatures lying about as the shopekeepers began to gather them back up. By now, the identity of the avian was a bit more obvious to those who had run through this event in the game—the heroine's \"companion\" on the routes more relevant to the church, traveling around and growing alongside her.\n\nUnfortunate, though, that such growth usually required the presence of the injured and pained... Such as those lying around the street right now. Doubly so, of course, when one considered that the bird could hit a critical mass of energy before it reached a new stage in it's growth, as seemed to be fast approaching, and in so doing could cause anything from a shockwave of mana to a pulse of healing energy affecting those who it was nearby to anything in between.\n\nAll the while, though, the kitten that had now been caught in Melia's arms was flailing about, trying it's hardest to push itself free from her grasp. Notably enough, though, it seemed to deliberately not be trying to scratch or bite at her body despite being caught in a rather unbecoming situation... Though for what reason it chose not to do so remained to be seen.\n\nBy this point, though, the shopkeepers had begun to capitalize on the efforts of everyone actively aiding in their efforts to stop the stampede, and more than a few had already begun to bring the creatures splayed out on the streets back to their cages... For better or worse. The wyvern in Cervantes' grasp, for example, continued to struggle away at the net that had wrapped around it's body—or, to be more accurate, the net that it had incidentally wrapped itself up in. But the slight red glow beginning to form from within it's mouth was not exactly a herald of good things to come for anyone left unaware...\n\n@Rune_Alchemist@Raineh Daze", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\n\"Phew, almost done.\" What a day. Cervantes grimaced as he dragged the straggling wyvern to a cage. It felt a little surreal to be in this situation. Mystical animals break out and he had to catch one of them; what was this an anime? Though he supposed it wasn't too wrong. After all, this was an otome game. Scenarios like these shouldn't be too surprising to see in an otome, but experiencing first hand was an entirely different matter.\n\nOpening the cage, he looked down at the lizard. \"Well, little guy, it's time to get into cage so-\" Cervantes stopped when the whelp something glowing in its mouth. Did it eat a flashlight or something? First, he was sure that flashlights didn't exist in this world. Second, he was pretty sure that light was coming out of its mouth. It reminded him of a dragon about to breath fire. \"Wait, breath fire?\"\n\nFire?\n\nIn an instant, Cervantes was immediately alarmed of what was going to happen. Why could wyverns breath fire, or whatever it was doing? He thought only dragons could that. Wyverns were like the lame cousins of dragons and insignifcant to them. \"Ah... Ah... Ah...\" Cervantes panicked. What was he going to do? He had to do something, but he didn't want to hurt the wyvern either. Cervantes dug into his pockets and threw 'it' at the wyvern.\n\n\"Pocket sand!\"\n\nImmediately the sand slapped the wyvern straight in the face. It blinked before wrinkling it nose. With a sneeze that sounded like a gun firing, it shot out fire. Fire that easily burned his net. \"Haaaaaa!\" Cervantes yelped at the sudden brightness. Out of sheer instinct, Cervantes threw the net, along with the help, into the cage. \"Nope, nope, nope, nope, not today. Not dealing with this, today.\" Without hesitation he closed the cage and locked it.", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\n\"Er, Reggie, you might want to let that one go...\" Elastasia offered hesitantly. Of course, if the Heroine had been here, this very early opportunity to get the bird would have had it decide that the holy magic-aligned girl was its ideal partner despite the general disorganisation and chaos going on, but here? Well, maybe a maid would be a good alternative. Or it would be happy to find its way home or to freedom or to wherever it might actually find a suitable partner.\n\nShe highly doubted it was going to enjoy being held by a young man whose major skills lay in chopping things to pieces. \"It might, ah... blow your hands off?\"\n\nWell, hopefully only bruise them. But holding onto it would likely hurt, if it wasn't all that happy with the current situation, and result in not holding the bird anyway.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." } ]

[ { "text": "Cervantes Quixote\n\nThat pricked his conscious. \"You're not the only one suffering you know,\" Cervantes said as he scratched the back of his head. \"I was planning to sell that capture net at my shop, but now look at it.\" All burnt up and being used a chew toy by the flying lizard. Pinching the bridge of his nose, he sighed. Cervantes could already tell what tomorrow's gossip would be. News Headline, \"Wild creatures run rampant in Plaza!?\" What a mess.\n\nThough, this may give him an opportunity. \"Well, I am feeling generous today.\" With a smile, he walked up towards the shopkeeper. \"If I may introduce myself, I am Cervantes Quixote. I am a merchant of many wares,\" Cervantes paused in dramatics before saying it aloud. \"And connections. I can ask some of my 'friends' to help you with finding your merchandise if you'd like. That and I'll help with your shop. Of course, we'll have to write up a contract, but I want to hear your thoughts first.\"\n\nAside from the fact that he technically had no 'connections,' he had one resource that could potentially help a hapless old man.\n\nThe Heroine.\n\nIf would be able to convince the heroine on this endeavor, then he'd hit a jackpot. Though, of course, he'd have to offer something in return to the heroine to convince her. The world revolved in exchanges of course. Whether it be money, favors, or gods, something had to be given away in return. Cervantes would be have to flexible, since he didn't exactly know what the female lead could possibly want.\n\nThough perhaps, he could get that maid into this as well. She did say she wanted to get into a business. Why not have this man teach her the ropes or something? Either way, after this he needed to find people fast.\n\n\"What is your name, mister?\"", "username": "AThousandCurses", "char_name": "Cervantes Quixote" }, { "text": "Serrica merely smiled somewhat entertained as Lilian spoke harshly to her. There was always something entertaining about her interactions with the girl. Few people truly troubled her and Lilian Meridan was no exception to that. \"Nice to see you as well, Lady Meridan. Looking as beautiful as ever.\" She mentioned as the girl just stared her down. Perhaps she would feel unsettled with the daughter of His Majesty's chief advisor staring her down... But a merchant couldn't let such trifles bother them.\n\nShe went silent mostly as Lilian introduced herself to Anne. It didn't bother her a bit. So long as she didn't plan on trying to snatch her new recruit from under her like a bitch. Which is not what it seemed like. Rather, she seemed rather focused on her for some reason. She always seemed wary. \n\nPerhaps it was because she was not exactly polite to the royalty? Well, she didn't have to nor did she particularly want to. He was fairly boring as far as it went but, realistically, she didn't really focus on that sort of thing in her few playthroughs.\n\nAs soon as introduction was over... It was back to being stared at. Serrica couldn't remember being particularly mean to Lilian or anything of the sort. In fact, she had started trying to be.... Somewhat nice. She has consistently invited her to tea parties. Or, tried. A good ally is the daughter of the king's advisor after all. Now, however... \n\n\"Well, I had come this far out originally to assist a girl that had been pushed aside and scraped her knee. There I met this cute little miss.\" Serrica mentioned, defending herself in a small way. \"And I always have time to make small talk with the new students, Lady Meridan. It's always wonderful to meet the new faces we'll be seeing until we graduate.\" She added before staring Lilian back in the eye. \"My, you know, Lady Meridan, you stare at me like that much longer and I'll wonder if you have a thing for me. I thought you had a thing for the Crown Prince.\" Serrica teased, taking a step closer. \n\n\"Well, you may find that my refined taste includes people with beautiful golden locks if you're curious.\" The Duke's daughter took one more step forward towards Lilian. She was curious if she hit the hammer on the nail, though she somewhat doubted she did. Likely, she was just always irritated with the way Serrica treated the Crown Prince.", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\n\"Oh dear, the holy bird seems to like you...\" Elastasia stated, watching the bird's choice of perch curiously. Was this information actually significant to any of the world's normal inhabitants? It could be mere happenstance that Mella was more appealing than any of the others around here--being marginally holier than a bunch of merchants and nobles might not be considered much of an achievement--but at the same time, it was a very definite preference...\n\nOr maybe that was merely confirmation bias speaking. She knew why it was so attracted, therefore, to her, it was obvious. If she started acting on all the game knowledge to any real end, though, she'd get a reputation for uncanny prescience that would give out in such a short span of time, that would be quite annoying. And she really needed to start with something big before attention came to her, like making sure Reginald didn't go off and cause problems.\n\nMaybe if he was encouraged to collect rare animals, they wouldn't need to depend on the Heroine's whims? That derpy-looking creature would be a good start.\n\nAnd maybe one of the shopkeepers would get that dog off her brother. He wouldn't have anywhere to keep such a pet, no matter how friendly it was.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." } ]

[ { "text": "\"Oh! You wound me Lady Meridan! Such harsh snappings at my person wound my spirit.\" Serrica said, hardly serious about the matter. The rich noble didn't mind having one person that tried to put her down. And of all people, Lady Meridan would likely be the best out of anyone. Well, her and von Afah. \n\n\"And treat this place as a hunting ground? I think you will find that a place of learning is in fact the peak setting to find those with innate or hidden talents that one needs to draw out.\" Serrica mentioned, looking at Anne in particular. \"And, if you must know what I was doing here, it's something I'm sure you would do in the same situation. Some unruly students knocked a girl over so I escorted her here and then met Lady Marielle here.\" None of it was false at the least.\"\n\nWith a smirk, Serrica looked towards Lady Meridan once more. \"And, lest I forget, you should hurry up and get together with that Prince of yours. If you sadly aren't interested in me, that is.\" The woman teased. \"I believe that would be in the best interests of everyone involved, wouldn't you agree with me, Lady Marielle?\" The student had to ask the other, wondering if the Heroine found any interest in the prince.", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "Mella\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nCurses.\n\nCould she learn curses? She'd curse this bird.\n\nOr maybe she should learn some divine magic so it laid golden eggs.\n\nThis was turning out to be rather annoying.\n\n\"I would much rather sell this thing.\" Mella replied with a sigh, admitting defeat at the hands of this avian. \"Its a rare specimen lord Reginald...though I haven't a clue as to why it seems so attached to me.\" She'd turn her eyes up towards the bird in question. \"Perhaps it'd taste good roasted? Perhaps fried. I think it looks similar enough to a duck to be quite delicious of prepared correctly and I would not have to purchase food for the evening if we did.\"\n\nMella walked over towards Reginald and Elastasia, bowing politely.\n\n\"I shall remember to bill you for extra curricular work.\" She nodded towards Reginald. \"My lord, if there is nothing else then I must continue my shopping and prepare a meal for the evening.\" A glance back up at the bird. \"Unless we truly shall be finding out what this one tastes like roasted in garlic.\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "This was spiraling further and further into potential disaster the longer it occurred. Serrica's behavior was only seeming to aggravate Lilian, who in turn was doing her best to incite Serrica. \n\nAnd Anne had found herself caught in the middle of a potentially dangerously escalating situation. She wanted to try and stay out of these sorts of things, the idea of anything that could trip any sort of flag was terrifying at this point. This seemed like it was brewing to catapult them into a a chain of tempting flags left and right!\n\nWhat did she say?! Aaah, she didn't want to express any interest in the Prince at all! She didn't want to go down that route! She didn't want to make Lilian think she was going down that route!\n\nDeep breaths.\n\nShe had to take deep breaths, clear her head, and calm herself.\n\nAnd give a natural response.\n\nPerhaps bowing was a bit over the top.\n\n\"I-I-I wish you g-g-good luck!\"\n\nAnd practically yelling that almost certainly didn't yelp.\n\nBut Anne couldn't stop the anxiety from getting to her.\n\n@Pyromania99", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "Reginald von Afah\nAn odd expression crossed Reginald's face upon hearing Elastasia's remark—one that could probably have been described as a mix of surprise, confusion, and vague recognition of the word that she spoke. A salamander was a salamander, after all—and confusing it's name for something like \"Wooper\" was so uncannily odd that it couldn't have been an honest mistake. Not unless there was another creature with a similar name, at least.\n\nTo this, the black-haired student seemed to stand in silence for a few moments, his brow furrowed as he tried to figure out if there were any other animals that could possibly have a similar enough physiology and name to result in such an honest mistake. But when none came to mind, Reginald's mind instead drifted back to his 'old' native language—Japanese—and a certain multimedia franchise that had become popular the world over.\n\nThere was a theoretical now, a 'what-if' beginning to take root in the back of his mind—that maybe the mistake was one borne from a Freudian slip from someone who had found themselves in similar circumstances to his own. It was hard to make any definitive claims at the moment, though the idea did cross his mind to ask, if not subtly, what Elastasia had meant by that...\n\nBut ultimately, it seemed wiser to wait and see if there were any other hints he could attempt to glean before trying to ask proper. Of course, the time he had spent thinking about those matters had just as well been spent half-staring at the upperclassman in question, for better or worse—and, somewhat unfortunately, only barely acknowledging Terys' words of thanks with a slight nod.\n\nMella's talk of cooking the bird that had taken to her was ultimately what pulled his attention back to more \"present\" matter, and her apparent dislike of the avian was... Honestly quite amusing to him, in a bit of a twisted way. It wasn't like the bird was doing any explicit harm, at least, and despite her less-than-subtle threats it seemed satisfied perched upon her head.\n\n\"Mmm... I think that if it's rare and seems to be taken with you, it might do some good to actually research what breed it is. I doubt it'd return to whatever shopkeeper it came from at this point, and honestly it might be less trouble paying for the creature than attempting to wrangle it away from you...\"\n\nAnd given how confident both Elastasia and his maid had been about how it was able to injure him, maybe that would be for the best.\n\nBy this point, another shopkeeper—one of a far sturdier make—finally came around and took the large canine off of his hands, though certainly more literally than figuratively as the gruff man hefted the massive dog under his arm and walked off.\n\n\"Well, matters of cleaning up this chaos aside, I've nothing better to do at the moment. Given how I intend to at least look into that new friend of course, the least I could do is follow along until you are finished—or we could simply make our way there now, given how you seem to have a different creature entirely in your grasp.\"\n\nDaze@Rune_Alchemist\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\"I am aware that you claimed to help another student earlier, and I do not deny that fact. What I am asking, quite honestly, is why the young woman at your side is with you. Though I suppose that she seems to be a bit more rattled by my presence than I would like...\"\n\nThere was a pause as a bit of a shadow crossed Lilian's face after she spoke her piece to Serrica, and the words \"reputation\" and \"bad\" could scarcely be heard by Anne as the blonde girl whispered to herself barely loud enough for another to hear—before the topic of the Prince came up once more.\n\nTo this (far more forward) declaration, however, Lilian's face seemed to color itself ever so slightly red, and her fleeting moment of pause seemed to be replaced in an instant by indignation and embarrassment. That seemed to only be further exacerbated by Anne's response, loud as it was—the young woman's face seemed to dye itself a deep shade of red now—so much so that denying her feelings would have been all but impossible now.\n\n\"E-enough about the Crown Prince!\" she exclaimed, a slight tremor in her voice. \"I'm—\"\n\n\"...Hm? I thought I heard a shout over here...\"\n\nAnd, almost as if on cue, the Crown Prince turned a nearby corner and walked towards the three girls, a light smile on his face.\n\n\"Miss Haldblum. Miss Meridan. I hope the day finds you well,\" Christopher said as he turned towards the two before the latter promptly turned away and covered her face in embarrassment. Seeing Lilian acting as she was, though, Christopher's gaze inevitably tuned back towards Anne, whose presence here seemed to be a bit more surprising to him.\n\n\"...Hm? I didn't expect to see you so soon again, Miss... I apologize, but I never actually got your name—nor you mine, I believe—when we last met. Christopher Alvonshire, the first son of King Asher Alvonshire. I presume your friend is well, then, if you are exploring the school grounds now?\"\n\n@VitaVitaAR", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" } ]

[ { "text": "Mella\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nShe was slightly hoping the shopkeep would refuse and take the bird away.\n\nLife could never be so easy, could it?\n\nThe maid remained quiet, though, keeping the kitten comfortably laying in her arms and the bird perched on her head, doing her best to simply ignore it. Well, at least the cat was...somewhat cute, she supposed. She'd pat its head, giving it a few ear scritches and pets while she'd wait for lord Afah to complete his business. She still needed to do the shopping. Was it still possible to get back and do all the cooking before evening?\n\nHm.\n\nMore importantly, though...\n\n\"...How does one take care of this bird?\" Mella queried the shopkeeper. \"As It is likely my responsibility I have never seen it before, and as such would much appreciate any insight into peculiarities, sir Shopkeeper.\"", "username": "Rune_Alchemist", "char_name": "Mella Kristelle" }, { "text": "\"Um... could you tell me about this kitten?\" Elastasia asked, lifting up the offending creature so it was visible. It at least seemed slightly more pliable now, \"Is it just a cat...? It seemed to know to go for me when I was keeping a barrier up to hem in the other escapees.\"\n\nIt could make an interesting familiar, she supposed. Not that it was the sort of magic that she'd ever shown interest in, but having another pair of eyes to look out for people that might want to interrupt her reading and drag her off to some party... although, it wasn't something that would really harm her social standing in a non-intrusive way. A magical prodigy doing something so blatantly associated with mages? Eh, it was nothing. Everyone liked having pets, noblemen took to breeding horses...\n\nOr it could just be a cat. That was also possible. A cute cat, but a cat nonetheless.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "Even Serrica was feeling bad for Lillian at this point. Not that she hated the girl, but there was not much to say about another high ranking noble if she couldn't get her feelings across. \"She's preoccupied wi-- No.\" Serrica started to state what she figured was obvious before deciding that wasn't the course of action. \"Nevermind that, I suppose. You're quite dense, Prince Christopher.\" The student mentioned before briefly shaking her head and sighing a small bit. \"It is thanks to that, however, that I doubt you carry the reputation of a ravenous hound, fret you not.\" Serrica mentioned with a small shrug. \"Perhaps an unintentionally rude or dull one but that aside it does not matter to me. You're still the Crown Prince to me.\"\n\nAfter saying that much, she turned to Anne. \"Ahh, yes. Lady Marielle. I believe that you wanted guidance to a certain place on campus, did you not? Would you still like me to guide you there? I'm still not past trying to recruit you into my group, but I shall ease up until your graduation if you wish.\"", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" }, { "text": "While most of Anne's mind was in a panic, attempting to analyze everything the Prince had said in order to isolate and defend against even the slightest chance of a flag, it wasn't as if she entirely failed to realize the situation.\n\nEven if she hadn't played the game before, Lilian's feelings for the Prince were entirely obvious. Her treatment in the Prince's route was one of the reasons it hadn't been her favorite, for that matter. Certainly, she wasn't very nice, but it felt rather harsh for someone who wasn't particularly a genuinely bad person.\n\nAnne took a deep breath.\n\n\"U-um, maybe you could catch up?\" she suggested, awkwardly, \"S-since it's... er...\"\n\nShe trailed off after a few moments. What did she even say here? Playing matchmaker wasn't her strongsuit at all! Doing it in real life was vastly different from doing it in SRPGs!\n\n\"Er... and... we can... go let you do that!\"\n\nAs odd as Serrica was acting, it was at least a potential out from a dangerous situation!\n\n@Pyromania99", "username": "VitaVitaAR", "char_name": "Anne Marielle(that's the heroine's name?!)" }, { "text": "The shopkeeper paused for a moment as he considered the maid's question.\n\n\"Well, I suppose that the first course of action would be to purchase a cage of sorts for it to live in... But you might not need one, given how comfortable it send to be on your head,\" he remarked, a slight smirk crossing his face for a moment. \"Jokes aside, I've been feeding that one seeds and fruits. It seems to like most anything in that vein—but not bugs. As for the actual care...\"\n\nBefore he could ramble further on about the subject, though, Elastasia chimed in with a question of her own about the cat in her hands—a question he was more than willing to oblige.\n\n\"Ah, of course. That's an Aomi—a cat we had imported from the far east, and a rare one at that. They're fairly well known for their use of magic in hunting in the wild in the region they come from, though finding one is an adventure in and of itself. As for why it jumped at you... I've heard tales of them being called 'magic eaters', but to be honest, your guess would be as good as mine. If they're hard to find, though, maybe they're juat smart enough to not get caught to begin with?\"\n\nAt this, the cat seemed to turn it's head back towards Elastasia before letting out a half-yawn, half-meow. It didn't seem to mind being held up for diaplay as it was, at least, but being as calm as it was despite the situation... That much certainly set it apart from it's peers, at the very least. \n\n@Raineh Daze\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\"Dense? Rude? That's rather insulting, you know,\" Christopher responded in turn, his brow furrowed as he shook his head. \"If that much is 'rude', I fear what 'polite' should be in your eyes.\"\n\nAt that, though, the prince simply sighed and shook his head.\n\n\"As for catching up... I am sure Miss Meridan has better things to do than speak with me, and forcing her to speak with me when she does not seem to wish to seems rather ill-intentioned at best.\"\n\nIf the others wished to leave now, though, Christopher seemed to have no intention of stopping them. It already seemed like Lilian was slowly inching away, trying her hardest to not up and die of what embarrassment she was already being overwhelmed by.\n\n@VitaVitaAR", "username": "PKMNB0Y", "char_name": "Reginald von Afah" }, { "text": "Elastasia\n\nA cat from the far east? Well, that was something nostalgic. But if it could be used to find magic users somehow, then that would make her ability to sequester herself somewhere out of the way and read all the easier... if the heroine got interested in magic, then outside of class, there was a chance that they might run into one another. And she would like to avoid any heartbreak from such an obviously-unobtainable figure getting close to her if the girl turned out to be her type after all.\n\nThis left the noble staring into space for an awkwardly long time, until the shopkeeper coughed and drew her attention back.\n\n\"Oh, I'm so sorry! Yes, I'd quite like to purchase this kitten, and anything that's needed to look after it...\" Well, she didn't have much in the way of money on her, but she could just sign something to handle that. Really, the cost of a single animal was insignificant.", "username": "Raineh Daze", "char_name": "Elastasia Julienne ... (several extraneous middle names nobody ever remembers follow) de Aquilanne. Ellie to her friends, if they exist." }, { "text": "\"Yes, I do believe you to be rather dense your Highness. You can't see what treasures you have at hand before you try encroaching on other treasures that have yet to be collected. Consider me insulting all you want, however, if calling you dense marks me as such.\" Serrica said before sighing. \"Just think about my words a small bit. With that, I really must show this young Miss somewhere. Please do conversate with Lady Meridan at convenience.\" With that, she grabbed Anne by the hand and led her off.\n\nAfter they made some distance from the Prince and Lady Meridan, Serrica took Anne near a place where student activity were a bit higher. If the Prince happened upon them this time, well, it would be easy enough to sic some of the younger girls upon him. With a small breath with the coast being clear, Serrica turned to Anne and released her hand. \"So, Lady Marielle, you can take an easy breath now. Though, you seem much too nervous. Is there an issue you're having with the school?\" She had to ask, looking the girl straight in the eyes. \"Well, we've all but started some short time ago so I'm sure that's not it.\" The Duke's daughter mentioned, stroking her chin in curiosity.", "username": "Pyromania99", "char_name": "Serrica Francesca Haldblum" } ]

[ { "text": "Chres\nTayla\n\nMentioned @13org\n\n\n---\n\n\nTayla shrugged when Karina thanked her. As if it were no big deal.\n\n\"He smells like puddles!\" Sil corrected.\n\nChres frowned and eyed Akai. \"Coffee, huh?\" He said. \"Gives me energy, huh?\" \n\n\"And super it's delicious!\" Sil said happily.\n\n\"Familiars don't have taste.\" Chres muttered.\n\n\"None what-so-ever!\" Sil agreed proudly.\n\nTayla smirked as she slinked outside the room. There she guarded the back entrance.\n\nChres nodded as Karina took her place, just before Ru'Tev entered and started his meal.", "username": "Pezz570", "char_name": "Chres Sansus" }, { "text": "Týfurkh\n\n---\n\n\nTýfurkh, for the past few days, had felt somewhat besieged by feelings of guilt whenever he had looked at Chres and the man's obviously deteriorating state. He had had no real idea about the inner problems of their companion, so he had happily joined Chres on the first few drinking occasions.\n\nFrom a purely objective point of view, the idea of even trying a race between them about who'd be lying under the table first was outright ridiculous given the sheer difference of their physique. Human's including himself however did not always act rationally and Týfurkh now felt like he should have known that very much beforehand. He, in a somewhat intoxicated state, had still been mentally present enough to watch how Chres had gone way beyond any reasonable limit, and he had done so even repeatedly. They all were suffering from the aftermath now.\n\nApart from Sil maybe... But Týfurkh also wondered at which point Chres' familiar would start to call Chres' increasingly frequent piles of vomit 'Puddles!' happily as well.\n\nThe first thing that Týfurkh managed to do in the Hangache was to get himself a headache as he crashed into one of the ceiling beams on the way in. Nothing really new per se, but the rate at which this happened had at least doubled since they had entered this town. People had built ramps instead of stairs, but nobody had thought about cushioning the pillars -- or just the whole damn ground they were walking on, preferably. Those individuals living here... once they left the area, they must have felt like the luckiest persons in the whole world just by no longer experiencing five mishaps a day. Would the divergence itself just cease to exist one day out of sheer 'bad luck' ?\n\nChres would find himself silently covered by Týfurkh as the latter placed himself on the same table, but not on the neighbouring seat. There was no more drinking spree going to happen, at least not here where such a thing could doom their mission. The giant 'just' needed to think about a good approach about how to stop Chres from ordering one ale after another. Wrestling the tankards out of his hands maybe ? Or 'accidentally' stomp on Chres foot so to draw his attention away from the alcohol ? If there was one good thing about the divergence, then it was that one could just blame it for pretty much everything. It was an accident!\n\nYet, as Týfurkh thought about it, he had what felt like a sudden inspiration. What if he spent his foot stomp on Lord Ru'Tev instead ? An 'unfortunate' accident that was just bound to make the man talk to him at least. Some others of their party could then offer assistance with whatever painful thing was going on afterwards and thus get a foot into the Lord's door.\n\nA very daring plan, but to Týfurkh, it felt less odd than just trying to confront their target with some attempt of small talk directly. Should he talk to his companions first or just pull through with it, claiming to be a completely separate individual if things went wrong ? So far the Lord -- hopefully -- did not know they all belonged to the same bunch.", "username": "Fetzen", "char_name": "Týfurkh Gandjar" }, { "text": "---\n\n\n\nThe surface of the bowl's contents was pierced by a large spoon, and soon a greedy clump of food made its way across the table from one visitor's plate to the other.\n\n\"Say ah-\"\n\nThe lump of mashed peas hung from his outstretched arm, wobbling. \n\n\"Idiot.\"\n\nThe glob fell on the table with an undignified splat. Even food wasn't safe. \n\n\"Hmph. Suit yourself. Honestly, this constant air of misfortune makes me feel as if I'm being toyed with. We're the rogues of the group, Lynx, we're the ones whose presence slips in with the night wind and sky. Now those very same forces of nature we conceal ourselves with are against us!\"\n\nHe banged the sanded end of the spoon on the table. It was big and wooden, something a person wouldn't gouge themselves with on accident. \n\n\"Steady yourself. You are attracting attention.\"\n\nThe lynx familiar sat on a chair across from Octavio. Unlike his traveling partner, he had no need nor desire to eat, so his eyes rested on Octavio's food with disinterest. \n\n\"Sesh the one sitting like a human in public,\" Octavio retorted. He ate with delicate movements, but didn't swallow before speaking. It brought to mind the attitude of arrogant royalty. \"When did that start, anywaysh?\"\n\n\"You are not the only one undergoing change. I wish to be seen as an equal non-human. It will not be possible depending on the circumstances, although engaging in social behaviors such as attending a tavern could help.\"\n\nWith the admission came the opportunity to mock the familiar. He was right, however. Octavio's life had been a series of acts and masks meant to take the blows in place of whatever his true self was, a concept that extended to his powers. Their new party had come to see Octavio in a more piercing light than anyone had, barring a particular old friend. What Lynx was doing in front of him felt similar. The others had accepted Octavio's role within the group, so he met Lynx's declaration with a silent acceptance. \n\n\"Well... we still don't have a halfway decent proposal for how we're going to convince that man.\" His voice lowered. \"He's neither an arrogant fool nor a woman looking for love, so this isn't exactly within our direct line of work.\"\n\n\"Tidy the spoon.\"\n\n\"Come again?\"\n\n\"I said to tidy it. Place it along the side of your plate. Straighten your back after.\"\n\nHe hesitated, but did as he was told.\n\n\"Perhaps the nobility traveling with us will not be enough. Perhaps we need another. One who wants their grace to be visible.\"\n\nA familiar wry smile crackled along the corners of Octavio's mouth. \"A return to form amidst change.\"", "username": "HokumPocus", "char_name": null } ]

[ { "text": "Karina Frost\n\nPrincess El'lysael's disguise, or 'Lys' as she preferred to be called was unbelievably good... especially considering how the princess seemed to have a rather... 'unique' desire for freedom. Unlike most other members of the court.\nDespite that, if one paid close attention, there were still some small details that might give a hint to her true origin. Unconscious movements such as the way she ate, how she walked and behave herself, which was why Karina was so cautious regarding when she would use her presence as their secret weapon. Even though Karina herself would probably not have believed she was the princess if she didn't know in advance, she didn't want to draw too much attention to the princess's disguise.\n\nTo make things even worse, Karina's current group, while definitely not 'unskilled' by any means, seeing what they've been through, but it was still far from what a proper group for infiltration and espionage would be.\n\nTheir group had enough problems on their own, besides the presence of the princess... Mainly Tayla, regarding when exactly she drew the line between her 'trust and loyalty' towards Karina and her own interests and Chres's... unstable behavior. While Karina did know that Chres had his own inner demons to fight against, she was getting tired of seeing him drown his sorrows on alcohol every single day, continuing with his self-destructive behavior without any regards to those around him.\n\nShe knew better than to expect them to act like trained soldiers, but she hoped they wouldn't cause her any more problems than the ones she already had.\n\nRegardless of the internal problems on their group, the investigation wasn't exactly going well. Lord Ru'Tev seemed to be actively avoiding them in a rather strange manner... Something that made Karina's instincts tell her that there might be something more going on that they weren't aware of. At least yet...\n\n\"You are late, Chres.\" Karina said as she looked to Chres as he arrived with Tayla, her stare lingering on Chres for a while, especially as he asked for another ale...\n\n\"Good job, Tayla. Thank you.\" Karina said offering Tayla a nod of approval before her eyes turned to Chres once more.\n\n\"And you still reek of alcohol... Ugh...\" Akai said, rolling her eyes as she looked at Chres, before she turned to Syl.\n\n\"Why don't you try coffee instead of alcohol? Syl seemed to enjoy it when I...\" Akai began, before immediately stopping herself, not wanting to let others know that she was the one that offered coffee for Syl, curious to how would she react to it.\n\n\"Lord Ru'Tev already knows my and Lys's faces and he seems to be quite cautious regarding us. He won't accept talking to us unless he has no other option... Which might be just exactly what we will have to do...\" Karina said in a low tone as she spotted Lord Ru'Tev entering the tavern.\n\n\"We need more information on what exactly is happening before we can act...\" Karina said to herself as she went to a table a bit far away from the Lord, keeping him and the group in her sight but trying not to draw the Lord's attention to her.", "username": "13org", "char_name": "Karina Frost" }, { "text": "Chres\nTayla\n\nMentioned @13org\n\n\n---\n\n\nTayla shrugged when Karina thanked her. As if it were no big deal.\n\n\"He smells like puddles!\" Sil corrected.\n\nChres frowned and eyed Akai. \"Coffee, huh?\" He said. \"Gives me energy, huh?\" \n\n\"And super it's delicious!\" Sil said happily.\n\n\"Familiars don't have taste.\" Chres muttered.\n\n\"None what-so-ever!\" Sil agreed proudly.\n\nTayla smirked as she slinked outside the room. There she guarded the back entrance.\n\nChres nodded as Karina took her place, just before Ru'Tev entered and started his meal.", "username": "Pezz570", "char_name": "Chres Sansus" } ]

[ { "text": "---\n\n\n\nThe surface of the bowl's contents was pierced by a large spoon, and soon a greedy clump of food made its way across the table from one visitor's plate to the other.\n\n\"Say ah-\"\n\nThe lump of mashed peas hung from his outstretched arm, wobbling. \n\n\"Idiot.\"\n\nThe glob fell on the table with an undignified splat. Even food wasn't safe. \n\n\"Hmph. Suit yourself. Honestly, this constant air of misfortune makes me feel as if I'm being toyed with. We're the rogues of the group, Lynx, we're the ones whose presence slips in with the night wind and sky. Now those very same forces of nature we conceal ourselves with are against us!\"\n\nHe banged the sanded end of the spoon on the table. It was big and wooden, something a person wouldn't gouge themselves with on accident. \n\n\"Steady yourself. You are attracting attention.\"\n\nThe lynx familiar sat on a chair across from Octavio. Unlike his traveling partner, he had no need nor desire to eat, so his eyes rested on Octavio's food with disinterest. \n\n\"Sesh the one sitting like a human in public,\" Octavio retorted. He ate with delicate movements, but didn't swallow before speaking. It brought to mind the attitude of arrogant royalty. \"When did that start, anywaysh?\"\n\n\"You are not the only one undergoing change. I wish to be seen as an equal non-human. It will not be possible depending on the circumstances, although engaging in social behaviors such as attending a tavern could help.\"\n\nWith the admission came the opportunity to mock the familiar. He was right, however. Octavio's life had been a series of acts and masks meant to take the blows in place of whatever his true self was, a concept that extended to his powers. Their new party had come to see Octavio in a more piercing light than anyone had, barring a particular old friend. What Lynx was doing in front of him felt similar. The others had accepted Octavio's role within the group, so he met Lynx's declaration with a silent acceptance. \n\n\"Well... we still don't have a halfway decent proposal for how we're going to convince that man.\" His voice lowered. \"He's neither an arrogant fool nor a woman looking for love, so this isn't exactly within our direct line of work.\"\n\n\"Tidy the spoon.\"\n\n\"Come again?\"\n\n\"I said to tidy it. Place it along the side of your plate. Straighten your back after.\"\n\nHe hesitated, but did as he was told.\n\n\"Perhaps the nobility traveling with us will not be enough. Perhaps we need another. One who wants their grace to be visible.\"\n\nA familiar wry smile crackled along the corners of Octavio's mouth. \"A return to form amidst change.\"", "username": "HokumPocus", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Karina Frost\n\nThe moment Chres' eyes met with Akai, she let out a fake smile, trying to feign ignorance about 'the incident' involving Sil and Coffee.\n\n\"Ha ha... I wonder what this Lord Ru'Tev likes so much about this place to come here... right?\" Akai said, trying to change the subject of the conversation as she turned her face away from Chres.\n\nAs Lord Ru'Tev entered and began ordering his meal and preparing himself for his usual routine, Karina, once again, looked towards her team. Truth be told, it was highly unlikely one would think they were all part of the same group. At least that was a positive point of having such an... 'unique' cast of members to their group. \n\n\"Týfurkh, Octavio, Chres, Tayla... If we want to avoid using more... forceful methods, the time to act is now.\" Karina said in a low tone to her team as she nervously waited. \n\nShould none of them move, Karina would have to risk use some more coercive methods to speak with Lord Ru'Tev, although it would be preferable if they found another way to discuss... One that didn't drew so much attention to them.", "username": "13org", "char_name": "Karina Frost" } ]

[ { "text": "Karina Frost\n\nThe moment Chres' eyes met with Akai, she let out a fake smile, trying to feign ignorance about 'the incident' involving Sil and Coffee.\n\n\"Ha ha... I wonder what this Lord Ru'Tev likes so much about this place to come here... right?\" Akai said, trying to change the subject of the conversation as she turned her face away from Chres.\n\nAs Lord Ru'Tev entered and began ordering his meal and preparing himself for his usual routine, Karina, once again, looked towards her team. Truth be told, it was highly unlikely one would think they were all part of the same group. At least that was a positive point of having such an... 'unique' cast of members to their group. \n\n\"Týfurkh, Octavio, Chres, Tayla... If we want to avoid using more... forceful methods, the time to act is now.\" Karina said in a low tone to her team as she nervously waited. \n\nShould none of them move, Karina would have to risk use some more coercive methods to speak with Lord Ru'Tev, although it would be preferable if they found another way to discuss... One that didn't drew so much attention to them.", "username": "13org", "char_name": "Karina Frost" }, { "text": "Týfurkh\n\n---\n\n\nIt was time to put a plan into action! In a moment when the Lord was not looking into his direction, Týfurkh rose from his chair and started approaching him from behind. It was a challenge to both make it look casual and to keep his footsteps halfway silent. He could feel the gaps opening between the floorboards as he stepped onto them and almost stumbled over one of those himself, but soon the distance between him and his target had been reduced to an appropriately small magnitude.\n\nThe Lord was on his way to the counter, but the position right ahead of him became occupied by another patron who happened to be just a tad quicker. This forced Ru'Tev to make a turn to the right towards the next free spot there, thereby causing his and Týfurkh's paths to intersect.\n\nHis chance! It seemed that in its neverending effort to cause as much discomfort and unhappiness for everyone in its range, the divergence sometimes just had to make compromises that actually caused other people to experience luck...\n\nTýfurkh would have had enough time to notice the Lord's turn and to stop briefly or to just evade, but why should he when his goal was the exact opposite ? All it took was to pretend some terribly underwhelming reaction speed as if impaired by some degree of intoxication. Ru'Tev could maybe hear some noise from behind, but it was too late anyway. The man's right foot was buried beneath that of a walking tower just before the whole of the latter slammed into him. An outcry of pain and Týfurkh was convinced that his little maneuver had worked out perfectly. Maybe even a little too perfectly as he had been under the brief impression of something cracking slightly underneath his boot.\n\n\"I am so sorry! Have you been hurt ?\" he adressed Lord Ru'Tev loudly, jumping back a bit. \n\nTýfurkh expected a barrage of accusations and curses. He definitely would enjoy neither that nor the fact that half the tavern had already turned their heads towards him, but it was just a 'small' accident that the Lord had provoked! If Ru'Tev would just happily ignore this, he was probably also capable of surviving all eternity by just ignoring his death!", "username": "Fetzen", "char_name": "Týfurkh Gandjar" } ]

[ { "text": "Akio\n\n\n\"That, I'd also like to know.\" He said, placing his own drink on the table, inserting himself in the conversation. \"I'm only curious about it though. On the condition that you're coming with us and pay at least half of the gold up front, then I accept your offer.\"\n\nHe took a swig of his drink as an older man came up and joined them. The ale was fairly low-quality, but there was a certain rustic charm to it. He set his mug down and saddled up next to the man, putting a hand over his shoulder. \"I'm not afraid of some danger, but you have to understand that this is not an agreement to fight to the death on your behalf. It never is, and you should be careful of those who'll lie to you and say they will. We'll guard you and your goods up until the point where it clearly becomes impossible. If you're still willing to pay us the second half, we'll make sure you get to Evergrim alive even if protecting your goods becomes untenable. To that end, you should hire the old man and convince the fine lady here to join. We're gonna need more hands in case we run into something... bad.\"\n\nWith that, Akio takes his arm back, taking another nonchalant swig. It was a common negotiation tactic to look like he didn't care about the man's decision, though truly, Akio wasn't desperate for money, so it didn't really matter to him if his conditions were rejected. He'd already run into a witch once, and she was pretty nice before she tried to kidnap him, so it was more that the rumors of hauntings and witches didn't really bother him.", "username": "Ryik", "char_name": "Akio" }, { "text": "Fay smirked as the two others joined her. \nIt gave her some assurance at least, it was always better to travel in numbers when in dangerous territory. She gave an appreciative nod of acknowledgement to the older man and couldn't help but raise a an eyebrow at the 'fine lady' remark of the young man. \nHaving travelled with the Monstrous Regiment one did kind of push aside the compliments, because they either came from the lecherous leader or the twins would act protectively, which meant that innocent stableboys were glowered into a corner and soldiers were 'tested'. Usually ending bad for the soldier and the twins having to be picked up from prison.\n\n\"Well, it seems you have the help and expertise of an accomplished huntsman, a formidable youngman and a my sorcerous self, unless you believe we aren't capable enough, I doubt you would find many others eager to help you with your current predicament.\" She offered.", "username": "Neianna86", "char_name": null }, { "text": "\"My name Vandernman, and as you plainly overheard, I will pay you 400 gold coins to escort my wagon of goods thru Darken woods, to the town of Keth.\"\n\"I must be there within three days or I do not get paid, and if I don't get paid, you don't get paid.\" The gruff merchant said as he downed his mug of ale.\nSeeing the ahhh well there it is look, Vandernman sighed \"I can only pay you half now, the rest when we get there in one piece, safely.\"\nVandernman tosses a small bag of 200 gold coins on the table.\n\"We leave at sunrise.\" \"Do you have any questions relevant to your job?\" Vandernman asked.", "username": "HEAVY METAL", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Fay calmly considered the proposal. It was fair enough, though it explained the man's desperation.\n\n\"Do you have any questions relevant to your job?\" Vandernman asked.\n\n\"Any outstanding vendetta's, rivalries, misunderstandings or unresolved issues of any kind? If so, I'd like to know who we potentially would be crossing.\" She stated before moving her hand up to hold her chin in a sort of thinking pose.\n\"And what does your cargo exist out of? As in are there objects that we should keep an eye of in particular should we get 'troubled'?\" She asked before looking at the other two, before adding.\n\"And you don't need to pay me as of yet. Only at the end when you have arrived at your destination. I don't know how these two feel about it, though.\"", "username": "Neianna86", "char_name": null }, { "text": "---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nEdgar Fischer\n\nEdgar returned the sorceress' nod of acknowledgement with a quick but respectful bob of his own head. The younger man seemed well versed in his negotiations with potential employers and made it clear that their lives were not worth the gold if things get too hairy. The boy was wise. More so than when he was a sell-sword in his youth. He'd just took whatever job he could. From picking up herbs for an alchemist that was too busy to do it themselves, to clearing out giant rats that infested sewer systems; if it paid him coin, he took it. \n\nThough looking back on it, many of his jobs underpaid him for the most part. 5 giant rats for a silver coin? Ludicrous.\n\nThe merchant then tossed the bag of gold to the table. The heft of the coinage hitting the wooden surface got his full attention. The man was dead serious about getting his wares across the Darken forest as soon as possible. Whatever Vandernmann was transporting must be very valuable, very important, or perhaps even both to warrant a spending of a small fortune. Well at least a small fortune to his standard of living. \"The young miss has some good points, Mr. Merchant. Would you kindly answer her questions?\" Edgar said as Fay mentioned that she wouldn't accept full payment but was unsure how he or the far younger man felt about it. \"I will be taking my share of the initial pay.\" If by stroke of great misfortune struck, he could at least have enough coinage to ensure that he and his daughter would spend their last remaining months together in relative comfort.\n\nBut that will not come to pass. \nHe will simply not allow it.", "username": "Searat", "char_name": null }, { "text": "DUBUK\n\nThe Cleric sat in the corner of Heroes Hall, nursing his glass of wine. While there were more interesting alcohols available from the inn, only wine didn't turn Dubuk's stomach. The only reason the grape based alcohol didn't do the same was because he grew up drinking it at the monastery.\n\nHe had been tasked with providing aid to those in need, as part of a trial to prove his devotion to his god. Unfortunately most people didn't want his help as he was a half-Orc, a race that was looked down on by most of civilized society. Dubuk wouldn't know as he was raised among Humans and Elves, never having actually met someone else with Orcish blood.\n\nFinally someone in need of help appeared. This Mister Vanderman needed help moving supplies through something called the Darken Woods, a place that Dubuk was not familiar with as he was not from this land. However, the reaction of a Dwarf to the proposition seemed to indicate that this was a fool hardy venture, especially when he mentioned the evil in the woods.\n\nVanderman then raised how much he was offering. Dubuk wasn't sure if this was a good value as he had been raised in a currency less area, only being given a meager bag of coin for his journey. Then an Elven woman entered the tavern, immediately accepting the job. Two Humans then spoke up, also signing on for the escort.\n\nVanderman then raised his payout to four hundred gold coins, offering half in advance. He then stated that they would leave at sunrise. Dubuk decided to finally stand up as he finished his wine. Having already paid for it, he walked over to Vanderman and the adventurers.\n\n\"If you need any more help, I shall offer my aid. Your stated offer of payment is perfectly acceptable for me,\" stated Dubuk.\n\nThe Cleric hoped that they wouldn't react to his Orcish heritage. But it did seem that most of the adventurers in the tavern weren't interested in this quest. Vanderman would be quite foolish to turn down the aid of a skilled Cleric.", "username": "Martian", "char_name": "Dubuk" } ]

[ { "text": "Akio\n\"Hmmm. A hunter, a cleric, and a sorcerer. I guess that would make me the vanguard.\"\n\nHe took another drink. There was plenty of it to go around with Fay part of the group, it seemed. There was a comfortable atmosphere as the low-quality, low-potency alcohol tried its best to make him feel something.\n\nHe wasn't exactly a prototypical warrior, so, with Fay's prompting, he figured it made sense to more thoroughly define his role in the group. \"I may not look it, but I know a bit about Druidry. I'm a bit more inclined towards fists than fireballs, but the cleric here isn't the only one with healing magic. You guys familiar with the Goodberry spell? I'll prepare a bunch of them tonight.\"\n\nHe spared a sheepish smile towards Edgar. \"Greater Restoration is a bit beyond me, though.\"", "username": "Ryik", "char_name": "Akio" }, { "text": "A gruff human with the odor of pig death turned his head ever so slightly to hear the conversation between the merchant and the group. He smiled wickedly, and the sparkle of his golden tooth flashed.\nThe pig smelling man finished his drink as he watched the merchant go up the stairs.\nHe then turned his gaze back to the group, looking for the bag of gold the merchant tossed on the table.\nElbowing the dwarf beside him, he nodded his head towards the group and the dwarf shifted his view.\n\"Aye lad, we take him 'ere or down the road?\" \n\"Road...come on, Breork.\" The pig smelling man replied.\nThe two ruffians pay for their drinks before getting up to leave.\nThe dwarf never took his eyes off the group, sizing them up as he followed his friend to the door.\nBreork nearly fell as he collided with a waitress, mugs of ale crashed to the ground.\n\"Ya damned idiot! Watch where yer goin!\" Breork shouted as he kicked the woman in the gut.\n\"Damn wench should be filleted for spilling so much ale!\"\nPig smelling man laughed.", "username": "HEAVY METAL", "char_name": null }, { "text": "DUBUK\n\nThe Cleric was surprised by the size of the bag of gold that the Human adventurer tossed toward him. Dubuk had grown up in a place where money meant very little, most of the people who inhabited the monastery simply did good deeds to and helped others. Since the Cleric was not so far into his pilgrimage, he was still getting used to the fact that everything had a price in the wider world.\n\nAs one of the adventurers announced himself as Akio, another approached Dubuk questioning if he could cast greater restoration. He then mentioned that the spell was for his daughter and that he would pay all he had if Dubuk could heal his child. A pang of sympathy went through Dubuk's body. This kind of situation was exactly why he had went on this pilgrimage, and yet he knew this kind of healing was beyond his ability.\n\n\"My name is Dubuk, mister Edgar. While I am training in the divine arts, I am afraid that power of healing is beyond my current strength. If I had the power to cast that spell, I would, no payment needed. But I'm afraid I can't. But hopefully one day the gods will bless me enough so that I may heal the terribly sick,\" stated Dubuk.\n\nAs Dubuk felt bad over his inability to help the man's family, an Elf approached the pair. She then made a joke about the Cleric being fancy for drinking wine. This made Dubuk wonder if his beverage of choice was rare in the wider world. It had been quite plentiful at the monastery, and yet most people he encountered now were drinking ale or other liquors.\n\nThe Elf then introduced herself as Ferezanthe, though she said she could be called Fay. Dubuk was glad about that as he always had problems with pronouncing traditional Elven names, even while studying in Elvish at the monastery.\n\nAkio then appraised the assembled party, noting that each of them filled a role. He then mentioned that he had druidic magic. Dubuk's ears immediately perked up at the mention of this. While studying in the divine arts, the Cleric had heard of magic that didn't come from the gods, but rather nature itself. Dubuk had always wanted to see it in actual use, and perhaps he would if the party encountered trouble in their dangerous crossing.\n\nBut Dubuk's musings were cut short when he saw a Dwarf knock over the waitress. While ale spilled everywhere, the Dwarf then kicked the woman in the gut. The innate anger of Orcish blood overtook Dubuk as he marched over to the Dwarf.\n\n\"What in the name of the gods are you doing?\" shouted Dubuk.\n\nAs the Half-Orc stepped up next to the Dwarf, his hand unconsciously reached for the mace on his belt. Given that he was much taller than the Dwarf, Dubuk glared down at him, his eyes looking more Orc than Human in the dim light of the tavern.", "username": "Martian", "char_name": "Dubuk" }, { "text": "---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nEdgar Fischer\n\nEdgar nodded in understanding to both Dubuk and Akio. It was a longshot either way, they were in the boonies and he doubted any high ranking healers would be wandering the countryside. He looked down at his reflection on the mug of ale. It would seem that his daughter would have to wait a bit longer before they could be rid of that nasty disease.\n\nThe old man just finished taking a sip of his drink when he heard the commotion coming from a dwarf and a filthy looking man. He could assume that the barmaid on the ground clutching her stomach was something they were responsible for judging by their reactions. It seemed like folks couldn't leave folks well alone. He disapproved of the random act of wanton cruelty. Maybe during his wayward youth, he would have smirked. But in his advanced age, he knew that most people didn't deserve the wrongs these folk experienced. His frown deepened as he took another sip of his ale. \n\nBut he wasn't going to do anything about it. It wasn't his problem. But if the dirty man and the dwarf were wise, they'd cut their losses and leave before he got buzzed enough from the ale to care. It was around his third sip that he realized that their cleric had marched over to the cantankerous duo and demanded an explanation to their actions. Edgar let out a quiet sigh; he wasn't even buzzed enough to claim this was a spur of the moment decision and he wasn't going soft. Heck he wasn't even a fifth of his mug done.\n\nStanding up from his seat at the table he backed up his cleric companion. He took a stance around ten feet away from the dwarf and the, now noticeably terrible smelling man. Edgar rested his hand on the top of the pommel of his rapier. The sword in itself was mainly used by him to finish off wounded quarry but it could fell a humanoid regardless if used well enough. He'd killed with less before. \"Oi. Midget. Bugger off and bring your shit smelling boyfriend with you out of here.\" Edgar's eyes narrowed and his frown turned into a sneer. \"Or you want to wait and find out?\"", "username": "Searat", "char_name": null }, { "text": "The dwarf looked up at the holy man, \"I smell a foul stench, smells like an Orc.\" His eyes locked with Dubuks, \"Damn Orc bastard disguised as a human!\"\nThe Dwarf draws his hand axe with his right and a small knife with his left.\n\"Days just got better, Quinn.\"\n\nQuinn was looking at the old man, \"An Orc and an old cow walked into a tavern, stop me if you heard this one before.\"\n\"I don't need any weapons to take on grandpa.\" Quinn said doubling up his fists.\n\n(Initiative Roll) (Ruffians 14)", "username": "HEAVY METAL", "char_name": null } ]

[ { "text": "Akio\nIt was rather shocking to see someone so ill-mannered as to kick an apparently defenseless barmaid in front of so many. He thought he wasn't so sheltered after spending so much time on the road, away from his family, but maybe he's still a bit lacking in that regard. In any case, while he was addled by the possibility that this wasn't particularly abnormal for a patron of a raucous tavern, it didn't occur to him to step up in the good lady's defense. He'd left behind the stifling calculus of honor and was used to having to look the other way so as to avoid a diplomatic incident. His first thought was that the ornery Dwarf would simply be banned from the tavern and that would be that, but then their cleric walked up to the man to ask him what he was doing, and Akio couldn't help but wonder why he wasn't the one doing that.\n\nTo put it less charitably, he sat there like an idiot while the cleric and the hunter both beat him to the punch. Still, he wasn't prepared to start a bar fight for fear of troubling the tavern more until the Dwarf and his thuggish compatriot both openly announced their intention to attack their healer based on his race. So, an irreconcilable conflict, then.\n\nWell, so much for sparing the tavern keeper the trouble. Akio quietly casts Mage Armor on himself as he readies his dagger.\n\n(Initiative Roll: 15)", "username": "Ryik", "char_name": "Akio" }, { "text": "---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nEdgar Fischer\n\nEdgar's sneer wasn't for show. The human, now identified as Quinn, didn't just smell like a pig. He smelled like he'd never known a bath in his life. But what got his attention was that the dwarf drew his weapons. He had full intentions of killing. Edgar was about to return the killing intent in kind when he realized that the human chose bare knuckle brawling over a weapon. Unfortunately for the smelly human he had no intention of fighting him bare handed while his bigoted dwarf companion had his weapons at the ready. Not that he had the intention to fight the man fairly. He wasn't a white knight from a child's fairytale. \n\n\"Your friend shown his willingness to die by drawing his weapons.\" He unsheathes his rapier. \"You? I'll try to avoid your vital bits.\" Just as he brandishes his blade, by stroke of bad luck, the tip of the blade lodges itself to a chair's leg. Hindering his initial ability to act and likely putting him dead last to act as he wedges the sword's tip off the chair.\n\n{Initiative roll: 4}", "username": "Searat", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Ferezanthe had been enjoying her evening. Honestly.\nShe had gotten a new adventure on her hands and found some fellows to watch her back for her. \nFellows that seemed halfway decent at the least.\nAll was going well, before the incident... Maybe it was Fate challenging her patience once again, laughing as she did so.\nShe turned and watched as the Cleric and Hunter stepped up to confront the situation.\nShe took another swig, might as well get another sip before things could get out of hand.\nThings like these just happened to smallfolk. It wasn't pretty, but quite frankly this probably wouldn't have been her first time suffering at the hands of cruel people. Considering no one, not even the Barkeep spoke up, this could be an indication thing like this happened before.\n\"All right boys, why don't you all settle...\" She tried, but was completely ignored and watching the two pull out weapons something snapped inside.\nA soft chuckle escaped her throat, slowly as she felt the current of her own magic spring to life inside of her, lighting up her eyes before she called out in mild humour:\n\n\"There once was a duo in Evergrim\nWho both were shockingly dim,\nThey kicked a barmaid\nWho then got aid\nFrom three men and a chick with Lightning.\" \n\nHer eyes now focussed on the two.\n\"Bring it you *****!\"\n\n-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------\nOC: Is there a map tavern map online, so I may know my distance between the two? Did you have it on discord yet?", "username": "Neianna86", "char_name": null }, { "text": "DUBUK\n\nThe Cleric appreciated the fact that the old hunter had come to back him up. It was nice to see that others cared about the plight of those in need. The hunter then brought up the fact that the man smelled really bad. Dubuk had smelt the stench as soon as he entered the tavern, but had assumed that it was from a piece of rotten meat. The fact that someone could go about their day smelling that bad was mind boggling to Dubuk. During his time at the monastery, regular baths were mandatory.\n\nThus it was very annoying for Dubuk to be told that he smelt like an Orc. The Cleric had made it a point to maintain daily cleanliness while on his pilgrimage. Plus he had no idea what an Orc was supposed to smell like.\n\nThe Dwarf then produced an ax and knife from his belt, pointing them at Dubuk. However his human companion decided to start a fight unarmed, simply raising his fists. From behind Dubuk the Druid drew a weapon and begun casting a spell. The other human standing next to Dubuk also drew his rapier. Finally the Elf drew her weapon.\n\nSeeing that a fight would be inevitable, Dubuk drew his mace and shield. He then glared at the Dwarf and the foul smelling man, glowering with all the intensity is Orcish blood could offer. Apparently most people were afraid of Orcs, so Dubuk hoped that he could use it to his advantage.\n\n\"Surrender now, while you still have a chance,\" stated Dubuk, trying to deepen his voice as he spoke.\n\n[Initiative Roll: 12]", "username": "Martian", "char_name": "Dubuk" }, { "text": "Ferezanthe itching to get the drop on the big guy moved swiftly.\nUsing her chair as a steppingstone she attempted to leap upon the table. \n\nThose two won't know what hit them...Oh shit! \n\nThose were the last thoughts that went through her head as she stepped too far.\nHer foot landing on one of the mugs of ale, tipping over instantly, causing her to loose her balance. \nWith panicked flailing of her hands she tried to regain it & putting her other foot wider and too far near the edge of the table. At this the table started to wobble and rock, adding further loss of composure as she felt her foot slip and her face smack against the table before she rolled off.", "username": "Neianna86", "char_name": null }, { "text": "The crashing of the table and drinks broke the hush of the storm brewing as the human fighter, Quinn burst out laughing , watching the girl tumbling off the table and crashing to the floor.\nNot wanting to die, he took this opportunity brought by the gods to lighten the mood.\n\"Hagan, the wench didn't deserve that, nor do we need to be caught by the guardsmen.\"\nThe dwarf paid no attention, \" Damn heathen walks around like he belongs among us.\" Hagan growled.\n\"Look at the poor bastard, he's stuck between two races that don't want him.\"\n\"And look how clumsy their companion is, it's not worth dying or being arrested over.\" Quinn pleaded.\nThe dwarf thought hard and decided Quinn was correct, being in jail wouldn't help their situation, not when they had other things to do.\n\"Aye lad, your right, damn orc ain't worth time in jail.\" \nThe dwarf sheathed his weapons and threw a couple of silver coins down at the barmaid.\n\"Fer yur trubbles \" sneered Hagan.\nQuinn looked at the other two , holding his hands up in surrender \" Too much to drink, like your friend there, we are going, no harm no foul.\"", "username": "HEAVY METAL", "char_name": null } ]

[ { "text": "DUBUK\n\nThe Cleric sat in the corner of Heroes Hall, nursing his glass of wine. While there were more interesting alcohols available from the inn, only wine didn't turn Dubuk's stomach. The only reason the grape based alcohol didn't do the same was because he grew up drinking it at the monastery.\n\nHe had been tasked with providing aid to those in need, as part of a trial to prove his devotion to his god. Unfortunately most people didn't want his help as he was a half-Orc, a race that was looked down on by most of civilized society. Dubuk wouldn't know as he was raised among Humans and Elves, never having actually met someone else with Orcish blood.\n\nFinally someone in need of help appeared. This Mister Vanderman needed help moving supplies through something called the Darken Woods, a place that Dubuk was not familiar with as he was not from this land. However, the reaction of a Dwarf to the proposition seemed to indicate that this was a fool hardy venture, especially when he mentioned the evil in the woods.\n\nVanderman then raised how much he was offering. Dubuk wasn't sure if this was a good value as he had been raised in a currency less area, only being given a meager bag of coin for his journey. Then an Elven woman entered the tavern, immediately accepting the job. Two Humans then spoke up, also signing on for the escort.\n\nVanderman then raised his payout to four hundred gold coins, offering half in advance. He then stated that they would leave at sunrise. Dubuk decided to finally stand up as he finished his wine. Having already paid for it, he walked over to Vanderman and the adventurers.\n\n\"If you need any more help, I shall offer my aid. Your stated offer of payment is perfectly acceptable for me,\" stated Dubuk.\n\nThe Cleric hoped that they wouldn't react to his Orcish heritage. But it did seem that most of the adventurers in the tavern weren't interested in this quest. Vanderman would be quite foolish to turn down the aid of a skilled Cleric.", "username": "Martian", "char_name": "Dubuk" }, { "text": "Akio\n\n\n\nAkio chimed in, \"it would be good to know if we have to carry goods that could attract the attention of wildlife by the smell alone.\"\n\nAs the girl stated her disinterest in the initial pay, Akio reached over to take his share of it. Edgar had only taken a third of it, as if to save a third for the lady, despite how she declined. It felt awkward holding onto her share and giving it to her afterwards, but it worked out as a fourth mercenary - a half-orc, if he wasn't mistaken, had arrived to join. More people meant less pay, but the wisdom of this venture was still dubious in the first place. He took a third of the original amount, adding it to his funds and tossed the rest to the half-orc, indirectly accepting him in place of Vandernman. The man didn't seem particularly discerning anyway.\n\n\"So, once we get to the other side, that would be 33 more gold for us three and the full 100 gold for the lady.\" He frowned at the word. It wouldn't do to be calling each other by appearances the whole trip. \"My name's Akio, by the way. How should I address the three of you?\"", "username": "Ryik", "char_name": "Akio" }, { "text": "Vandernman's eyebrows stood up on his forehead \"What? , I agreed to 400 gold total, half now, the rest when we reach Keth.\"\n\"I carry only the best silks, jewelry, wine, among other things.\"\nVandernman finishes his mug of ale, and while the froth with the sleeve of his shirt.\n\"What's on my wagon is my business, your business is protecting me until we reach Keth\"\n\"I don't care about your names, where you were born, or who's sleeping with who.\"\n\"You are being well paid to escort me thru Darken woods to Keth, we leave at sunrise.\"\nThe plump merchant hobbles over to the bar, and drops a few coins down a lovely wenches dress.\nThe two laugh, as she leads him upstairs.\n\"Sunrise!\" Vandernman shouts before disappearing from view.", "username": "HEAVY METAL", "char_name": null }, { "text": "---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nEdgar Fischer\n\nEdgar frowned slightly at the merchant, not because the lack of respect shown towards himself or those who would be protecting him, but from his lack of disclosure regarding what cargo he carried. As Vandernman left with the wench he hired for the night, he turns to face the new addition to the group, a cleric apparently. Edgar didn't consider himself a religious individual but he knew of the usefulness of a cleric...well, magic users in general actually. \"Do you perhaps know how to cast Greater Restoration?\" He took a moment to consider something for a moment. They were strangers but he was desperate. Not even their town's priest could do anything but stave off the sickness with Lesser Restoration. \"My name is Edgar. Address me as you like. I am a hunter by trade of a quiet town a day's travel by carriage to the North of Harken. I do not have much to my name but if you can heal my daughter's sickness, consider anything I can give yours.\"", "username": "Searat", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Ferezanthe raised an eyebrow at the manner the Merchant merely brushed her questions aside.\nSo much for transparency. \nIt mattered little in the end, they would probably all take the job, one person for certain, as she observed the old man. \nThe elderly man was eager, perhaps even desperate.\nThough Fay wasn't one to judge on someone's appearance or age considering her own dealings with the Monstrous Regiment, it did make her wonder why a man of his age would be driven to such an uncertain path as theirs. \nThe adventuring life was hardly ever a guarantee for payment, Fay had heard of many adventuring parties getting in over their heads or becoming 'lost'.\nStill, whilst she had her own past and need for the thrill, she could not help but feel that this job meant far more to him than it meant to her.\nHer eyes quickly scanned his clothing.\nThey had seen better days...\nStill she shouldn't pry and poke her nose in these affairs without invite, perhaps his reasons would come up later. \nEyeing the rest of the group she had to admit, they could certainly be counted as an eclectic bunch. \nNo doubt with interesting stories of their own. \nThe Human introduced himself as Akio and easily tossed the bag of coin over to the half orc that had joined them. Fay wasn't going to object in any case, Clerics were a useful bunch.\n\"Well if all of you are coming then I'd best get us another round so we may get to introduce ourselves. I'm assuming you all won't object to ale?\" She asked before heading back to the bar to get 4 more.\n\nAs she returned she caught the words of the elderly man.\n\"So that's why you're risking your hide... Nice to meet you Edgar.\" She said as she shoved the mug of ale across the table over to him.\nShe eyed the cleric for a moment. \n\"Barkeep informed me you were drinking wine, so got you a goblet of wine 'Mister fanciful'.\" She joked with a wink.\n\"All kidding aside I for one am glad for your help. Having a divine to back you up does soothe the nerves a little.\" She said with a smile before shoving the other mug to the younger human 'Akio' and said.\n\"The name's Ferezanthe, but since that's a bit of a mouthful you all can call me Fay. Spellsword is my trade...that's what they called a Sorcerer Sellsword anyway, back in the days I was with the Monstrous Regiment.\" She said raising her mug in a sort of toast. \n\"Nice to be working with you boys.\" She said before taking a swig from her mug.", "username": "Neianna86", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Akio\n\"Hmmm. A hunter, a cleric, and a sorcerer. I guess that would make me the vanguard.\"\n\nHe took another drink. There was plenty of it to go around with Fay part of the group, it seemed. There was a comfortable atmosphere as the low-quality, low-potency alcohol tried its best to make him feel something.\n\nHe wasn't exactly a prototypical warrior, so, with Fay's prompting, he figured it made sense to more thoroughly define his role in the group. \"I may not look it, but I know a bit about Druidry. I'm a bit more inclined towards fists than fireballs, but the cleric here isn't the only one with healing magic. You guys familiar with the Goodberry spell? I'll prepare a bunch of them tonight.\"\n\nHe spared a sheepish smile towards Edgar. \"Greater Restoration is a bit beyond me, though.\"", "username": "Ryik", "char_name": "Akio" }, { "text": "A gruff human with the odor of pig death turned his head ever so slightly to hear the conversation between the merchant and the group. He smiled wickedly, and the sparkle of his golden tooth flashed.\nThe pig smelling man finished his drink as he watched the merchant go up the stairs.\nHe then turned his gaze back to the group, looking for the bag of gold the merchant tossed on the table.\nElbowing the dwarf beside him, he nodded his head towards the group and the dwarf shifted his view.\n\"Aye lad, we take him 'ere or down the road?\" \n\"Road...come on, Breork.\" The pig smelling man replied.\nThe two ruffians pay for their drinks before getting up to leave.\nThe dwarf never took his eyes off the group, sizing them up as he followed his friend to the door.\nBreork nearly fell as he collided with a waitress, mugs of ale crashed to the ground.\n\"Ya damned idiot! Watch where yer goin!\" Breork shouted as he kicked the woman in the gut.\n\"Damn wench should be filleted for spilling so much ale!\"\nPig smelling man laughed.", "username": "HEAVY METAL", "char_name": null } ]

[ { "text": "A gruff human with the odor of pig death turned his head ever so slightly to hear the conversation between the merchant and the group. He smiled wickedly, and the sparkle of his golden tooth flashed.\nThe pig smelling man finished his drink as he watched the merchant go up the stairs.\nHe then turned his gaze back to the group, looking for the bag of gold the merchant tossed on the table.\nElbowing the dwarf beside him, he nodded his head towards the group and the dwarf shifted his view.\n\"Aye lad, we take him 'ere or down the road?\" \n\"Road...come on, Breork.\" The pig smelling man replied.\nThe two ruffians pay for their drinks before getting up to leave.\nThe dwarf never took his eyes off the group, sizing them up as he followed his friend to the door.\nBreork nearly fell as he collided with a waitress, mugs of ale crashed to the ground.\n\"Ya damned idiot! Watch where yer goin!\" Breork shouted as he kicked the woman in the gut.\n\"Damn wench should be filleted for spilling so much ale!\"\nPig smelling man laughed.", "username": "HEAVY METAL", "char_name": null }, { "text": "DUBUK\n\nThe Cleric was surprised by the size of the bag of gold that the Human adventurer tossed toward him. Dubuk had grown up in a place where money meant very little, most of the people who inhabited the monastery simply did good deeds to and helped others. Since the Cleric was not so far into his pilgrimage, he was still getting used to the fact that everything had a price in the wider world.\n\nAs one of the adventurers announced himself as Akio, another approached Dubuk questioning if he could cast greater restoration. He then mentioned that the spell was for his daughter and that he would pay all he had if Dubuk could heal his child. A pang of sympathy went through Dubuk's body. This kind of situation was exactly why he had went on this pilgrimage, and yet he knew this kind of healing was beyond his ability.\n\n\"My name is Dubuk, mister Edgar. While I am training in the divine arts, I am afraid that power of healing is beyond my current strength. If I had the power to cast that spell, I would, no payment needed. But I'm afraid I can't. But hopefully one day the gods will bless me enough so that I may heal the terribly sick,\" stated Dubuk.\n\nAs Dubuk felt bad over his inability to help the man's family, an Elf approached the pair. She then made a joke about the Cleric being fancy for drinking wine. This made Dubuk wonder if his beverage of choice was rare in the wider world. It had been quite plentiful at the monastery, and yet most people he encountered now were drinking ale or other liquors.\n\nThe Elf then introduced herself as Ferezanthe, though she said she could be called Fay. Dubuk was glad about that as he always had problems with pronouncing traditional Elven names, even while studying in Elvish at the monastery.\n\nAkio then appraised the assembled party, noting that each of them filled a role. He then mentioned that he had druidic magic. Dubuk's ears immediately perked up at the mention of this. While studying in the divine arts, the Cleric had heard of magic that didn't come from the gods, but rather nature itself. Dubuk had always wanted to see it in actual use, and perhaps he would if the party encountered trouble in their dangerous crossing.\n\nBut Dubuk's musings were cut short when he saw a Dwarf knock over the waitress. While ale spilled everywhere, the Dwarf then kicked the woman in the gut. The innate anger of Orcish blood overtook Dubuk as he marched over to the Dwarf.\n\n\"What in the name of the gods are you doing?\" shouted Dubuk.\n\nAs the Half-Orc stepped up next to the Dwarf, his hand unconsciously reached for the mace on his belt. Given that he was much taller than the Dwarf, Dubuk glared down at him, his eyes looking more Orc than Human in the dim light of the tavern.", "username": "Martian", "char_name": "Dubuk" }, { "text": "---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nEdgar Fischer\n\nEdgar nodded in understanding to both Dubuk and Akio. It was a longshot either way, they were in the boonies and he doubted any high ranking healers would be wandering the countryside. He looked down at his reflection on the mug of ale. It would seem that his daughter would have to wait a bit longer before they could be rid of that nasty disease.\n\nThe old man just finished taking a sip of his drink when he heard the commotion coming from a dwarf and a filthy looking man. He could assume that the barmaid on the ground clutching her stomach was something they were responsible for judging by their reactions. It seemed like folks couldn't leave folks well alone. He disapproved of the random act of wanton cruelty. Maybe during his wayward youth, he would have smirked. But in his advanced age, he knew that most people didn't deserve the wrongs these folk experienced. His frown deepened as he took another sip of his ale. \n\nBut he wasn't going to do anything about it. It wasn't his problem. But if the dirty man and the dwarf were wise, they'd cut their losses and leave before he got buzzed enough from the ale to care. It was around his third sip that he realized that their cleric had marched over to the cantankerous duo and demanded an explanation to their actions. Edgar let out a quiet sigh; he wasn't even buzzed enough to claim this was a spur of the moment decision and he wasn't going soft. Heck he wasn't even a fifth of his mug done.\n\nStanding up from his seat at the table he backed up his cleric companion. He took a stance around ten feet away from the dwarf and the, now noticeably terrible smelling man. Edgar rested his hand on the top of the pommel of his rapier. The sword in itself was mainly used by him to finish off wounded quarry but it could fell a humanoid regardless if used well enough. He'd killed with less before. \"Oi. Midget. Bugger off and bring your shit smelling boyfriend with you out of here.\" Edgar's eyes narrowed and his frown turned into a sneer. \"Or you want to wait and find out?\"", "username": "Searat", "char_name": null }, { "text": "The dwarf looked up at the holy man, \"I smell a foul stench, smells like an Orc.\" His eyes locked with Dubuks, \"Damn Orc bastard disguised as a human!\"\nThe Dwarf draws his hand axe with his right and a small knife with his left.\n\"Days just got better, Quinn.\"\n\nQuinn was looking at the old man, \"An Orc and an old cow walked into a tavern, stop me if you heard this one before.\"\n\"I don't need any weapons to take on grandpa.\" Quinn said doubling up his fists.\n\n(Initiative Roll) (Ruffians 14)", "username": "HEAVY METAL", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Akio\nIt was rather shocking to see someone so ill-mannered as to kick an apparently defenseless barmaid in front of so many. He thought he wasn't so sheltered after spending so much time on the road, away from his family, but maybe he's still a bit lacking in that regard. In any case, while he was addled by the possibility that this wasn't particularly abnormal for a patron of a raucous tavern, it didn't occur to him to step up in the good lady's defense. He'd left behind the stifling calculus of honor and was used to having to look the other way so as to avoid a diplomatic incident. His first thought was that the ornery Dwarf would simply be banned from the tavern and that would be that, but then their cleric walked up to the man to ask him what he was doing, and Akio couldn't help but wonder why he wasn't the one doing that.\n\nTo put it less charitably, he sat there like an idiot while the cleric and the hunter both beat him to the punch. Still, he wasn't prepared to start a bar fight for fear of troubling the tavern more until the Dwarf and his thuggish compatriot both openly announced their intention to attack their healer based on his race. So, an irreconcilable conflict, then.\n\nWell, so much for sparing the tavern keeper the trouble. Akio quietly casts Mage Armor on himself as he readies his dagger.\n\n(Initiative Roll: 15)", "username": "Ryik", "char_name": "Akio" }, { "text": "---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nEdgar Fischer\n\nEdgar's sneer wasn't for show. The human, now identified as Quinn, didn't just smell like a pig. He smelled like he'd never known a bath in his life. But what got his attention was that the dwarf drew his weapons. He had full intentions of killing. Edgar was about to return the killing intent in kind when he realized that the human chose bare knuckle brawling over a weapon. Unfortunately for the smelly human he had no intention of fighting him bare handed while his bigoted dwarf companion had his weapons at the ready. Not that he had the intention to fight the man fairly. He wasn't a white knight from a child's fairytale. \n\n\"Your friend shown his willingness to die by drawing his weapons.\" He unsheathes his rapier. \"You? I'll try to avoid your vital bits.\" Just as he brandishes his blade, by stroke of bad luck, the tip of the blade lodges itself to a chair's leg. Hindering his initial ability to act and likely putting him dead last to act as he wedges the sword's tip off the chair.\n\n{Initiative roll: 4}", "username": "Searat", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Ferezanthe had been enjoying her evening. Honestly.\nShe had gotten a new adventure on her hands and found some fellows to watch her back for her. \nFellows that seemed halfway decent at the least.\nAll was going well, before the incident... Maybe it was Fate challenging her patience once again, laughing as she did so.\nShe turned and watched as the Cleric and Hunter stepped up to confront the situation.\nShe took another swig, might as well get another sip before things could get out of hand.\nThings like these just happened to smallfolk. It wasn't pretty, but quite frankly this probably wouldn't have been her first time suffering at the hands of cruel people. Considering no one, not even the Barkeep spoke up, this could be an indication thing like this happened before.\n\"All right boys, why don't you all settle...\" She tried, but was completely ignored and watching the two pull out weapons something snapped inside.\nA soft chuckle escaped her throat, slowly as she felt the current of her own magic spring to life inside of her, lighting up her eyes before she called out in mild humour:\n\n\"There once was a duo in Evergrim\nWho both were shockingly dim,\nThey kicked a barmaid\nWho then got aid\nFrom three men and a chick with Lightning.\" \n\nHer eyes now focussed on the two.\n\"Bring it you *****!\"\n\n-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------\nOC: Is there a map tavern map online, so I may know my distance between the two? Did you have it on discord yet?", "username": "Neianna86", "char_name": null } ]

[ { "text": "Eli lounged on the flatbed of the old truck, a cigarette attached to his lower lip. Upon feeling the truck slow down, stood up and leaned on the roof to look at the sign quickly approaching them. Looking to the girl before him, he offered a small smile. \"What do you think B? I'm gonna put my money on the circus being something evil and sinister.\" He laughed, taking another long drag of his cigarette.\n\nNicknames were something he gave to people to remember them by, Bai's nickname being B for obvious reasons. He's been with the group a few months now, having helped them out of a tight spot with his plasma. He normally wasn't one for travelling with people. He wasn't normally one for people in general but he had to admit, the ragtag group had grown on him a little", "username": "Angstyrainbow", "char_name": "Elia Colden but goes by Eli Lovette" }, { "text": "Audrey laid down sprawled out horizontally across the flatbed, her legs hanging off the side of the truck. She had been reading a book she \"borrowed\" from a bookstore in the last town they were in. If her mother could see her now, shoplifting, although she figured her mother probably wouldn't care. That relationship had been severed the night her mother and father decided to sell their only daughter down the river. In truth the only person she missed was her little brother who probably wasn't so little anymore. She often thought about what grade he'd be starting, how many birthdays she had missed.\n\nHe had only been a baby when she fled from home, so he probably wouldn't remember her, but that didn't stop her from loving him all the same. There was a silver lining to the situation she was in and it was finding what she sort of considered her new family. \"Evil circus, that'd be a first\" she answered Eli's question, Sarcasm hanging on her breath. As she looked up, she could see recklessness had taken Eli as he shot up to look at the sign. This of course kicked her motherly instincts into overdrive \"And stop standing in the truck, you're gonna fall out when we start moving again.\" She warned.", "username": "Hyyde322", "char_name": "Audrey Robinson" }, { "text": "Vincent Ryder\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nVincent sat in the driver's seat, his left arm hanging out of the open window as he tapped the door to the time of the heavy metal playing over the radio. As the driver this time around, he had full control of the radio and he always took full advantage of it. His usual overcoat sat bundled on the front seat next to him, between himself and whoever was sitting next to him. The fact that neither he nor any of his friends had any set destination was another boon, as his sense of direction wasn't exactly...present. When he noticed the sign they were approaching, offering them two choices between where to go, he pulled off to the side of the road and pushed his sunglasses to the top of his head. He had heard vague rumblings about both towns, moreso Eureka City, so he had a rough idea of waited for himself and his friends. \"Let's see; we could go to Jackrabbit. Might be something there, but all we'll probably do is waste time looking at empty buildings. Or...\"\n\nHe glanced in the opposite direction. \"We could go to Eureka. Theme parks are always worth going to.\" Despite putting on the show of thinking, he had already made his decision. He pressed down on the gas...and the truck didn't move. Swearing under his breath, he turned the key. The engine tried to turn over and finally did on the second attempt. He pulled out of park and, with a smirk, shouted so the people in the bed of the truck could hear, \"Alright, kids, you've all been good, so I'm making the executive decision to go visit some theme parks! Next stop, Eureka!\"", "username": "Daxam", "char_name": "Vincent Ryder" }, { "text": "Eli raised an eyebrow at the truck seemingly stalling, he leaned around the side of the truck to speak to vincent. \"We need to get a new ride man, this hunk of junk is gonna croak on us someday soon and I'd rather it not be when we're trying to get away from the grunts.\" He hated to admit it but the thought of being caught by the grunts scared him slightly.\n\nHe gave a small snort as the truck turned. \"I give it ten minutes of being in one of those theme parks before wee get attacked by some sort of evil clown\"", "username": "Angstyrainbow", "char_name": "Elia Colden but goes by Eli Lovette" }, { "text": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor\n\nLucy waited by the side of the road, wearing a flannel shirt and ripped jeans. Most of her clothing on her was stolen. She had stolen most of her clothes from vintage stores. Holding out her thumb, hoping that she would be picked up. A small brown rat was hiding inside the pocket of her shirt. There were not many cars that had stopped for her, which was understandable. The drivers did not know who they were picking up. But finally, a truck stopped beside her. As soon as the door opened, she got inside. The driver looked over at Lucy, asking her where she wants to go. \n\n\"I am going to Eureka City.\" Reading the driver's mind, she knew she would be safe for the time being. Her hand reached into her shirt pocket. Petting the rat, who was squawking softly. She hoped she would be able to find some information about the scientist in Eureka City.", "username": "Eviledd1984", "char_name": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor" }, { "text": "THULILE\n\nThuly woke up startled. 'What, where?' Then she realized it was Vincent's voice that had ripped her from her dream. She was so relieved. Relieved to be back in the real world and relieved to be amongst her friends. Her dream had teleported her back to the day that Thulile had been allowed to join this odd pack of misfits. \n\nShe remembered that day, three months ago, vividly. The weight of the wounded dog across her shoulders, the police sirens coming nearer and nearer and this same beat up truck driving towards her. She'd yelled at them, pleading them to stop and save her. And they did, they had. She remembered what happened next only vaguely, as the mist of fatigue had weighed her down. When she discovered that her companions had mystical powers, they wanted to drop her off somewhere. Thuly's natural inclination not to trust anyone, meant she hadn't revealed her own power yet. But somehow being part of this group of misfits felt right. So, gulping away her nerves, Thulile had given them a taster of her power. It had been rather impressive to see this petite girl lift the back of the truck off the road a good three feet. It had been convincing enough, and they had taken her in. \n\nNow, all these months later, Thuly had proven her worth. Her power had manifested in unexpected and unpredictable ways. She liked the way it felt: being part of a team. It was the first time she'd experienced this. \n\nThen she looked over to Vincent, from her perch on the passenger's seat. 'What had he said? Theme parks?', she wondered. Then Eli leaned around the side of the truck: \"We need to get a new ride man, this hunk of junk is gonna croak on us someday soon and I'd rather it not be when we're trying to get away from the grunts.\" Then he snorted: \"I give it ten minutes of being in one of those theme parks before we get attacked by some sort of evil clown\". \"Whoah, WHAT?!\" Thulile asked. She hadn't been in a theme park ever. Eli's last remark shattered the glittery, pinkish, jingle jangle image she had been painting in her mind. The idea of being ambushed by a terror clown didn't appeal to Thuly whatsoever. \n\nStill, she had gotten used to Eli's murky sense of humor since he had joined them these last couple of months. Regaining her composure, she straightened her back and smiled bravely: \"Clown or no clown, let's check out those theme parks!\"", "username": "Ordsmed", "char_name": "Thulile SaintMaurice" }, { "text": "Eli instantly felt bad, he'd taken a liking to Thulie and he always felt guilty for spooking her. \"Sorry. I'm sure it'll be fine. and with the time of year, the theme parks will probably be pretty empty.\" He backtracked, hoping if he mentioned the lack of crowds she'd feel a bit more at ease. \n\nEli had never had a family. Not a real one anyway. This little ragtag group was the closest thing and he'd taken to Thulie like a little sister with how young she was.", "username": "Angstyrainbow", "char_name": "Elia Colden but goes by Eli Lovette" } ]

[ { "text": "THULILE\n\nShe just didn't get Bai. Thuly wasn't able to see past her illusions and had often been taken by surprise lately as Bai decided to reappear suddenly. It unnerved Thulile. Still, she did respect Bai Yue heaps, so she tried to keep her neck hairs from rising as her voice abruptly emerged from thin air and addressed Eli. \n\n'Eli', she thought, 'isn't he just a doll? He fusses over me and tries to help me whenever he can'. Thuly really liked him. She'd appreciated how he'd accepted her right of the bat and how he was treating her like his little sister. He gave her the impression that he'd go through extremes to keep her save. That felt really good! \n\n\"Sorry. I'm sure it'll be fine. and with the time of year, the theme parks will probably be pretty empty.\" Eli's words, although feeling slightly forced, made Thuly calmer. In an added attempt to rid the air of any premonition of doom, Thulile asked: \"Do you think they have barbe à papa? I mean candy cotton?\"", "username": "Ordsmed", "char_name": "Thulile SaintMaurice" }, { "text": "Eli laughed at the new look of the truck, finding immense enjoyment from it. \"Oh my gods, this truck looks amazing. Great job B!\" He grinned and leaned over the other side of the truck to talk to Thulie. \n\n\"Oh hell yes. Candy floss is one of the like, staples of theme parks. I'll buy you some if you like Lele\" He assured. \"And I can show you which rides aren't too scary\"", "username": "Angstyrainbow", "char_name": "Elia Colden but goes by Eli Lovette" }, { "text": "Thank God no one settled for the small town, Audrey had enough of small towns to last a lifetime. Going to an amusement park sounded like a great time. Lots of people, great food, tons of rides, loads of activities and the latter.\n\nShe noticed Bai had camouflaged the truck giving it a new paint job and an interesting sign with a kitten on it \"well at least it won't draw any attention\" she said. Bai was still a mystery to her. Everyone else checked out, Vincent, Thullie, and Eli seemed as close to normal as the definition would allow, but she couldn't really make heads or tails of Bai. It didn't bother her too much, she was apart of this ragtag group like everyone else and that meant she was family.\n\nShe put her book down and stretched out her legs and stretched her arms as far as they would go. \"Don't worry Thullie, we'll make sure you get as much as you can handle\" she mentioned. Thullie was a fairly new addition to the band of merry runaways.....well...they were all new. \"Hey, you think they'll have funnel cake there?\" She asked.", "username": "Hyyde322", "char_name": "Audrey Robinson" }, { "text": "Vincent\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\"Oh, come on, this old girl's gotten me out of too many scrapes to just abandon her,\" Vincent said as he patted his door again. \"I've got the skills to keep her running for a while longer. Now, as for evil clowns, on the other hand, I'm kinda hoping for something like that.\" He grinned and single-handedly cracked the knuckles of his left hand as he added, \"Been way too long since I was able to cut loose. Gotta make sure I don't get rusty.\"\n\nAs he finished speaking, the truck shimmered as Bai cast an illusion over the vehicle, turning giving it the form of a construction truck, the logo of which featured a kitten for some strange reason. He shrugged, having never been one to fret over little things like that. Sure, it wasn't his first choice of design, but since Bai was the only one who could disguise the truck, he felt it was only fair she decided on how it looked. He flipped his sunglasses back down onto his face, brought the truck into the next gear, and added, \"Oh, they better have funnel cake or else it's not a park worth going to. That and those rigged booth games. Sure, I end up wasting all my cash on them because there's no way in hell I'm letting those cheats get the best of me, but a theme park not having one of those just doesn't sound right.\"\n\nAfter a few moments, Vincent asked, \"So, new girl, what's your name?\"", "username": "Daxam", "char_name": "Vincent Ryder" }, { "text": "IC:\n\nTHULILE\n\nHer little band of misfits was colorful to say the least, but the friendly banter that went around the car made Thuly feel at home. 'Well, except for the lack of French of course', she grinned. The grin broadened to a smile, which made her white teeth flash brightly in the darkness of her face. \"Yummm…\", Thulile salivated, \"all the candy…err…floss I can eat? Superb!\" \n\nLooking at Eli, she wondered about the scary rides. She'd seen pictures and YouTube films, and compared to her life they weren't likely to spook her. Still, a guide to the parks would be a good thing. \n\nAs Audrey mentioned funnel cake, Thuly chuckled. It seemed to her that their crew had an unnatural fixation on food. 'Especially, on the unhealthy kind!' Well, her companions were unnatural in many ways, this was just another of their quirks. \"Funnel cake? What's that? Never seen or tasted that\", she admitted. \n\nThose theme parks promised to have lots of new experiences in store for her. Thulile wondered how long it would take to get there. At least Bai made sure that they didn't attract any unwanted attention to them.", "username": "Ordsmed", "char_name": "Thulile SaintMaurice" }, { "text": "Eli snorted a laugh. \"Come on Vinnie, you'll break a hip if you're not careful.\" He teased. He'd taken to picking on Vinnie for being a few years older than himself.\n\nEli nodded at Audrey. \"Oh they better. I'll be really pissed off if they don't.\" Looking back over the side of the truck he grinned. \"Theme parks are normally really packed with small animals like birds and rodents, right ReyRey?\"", "username": "Angstyrainbow", "char_name": "Elia Colden but goes by Eli Lovette" }, { "text": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor\n\nLucy was sitting in between two of the females inside the truck. But she didn't really say much. Mostly listening to their conversation, wondering if she could hear some useful information. But mostly they were talking about an amusement park. She had read about places like this but had never been to one herself. She had not been outside of Area 66 ever since she was a baby, so she did not know much about the outside world. A part of her was excited to experience something that would be fun. \"My name is Lucy.\" She spoke in a soft sounding voice. \"What else is in the amusement park?\" She didn't want to sound stupid for not knowing what an amusement park was, So wording her question differently would not make the others think less of her. \n\nReading the minds of the others in the truck, wanting to know what information she could find. But rationalizing it by wanting to know more about them. People in the truck more attuned mentally, could notice Lucy trying to read their minds. The rat in her pocket poked his head out, \"I wonder if they know if this amusement park has any cheese?\" Lucy assured them that the amusement park would have something for him to eat. And hopefully something she could eat. She had not eaten anything since before her escape. \n\nThe thought of her being caught was starting to fill her mind. She would have to fight if these people would try to hand her to the police.", "username": "Eviledd1984", "char_name": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor" }, { "text": "\"Mmmmm, small animals are more county and state fair territory, but it's possible they might\" She said. Her hometown used to hold county fairs every year. She remembered going to them as a kid and visiting the petting zoos they had. As she finished answering Eli's question , she heard Thuly ask about funnel cakes, what they were and what they tasted like and shot up like a lightning bolt at her question \"you've never had funnel cake, well you are in for a treat\" she said. \n\nBefore they could take off, the band of misfits were gifted with a new passenger. A young girl with an interesting haircut. She seemed of the shy sort as she introduced herself as Lucy and asked about the amusement parks. \"Audrey\" she mentioned with a warm smile \"oh, you know, rides, food, games, and other junk.\"", "username": "Hyyde322", "char_name": "Audrey Robinson" }, { "text": "Vincent\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nVincent barked out a laugh at Eli's playful barb and held his hand out of the window, with which he extended a certain finger in his general direction. He pulled his arm back into the truck then, to Lucy, he grinned and said, \"I'm Vincent. Pretty much the designated mechanic around here.. You could say I've got a way with this old girl. As for funnel cake...\"\n\nHe thought for a moment before continuing, \"It's basically deep-fried ropes of batter, usually with powdered sugar sprinkled on it or whatever else you wanna use. Fairs and theme parks usually keep it pretty simple, though. God, now I could go for some funnel cake with chocolate and strawberries. Not knocking fairground funnel cake, but next time I get a hold of some batter, I'll show you guys what good funnel cake tastes like.\"\n\nAs his mouth watered at the thought of the deep-fried goodness, a song began to play on the radio that Vincent liked, so he turned the volume up a bit higher. He hadn't been traveling with this group very long, having mostly wandered on his own for a little over half of his life, but it was something he had gotten used to by that point. It was nice having people to banter and joke with. More than that, though, it was nice knowing there were people at his back when things got rough. Sure, he didn't know much about any of them and that was fine, given that he had things he'd rather not talk about, himself, and as far as he was concerned, you didn't need to know someone's life story to trust them.", "username": "Daxam", "char_name": "Vincent Ryder" } ]

[ { "text": "The truck, after a few hours, had finally arrived at Eureka Town. The town was full of sweet scents and with the sounds of laughter and screaming, and, despite it nearing evening, had plenty of people eager and willing to ride the many roller coasters and other rides that were all in and around the town.\n\nThe truck had come to a stop near one of the towns' many hotels, though this one looked a bit more dilapidated than the rest. The streetlights also shone just as bright as the peoples' many phones lighting up the sky, but not all of them had phones, and some looked almost transparent.\n\nSpeaking of rides, the largest roller coaster had finished its latest ride, with the people who were on it just seconds ago being ushered to the side by the ride's host instead of making them make way for the latest passengers, with the previous passengers following the host away from the roller coaster, and a new host popping up at the ride just seconds later.", "username": "Dragonfly 9", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Vincent\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nVincent pulled the old truck into the parking lot of a run-down hotel. He had no trouble staying at a dilapidated place like this, having often slept on the street without a roof over his head. As far as he was concerned, any place with a bed was heaven. He shut the engine off and said, \"Alright, guys, we're here. Unless anyone has any better ideas, this is where we're staying while we're here, so don't forget where we're at.\"\n\nHe climbed out of the truck and stretched his arms over his head. He didn't mind long drives, but he didn't quite care for the stiffness that came with them. He took in the sweet scents wafting through the evening air, the sounds of joyful screaming from the amusement park as patrons enjoyed the thrill rides. As much as he wanted to check out the park, he let out a sigh and turned toward the truck. \"If you guys wanna check out the park, I'll catch up with you in a bit. I noticed the truck was making a weird sound when we got into town, so I'm gonna see if I can't get it fixed while I've got the chance.\"", "username": "Daxam", "char_name": "Vincent Ryder" }, { "text": "Bai Yue\nChecked the place out first as a small bird illusion as she used her control of air to fly above and around the old motel her mind already creating a map as she plotted her later ground reconnaissance. The ground portion accomplished as a fluffy poodle \nBeing seen as a dog was often a mixed bag and today was one of those days as she spotted two of the local feral dogs making a beeline right at her so she ran into culvert and they chased her. What happened inside the .75 meter concrete pipe would be a story the two huge mutts would tell their friends to the end of their days if dogs tell tales.\nThere they were chasing an interloper an had it cornered in the tunnel and as they rushed in snarling they heard a rumbling so deep they felt it in their bones and there before them was the biggest cat they had ever see, so big it nearly filled the tunnel wall to wall. Next it roared a sound that caught perhaps a nearby homeless or if you could call them apartment dweller's attention an as it happened just once they couldn't back up the dogs wild story if dogs tell tells. They roar was at the right frequency to display the bass of so large a creature's chest but it was the hiss that sent both tumbling back as if a invisible hand swatted them adding another strange sound to the local air the two defenders making a hasty retreat.\nA few minutes later the cute poodle continued her patrol her only trouble some creepy guy that kept following her whistling like she was some sort of dog. So she could loose him as soon as she rounded a corners she became a large patch of weeds in lot covered in weeds the poodle crossing the road to a truck with an open door, she made sure the guy saw the dog an truck leave an was pleased he acted as expected.\nFree of her tail she walked into the motel office as Ying Quan a young anthropologist doing a social audit she could bore even perverts to sleep with her dry lesson on life exptency, happiness index, schooling chances and mean grade income being another insult to free men an women mostly women. The old lady she saw behind the desk was sweet to her an asked few questions so Bai yue paid her in real cash she'd picked up in a liquor store a few days past.\nThen she went looking for the others again as a bird only this time as a large raven. \n\n(Let me know if you are curious to rp with me by saying you see the raven)", "username": "EmiliaBaiYue", "char_name": "Bai Yue (White Moon)" }, { "text": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor\n\n\"Yes, I am going to meet some family members.\" This was a semi-truthful lie, she was hoping to find her family in Eureka City. However she was not going to do anything pleasant with them, she wanted information no matter the cost. And hopefully, from talking to her parents, she could get information on those who experimented on her. She really did not have time to spend time messing around. \"But you could have fun at the amusement park, I think you deserve to have some fun.\" The rat spoke up looking up at Lucy. The girl thought that yes perhaps she should enjoy herself, but her mind was set on revenge. \n\n\"Perhaps but I can't be wasting time by going on rides and the like.\" Arguing her point, but relenting, as she hates disappointing her rat friend. \"I guess I could enjoy one ride, and just ONE.\" Lucy said now petting the rat's head. As the truck stopped, Lucy got out and started taking in her surroundings. This was the first thing she had been to an amusement park in real life, she had mostly seen one in books. Walking over towards a crane game, searching through her pockets for any change. She could not find any loose change. \"Damn.\" Cursing under her breath, she walked away and towards one of the rides. Her eyes looked over at the others, wondering what rides they would be going to. But she easily got her answer by reading their minds.", "username": "Eviledd1984", "char_name": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor" }, { "text": "---\n\n\n\nEureka City. A tourist trap of rides and greasy carnival food. It smelled like sweat and runny sunscreen where Haylen was, walking through the crowds and lines waiting to get on a ride or two. He had a baseball cap on and a pair of sunglasses over his face, and walked slowly, but steadily. Haylen's eyes flicked from one place to another, looking for the negative spaces; areas that weren't crowded or even being paid attention to, or anywhere that he could slip away behind a door were important right now. This carnival being this packed meant that people would easily miss Haylen in the crowd, but it also meant that the place was full of people who would miss a few dollars in the chaos. But Haylen wasn't about to start snatching wallets, no. He was looking for a place with a cash register behind a wall, somewhere quiet that wasn't getting as much foot traffic.\n\nAs he paced through the carnival, he eventually at one of the stands on the far side from the entrance. A popcorn stand with a sign that said \"On break.\" Perfect. Ensuring that no one was around to notice, Haylen slipped behind the counter and stared into the inner working of the cash register.\n\nIt was child's play to coerce the simple machine into opening up, and he discreetly started pulling money out.", "username": "Blizz", "char_name": null }, { "text": "After what seemed like (and actually was) hours, they had finally arrived in Eureka town. Audrey stricken with stiffness that would make a corpse jealous hopped out of the truck bed and stretched as much as she could. \"Finally, as much as I love driving around in \"luxury\", that flatbed is about as comfortable as a slab of stone\" she said. As far as the sleeping arrangements were concerned, it wouldn't have been her first choice, but Vincent had a point. Unless they wanted to sleep on the streets, this would have to do. \"I guess it's not the WORST place we've stayed\" she commented. \"As long as they have showers\" Audrey caught a whiff of herself while stretching and was offended by the smell. It had been a few days and places to bathe were not exactly in abundance on the road. But for now it was time for some fun and most importantly it was time for some funnel cake", "username": "Hyyde322", "char_name": "Audrey Robinson" }, { "text": "The moment the truck stopped, Eli jumped out off the back of the truck and stretched out. \"Oh thank fuck for that! I love that truck but damn it's uncomfy.\" He turned to look at Vinnie. \"If I can find us a good one, wanna trade in the pick up for an RV? Since our little band keeps growing and all?", "username": "Angstyrainbow", "char_name": "Elia Colden but goes by Eli Lovette" } ]

[ { "text": "---\n\n\n\nHaylen had managed to get roughly a hundred dollars into his hands before he was caught red handed. A kid, by the looks of it. She didn't seem like much to him, but his human eye flicked up to her like a scavenging animal confronted by a predator. This incident could very well have been an isolated one, since Haylen hadn't blown his cover in the slightest recently. Internally, Haylen was already thinking heavily about what to do, the machine in his mind running through his thoughts at a speed most ordinary humans could not achieve. He was on the far side away from the entrance, so if he had to, he could slip into-\n\nAll of that went out the proverbial window when the girl snapped her fingers to pull out a hundred dollar bill. Magic. There was no sleight involved, she quite literally pulled it out of thin air, and she offered it to him. It read like a trap, but there wasn't much to be taken from this cash register. If Haylen followed, on of two things would happen. Either nothing, or he'd be taken out. It was a risk, but he could handle her, probably. When she walked off, Haylen followed, flexing his grip around something in his jacket pocket tensely. It wasn't a machine he could control, but it would help if she tried to make some sort of move.\n\nFaithful", "username": "Blizz", "char_name": null }, { "text": "With Asa following, that made three. Well, the more, the merrier. The gang made their way into the park and were instantly hit by the smells of the food and the blaring lights and sounds of the rides and other attractions. To be honest, she had never actually been in side of a theme park. Coming from a small to of four to five hundred people, there wasn't much need for one. All they had in her town were carnivals and fairs, so this was something kind of new to her, yet still the same, minus the petting zoos and pig contests. This was actually better than the fairs and there was so much more to do, she didn't know if they could fit it all into one night. Her attention was caught by a ride Thuly excitedly pointed out, the upside down roller-coaster she called it.\n\nBefore she could say anything, her stomach instantly churned at the sight of it. She gagged silently as the coaster flipped directions \"yeah, that's some...ride\" she forced the last word with a second gag as she stood there watching and hid her sickly face from Thuly as best she could. Audrey didn't have motion sickness, but just looking at that machine was enough to give it to her. She prayed this wasn't the first ride Thuly wanted to go on, she would still ride it, but hopefully they could do something else first.\n\nThank goodness they hadn't eaten yet. She couldn't bare the thought of embarrassing herself by showing everyone what she had for dinner. \"What else do you see Thules?\" She tried to steer her excited friend away from the coaster, but, something told her she'd be hugging the trashcan by the ride in a few minutes.", "username": "Hyyde322", "char_name": "Audrey Robinson" }, { "text": "THULILE\n\nA shout - \"I'm coming as well!\" - suddenly followed them. Thulile swerved herself and Audrey around. Thuly was relieved and pleased to see Asa running after them. She liked Asa. 'He's nice', she thought, 'and he always smells really good!' Glad to have another partner in crime, Thuly waved at the young man. \"ASAAA… yes do! Come on!\"\n\nAs the bubbly, blue Asa joined Audrey and Thulile, they tried to make a choice. With so many rides and bites surrounding them Thuly felt completely overwhelmed. \n\nBeing in close contact with her own feelings, she sensed that both Audrey and Asa weren't overly enthusiastic to get into a roller coaster. Seeing the thing go upside down, did make Thuly queasy. Then Audrey asked her what else she saw. \n\n\"Maybe we should start with something simple, no?\", she suggested to her companions. \"And after that, some funnel cake!\" Giggling she towed Audrey and Asa to a nearby attraction.", "username": "Ordsmed", "char_name": "Thulile SaintMaurice" }, { "text": "Matilda Armstrong\n\n\"Did you return the money?\" Matilda inquired, half-asking and half demanding as she turned to glare at the stranger. It was her strongest attempt to put on a brave face. \"And can you take off your sunglasses and hat? Security can mistake you for a drug dealer or worse!\" \n\nWith a huff, Matilda held out her hand that still held the $100 bill for Haylen. \"Don't ask how I got I did this and I won't tell the owners of your lackluster attempt of a robbery, understand?\"", "username": "Ever Faithful", "char_name": "Matilda Armstrong" }, { "text": "@Hyyde322 @Martian\n\n Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor\n\nLucy didn't seem to notice them discussing where they would be living. At most, she thought they would be living in the truck. While she was hitchhiking, she would be sleeping underneath trees or breaking into cars to sleep in. She seemed more concerned with having a good time. Walking over toward a shooting range, she picked up the gun. Feeling the weight of the BB gun in her hand. Noticing that the ridicule was misaligned, obviously making it easier for the owner to scam people. \n\nShe took into account where she was standing, and the position of the target in front of her. Using mathematics and probability to make the shot. Pulling the trigger, she was able to shoot all of the targets. Picking out the large pink elephant, and hugging it softly before walking away. The man behind the counter was glaring at Lucy. \n\nNoticing Audrey, Asa and Thulie walking around. \"Hello. Look what I won.\" She said proudly showing off the pink elephant she won.", "username": "Eviledd1984", "char_name": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor" }, { "text": "\"Whoa, slow down Thuly, the park's not going anywhere.\" Amused by Thulile's enthusiasm, she couldn't help but laugh. Being around her was like having a younger sibling again. \"We'll have plenty of time to do everything\" she gave a second glance at the roller coaster as her stomach soured at the thought. \"Well, mostly everything.\" Before they could reach the attraction the smaller girl was leading the towards, they were greeted by a familiar face.\n\nOne that hadn't been traveling with them long, but was easily recognizable even in a crowd. \"Oh, well, looks like we know who to go when we need prizes, good job Lucy.\"", "username": "Hyyde322", "char_name": "Audrey Robinson" }, { "text": "---\n\n\n\nOf course he didn't return the money. That would be stupid. \n\nHaylen followed the kid until they got to a secluded place, only to be questioned about the things he wore. She didn't seem much like a government bloodhound, and judging by how she seemed to just materialize money out of thin air, they had something in common. Haylen relented, and pulled the sunglasses off. His right eye was unassuming, a pale green. The left, however, wasn't the kind of thing a human being should have.\n\nWhere Haylen's left eye should have been was nothing more than a pink sphere in the shape of an eye where white should have been. There was something resembling an old surgical scar running horizontally across the strange eye, and Matilda might have felt it was actually watching her like a real eye. \n\n\"You're doing that with magic.\" He said flatly, less of an accusation and more to convey he understood it.", "username": "Blizz", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Faithful @Hyyde322\n\n Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor\n\nThe young girl looked quite excited that someone said that to her. Usually being told a good job would not be a big deal, but she had never had any kind of praise in her life. \"Thank you, Miss Audrey. I was thinking does anyone want to join me on the ferris wheel?\" He said pointing towards the Ferris wheel in the distance. Her stomach was grumbling, she looked down at her rumbling stomach. \"Or maybe I should eat something beforehand.\" Admittedly she has not eaten much since her escape. But she had no money to pay much. \n\n\"Does anyone have any money? I would like to purchase some food. I'll pay you back.\" She asked, her eyes moving over towards Matilda. Already reading her mind, and figuring out what her powers were. She may be oblivious to the world around her, but she was not as dull as she looked.", "username": "Eviledd1984", "char_name": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor" }, { "text": "Matilda Armstrong\n\n\"It's not magic.\" Matilda quickly shook her head, \"Anything but magic. It's -\" \n\nShe lost her train of thought when she saw Haylen unveil himself. His appearance was anything but normal. A gross mockery of the mundane face with his scar and mismatched eyes. He scared her as Matilda made half a step away from him. Yet, she still quickly shoved the $100 into his hand as if the bill was cursed. \n\n\"You're like me? Both with powers?\" she stuttered, \"That-wait...you hear that?\"\n\nHearing Lucy's voice inside her mind, Matilda looked around hastily before making eye contact with the telepath. \"How much do you need?\" The brunette thought, hoping it wasn't a coincidence.", "username": "Ever Faithful", "char_name": "Matilda Armstrong" }, { "text": "Faithful\n\n Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor\n\nShe thought for a second of how much she would want to spend. She didn't want to go overboard and raise any suspicions. However she did want a good time.\"Does fifty dollars sound good? Or is that too much? Again I can pay ya back,I'm not gonna be a dick and not repay ya.\" A nice sentiment, but Lucy knew money was not an issue for Matilda.\n\n\"I'm with Miss Audrey near the rollercoasters. If you want to meet us there, when you're finished with whatever your doing currently. No rush of course.\"", "username": "Eviledd1984", "char_name": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor" } ]

[ { "text": "It was a beautiful fall day, and the strange group of misfits were once again on the road, in their old, beat up pickup truck.\n\nThey were on the freeway currently, with the driver aimlessly following the road, and picking which destination to follow almost randomly.\n\nA sign was coming up, showing names for two towns up ahead, with Jackrabbit Town(the town being known for little to nothing now, almost like it's a ghost town) on the left, and Eureka City(being known for its theme parks) on the right.\n\nWhich place will the misfits choose, or will they even choose at all?", "username": "Dragonfly 9", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Bai Yue\nSat atop the moving machine but her hair barely stirred at all as she manipulated wind around herself\nWhat everyone saw was an illusion and hid a freighting Oni, at least that was the non magical reaction. They see her horns all dark an glossy only the last 3-4 inches glowed like embers in a fire and around her small sparks of light flickered in an out of existence the tiny embers of a fire she seemed to stand in, sit in, or streamed in a trail behind her when she dropped her illusion. She wasn't a monster though she appeared to look like one, wait no she is a monster.\nBai yue couldn't escape the logic that you are what you appear to be an she looked like a monster, then there was her genetics which she discovered was part of why she looked as she did. She never told anyone but as she was aging she became more Oni like even in some of her habits. She was stronger than most mortal men and couldn't help worry when part of her looked down on them, you know -Puny Human- thoughts\nIt was all part of why she was on the outside, she was worried she'd offend them with her arrogance, work that one out you psych majors.\nShe liked these people they didn't look at her as if she might bite, a couple were even friendly. Till Bai yue stumbled across them and they all were briefly chased by bagboys (Bai yue's name for the government hunters) she thought friendship a thing for normal people. If these are normal people?", "username": "EmiliaBaiYue", "char_name": "Bai Yue (White Moon)" }, { "text": "Eli lounged on the flatbed of the old truck, a cigarette attached to his lower lip. Upon feeling the truck slow down, stood up and leaned on the roof to look at the sign quickly approaching them. Looking to the girl before him, he offered a small smile. \"What do you think B? I'm gonna put my money on the circus being something evil and sinister.\" He laughed, taking another long drag of his cigarette.\n\nNicknames were something he gave to people to remember them by, Bai's nickname being B for obvious reasons. He's been with the group a few months now, having helped them out of a tight spot with his plasma. He normally wasn't one for travelling with people. He wasn't normally one for people in general but he had to admit, the ragtag group had grown on him a little", "username": "Angstyrainbow", "char_name": "Elia Colden but goes by Eli Lovette" }, { "text": "Audrey laid down sprawled out horizontally across the flatbed, her legs hanging off the side of the truck. She had been reading a book she \"borrowed\" from a bookstore in the last town they were in. If her mother could see her now, shoplifting, although she figured her mother probably wouldn't care. That relationship had been severed the night her mother and father decided to sell their only daughter down the river. In truth the only person she missed was her little brother who probably wasn't so little anymore. She often thought about what grade he'd be starting, how many birthdays she had missed.\n\nHe had only been a baby when she fled from home, so he probably wouldn't remember her, but that didn't stop her from loving him all the same. There was a silver lining to the situation she was in and it was finding what she sort of considered her new family. \"Evil circus, that'd be a first\" she answered Eli's question, Sarcasm hanging on her breath. As she looked up, she could see recklessness had taken Eli as he shot up to look at the sign. This of course kicked her motherly instincts into overdrive \"And stop standing in the truck, you're gonna fall out when we start moving again.\" She warned.", "username": "Hyyde322", "char_name": "Audrey Robinson" }, { "text": "Vincent Ryder\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\nVincent sat in the driver's seat, his left arm hanging out of the open window as he tapped the door to the time of the heavy metal playing over the radio. As the driver this time around, he had full control of the radio and he always took full advantage of it. His usual overcoat sat bundled on the front seat next to him, between himself and whoever was sitting next to him. The fact that neither he nor any of his friends had any set destination was another boon, as his sense of direction wasn't exactly...present. When he noticed the sign they were approaching, offering them two choices between where to go, he pulled off to the side of the road and pushed his sunglasses to the top of his head. He had heard vague rumblings about both towns, moreso Eureka City, so he had a rough idea of waited for himself and his friends. \"Let's see; we could go to Jackrabbit. Might be something there, but all we'll probably do is waste time looking at empty buildings. Or...\"\n\nHe glanced in the opposite direction. \"We could go to Eureka. Theme parks are always worth going to.\" Despite putting on the show of thinking, he had already made his decision. He pressed down on the gas...and the truck didn't move. Swearing under his breath, he turned the key. The engine tried to turn over and finally did on the second attempt. He pulled out of park and, with a smirk, shouted so the people in the bed of the truck could hear, \"Alright, kids, you've all been good, so I'm making the executive decision to go visit some theme parks! Next stop, Eureka!\"", "username": "Daxam", "char_name": "Vincent Ryder" }, { "text": "Eli raised an eyebrow at the truck seemingly stalling, he leaned around the side of the truck to speak to vincent. \"We need to get a new ride man, this hunk of junk is gonna croak on us someday soon and I'd rather it not be when we're trying to get away from the grunts.\" He hated to admit it but the thought of being caught by the grunts scared him slightly.\n\nHe gave a small snort as the truck turned. \"I give it ten minutes of being in one of those theme parks before wee get attacked by some sort of evil clown\"", "username": "Angstyrainbow", "char_name": "Elia Colden but goes by Eli Lovette" }, { "text": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor\n\nLucy waited by the side of the road, wearing a flannel shirt and ripped jeans. Most of her clothing on her was stolen. She had stolen most of her clothes from vintage stores. Holding out her thumb, hoping that she would be picked up. A small brown rat was hiding inside the pocket of her shirt. There were not many cars that had stopped for her, which was understandable. The drivers did not know who they were picking up. But finally, a truck stopped beside her. As soon as the door opened, she got inside. The driver looked over at Lucy, asking her where she wants to go. \n\n\"I am going to Eureka City.\" Reading the driver's mind, she knew she would be safe for the time being. Her hand reached into her shirt pocket. Petting the rat, who was squawking softly. She hoped she would be able to find some information about the scientist in Eureka City.", "username": "Eviledd1984", "char_name": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor" }, { "text": "THULILE\n\nThuly woke up startled. 'What, where?' Then she realized it was Vincent's voice that had ripped her from her dream. She was so relieved. Relieved to be back in the real world and relieved to be amongst her friends. Her dream had teleported her back to the day that Thulile had been allowed to join this odd pack of misfits. \n\nShe remembered that day, three months ago, vividly. The weight of the wounded dog across her shoulders, the police sirens coming nearer and nearer and this same beat up truck driving towards her. She'd yelled at them, pleading them to stop and save her. And they did, they had. She remembered what happened next only vaguely, as the mist of fatigue had weighed her down. When she discovered that her companions had mystical powers, they wanted to drop her off somewhere. Thuly's natural inclination not to trust anyone, meant she hadn't revealed her own power yet. But somehow being part of this group of misfits felt right. So, gulping away her nerves, Thulile had given them a taster of her power. It had been rather impressive to see this petite girl lift the back of the truck off the road a good three feet. It had been convincing enough, and they had taken her in. \n\nNow, all these months later, Thuly had proven her worth. Her power had manifested in unexpected and unpredictable ways. She liked the way it felt: being part of a team. It was the first time she'd experienced this. \n\nThen she looked over to Vincent, from her perch on the passenger's seat. 'What had he said? Theme parks?', she wondered. Then Eli leaned around the side of the truck: \"We need to get a new ride man, this hunk of junk is gonna croak on us someday soon and I'd rather it not be when we're trying to get away from the grunts.\" Then he snorted: \"I give it ten minutes of being in one of those theme parks before we get attacked by some sort of evil clown\". \"Whoah, WHAT?!\" Thulile asked. She hadn't been in a theme park ever. Eli's last remark shattered the glittery, pinkish, jingle jangle image she had been painting in her mind. The idea of being ambushed by a terror clown didn't appeal to Thuly whatsoever. \n\nStill, she had gotten used to Eli's murky sense of humor since he had joined them these last couple of months. Regaining her composure, she straightened her back and smiled bravely: \"Clown or no clown, let's check out those theme parks!\"", "username": "Ordsmed", "char_name": "Thulile SaintMaurice" } ]

[ { "text": "Eli laughed at the new look of the truck, finding immense enjoyment from it. \"Oh my gods, this truck looks amazing. Great job B!\" He grinned and leaned over the other side of the truck to talk to Thulie. \n\n\"Oh hell yes. Candy floss is one of the like, staples of theme parks. I'll buy you some if you like Lele\" He assured. \"And I can show you which rides aren't too scary\"", "username": "Angstyrainbow", "char_name": "Elia Colden but goes by Eli Lovette" }, { "text": "Thank God no one settled for the small town, Audrey had enough of small towns to last a lifetime. Going to an amusement park sounded like a great time. Lots of people, great food, tons of rides, loads of activities and the latter.\n\nShe noticed Bai had camouflaged the truck giving it a new paint job and an interesting sign with a kitten on it \"well at least it won't draw any attention\" she said. Bai was still a mystery to her. Everyone else checked out, Vincent, Thullie, and Eli seemed as close to normal as the definition would allow, but she couldn't really make heads or tails of Bai. It didn't bother her too much, she was apart of this ragtag group like everyone else and that meant she was family.\n\nShe put her book down and stretched out her legs and stretched her arms as far as they would go. \"Don't worry Thullie, we'll make sure you get as much as you can handle\" she mentioned. Thullie was a fairly new addition to the band of merry runaways.....well...they were all new. \"Hey, you think they'll have funnel cake there?\" She asked.", "username": "Hyyde322", "char_name": "Audrey Robinson" }, { "text": "Vincent\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\"Oh, come on, this old girl's gotten me out of too many scrapes to just abandon her,\" Vincent said as he patted his door again. \"I've got the skills to keep her running for a while longer. Now, as for evil clowns, on the other hand, I'm kinda hoping for something like that.\" He grinned and single-handedly cracked the knuckles of his left hand as he added, \"Been way too long since I was able to cut loose. Gotta make sure I don't get rusty.\"\n\nAs he finished speaking, the truck shimmered as Bai cast an illusion over the vehicle, turning giving it the form of a construction truck, the logo of which featured a kitten for some strange reason. He shrugged, having never been one to fret over little things like that. Sure, it wasn't his first choice of design, but since Bai was the only one who could disguise the truck, he felt it was only fair she decided on how it looked. He flipped his sunglasses back down onto his face, brought the truck into the next gear, and added, \"Oh, they better have funnel cake or else it's not a park worth going to. That and those rigged booth games. Sure, I end up wasting all my cash on them because there's no way in hell I'm letting those cheats get the best of me, but a theme park not having one of those just doesn't sound right.\"\n\nAfter a few moments, Vincent asked, \"So, new girl, what's your name?\"", "username": "Daxam", "char_name": "Vincent Ryder" }, { "text": "IC:\n\nTHULILE\n\nHer little band of misfits was colorful to say the least, but the friendly banter that went around the car made Thuly feel at home. 'Well, except for the lack of French of course', she grinned. The grin broadened to a smile, which made her white teeth flash brightly in the darkness of her face. \"Yummm…\", Thulile salivated, \"all the candy…err…floss I can eat? Superb!\" \n\nLooking at Eli, she wondered about the scary rides. She'd seen pictures and YouTube films, and compared to her life they weren't likely to spook her. Still, a guide to the parks would be a good thing. \n\nAs Audrey mentioned funnel cake, Thuly chuckled. It seemed to her that their crew had an unnatural fixation on food. 'Especially, on the unhealthy kind!' Well, her companions were unnatural in many ways, this was just another of their quirks. \"Funnel cake? What's that? Never seen or tasted that\", she admitted. \n\nThose theme parks promised to have lots of new experiences in store for her. Thulile wondered how long it would take to get there. At least Bai made sure that they didn't attract any unwanted attention to them.", "username": "Ordsmed", "char_name": "Thulile SaintMaurice" }, { "text": "Eli snorted a laugh. \"Come on Vinnie, you'll break a hip if you're not careful.\" He teased. He'd taken to picking on Vinnie for being a few years older than himself.\n\nEli nodded at Audrey. \"Oh they better. I'll be really pissed off if they don't.\" Looking back over the side of the truck he grinned. \"Theme parks are normally really packed with small animals like birds and rodents, right ReyRey?\"", "username": "Angstyrainbow", "char_name": "Elia Colden but goes by Eli Lovette" }, { "text": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor\n\nLucy was sitting in between two of the females inside the truck. But she didn't really say much. Mostly listening to their conversation, wondering if she could hear some useful information. But mostly they were talking about an amusement park. She had read about places like this but had never been to one herself. She had not been outside of Area 66 ever since she was a baby, so she did not know much about the outside world. A part of her was excited to experience something that would be fun. \"My name is Lucy.\" She spoke in a soft sounding voice. \"What else is in the amusement park?\" She didn't want to sound stupid for not knowing what an amusement park was, So wording her question differently would not make the others think less of her. \n\nReading the minds of the others in the truck, wanting to know what information she could find. But rationalizing it by wanting to know more about them. People in the truck more attuned mentally, could notice Lucy trying to read their minds. The rat in her pocket poked his head out, \"I wonder if they know if this amusement park has any cheese?\" Lucy assured them that the amusement park would have something for him to eat. And hopefully something she could eat. She had not eaten anything since before her escape. \n\nThe thought of her being caught was starting to fill her mind. She would have to fight if these people would try to hand her to the police.", "username": "Eviledd1984", "char_name": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor" }, { "text": "\"Mmmmm, small animals are more county and state fair territory, but it's possible they might\" She said. Her hometown used to hold county fairs every year. She remembered going to them as a kid and visiting the petting zoos they had. As she finished answering Eli's question , she heard Thuly ask about funnel cakes, what they were and what they tasted like and shot up like a lightning bolt at her question \"you've never had funnel cake, well you are in for a treat\" she said. \n\nBefore they could take off, the band of misfits were gifted with a new passenger. A young girl with an interesting haircut. She seemed of the shy sort as she introduced herself as Lucy and asked about the amusement parks. \"Audrey\" she mentioned with a warm smile \"oh, you know, rides, food, games, and other junk.\"", "username": "Hyyde322", "char_name": "Audrey Robinson" }, { "text": "Vincent\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nVincent barked out a laugh at Eli's playful barb and held his hand out of the window, with which he extended a certain finger in his general direction. He pulled his arm back into the truck then, to Lucy, he grinned and said, \"I'm Vincent. Pretty much the designated mechanic around here.. You could say I've got a way with this old girl. As for funnel cake...\"\n\nHe thought for a moment before continuing, \"It's basically deep-fried ropes of batter, usually with powdered sugar sprinkled on it or whatever else you wanna use. Fairs and theme parks usually keep it pretty simple, though. God, now I could go for some funnel cake with chocolate and strawberries. Not knocking fairground funnel cake, but next time I get a hold of some batter, I'll show you guys what good funnel cake tastes like.\"\n\nAs his mouth watered at the thought of the deep-fried goodness, a song began to play on the radio that Vincent liked, so he turned the volume up a bit higher. He hadn't been traveling with this group very long, having mostly wandered on his own for a little over half of his life, but it was something he had gotten used to by that point. It was nice having people to banter and joke with. More than that, though, it was nice knowing there were people at his back when things got rough. Sure, he didn't know much about any of them and that was fine, given that he had things he'd rather not talk about, himself, and as far as he was concerned, you didn't need to know someone's life story to trust them.", "username": "Daxam", "char_name": "Vincent Ryder" }, { "text": "Bai Yue \n\nListening to those around her wasn't Bai yue's thing. Sure she paid attention with a tiny portion of her brain her multiplexed logic handling several tasks at once as she manipulated the air elements to create small will-o-wisps, 30 or more that were so weak they collapsed the moment they struck any of the objects she aimed them at. It was like most things she did when bored training, she had to because as a freak she was easy to spot by the magically inclined if she wasn't actively concealing her presence. \n\"Don't worry too much about it an amusement park of any type it's the real money maker. you see something I'll get it for you\" Bai yue the girl most likely to steal", "username": "EmiliaBaiYue", "char_name": "Bai Yue (White Moon)" }, { "text": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor\n\nLucy shrugged her shoulders, thinking that all of that sounded very good. But not something she was particularly excited for. The mouse in her pocket suggested she could take a break and have some fun. \"But I have to find my family and….give some payback to those bastards that hurt me…\" Lucy communicated all of this mentally to her rat buddy. Reading the minds of the others, she was mildly disturbed by the images of Bai Yue's mind. Feeling nauseous trying to figure out what she's thinking. She had to quickly jump to the mind of Vincent. Which included him fighting a bunch of people, and weirdly enough dogs that were playing around the battlefield. \n\n\"What have I gotten myself into.\" She thought shaking her head. The people in the truck could prove useful to her mission. \"So why are you guys going to Eureka City?\" She finally asked. From what she had gathered reading their minds, it seems most of them were on the run. With various degrees of magical or superhuman abilities. Although she was not going to reveal more about herself just yet.", "username": "Eviledd1984", "char_name": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor" } ]

[ { "text": "Matilda Armstrong\n\nMoney. The world just can't get enough of it. Credit Cards and Checks? Don't need them. Matilda's wallet is empty save for her driver's license from Massachusetts. Given her powers, she can simply pay any thief to leave her alone. Not that she wants to be alone. Even among a full crowd at the theme park in Eureka City, Matilda can't help but feel even more lost and isolated. She was here for a good time! The tickets weren't cheap after all.\n\nThat was a lie. \n\n$25 is but a spare penny to her. The five dollar bills, as clean as if freshly printed without a single tear or wrinkle in sight, appeared in her hand as quickly as thinking. Unfortunately, the theme park only looked fun from the outside. Sweaty bodies and the stench of beer assaulted her senses. It was nothing like the extravagant galas and social parties her parents would drag her to all throughout New York City and Washington Capitol. With crude words and ill-fitting clothes from the people around her, Matilda felt more out of place, her attire was opulent but extremely modest, a courtesy from home.\n\nRegardless, she let her feet lead her to whatever destination entails. Perhaps something different can occur today.", "username": "Ever Faithful", "char_name": "Matilda Armstrong" }, { "text": "THULILE\n\nThuly found a lot of comfort in the random and not so random chitchat buzzing around the car. The young girl felt most at ease when she could blend into the background. Her looks had gotten her too much unwanted attention too often. That always led to Thuly having to use her power. And that always led to Thulile running her socks off, to get away from the authorities. Slumping in her seat, Thuly mused about all this. \n\nStaring dreamingly in the distance her eyes suddenly focused on the newest pick up. 'Lucy…', she reminded herself. As her dark eyes took in the thin girl, the back of her head started to itch. Looking away Thulile wondered what that meant. Her deep connection with her more instinctive nature told her that this Lucy had set off an alarm within her aura. 'But how? She didn't move from her spot. What did she do?' Unsure, the curly head tried to figure out, whether she'd sensed it correctly. Stealing another glance at Lucy she noted that the sensation of earlier didn't return. With a sigh Thuly gave up on her train of thought. She resigned herself to just keeping an eye on the newcomer. \n\nTheir truck finally closed on their destination. Thuly's little nose wrinkled as it was assaulted by sweet and hearty scents. One of those smelled like she'd always imagined cotton candy to smell. Straightening up in her seat, Thulile murmured: \"Almost there! Let's go!\"", "username": "Ordsmed", "char_name": "Thulile SaintMaurice" }, { "text": "The truck, after a few hours, had finally arrived at Eureka Town. The town was full of sweet scents and with the sounds of laughter and screaming, and, despite it nearing evening, had plenty of people eager and willing to ride the many roller coasters and other rides that were all in and around the town.\n\nThe truck had come to a stop near one of the towns' many hotels, though this one looked a bit more dilapidated than the rest. The streetlights also shone just as bright as the peoples' many phones lighting up the sky, but not all of them had phones, and some looked almost transparent.\n\nSpeaking of rides, the largest roller coaster had finished its latest ride, with the people who were on it just seconds ago being ushered to the side by the ride's host instead of making them make way for the latest passengers, with the previous passengers following the host away from the roller coaster, and a new host popping up at the ride just seconds later.", "username": "Dragonfly 9", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Vincent\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nVincent pulled the old truck into the parking lot of a run-down hotel. He had no trouble staying at a dilapidated place like this, having often slept on the street without a roof over his head. As far as he was concerned, any place with a bed was heaven. He shut the engine off and said, \"Alright, guys, we're here. Unless anyone has any better ideas, this is where we're staying while we're here, so don't forget where we're at.\"\n\nHe climbed out of the truck and stretched his arms over his head. He didn't mind long drives, but he didn't quite care for the stiffness that came with them. He took in the sweet scents wafting through the evening air, the sounds of joyful screaming from the amusement park as patrons enjoyed the thrill rides. As much as he wanted to check out the park, he let out a sigh and turned toward the truck. \"If you guys wanna check out the park, I'll catch up with you in a bit. I noticed the truck was making a weird sound when we got into town, so I'm gonna see if I can't get it fixed while I've got the chance.\"", "username": "Daxam", "char_name": "Vincent Ryder" }, { "text": "Bai Yue\nChecked the place out first as a small bird illusion as she used her control of air to fly above and around the old motel her mind already creating a map as she plotted her later ground reconnaissance. The ground portion accomplished as a fluffy poodle \nBeing seen as a dog was often a mixed bag and today was one of those days as she spotted two of the local feral dogs making a beeline right at her so she ran into culvert and they chased her. What happened inside the .75 meter concrete pipe would be a story the two huge mutts would tell their friends to the end of their days if dogs tell tales.\nThere they were chasing an interloper an had it cornered in the tunnel and as they rushed in snarling they heard a rumbling so deep they felt it in their bones and there before them was the biggest cat they had ever see, so big it nearly filled the tunnel wall to wall. Next it roared a sound that caught perhaps a nearby homeless or if you could call them apartment dweller's attention an as it happened just once they couldn't back up the dogs wild story if dogs tell tells. They roar was at the right frequency to display the bass of so large a creature's chest but it was the hiss that sent both tumbling back as if a invisible hand swatted them adding another strange sound to the local air the two defenders making a hasty retreat.\nA few minutes later the cute poodle continued her patrol her only trouble some creepy guy that kept following her whistling like she was some sort of dog. So she could loose him as soon as she rounded a corners she became a large patch of weeds in lot covered in weeds the poodle crossing the road to a truck with an open door, she made sure the guy saw the dog an truck leave an was pleased he acted as expected.\nFree of her tail she walked into the motel office as Ying Quan a young anthropologist doing a social audit she could bore even perverts to sleep with her dry lesson on life exptency, happiness index, schooling chances and mean grade income being another insult to free men an women mostly women. The old lady she saw behind the desk was sweet to her an asked few questions so Bai yue paid her in real cash she'd picked up in a liquor store a few days past.\nThen she went looking for the others again as a bird only this time as a large raven. \n\n(Let me know if you are curious to rp with me by saying you see the raven)", "username": "EmiliaBaiYue", "char_name": "Bai Yue (White Moon)" }, { "text": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor\n\n\"Yes, I am going to meet some family members.\" This was a semi-truthful lie, she was hoping to find her family in Eureka City. However she was not going to do anything pleasant with them, she wanted information no matter the cost. And hopefully, from talking to her parents, she could get information on those who experimented on her. She really did not have time to spend time messing around. \"But you could have fun at the amusement park, I think you deserve to have some fun.\" The rat spoke up looking up at Lucy. The girl thought that yes perhaps she should enjoy herself, but her mind was set on revenge. \n\n\"Perhaps but I can't be wasting time by going on rides and the like.\" Arguing her point, but relenting, as she hates disappointing her rat friend. \"I guess I could enjoy one ride, and just ONE.\" Lucy said now petting the rat's head. As the truck stopped, Lucy got out and started taking in her surroundings. This was the first thing she had been to an amusement park in real life, she had mostly seen one in books. Walking over towards a crane game, searching through her pockets for any change. She could not find any loose change. \"Damn.\" Cursing under her breath, she walked away and towards one of the rides. Her eyes looked over at the others, wondering what rides they would be going to. But she easily got her answer by reading their minds.", "username": "Eviledd1984", "char_name": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor" }, { "text": "---\n\n\n\nEureka City. A tourist trap of rides and greasy carnival food. It smelled like sweat and runny sunscreen where Haylen was, walking through the crowds and lines waiting to get on a ride or two. He had a baseball cap on and a pair of sunglasses over his face, and walked slowly, but steadily. Haylen's eyes flicked from one place to another, looking for the negative spaces; areas that weren't crowded or even being paid attention to, or anywhere that he could slip away behind a door were important right now. This carnival being this packed meant that people would easily miss Haylen in the crowd, but it also meant that the place was full of people who would miss a few dollars in the chaos. But Haylen wasn't about to start snatching wallets, no. He was looking for a place with a cash register behind a wall, somewhere quiet that wasn't getting as much foot traffic.\n\nAs he paced through the carnival, he eventually at one of the stands on the far side from the entrance. A popcorn stand with a sign that said \"On break.\" Perfect. Ensuring that no one was around to notice, Haylen slipped behind the counter and stared into the inner working of the cash register.\n\nIt was child's play to coerce the simple machine into opening up, and he discreetly started pulling money out.", "username": "Blizz", "char_name": null }, { "text": "After what seemed like (and actually was) hours, they had finally arrived in Eureka town. Audrey stricken with stiffness that would make a corpse jealous hopped out of the truck bed and stretched as much as she could. \"Finally, as much as I love driving around in \"luxury\", that flatbed is about as comfortable as a slab of stone\" she said. As far as the sleeping arrangements were concerned, it wouldn't have been her first choice, but Vincent had a point. Unless they wanted to sleep on the streets, this would have to do. \"I guess it's not the WORST place we've stayed\" she commented. \"As long as they have showers\" Audrey caught a whiff of herself while stretching and was offended by the smell. It had been a few days and places to bathe were not exactly in abundance on the road. But for now it was time for some fun and most importantly it was time for some funnel cake", "username": "Hyyde322", "char_name": "Audrey Robinson" } ]

[ { "text": "It was a beautiful fall day, and the strange group of misfits were once again on the road, in their old, beat up pickup truck.\n\nThey were on the freeway currently, with the driver aimlessly following the road, and picking which destination to follow almost randomly.\n\nA sign was coming up, showing names for two towns up ahead, with Jackrabbit Town(the town being known for little to nothing now, almost like it's a ghost town) on the left, and Eureka City(being known for its theme parks) on the right.\n\nWhich place will the misfits choose, or will they even choose at all?", "username": "Dragonfly 9", "char_name": null }, { "text": "Bai Yue\nSat atop the moving machine but her hair barely stirred at all as she manipulated wind around herself\nWhat everyone saw was an illusion and hid a freighting Oni, at least that was the non magical reaction. They see her horns all dark an glossy only the last 3-4 inches glowed like embers in a fire and around her small sparks of light flickered in an out of existence the tiny embers of a fire she seemed to stand in, sit in, or streamed in a trail behind her when she dropped her illusion. She wasn't a monster though she appeared to look like one, wait no she is a monster.\nBai yue couldn't escape the logic that you are what you appear to be an she looked like a monster, then there was her genetics which she discovered was part of why she looked as she did. She never told anyone but as she was aging she became more Oni like even in some of her habits. She was stronger than most mortal men and couldn't help worry when part of her looked down on them, you know -Puny Human- thoughts\nIt was all part of why she was on the outside, she was worried she'd offend them with her arrogance, work that one out you psych majors.\nShe liked these people they didn't look at her as if she might bite, a couple were even friendly. Till Bai yue stumbled across them and they all were briefly chased by bagboys (Bai yue's name for the government hunters) she thought friendship a thing for normal people. If these are normal people?", "username": "EmiliaBaiYue", "char_name": "Bai Yue (White Moon)" }, { "text": "Eli lounged on the flatbed of the old truck, a cigarette attached to his lower lip. Upon feeling the truck slow down, stood up and leaned on the roof to look at the sign quickly approaching them. Looking to the girl before him, he offered a small smile. \"What do you think B? I'm gonna put my money on the circus being something evil and sinister.\" He laughed, taking another long drag of his cigarette.\n\nNicknames were something he gave to people to remember them by, Bai's nickname being B for obvious reasons. He's been with the group a few months now, having helped them out of a tight spot with his plasma. He normally wasn't one for travelling with people. He wasn't normally one for people in general but he had to admit, the ragtag group had grown on him a little", "username": "Angstyrainbow", "char_name": "Elia Colden but goes by Eli Lovette" } ]

[ { "text": "Eli instantly felt bad, he'd taken a liking to Thulie and he always felt guilty for spooking her. \"Sorry. I'm sure it'll be fine. and with the time of year, the theme parks will probably be pretty empty.\" He backtracked, hoping if he mentioned the lack of crowds she'd feel a bit more at ease. \n\nEli had never had a family. Not a real one anyway. This little ragtag group was the closest thing and he'd taken to Thulie like a little sister with how young she was.", "username": "Angstyrainbow", "char_name": "Elia Colden but goes by Eli Lovette" }, { "text": "Bai Yue \n\nBai yue smiled at the thought of an evil circus having once been a brief member of a freak show because it was the easiest place for her to hide in her early days.\nSnapping her fingers she made the truck appear to be a small construction truck nice paint job with the members of a family business aboard, she was one of those magnetic signs sitting on the roof her illusion solid because she gave it as simple an overlay as she could.\n\nThe sign red promising a delighted Kitty an making sure very few paid attention to where she flew just above the truck tethered to a small suction cup holding a string with her right as she munched on some form of candy. She was as she sat in the best point of view on the truck untouched by winds because she was an elemental, at least that was her new course in life. \nShe seemed to be showing off when all the while she was using the trip as a practice session an exercise. As the truck moved she manipulated the airstream just about six feet out an centered 3 feet off the ground. The effect was the old beat up machine sliced through the air with an ease the finest formula one car could manage, also as a result sand, dust, debris, and insect were caught in the pressure wave an deflected away for them.\nThe candy was her fuel in this exercise.\n\n \n\"I don't bet on things like fate, fate has a booty fetish for that sort of thought\" giggles as she grabs a local dust devil making it vanish adding it to the trailing wave of the air pocket pinching it till it made a forlorn moan", "username": "EmiliaBaiYue", "char_name": "Bai Yue (White Moon)" }, { "text": "THULILE\n\nShe just didn't get Bai. Thuly wasn't able to see past her illusions and had often been taken by surprise lately as Bai decided to reappear suddenly. It unnerved Thulile. Still, she did respect Bai Yue heaps, so she tried to keep her neck hairs from rising as her voice abruptly emerged from thin air and addressed Eli. \n\n'Eli', she thought, 'isn't he just a doll? He fusses over me and tries to help me whenever he can'. Thuly really liked him. She'd appreciated how he'd accepted her right of the bat and how he was treating her like his little sister. He gave her the impression that he'd go through extremes to keep her save. That felt really good! \n\n\"Sorry. I'm sure it'll be fine. and with the time of year, the theme parks will probably be pretty empty.\" Eli's words, although feeling slightly forced, made Thuly calmer. In an added attempt to rid the air of any premonition of doom, Thulile asked: \"Do you think they have barbe à papa? I mean candy cotton?\"", "username": "Ordsmed", "char_name": "Thulile SaintMaurice" }, { "text": "Eli laughed at the new look of the truck, finding immense enjoyment from it. \"Oh my gods, this truck looks amazing. Great job B!\" He grinned and leaned over the other side of the truck to talk to Thulie. \n\n\"Oh hell yes. Candy floss is one of the like, staples of theme parks. I'll buy you some if you like Lele\" He assured. \"And I can show you which rides aren't too scary\"", "username": "Angstyrainbow", "char_name": "Elia Colden but goes by Eli Lovette" }, { "text": "Thank God no one settled for the small town, Audrey had enough of small towns to last a lifetime. Going to an amusement park sounded like a great time. Lots of people, great food, tons of rides, loads of activities and the latter.\n\nShe noticed Bai had camouflaged the truck giving it a new paint job and an interesting sign with a kitten on it \"well at least it won't draw any attention\" she said. Bai was still a mystery to her. Everyone else checked out, Vincent, Thullie, and Eli seemed as close to normal as the definition would allow, but she couldn't really make heads or tails of Bai. It didn't bother her too much, she was apart of this ragtag group like everyone else and that meant she was family.\n\nShe put her book down and stretched out her legs and stretched her arms as far as they would go. \"Don't worry Thullie, we'll make sure you get as much as you can handle\" she mentioned. Thullie was a fairly new addition to the band of merry runaways.....well...they were all new. \"Hey, you think they'll have funnel cake there?\" She asked.", "username": "Hyyde322", "char_name": "Audrey Robinson" }, { "text": "Vincent\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\n\"Oh, come on, this old girl's gotten me out of too many scrapes to just abandon her,\" Vincent said as he patted his door again. \"I've got the skills to keep her running for a while longer. Now, as for evil clowns, on the other hand, I'm kinda hoping for something like that.\" He grinned and single-handedly cracked the knuckles of his left hand as he added, \"Been way too long since I was able to cut loose. Gotta make sure I don't get rusty.\"\n\nAs he finished speaking, the truck shimmered as Bai cast an illusion over the vehicle, turning giving it the form of a construction truck, the logo of which featured a kitten for some strange reason. He shrugged, having never been one to fret over little things like that. Sure, it wasn't his first choice of design, but since Bai was the only one who could disguise the truck, he felt it was only fair she decided on how it looked. He flipped his sunglasses back down onto his face, brought the truck into the next gear, and added, \"Oh, they better have funnel cake or else it's not a park worth going to. That and those rigged booth games. Sure, I end up wasting all my cash on them because there's no way in hell I'm letting those cheats get the best of me, but a theme park not having one of those just doesn't sound right.\"\n\nAfter a few moments, Vincent asked, \"So, new girl, what's your name?\"", "username": "Daxam", "char_name": "Vincent Ryder" }, { "text": "IC:\n\nTHULILE\n\nHer little band of misfits was colorful to say the least, but the friendly banter that went around the car made Thuly feel at home. 'Well, except for the lack of French of course', she grinned. The grin broadened to a smile, which made her white teeth flash brightly in the darkness of her face. \"Yummm…\", Thulile salivated, \"all the candy…err…floss I can eat? Superb!\" \n\nLooking at Eli, she wondered about the scary rides. She'd seen pictures and YouTube films, and compared to her life they weren't likely to spook her. Still, a guide to the parks would be a good thing. \n\nAs Audrey mentioned funnel cake, Thuly chuckled. It seemed to her that their crew had an unnatural fixation on food. 'Especially, on the unhealthy kind!' Well, her companions were unnatural in many ways, this was just another of their quirks. \"Funnel cake? What's that? Never seen or tasted that\", she admitted. \n\nThose theme parks promised to have lots of new experiences in store for her. Thulile wondered how long it would take to get there. At least Bai made sure that they didn't attract any unwanted attention to them.", "username": "Ordsmed", "char_name": "Thulile SaintMaurice" }, { "text": "Eli snorted a laugh. \"Come on Vinnie, you'll break a hip if you're not careful.\" He teased. He'd taken to picking on Vinnie for being a few years older than himself.\n\nEli nodded at Audrey. \"Oh they better. I'll be really pissed off if they don't.\" Looking back over the side of the truck he grinned. \"Theme parks are normally really packed with small animals like birds and rodents, right ReyRey?\"", "username": "Angstyrainbow", "char_name": "Elia Colden but goes by Eli Lovette" }, { "text": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor\n\nLucy was sitting in between two of the females inside the truck. But she didn't really say much. Mostly listening to their conversation, wondering if she could hear some useful information. But mostly they were talking about an amusement park. She had read about places like this but had never been to one herself. She had not been outside of Area 66 ever since she was a baby, so she did not know much about the outside world. A part of her was excited to experience something that would be fun. \"My name is Lucy.\" She spoke in a soft sounding voice. \"What else is in the amusement park?\" She didn't want to sound stupid for not knowing what an amusement park was, So wording her question differently would not make the others think less of her. \n\nReading the minds of the others in the truck, wanting to know what information she could find. But rationalizing it by wanting to know more about them. People in the truck more attuned mentally, could notice Lucy trying to read their minds. The rat in her pocket poked his head out, \"I wonder if they know if this amusement park has any cheese?\" Lucy assured them that the amusement park would have something for him to eat. And hopefully something she could eat. She had not eaten anything since before her escape. \n\nThe thought of her being caught was starting to fill her mind. She would have to fight if these people would try to hand her to the police.", "username": "Eviledd1984", "char_name": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor" } ]

[ { "text": "Eli snorted a laugh. \"Come on Vinnie, you'll break a hip if you're not careful.\" He teased. He'd taken to picking on Vinnie for being a few years older than himself.\n\nEli nodded at Audrey. \"Oh they better. I'll be really pissed off if they don't.\" Looking back over the side of the truck he grinned. \"Theme parks are normally really packed with small animals like birds and rodents, right ReyRey?\"", "username": "Angstyrainbow", "char_name": "Elia Colden but goes by Eli Lovette" }, { "text": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor\n\nLucy was sitting in between two of the females inside the truck. But she didn't really say much. Mostly listening to their conversation, wondering if she could hear some useful information. But mostly they were talking about an amusement park. She had read about places like this but had never been to one herself. She had not been outside of Area 66 ever since she was a baby, so she did not know much about the outside world. A part of her was excited to experience something that would be fun. \"My name is Lucy.\" She spoke in a soft sounding voice. \"What else is in the amusement park?\" She didn't want to sound stupid for not knowing what an amusement park was, So wording her question differently would not make the others think less of her. \n\nReading the minds of the others in the truck, wanting to know what information she could find. But rationalizing it by wanting to know more about them. People in the truck more attuned mentally, could notice Lucy trying to read their minds. The rat in her pocket poked his head out, \"I wonder if they know if this amusement park has any cheese?\" Lucy assured them that the amusement park would have something for him to eat. And hopefully something she could eat. She had not eaten anything since before her escape. \n\nThe thought of her being caught was starting to fill her mind. She would have to fight if these people would try to hand her to the police.", "username": "Eviledd1984", "char_name": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor" }, { "text": "\"Mmmmm, small animals are more county and state fair territory, but it's possible they might\" She said. Her hometown used to hold county fairs every year. She remembered going to them as a kid and visiting the petting zoos they had. As she finished answering Eli's question , she heard Thuly ask about funnel cakes, what they were and what they tasted like and shot up like a lightning bolt at her question \"you've never had funnel cake, well you are in for a treat\" she said. \n\nBefore they could take off, the band of misfits were gifted with a new passenger. A young girl with an interesting haircut. She seemed of the shy sort as she introduced herself as Lucy and asked about the amusement parks. \"Audrey\" she mentioned with a warm smile \"oh, you know, rides, food, games, and other junk.\"", "username": "Hyyde322", "char_name": "Audrey Robinson" }, { "text": "Vincent\n\n\n---\n\n\n\n---\n\n\nVincent barked out a laugh at Eli's playful barb and held his hand out of the window, with which he extended a certain finger in his general direction. He pulled his arm back into the truck then, to Lucy, he grinned and said, \"I'm Vincent. Pretty much the designated mechanic around here.. You could say I've got a way with this old girl. As for funnel cake...\"\n\nHe thought for a moment before continuing, \"It's basically deep-fried ropes of batter, usually with powdered sugar sprinkled on it or whatever else you wanna use. Fairs and theme parks usually keep it pretty simple, though. God, now I could go for some funnel cake with chocolate and strawberries. Not knocking fairground funnel cake, but next time I get a hold of some batter, I'll show you guys what good funnel cake tastes like.\"\n\nAs his mouth watered at the thought of the deep-fried goodness, a song began to play on the radio that Vincent liked, so he turned the volume up a bit higher. He hadn't been traveling with this group very long, having mostly wandered on his own for a little over half of his life, but it was something he had gotten used to by that point. It was nice having people to banter and joke with. More than that, though, it was nice knowing there were people at his back when things got rough. Sure, he didn't know much about any of them and that was fine, given that he had things he'd rather not talk about, himself, and as far as he was concerned, you didn't need to know someone's life story to trust them.", "username": "Daxam", "char_name": "Vincent Ryder" }, { "text": "Bai Yue \n\nListening to those around her wasn't Bai yue's thing. Sure she paid attention with a tiny portion of her brain her multiplexed logic handling several tasks at once as she manipulated the air elements to create small will-o-wisps, 30 or more that were so weak they collapsed the moment they struck any of the objects she aimed them at. It was like most things she did when bored training, she had to because as a freak she was easy to spot by the magically inclined if she wasn't actively concealing her presence. \n\"Don't worry too much about it an amusement park of any type it's the real money maker. you see something I'll get it for you\" Bai yue the girl most likely to steal", "username": "EmiliaBaiYue", "char_name": "Bai Yue (White Moon)" }, { "text": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor\n\nLucy shrugged her shoulders, thinking that all of that sounded very good. But not something she was particularly excited for. The mouse in her pocket suggested she could take a break and have some fun. \"But I have to find my family and….give some payback to those bastards that hurt me…\" Lucy communicated all of this mentally to her rat buddy. Reading the minds of the others, she was mildly disturbed by the images of Bai Yue's mind. Feeling nauseous trying to figure out what she's thinking. She had to quickly jump to the mind of Vincent. Which included him fighting a bunch of people, and weirdly enough dogs that were playing around the battlefield. \n\n\"What have I gotten myself into.\" She thought shaking her head. The people in the truck could prove useful to her mission. \"So why are you guys going to Eureka City?\" She finally asked. From what she had gathered reading their minds, it seems most of them were on the run. With various degrees of magical or superhuman abilities. Although she was not going to reveal more about herself just yet.", "username": "Eviledd1984", "char_name": "Lucile \"Lucy\" O'Connor" }, { "text": "Eli's mind, although a little chaotic sometimes, was usually a semi-happy place. He took pleasure in the little thing, the fun of standing up on the truck as it moved, the wind in his hair, the little nicknames he gave people. At that time, his mind was stuck on the theme parks. Which rides would Vinnie agree to go on? Getting candy floss for Lele and funnelcake with Rey. It was clear most of his thoughts were of his friends, though occasionally there was a flash. An angry, stony face of an older man in a lab coat telling Eli just how disappointed he was.", "username": "Angstyrainbow", "char_name": "Elia Colden but goes by Eli Lovette" }, { "text": "ASA MIST\n\nAsa sat in the back of the pickup truck, partially slumped over in his seat. He had spent most of the night reading a medical text that Audrey had convinced him to loot from a bookstore in the last town the ragtag group had stopped in. It was a newer edition, meaning it had some updates then the ones he had in University. Unfortunately, Asa had got too much into the text book, and was now paying the price of staying up all night. Asa had fallen into a deep sleep.\n\nThe Water Elemental had been asleep in the truck for the past several hours, snoring softly. Sitting in his lap was his robotic companion TQ-58, better known as Tiku. The small medical assistant bot was in active mode, but was unmoving as he wasn't needed for any medical emergencies currently. Its optics only slightly moved when the truck pulled to the side of the road to pick up a hitchhiker.\n\nDeciding that a potential new companion was important, Tiku turned to the sleeping Asa. Reaching over with a robotic limb, Tiku delivered a weak level shock to the Water Elemental. The brief jolt made Asa immediately open his eyes.\n\n\"What's wrong?\" Asa asked groggily.\n\n\"We have someone new,\" stated Tiku.\n\nAsa turned to the young woman sitting across from him, her platinum hair shimmering in the sunlight coming through the truck window. It wouldn't be the first time they had picked up a hitchhiker in the few months that Asa had been traveling in this van, but the hitchhikers never lasted long. Usually they would jump ship by the next major city.\n\nAsa figured that this woman would be no different as apparently they were headed to Eureka City, at least according to the conversation going on in the front of the vehicle. Asa wasn't really familiar with the city, just knowing that it had a big theme park. The discussion going on around him also seemed to show that the theme park was the point of interest for the gang.\n\nAsa then turned to the hitchhiker, \"I'm Asa. Are you also headed for Eureka City?\"\n\n\"He doesn't know because he was sleeping,\" piped in Tiku, \"I think it was awfully rude.\"\n\nAsa glared at the medical support robot. In the years they had spent together, Tiku had begun to develop a distinct personality, one that wasn't always kind to the Water Elemental. And yet the robot was the closest thing Asa had to a best friend. It was kind of messed up, even to the Water Elemental himself.", "username": "Martian", "char_name": "Asa Mist" } ]